November 3, 2025
You don't need fancy hardware or smart TVs to use digital signage for your business. You can turn any computer monitor that runs on Windows into an attractive digital sign.
Digital signage is popular for restaurant menus, university and school notice boards, office announcements, digital advertisements, retail videos, medical office entertainment, and many other use cases.
How to turn any Windows device into a digital sign
So long as your Windows device can run a modern, up-to-date web browser, then you can use it for digital signage. The web browser you need depends on which digital signage platform you choose (keep scrolling for our list of the best tools). Most digital signage tools require an up-to-date Chrome browser.
Then, all you have to do is open up the Chrome browser and launch the digital signage website or browser extension to convert your Windows device into a digital sign.
What are the benefits of using a Windows device for a digital sign?
When you use a Windows device for digital signage, you can put an existing device to use. You might have an existing Windows desktop monitor or all-in-one that would work just as well as a smart TV.
You might also be able to save on the monthly costs of digital signage software, because you can use browser-based software, instead of having to pay for hardware that might otherwise be required to convert a smart TV into a digital sign.
What kind of Windows device can you use for digital signage?
As long as your Windows device can run the appropriate web browser required by your signage software, you're in the clear.
The most common Windows devices to use for digital signage include all-in-ones, desktop monitors, and tablets.
What version of Windows do you need?
To run a modern browser, you might need Windows 10 or higher. That depends on the tool you choose. You might be able to use Windows 8, but most devices should have already been updated to Windows 10 or 11.
Top 7 digital signage tools for Windows
To use a Windows device for digital signage, you'll need the right software.
Digital signage tools allow you to design the look of your sign and manage the content from a central CMS and remotely change the content on your signs. Many digital signage platforms also offer integrations with other apps and services so that you can embed content, such as your social media feeds or a weather widget.
These are the best digital signage tools to use with a Windows device, as they all offer a browser-based media player so you don't have to purchase separate hardware.
1. Juuno
Juuno is a digital signage tool that focuses on beautifully simple designs and features. Unlike many other outdated digital signage platforms, this tool is easy to learn and use. You can pre-schedule content playlists to show the right images and announcements at the right times.
Top features:
Social media integrations with Twitter, Instagram, and more
Supports multimedia content like video, images, and Canva designs
Content scheduling
CMS for managing multiple signs and content types
RSS feed
Slack integration
Pricing:
Juuno costs $5 per screen per month for the Business plan, which includes access to all apps, unlimited users, playlists, and content scheduling. There’s also a 7-day free trial and a Growth plan ($9 per screen per month) coming soon with advanced features like API access and remote device management.
Best for:
Small businesses, organizations and anyone looking for affordable cloud digital signage software that works on any Windows digital display without requiring extra hardware.
How to use Juuno on a Windows device:
Juuno works with any modern web browser, such as Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. So all you need is an up-to-date Windows device, and you'll be able to navigate to Juuno.co on your web browser and deploy your digital signage.
2. truDigital
truDigital is a cloud-based digital signage platform that makes it easy to create, schedule, and manage content on screens across your business. You can upload images, videos, or use their plug-and-play templates and integrations.
Top features:
Cloud-based CMS for remote content management
Customizable templates for quick setup
Social media and dashboard integrations
Pricing:
truDigital’s pricing starts as low as $29 per month. Plans scale with your business, and their team helps you choose the most cost-effective option based on your goals and number of screens.
Best for:
Organizations that want cloud digital signage for Windows devices.
How to use truDigital on a Windows device:
truDigital works on virtually any Windows digital display. Simply connect a compatible plug-and-play media player to your screen, log into the truDigital platform, and manage your signage from any web browser.
3. Aerva
Aerva is a digital signage platform with many enterprise customers such as Taco Bell and BP. The platform offers a variety of hardware and software options depending on your needs, whether that's a digital billboard or a restaurant menu.
Top features:
CMS for managing content remotely
Hardware or browser-based
Can work for large displays (such as in Times Square)
Pricing:
As an enterprise-grade solution, Aerva doesn't publish their pricing online, so you'll need to get in touch with them.
Best for:
Enterprises that need digital signage software capable of powering large-scale networks and outdoor digital displays, such as billboards or campus-wide installations.
How to use Aerva on a Windows device:
Aerva works on any web browser, including Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. This means you can use just about any Windows device to deploy the platforms.
Keep in mind that while Aerva does have a browser-based player that works for Windows, this solution is designed for enterprises and likely costs thousands of dollars per month. If you're looking to cover just a few screens, you might want something simpler like Juuno.
4. Play Signage
Play Signage is a flexible cloud digital signage platform that supports a wide range of devices, including Windows, Android, and ChromeOS. It’s designed for teams that want full control over their digital content, from layout design to advanced playback conditions.
Top features:
Cloud-based design editor
Supports animation and videos
Social media integrations
Weather widget
Content tags
Pricing:
Play Signage starts at $8 per screen per month for the Essential plan, $12 per month for the Pro plan, and $16 per month for the Ultimate plan with advanced analytics and audit logs. The platform also offers one free screen if you leave a review within 30 days of signing up.
Best for:
Businesses that want digital signage software with deep customization options, flexible layouts, and advanced scheduling tools for managing multiple screens.
How to use Play Signage on a Windows device:
To use Play Signage, you need to download their app. It works not only for Windows devices, but also Mac, Android, Amazon, Chrome, Linux, and Samsung devices.
5. NowSignage
With NowSignage, you can get some enterprise-grade features at a more affordable cost. For example, you can use the content triggers to play the right content based on viewers' gender, age, and other criteria (using AI to identify these). Keep in mind that for most businesses, this platform will be overly complex.
Top features:
CMS for managing content
Hardware or browser-based
RSS feeds
Microsoft Power BI integration for data dashboards
Pricing:
NowSignage costs $20 per month per screen.
Best for:
Teams that need powerful, data-driven displays. NowSignage is a good fit if you want to pair your Windows digital signage with real-time dashboards or audience-triggered content.
How to use NowSignage on a Windows device:
With NowSignage's HTML5 browser application, you can use this on any modern, up-to-date web browser. This means you can use it for just about any Windows device.
6. ScreenCloud
ScreenCloud offers plans and features that could work for small businesses or large enterprises. They offer several different content integrations, which is useful if you're planning to add widgets to your signage. The company does recommend that you purchase hardware to get the most out of their platform, but if you want to use it for Windows, all you have to do is download their app.
Top features:
CMS for managing content
Enterprise-grade security monitoring
Works with Google Chromecast and Amazon Fire Stick
Integrations for weather, news, and social media
Pricing:
ScreenCloud’s Core plan starts at $20 per screen per month, while the Pro plan with Microsoft integrations, dashboards, and remote device management starts at $30 per screen per month. Enterprise pricing is available upon request for companies managing 25 or more screens.
Best for:
Businesses that want an all-in-one windows digital display solution with plenty of integrations and hands-on support to keep screens running smoothly.
How to use ScreenCloud on a Windows device:
You can download the ScreenCloud app on your Windows all-in-one computer, desktop computer, or tablet.
7. Scala
Scala is an enterprise signage solution. It can be used for not only digital signs for customers, but also warehouses as well. One of the top use cases is smart pickup shelving, where shelf screens display pickup names or order numbers. The platform can also be used for lift and learn self-guided product tours, meaning when a customer lifts an item from a display, the product tour will play automatically.
Top features:
Content designer
Remote CMS to manage all screens
Support for multimedia content
Transition effects
Pricing:
Scala doesn't publish their pricing online, so you'll need to contact their team for a custom quote. The company only offers enterprise plans.
Best for:
Large organizations that need a powerful, enterprise-grade system to manage complex digital signage networks across multiple Windows displays and locations.
How to use Scala on a Windows device:
You will need to purchase Scala's media player, which is compatible with both Windows and Linux devices. The player will allow you to stream videos on your Windows device, display menus, or share announcements.
Tips for getting the most out of your Windows digital display
Once your digital signage software is set up and your screens are live, the next step is making sure your content actually connects with people. A Windows digital display can be an incredibly effective tool—if you know how to plan, design, and manage it well. Here are some practical ways to get more impact from every screen.
1. Keep your content short and clear
Digital signage is meant to catch attention fast. Whether you’re sharing announcements, promotions, or menu updates, aim for concise messaging that can be absorbed in just a few seconds. Use large, legible fonts and limit text to one main idea per slide or section.
2. Use motion thoughtfully
Video and animation help grab attention, but too much motion can be overwhelming. Try using short video loops or subtle transitions to highlight important details. If you’re displaying content across multiple screens, make sure animations sync smoothly to avoid visual clutter.
3. Refresh your content regularly
Static signage gets stale quickly. Keep your cloud digital signage up to date by rotating images, updating specials, or changing your background design every few weeks. This not only keeps your messaging fresh but also encourages viewers to pay attention the next time they walk by.
4. Take advantage of scheduling tools
Modern Windows digital signage software makes it easy to plan playlists in advance. Use scheduling to automatically change your content based on time of day, day of the week, or season.
For example, you can run different menus for breakfast and lunch or adjust promotions around holidays without touching a single screen.
5. Match your design to your space
Your digital display should complement its surroundings. Choose colors and imagery that align with your brand but also fit the environment. A calm office might call for muted tones and minimal design, while a retail store might use bright visuals and bold movement to stand out.
6. Include real-time data and widgets
Adding live content keeps your signage dynamic. Display real-time weather, news headlines, social media feeds, or data dashboards. For internal use, you can even show performance metrics or employee updates to keep teams engaged and informed.
7. Optimize visuals for screen resolution
Every Windows device is different, and display quality can vary. Always check how your content looks in full-screen mode and test it on the exact device you’ll use. Avoid text or logos too close to the edges of the display, and use high-resolution images for crisp visuals.
8. Measure engagement where possible
If your signage software includes analytics or proof-of-play reports, review them regularly. Tracking which content gets the most impressions or runs most often can guide your strategy. Over time, these insights help you fine-tune your playlists and make smarter content decisions.
9. Combine signage with other marketing channels
Think of digital signage as part of your wider communication strategy. Use your screens to promote your website, social media channels, or upcoming events. When viewers see consistent visuals across multiple touchpoints, your brand feels cohesive and recognizable.
10. Keep experimenting
Finally, don’t treat your digital signage as a set-and-forget system. Test new layouts, adjust timing, and explore fresh ideas. A Windows digital signage display gives you the flexibility to adapt quickly, so take advantage of it.
How to choose the right signage platform for Windows
If you're looking for a digital signage tool for billboards, Aerva will likely be the right solution. If you want to use digital signage for lift and learn product tours, then Scala will be the best fit.
However, if you're looking for a simple solution that will be easy to learn and affordable, then Juuno will be your best bet. It's the perfect fit for restaurants, offices, and schools looking to share content via widgets, videos, slide shows, and static screens.