If you're shopping for a gym scoreboard in 2026, here's what you need to budget:
| Scoreboard Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Basic LED scoreboards | $3,000 - $8,000 |
| Multi-sport LED scoreboards | $5,000 - $15,000 |
| Video scoreboards (small) | $15,000 - $50,000 |
| Large video boards/jumbotrons | $50,000 - $150,000+ |
| Portable tabletop scoreboards | $200 - $1,000 |
| Software-only solutions | $50 - $200/month |
Installation costs typically add another $2,000 - $10,000 depending on electrical work, mounting complexity, and whether you need outdoor-rated equipment.
The Reality Check Most Schools Aren't Prepared For
When athletic directors start researching scoreboard prices, the sticker shock is real. A basic basketball scoreboard that seemed like it should cost $2,000 actually runs $8,000. A video board that looks reasonable in the brochure comes with a $35,000 quote. And that's before installation, electrical upgrades, and ongoing maintenance.
But here's what the traditional scoreboard companies don't always mention: Many schools already have everything they need for a functional scoreboard system. That LED wall in your gym? The projector in the multipurpose room? The 75-inch TV in the commons? With the right software, these become instant scoreboards without the five-figure investment.
What Determines Scoreboard Cost?
Size and Display Type
The biggest price driver is simple: physical size and technology.
LED segment displays use individual numeric displays for scores and timers. Think classic red numbers. These are the most affordable option, but they only show numbers, not graphics or video.
Matrix LED displays use a grid of LEDs that can show text, graphics, and limited animations. More versatile than segment displays, more expensive.
Video scoreboards use high-resolution LED panels similar to TV screens. They can display full graphics, replays, sponsor videos, and detailed game stats. This is where costs jump significantly.
Indoor vs Outdoor Installation
Outdoor scoreboards cost 50-100% more than equivalent indoor models because they need:
- Weather-resistant enclosures
- Brighter displays (visible in sunlight)
- Heating/cooling systems
- Specialized electrical connections
- More complex mounting structures
An indoor basketball scoreboard might cost $6,000 while the outdoor equivalent runs $12,000.
Single Sport vs Multi-Sport Capability
A dedicated basketball scoreboard costs less than a multi-sport model that can display basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and other sports. Multi-sport boards require:
- More programming and configuration options
- Additional display areas for sport-specific stats
- Flexible control systems
- Typically: +$2,000 to $5,000 over single-sport models
Installation and Electrical Costs
The scoreboard price is just the starting point. Installation adds:
- Basic hanging/mounting: $1,500 - $3,000
- Electrical work: $500 - $5,000 (depends on power availability)
- Structural reinforcement: $1,000 - $8,000 (if ceiling mounting requires upgrades)
- Outdoor mounting poles/structures: $3,000 - $15,000
Some schools discover their electrical system needs upgrades before installation, adding thousands more.
Ongoing Maintenance and Support
Don't forget the long-term costs:
- Warranty extensions: $300 - $1,000/year after initial warranty
- Replacement bulbs/LEDs: $500 - $2,000 every few years
- Software updates: Often included, sometimes $200-500/year
- Repair service calls: $150 - $500 per visit plus parts
Traditional scoreboards are built to last 10-15 years, but factor in $500-1,500 annually for maintenance and repairs.
Scoreboard Price Breakdown by Type
Basic LED Segment Scoreboards ($3,000 - $8,000)
What you get:
- Numeric score display only
- Basic game clock
- Period/quarter indicators
- Single sport (usually basketball or volleyball)
- Typically 2-4 feet wide
Best for: Small gyms, elementary schools, church leagues, community centers needing simple score displays.
Limitations: No video, limited stats, no graphics or sponsor displays.
Multi-Sport LED Scoreboards ($5,000 - $15,000)
What you get:
- Configurable for multiple sports (basketball, volleyball, wrestling, etc.)
- Game and shot clocks
- Team names in LED text
- Basic stats (fouls, timeouts)
- Typically 4-8 feet wide
Best for: High school gyms, multi-purpose facilities, youth sports complexes.
Example pricing:
- 6-foot basketball/volleyball combo: $6,500
- 8-foot four-sport model: $11,000
- 10-foot deluxe multi-sport: $14,500
Limitations: Still text and numbers only, no video or detailed graphics.
Video Scoreboards - Small to Medium ($15,000 - $50,000)
What you get:
- High-definition LED video panels
- Display graphics, replays, sponsor videos
- Detailed game statistics
- Customizable graphics and animations
- Typically 8-15 feet wide
Best for: High schools with booster budgets, competitive programs, facilities that host tournaments.
Example pricing:
- 10-foot HD video board: $18,000
- 12-foot with statistics panel: $28,000
- 15-foot deluxe model: $42,000
Plus installation typically adds $5,000-12,000 for these larger boards.
Large Video Boards/Jumbotrons ($50,000 - $150,000+)
What you get:
- Stadium-quality displays
- Massive screens (15-30+ feet)
- Multiple video zones
- Professional-grade graphics
- Replay capability
- Integrated sound systems
Best for: Division I colleges, professional facilities, large high schools with major athletic programs.
Reality check: These aren't realistic for most schools. Installation alone can run $20,000-40,000.
Portable Tabletop Scoreboards ($200 - $1,000)
What you get:
- Freestanding portable units
- Battery or plug-in powered
- Basic score and timer displays
- Remote control included
Best for: Elementary schools, traveling teams, outdoor fields, backup scoreboards.
Limitations: Small displays only visible from 30-50 feet, not suitable as primary gym scoreboard.
Brand Pricing Overview
Daktronics (Premium)
Daktronics is the industry leader, known for professional-quality boards in college and pro venues.
Pricing range:
- Basic gym scoreboards: $10,000 - $18,000
- Multi-sport LED boards: $15,000 - $35,000
- Video scoreboards: $30,000 - $100,000+
- Outdoor stadium boards: $75,000 - $500,000+
Why they're expensive: Top-tier quality, extensive support network, long warranties, proven durability.
Nevco (Mid-Range)
Nevco offers solid quality at more accessible price points.
Pricing range:
- Basic scoreboards: $5,000 - $12,000
- Multi-sport models: $8,000 - $20,000
- Video boards: $18,000 - $60,000
Fair-Play (Mid-Range)
Similar positioning to Nevco with competitive pricing.
Pricing range:
- LED scoreboards: $6,000 - $15,000
- Multi-sport systems: $9,000 - $22,000
- Video scoreboards: $20,000 - $55,000
ScoreVision (Video-Focused)
ScoreVision specializes in software-driven video scoreboard systems.
Pricing range:
- Entry video boards: $15,000 - $25,000
- Mid-size systems: $25,000 - $50,000
- Professional systems: $50,000+
Note: Monthly software fees often apply ($100-300/month).
The Hidden Option Most Schools Miss
Here's what the scoreboard salespeople won't tell you: If your school already has a display in the gym, you might not need a $20,000 scoreboard at all.
The "Bring Your Own Display" Approach
Many schools already have:
- LED video walls (installed for assemblies or presentations)
- Projectors and screens (multipurpose rooms, gyms)
- Large flat-screen TVs (70-inch+ displays)
- Portable display units
With scoreboard software, any of these becomes a functional game scoreboard.
How It Works
Display: Use your existing screen, projector, TV, or LED wall
Software: Web-based scoreboard software runs in any browser
Control: Coaches or timekeepers control the scoreboard from a tablet, phone, or laptop
Cost: Around $50/month instead of $15,000-50,000 upfront
KeepTheScore: Professional Scoreboard Software
KeepTheScore is a professional online scoreboard system that works on any display.
Sports supported:
- Basketball (with shot clock)
- Volleyball
- Soccer/football
- Baseball/softball
- Hockey
- Tennis
- Wrestling
- 15+ other sports
Features:
- Professional-looking scoreboards
- Game clocks and timers
- Live updates from any device
- Remote control from phones/tablets
- No installation required
Cost:
- Around $50/month or less depending on package
- Includes custom branding, team logos, and full feature access
Hardware Control:
- Optional Elgato Stream Deck integration for physical button control
Cost Comparison: Traditional vs Software
Traditional Video Scoreboard (5-Year Total)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Scoreboard | $28,000 |
| Installation | $8,000 |
| Electrical upgrades | $3,500 |
| Annual maintenance (x5) | $4,000 |
| Total | $43,500 |
Software + Existing Display (5-Year Total)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| 75-inch TV (if needed) | $800 - $2,500 |
| Mounting hardware | $200 |
| KeepTheScore (x5 years) | $3,000 |
| Total | $4,000 - $5,700 |
Savings: $35,000+
Even if you need to purchase a large TV and mounting equipment, you're spending under $6,000 total versus $40,000+ for the traditional approach.
How to Decide What's Right for Your School
Choose Traditional Scoreboards When:
- Outdoor installation is required - You need weather-resistant, sun-visible displays
- Permanent installation is a priority - You want a standalone system that lasts 15-20 years
- Budget allows for a premium solution - Your boosters have raised funds specifically for a scoreboard
- You host major tournaments - Facilities that regularly host playoff games or state tournaments
Choose Software Solutions When:
- You already have a display - If there's already an LED wall, projector, or large TV in the gym
- Budget is limited - Most schools can afford ~$50/month for software versus $15,000-50,000 for hardware
- You want flexibility - Software scoreboards can display different sports and be customized instantly
- Indoor-only use - For gym sports like basketball, volleyball, and wrestling
The Smart Approach: Try Before You Buy
- Try scoreboard software on an existing display for one season
- Assess what you actually need based on real use
- Decide if dedicated hardware is worth the investment or if software solves 90% of your needs for 5% of the cost
Final Recommendations by School Type
| School Type | Recommended Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary | Portable ($300-600) or software solution | Limited budgets, simple needs |
| Middle School | Software or basic LED ($5k-8k) | Budget-conscious, multi-sport needs |
| High School (limited budget) | KeepTheScore (~$50/mo) | Professional appearance, no capital expense |
| High School (moderate budget) | Multi-sport LED ($8k-15k) | Balance of features and cost |
| High School (strong boosters) | Video board ($25k-45k) | Sponsor capabilities, recruiting appeal |
| College/Pro | Premium video ($50k+) | Revenue generation, long-term investment |
Try KeepTheScore Before Spending Thousands
If you're shopping for a gym scoreboard, try a software solution first.
No installation required. Create a scoreboard in 30 seconds.
You might discover you don't need a $25,000 scoreboard after all. And if you do decide to invest in dedicated hardware, you'll know exactly what features matter based on real experience, not sales brochures.
