Why Opting for Party Light Hire Is the Wrong Choice

If you are a DJ, venue manager or event organiser looking to rent party lights for your next gig, you are not alone.

Many people incorrectly, but understandably, assume that party lights hire is the cheaper and easier option compared to investing in purchasing lights outright.

But here is the truth: When you decide to go with a party light hire rather than buying, you’re spending more money and more time and effort, and don’t even have the lights to show for it at the end of the night.

In this blog, we will break down the real maths, the hidden cost and opportunity cost of choosing to rent party lights rather than buy.

To explore our range of party lights, visit our online showroom here.

How Much Does Party Lights Hire Really Cost?

When you look at the cost of renting party lights, compared to buying them outright, it looks at first, on paper and in isolation as a low-cost solution.

But once you dig deeper into the number, the realist is quite different.

The Average Hire Price for Party Lights

Your average LED bar or party effect light is likely to cost you between $100 and $120 here in Australia.

If you want to add some highly-effective effect, such as mult-lens, lasers or a complete T-bar right, you are looking at an additional $150 to $200.

That means your spend is: $120 + $200 = $320

And this does not factor in hidden costs either, such as:

• A bond or deposit of $100-$200, only recoverable once the equipment is inspected after use and deemed to be undamaged
• Late fees
• Pickup and return fees
• Seasonal price hikes

So, if you are looking to rent party lights, you’re probably in for a ball park of $240–$300 at least. And we haven’t factored in the value of your time and effort transporting the lights back and forth.

What Are the Hidden Costs of Party Lights Hire?

Unfortunately, hire fees are only the beginning when it comes to party lights. 

Many rental companies include extra hidden costs or conditions that make rentals far less convenient and affordable in practice.

• Travel time involved in pickup and return takes up valuable time especially on the event day.
• Losing the deposit as a result of even small surface marks and wear and tear.
• Late fees if you do not return the lights by a certain time
• Minimum hire periods often apply so you need to pay for an extra day you’re not using them for.
• Availability limits, especially on popular weekends, can mean the lights you want are booked out.

When you buy your own party lights, you avoid all of this cost and hassle. But how does the maths stack up?

How Much Does It Cost to Buy Party Lights, Not Hire?

Is purchasing really more cost-effective than party lights hire? The data says yes.

Let’s take the range of party lights here at DJ City, which includes trusted brands like:

• MAX
• AVE
• Chauvet
• Beamz

Of course, there is going to be a range of pricing depending on whether you opt for an entry-level unit that is simple to set up and limited in functionality, or a more professional, comprehensive and impressive lighting rig.

But, in terms of pricing, this is the general breakdown:

• Compact LED effect or mini bar light: $129–$169
• Sound-reactive T-bar or multi-lens light: $199–$249 
• Premium setups complete with wash, strobe, and laser: $299–$399

The Two-Use Rule

Even if, to be conservative, we strip out the cost of the deposit from the price of party lights hire, it only takes two weekend hires, two DJ gigs, or two parties for the maths to clearly stack up and make purchasing party lights more cost effective than renting them.

Yes, even the premium party lights setup.

1. LED Bar

The average cost to hire an LED bar is $110. To buy it is $149.

Therefore in just two parties you’ve saved money by buying.

2. Basic T-Bar.

The average cost to hire a basic T-bar is $180. To buy it is $229.

The two-use rule applies.

3. Laser/FX Combo

Even the average cost to hire a laser of lighting effects combo is $220. To buy it is $299.

Therefore by your second event, you’ve saved money.

When to Consider Buying vs Party Lights Hiring?

Therefore, if you’re hosting or organising two events per year or more, buying party lights outright will save your money compared to renting them. From your second event onwards, you’re essentially using free lighting that you own. 

Plus, you can customise your lights, even hire them out yourself or resell them when you’re done.

Buying your own party lights allows you to:

• Set up, use and customise your lights however you want
• Not worry about extra costs, superficial damage or return times
• Become familiar with your equipment, saving time and effort in set up
• Upgrade and expand your lights over time and at your pace

For DJs, party planners and venues, owning your part lights is the simpler, more convenient and more affordable way to go.

Can You Re-Sell Your Lights When You’re Ready?

Of course. That’s another big advantage of buying rather than renting party lights.

Lighting gear depreciates slower than other types of electronics. With a quality brand name that is in good condition, you can recoup up to 60–70% of the value even after a year or two of use.

Can You Buy Professional-Quality Lighting on a Budget?

At DJ City, absolutely.

Even our entry-level lights deliver sharp lighting and even feature functionalities such as sound-activated movement, multicolour washes and professional rigging set ups.

Our team is always available to help you find the right option to suit your needs. But some of our most popular options include:

• MAX PartyBar at just $199
• AVE COSMOS Moving Effect Light for just $179.
• Beamz LIGHTBOX5 5-in-1 Party Effect Light for $199.

How Can You Find the Best Alternative to Party Lights Hire?

If you are hosting just one party, gig or event every few years, then perhaps renting party lights is the right choice for you.

For everyone else, investing once-off in a quality, reliable rig of lights is the more cost-effective choice. You’ll break even after just the second use, save hundreds, and enjoy greater convenience, ease and opportunity for customisation in the meantime.

At DJ City, we stock the full range of party lights so you can find the perfect solution for your needs. Either have a browse yourself today, or reach out to our team for expert, tailored advice.