Table of Contents
- Introduction: The Enduring Appeal of Sandwich Boards & the Digital Evolution
- What Exactly is a Metroclick Sandwich Board?
- Unpacking the Features: Metroclick Sandwich Board Specifications
- Key Benefits: Why Choose a Metroclick Sandwich Board?
- Use Cases: Where Can Metroclick Sandwich Boards Shine?
- Reviewing the Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board Experience
- Traditional vs. Metroclick Digital Sandwich Boards: Which is Right for You?
- What to Consider Before Buying a Metroclick Sandwich Board: A Checklist
- Comparing Metroclick Sandwich Boards to Competitors (General Market Overview)
- Tips for Maximizing the Impact of Your Metroclick Sandwich Board
- Customer Support and Warranty for Metroclick Sandwich Boards
- Conclusion: Is the Metroclick Sandwich Board a Smart Investment for Your Business?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Metroclick Sandwich Boards
1. Introduction: The Enduring Appeal of Sandwich Boards & the Digital Evolution

Sandwich boards, also known as A-frame signs, have been a stalwart of street-level advertising for over a century. Their simple, portable, and cost-effective nature has made them invaluable for businesses aiming to capture the attention of passersby, announce specials, or guide foot traffic. They are straightforward, attention-getting tools that promote business visibility.
However, just as with many traditional marketing tools, the digital age is bringing about an evolution. Enter the Digital Sandwich Board. This innovation takes the classic A-frame concept and infuses it with the dynamic capabilities of digital display technology. Metroclick, a company known for its interactive digital signage and kiosk solutions, is at the forefront of this transformation, offering what they term a “Digital Sandwich Board solution” that gives the traditional A-frame interactive enhancements.
This review will delve into Metroclick’s Sandwich Board offerings, focusing primarily on their digital solutions, to help you understand their features, benefits, and suitability for your business needs. We’ll explore how these modern A-frames can revolutionize your sidewalk advertising and customer engagement.
2. What Exactly is a Metroclick Sandwich Board?
Metroclick’s primary offering in this category is the Digital Sandwich Board. This is not your average chalkboard or printed-poster A-frame. Instead, it’s a frame, typically in the classic A-shape for stability, integrated with a digital display screen. This screen is designed for the presentation of various digital media – including photos, videos, text, graphics, and more – without necessarily requiring a separate computer for operation.
According to Metroclick, their Digital Sandwich Board adapts the older look and style of a traditional sandwich board but integrates the latest capabilities of LCD technology. It’s designed to be a versatile tool for both indoor and outdoor environments. The core purpose is to provide businesses with a portable, flexible, and highly visible way to display dynamic content, remotely managed through Metroclick’s Content Management System (CMS). This eliminates concerns about manually updating content, smudged ink or chalk, or unclear artwork.
Essentially, the Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board is an “old school sandwich board” with a “high tech” makeover, as described by JTECH Store for a similar digital A-frame product, indicating a market trend Metroclick is part of.
3. Unpacking the Features: Metroclick Sandwich Board Specifications
While specific models may vary, Metroclick outlines several key features for their Digital Sandwich Boards:
Design & Build:
- A-Frame Design: Provides stability and the familiar sandwich board look.
- Portability: Described as lightweight and easy to store (folding flat), set up, relocate, and take down. Some models may feature wheels for easier mobility.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: Metroclick’s digital versions are built for both indoor and outdoor environments, with mentions of IP67 outdoor-rated casing. This implies protection against dust and water ingress. Some Metroclick outdoor kiosks (a related product line) mention stainless steel encasements and Gorilla Glass screens to negate vandalism or theft concerns, which might be indicative of the robust build quality of their outdoor digital sandwich boards.
- Size Options: While specific sizes need to be confirmed per model, a common size for digital A-frames in the market is around 43 inches for the display.
Digital Display & Technology:
- Screen Technology: Utilizes LCD technology with “high-bright” displays suitable for outdoor visibility. Both touchscreen and static (non-touch) display formats are mentioned, offering flexibility.
- Connectivity: Designed to work with MetroClick’s Content Management System (CMS), which allows retailers to remotely push content. This implies Wi-Fi or other network connectivity.
- Content Management System (CMS): A crucial feature, enabling users to remotely update content. This means no more manual reprinting; users can push vivid, eye-catching static or dynamic images, videos, and more.
- Power Source: Metroclick offers both battery-powered and hard-wired solutions. Battery-powered options enhance portability for events or areas without easy power access. JTECH’s similar product mentions a built-in battery with around 12 hours of usage, which could be comparable.
- Interactive Features: Touchscreen versions allow for direct customer engagement.
- Anti-Microbial / Anti-Virus Coating: This feature is listed by Metroclick for their general sandwich board solutions, adding a layer of safety.
Table: Key Features of Metroclick Digital Sandwich Boards (General Overview)
Feature Category | Details | Potential Benefits |
---|---|---|
Design | A-Frame, Lightweight, Foldable, Wheels (on some models) | Stability, Portability, Easy Storage |
Display | High-Brightness LCD, Touchscreen & Static options, Various Sizes (e.g., 43″) | Outdoor visibility, Interactive engagement (touch), Fits different space needs |
Durability | IP67 Outdoor-Rated Casing (for outdoor models) | Weather resistance (dust, water), Suitable for outdoor use |
Content Management | Remote updates via MetroClick CMS, Supports images, videos, text, graphics | Easy content changes, Dynamic advertising, No printing costs, Consistency |
Power | Battery-powered and Hard-wired options | Portability (battery), Continuous operation (wired) |
Interactivity | Touchscreen capability | Enhanced customer engagement, Information lookup |
Safety (Optional) | Anti-Microbial / Anti-Virus Coating | Added hygiene for touch surfaces |
Installation | Short-term or permanent | Versatile for different needs |
Export to Sheets
[Placeholder for YouTube video: “Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board: Features and Setup Demo”]
4. Key Benefits: Why Choose a Metroclick Sandwich Board?
Metroclick highlights several domains where their Digital Sandwich Boards provide added value:
- Increased Visibility & Foot Traffic: The “high-bright” dynamic displays are designed to be eye-catching and nearly impossible to miss, effectively drawing attention and increasing foot traffic into retail locations or event spaces.
- Portability & Flexibility: Lightweight, foldable, and potentially on wheels, these boards can be easily moved to optimal locations. They can be programmed to display customized information that is dynamic, scheduled, or random, adapting to various needs.
- Affordability & Increased Revenue (ROI): While there’s an initial investment, Metroclick suggests their Digital Sandwich Board can “likely pay for itself in the first month of operation.” This is due to increased revenue potential (e.g., through upselling prompted by dynamic content, increased sales from higher foot traffic) and lowered expenses (eliminating static print signage costs, potentially reducing headcount for manual sign changes). Studies on digital menu boards (a similar application) have shown significant sales increases (one study mentioned an 800% increase with short video clips).
- Ease of Updating Messages & Reduced Operational Costs: The CMS allows for remote and instant content updates. This eliminates the time, effort, and recurring costs associated with designing, printing, and manually changing traditional signs. No more worries about smudged ink or unclear handwriting.
- Enhanced Customer Engagement & Satisfaction: Dynamic and interactive content (videos, promotions, touch features) can engage customers more effectively than static signs. The ability to display timely information (e.g., daily specials, event schedules, live news, weather) improves the customer experience and can foster loyalty.
- Durability and Longevity: Designed for indoor/outdoor use with protective casings, these digital boards are built to last longer than many traditional counterparts, especially in challenging weather.
- Brand Reinforcement: Modern, sleek digital displays can enhance a brand’s image, portraying it as tech-savvy and customer-focused.
- Enhanced Customer Retention: Keeping content fresh and relevant, and even tailoring it by time of day or season, can encourage repeat visits.
5. Use Cases: Where Can Metroclick Sandwich Boards Shine?
The versatility of Metroclick’s Digital Sandwich Boards makes them suitable for a wide array of businesses and events:
- Retail Stores:
- Announce sales, special offers, and new arrivals on the sidewalk.
- Display product videos or lifestyle imagery.
- Showcase store hours or directional information within larger stores.
- Promote loyalty programs.
- Restaurants, Cafes & Bars:
- Display dynamic menus that change by time of day (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
- Highlight daily specials, chef’s recommendations, or happy hour deals.
- Showcase enticing food photography or videos.
- Provide nutritional information or allergen warnings.
- Events & Trade Shows:
- Wayfinding: Direct attendees to different stages, booths, or amenities.
- Display event schedules, speaker information, or sponsor logos.
- Promote specific sessions or offers at exhibitor booths.
- Use at entrances for car shows, festivals, or markets.
- Hospitality (Hotels, Resorts):
- Welcome guests and provide check-in information.
- Promote amenities, restaurants, or spa services.
- Display local attraction information or event schedules.
- Real Estate:
- Showcase property listings with photos and virtual tours outside an office.
- Provide information at open houses.
- Service-Based Businesses (Salons, Spas, Gyms):
- Promote services, special packages, and appointment availability.
- Introduce staff or showcase client testimonials.
- Corporate Environments:
- Welcome visitors in lobbies.
- Provide internal communications or event information.
The ability to use them both indoors and outdoors, and the option for battery power, significantly broadens their applicability for temporary setups or locations without readily available power.
6. Reviewing the Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board Experience
While direct, independent end-user reviews for Metroclick’s specific Digital Sandwich Board models are not extensively available in the initial search results, we can infer the user experience based on the features they promote and general expectations for such devices:
- Setup and Installation: Metroclick emphasizes ease of setup. For battery-powered units, it would likely involve unfolding the A-frame, powering it on, and ensuring it’s connected to the network (if remote updates are desired). Hard-wired units would require access to a power outlet. The lightweight and foldable design simplifies physical placement.
- Content Creation and Management: The user-friendliness of Metroclick’s proprietary Content Management System (CMS) is key. Ideally, it should allow for intuitive uploading of various media types (images, videos, text), scheduling of content, and management of multiple boards from a central dashboard. The promise of “no more concerns about manually updating content” suggests a streamlined process.
- Display Quality: “High-bright” LCDs are crucial for outdoor visibility. Users would expect clear, vibrant image and video playback, readable text even in daylight, and good viewing angles. The resolution (e.g., 1080p or higher on a 43-inch screen) would contribute to sharpness.
- Performance and Reliability: For battery-powered models, actual battery life under typical usage conditions (brightness levels, content type) is a critical factor. Software stability of the CMS and the onboard operating system (some digital A-frames use Android) is important to prevent freezes or glitches. The IP67 rating for outdoor models suggests good physical reliability against elements.
- Interactivity (for Touchscreen Models): Responsiveness of the touchscreen and the ease with which users can navigate interactive content would define this experience. This could be used for information lookup, registrations, or simple interactive promotions.
A positive user experience hinges on the seamless interplay of easy physical setup, intuitive content management, reliable performance, and impactful visual delivery.
[Placeholder for YouTube video: “Setting Up and Managing Content on a Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board”]
7. Traditional vs. Metroclick Digital Sandwich Boards: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between a classic traditional sandwich board and a Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board depends on your specific needs, budget, and marketing goals.
Table: Traditional Sandwich Board vs. Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board
Feature | Traditional Sandwich Board | Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board |
---|---|---|
Initial Cost | Low | Higher |
Content Update Cost | Low (chalk, printouts) but can add up with frequent changes | Very Low/None (digital updates) |
Content Type | Static (text, simple graphics) | Dynamic (images, video, animations, interactive) |
Ease of Update | Manual, can be time-consuming | Remote, Instant via CMS |
Visual Impact | Moderate | High (bright, dynamic, engaging) |
Interactivity | None | Possible (with touchscreen models) |
Power Requirement | None | Yes (battery or mains) |
Durability (Outdoor) | Varies by material, susceptible to weather/vandalism | Generally higher with weatherproofing (IP67) and robust casing |
Flexibility | Good portability | Good portability, plus content flexibility (time-of-day changes, etc.) |
Technical Skill | Minimal | Basic comfort with software/CMS needed |
Best For | Very tight budgets, infrequent message changes, simple messages | Dynamic advertising, frequent updates, high-impact visuals, tech-forward branding, higher foot traffic areas |
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Consider a Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board if:
- You want to display eye-catching videos, animations, or rotating images.
- You need to update your messaging frequently, quickly, and remotely.
- You aim to capture more attention in busy environments.
- You want the flexibility to schedule different content for different times of the day.
- The potential for increased sales and reduced long-term printing costs justifies the higher initial investment.
A traditional sandwich board might still be suitable if:
- Your budget is extremely limited for the initial purchase.
- Your messaging rarely changes.
- You operate in an area without easy access to power (though Metroclick’s battery option addresses this).
- Simplicity is your utmost priority.
Metroclick’s argument is that the digital solution, despite a higher upfront cost, offers better ROI through increased engagement and operational savings in the long run.
8. What to Consider Before Buying a Metroclick Sandwich Board: A Checklist
Investing in a digital sandwich board requires careful consideration. Here’s a checklist to guide your decision:
- [ ] Marketing Goals:
- What do you want to achieve (e.g., increase foot traffic by X%, promote specific items, enhance brand awareness)?
- How will a digital display help you meet these goals better than a traditional one?
- [ ] Budget:
- What is your budget for the initial purchase? (Digital boards are more expensive upfront).
- Factor in any potential ongoing software/CMS subscription fees (clarify with Metroclick).
- Consider the long-term ROI (reduced printing, potential sales lift).
- [ ] Location & Environment:
- Indoor or Outdoor Use? If outdoor, ensure the model has adequate brightness and weatherproofing (e.g., Metroclick’s IP67 rating).
- Sunlight Exposure: Will direct sunlight make the screen hard to see? (Look for high-brightness nits).
- Foot Traffic: High-traffic areas benefit most from attention-grabbing digital displays.
- Power Access: If outdoor or for events, is a battery-powered option necessary? What is the expected battery life?
- [ ] Content Strategy:
- Frequency of Updates: How often will you change your message? (Digital excels here).
- Content Type: Do you need video, animations, or just static images/text?
- Interactivity: Is a touchscreen model needed for customer engagement?
- Who will manage content? Ensure your team has the skills/time for the CMS.
- [ ] Portability & Storage:
- How often will you move the board? (Consider weight, wheels, foldable design).
- Where will it be stored when not in use? (Metroclick mentions their digital A-frames store flat).
- [ ] Local Regulations:
- Are there any local council restrictions on sidewalk signage (size, placement, digital displays)? Always check first.
- [ ] Technical Requirements & Support:
- Do you have reliable Wi-Fi if needed for remote updates?
- What level of technical support does Metroclick offer for setup and troubleshooting?
- [ ] Aesthetics & Branding:
- Does the design of the Metroclick Sandwich Board align with your brand image?
9. Comparing Metroclick Sandwich Boards to Competitors (General Market Overview)
The digital A-frame and sandwich board market is growing, with various providers offering solutions. When evaluating Metroclick, consider these general aspects:
- Market Landscape: Competitors range from large digital signage companies to more specialized A-frame providers. Products vary in screen size, brightness, operating systems (often Android-based), CMS capabilities, and build quality. Amazon and B2B display sites (like Displays2go, which offers a 43″ non-touch digital A-Frame with Android) list various options.
- Potential Metroclick USPs:
- Integrated CMS: Metroclick’s proprietary CMS, especially if it’s user-friendly and feature-rich for remote management, could be a strong selling point.
- Build Quality & Durability: Features like IP67 rating and robust casing specifically for outdoor digital sandwich boards can be a differentiator.
- Combined Hardware/Software Solution: Offering a complete package from a single vendor can simplify support and integration.
- Focus on Interactive Enhancements: Their emphasis on making traditional boards “interactive” suggests a forward-thinking approach.
- Battery-Powered Options: This offers significant flexibility not always standard elsewhere.
- Factors for Comparison:
- Price: Compare upfront costs and any recurring fees.
- Screen Quality: Brightness (nits), resolution, viewing angles, touch responsiveness.
- CMS Features & Ease of Use: Crucial for day-to-day operation.
- Battery Life (if applicable): Real-world performance.
- Durability & Weatherproofing: Especially for outdoor use.
- Connectivity Options.
- Warranty & Customer Support.
- Customer Reviews & Case Studies (if available for any provider).
It’s advisable to get quotes and demos from a few shortlisted providers, including Metroclick, to compare offerings directly against your specific requirements.
10. Tips for Maximizing the Impact of Your Metroclick Sandwich Board
Owning a Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board is just the first step. Maximizing its impact requires thoughtful content and placement:
- Compelling Content is Key:
- Keep it Concise: Passersby have limited attention. Messages should be short, clear, and easy to digest quickly.
- Use Bold, Readable Fonts: Ensure legibility from a distance.
- High Contrast: Use color combinations that stand out.
- Leverage Visuals: Use high-quality images and engaging videos. Movement attracts the eye.
- Clear Call to Action (CTA): Tell people what you want them to do (e.g., “Come In!”, “Today’s Special!”, “Scan QR Code for Menu”).
- Strategic Placement:
- High Foot Traffic Areas: Place it where the most potential customers will see it.
- Visibility: Ensure it’s not obstructed and is visible from multiple angles (if double-sided, though digital is typically single-screen focused on one primary direction at a time unless it’s a double-sided unit).
- Proximity to Entrance: Guide customers directly to your door.
- Keep Content Fresh & Relevant:
- Regularly update promotions, specials, or informational content.
- Use scheduling features to display different messages at different times of the day or week.
- Leverage Dynamic Capabilities (Digital):
- Don’t just use static images; incorporate video, animations, or scrolling text.
- If interactive, design intuitive touch experiences.
- Maintain a Professional Look:
- Keep the screen clean and the unit in good condition.
- Comply with Local Regulations:
- Ensure your placement and use of the sandwich board adhere to all local council rules to avoid fines or removal.
- Integrate with Other Marketing:
- Use consistent branding with your other marketing materials.
- Consider using QR codes on the display to link to your website, social media, or online menus.
11. Customer Support and Warranty for Metroclick Sandwich Boards
When investing in a piece of technology like a Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board, understanding the available support and warranty is crucial.
- Warranty: You should inquire directly with Metroclick about the specifics of their warranty coverage for Digital Sandwich Boards. This includes the duration of the warranty and what it covers (e.g., hardware defects, screen issues).
- Customer Support: Ask about the types of customer support Metroclick provides:
- Is there phone, email, or chat support?
- What are their support hours?
- Do they offer remote troubleshooting for software or CMS issues?
- Are there online resources like FAQs, tutorials, or knowledge bases for self-help?
- Maintenance and Repairs: Understand the process for repairs if the hardware malfunctions. Is on-site service available, or does the unit need to be shipped?
Reliable customer support and a clear warranty policy can provide peace of mind and ensure your investment remains functional and effective.
[Link: Look for a “Support” or “Contact Us” page on Metroclick’s website for more information.]
12. Conclusion: Is the Metroclick Sandwich Board a Smart Investment for Your Business?
Metroclick’s Digital Sandwich Boards represent a significant upgrade from traditional A-frames, offering businesses a dynamic, engaging, and flexible way to capture attention and communicate with potential customers. With features like high-bright displays, remote content management, options for battery power and outdoor use, they are positioned as a modern solution for street-level advertising.
Key Advantages Recapped:
- High visual impact with dynamic content.
- Ease of remote and instant content updates.
- Potential for increased foot traffic, customer engagement, and sales.
- Reduced long-term costs associated with printing static signs.
- Enhanced brand image.
Points to Consider:
- Higher initial investment compared to traditional boards.
- Reliance on power (though battery options offer flexibility).
- Requires some level of comfort with technology for content management.
A Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board could be a smart investment if:
- Your business relies heavily on foot traffic and street-level visibility.
- You frequently update promotions, menus, or event information.
- You want to stand out from competitors using static signage.
- You are looking for a marketing tool that can display rich media like videos.
- You value the operational efficiency of remote content management.
The decision ultimately comes down to your specific business needs, marketing strategy, and budget. If the dynamic capabilities and potential for increased engagement align with your goals, the Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board is certainly worth strong consideration.
We recommend reaching out to Metroclick for a direct consultation and demo to see how their solutions can specifically benefit your business.
13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Metroclick Sandwich Boards
- Q1: Are Metroclick Digital Sandwich Boards weatherproof for outdoor use?
- A: Metroclick mentions that their Digital Sandwich Boards are designed for both indoor and outdoor environments, with some models having an IP67 outdoor-rated casing, which means they are protected against dust and water ingress. Always confirm the specific rating for the model you are interested in.
- Q2: How long does the battery last on the battery-powered models?
- A: Battery life will vary depending on the specific model, screen brightness, and type of content being displayed. Metroclick offers battery-powered solutions; a similar product from another brand mentioned around 12 hours. It’s best to get specific battery performance details directly from Metroclick.
- Q3: How do I update the content on a Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board?
- A: Metroclick Digital Sandwich Boards utilize a Content Management System (CMS) that allows retailers to remotely push content (images, videos, text) to the displays, typically via a network connection.
- Q4: Can I use touchscreen features on all Metroclick Digital Sandwich Boards?
- A: Metroclick indicates that their digital A-Frames are available in both touchscreen and static (non-touch) display formats. You would need to choose the model that includes touchscreen functionality if that’s a requirement.
- Q5: What sizes are available for the Metroclick Digital Sandwich Boards?
- A: While specific sizes can vary, digital A-frames commonly feature screen sizes around 43 inches. Check with Metroclick for their current range of available sizes.
- Q6: Is the Metroclick CMS easy to use for someone not very tech-savvy?
- A: Digital signage CMS platforms are generally designed to be user-friendly. However, ease of use can be subjective. It’s advisable to request a demo of Metroclick’s CMS to assess its intuitiveness for your team.
- Q7: What is the typical lifespan of a Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board?
- A: The lifespan of a digital display depends on usage, environmental conditions, and maintenance. LCD screens have rated lifespans often in the tens of thousands of hours. Metroclick emphasizes durable construction for their outdoor units.
- Q8: Can I display live feeds like social media or news on the board?
- A: The capability to display live feeds depends on the features of the CMS and the onboard software of the digital sandwich board. Metroclick mentions their digital menu boards (a similar concept) can display live news and weather. This capability should be confirmed for their sandwich board models.
- Q9: What kind of warranty comes with a Metroclick Sandwich Board?
- A: Warranty terms vary. It’s essential to get detailed warranty information directly from Metroclick when considering a purchase.
- Q10: How much does a Metroclick Digital Sandwich Board cost?
- A: Pricing for digital signage solutions can vary significantly based on size, features (touchscreen, brightness), durability ratings, and software. You will need to contact Metroclick for a specific quote based on your requirements. They do suggest it’s a “minimal investment that will likely pay for itself in the first month.”