When store owners ask me, what are the different types of display cases?, I give a simple answer. There are many. Each type serves a different purpose. In this article, I’ll walk you through them all. I’ll help you choose the best one for your shop. At Fairwill Display, I’ve worked with wholesalers, suppliers, and boutiques across the world. I know how to match cases to customer needs. From glass showcases to slatwall displays, I’ve seen it all. There are many types of display cases, including glass showcases, wall-mounted units, countertop displays. Each suits different products.
Understanding Display Case Categories
Freestanding Display Cases
Freestanding display cases offer the highest flexibility for almost any retail space. These cases stand directly on the floor and require no installation on walls or ceilings. Their mobility makes them easy to reposition, which helps retailers refresh their layouts as seasons or product lines change. Most freestanding cases are made from durable aluminum frames and tempered glass, which provide strength and clarity.
Some include storage cabinets beneath the display area, allowing retailers to hide extra stock or supplies out of sight. This type of case is commonly used in jewelry stores, electronics outlets, and vape shops, where visibility and security are both priorities.
Unlike wall-mounted or built-in options, freestanding units can act as centerpieces or be lined up to form aisles. Their standalone nature also allows them to define store zones, helping guide customer traffic naturally. You can find them in different shapes, including rectangular, square, and even curved fronts. They range in size from small cubes to long horizontal counters. The adjustable shelving inside also lets you configure the space according to product size.
Wall-Mounted Display Cases
When floor space is limited, wall-mounted display cases become the smart alternative. These cases attach directly to your store’s walls, saving ground area for customers to walk freely. They are ideal for showcasing lightweight products such as sunglasses, jewelry, cosmetics, or collectibles. Their design keeps merchandise secure and at eye level, making it easy for customers to browse without bending or reaching.
Built for stability, these cases often include steel mounting brackets or reinforced panels. Materials like tempered glass and E1-grade MDF ensure the structure is both safe and presentable. Many models also come with built-in LED lighting to highlight the displayed items and draw attention. Because they elevate products without occupying floor space, wall-mounted cases help maintain a clean, open layout.
The slim design also gives you more room to experiment with layout aesthetics. For example, you can install them in rows or staggered patterns to create visual rhythm. That not only improves store flow but also elevates the customer experience. Wall-mounted cases bring visibility and security without overwhelming the space.
Countertop Display Cases
Countertop display cases are designed for close-range merchandising. They sit on tables, reception desks, or checkout counters and work best for small, high-turnover items. These cases are commonly used to promote impulse buys such as lighters, vape cartridges, bracelets, or collectible items. Because they place products directly in the customer’s line of sight during checkout, they increase last-minute sales opportunities.
Most models include front-facing access or rear-sliding doors. This design protects items from dust and theft while making restocking easy. Retailers often choose these cases for their affordability and compact size. Despite being small, they can still feature premium materials like tempered glass and aluminum framing. Many versions include LED lighting to create an upscale presentation.
In tight retail environments, countertop units make the most of every square foot. You can place them in multiple locations—beside cash registers, near entrance points, or on branded display tables. Their portability means you can switch products quickly or try different sales strategies without altering your store’s structure. Compact, visible, and secure, they serve both functional and promotional purposes.
Full Vision Display Cases
Full vision display cases provide maximum visibility from nearly every angle. These display units use a large glass surface area with minimal framing, making the merchandise the focal point. That makes them a favorite in boutiques, jewelry shops, and retail stores selling premium items. Customers can see every product clearly, which increases engagement and perceived value.
These cases usually have glass panels on the front, sides, and top. Inside, multiple glass shelves offer vertical product presentation without blocking views. Some models include lockable storage cabinets underneath for added convenience and safety. Full vision designs come in various lengths and heights, letting you pick the size that fits your floor plan.
Their clean lines and transparency help maintain a modern, open-store look. They also encourage longer browsing times since customers can explore the display from multiple angles without touching anything. If you want to create an elegant, high-end atmosphere in your store, these are the cases to choose. They combine aesthetics with practicality, ensuring your merchandise always stands out.
Specialty Display Case Types
Not all display cases fit every retail need. Some are built for specific products or store environments. These specialty types help solve unique challenges. They improve product visibility, security, and store organization. By using the right display, you make your store more functional and attractive. In this section, I’ll walk you through four essential specialty display cases I often recommend to clients.
Tower Display Cases
Tower display cases stand tall while taking up little space. They are ideal for narrow store areas or corners that usually go unused. These cases are often glass on all sides, allowing a 360-degree view of your products. This setup improves customer engagement. Many models include built-in lights to further highlight the displayed items. You can use tower cases to showcase high-end accessories, collector items, or branded merchandise.
Beyond aesthetics, towers offer efficiency. Stores with limited floor area benefit most. By stacking products vertically, you gain display volume without expanding your footprint. Customers also appreciate the organized and clutter-free feel these units create. In vape shops, smoke stores, or small boutiques, tower displays help maximize value per square foot. When you think of what are the different types of display cases, these towers easily stand out as both beautiful and practical.
Jewelry Display Cases
Jewelry display cases are designed with precision. They’re low, often rectangular, and always secure. High-end products like rings, watches, and pendants need protection without sacrificing visibility. That’s where these cases shine. A good jewelry case blends elegance with function. Customers see every detail clearly, while sellers enjoy safety from theft or damage.
Soft lighting is often used inside these cases. It highlights sparkle and color. Interior trays, often velvet-lined, keep pieces organized. Locks come standard on most models. These cases typically sit near checkout areas or inside locked zones. Boutiques and gift shops benefit most. A well-lit and well-arranged jewelry display can double the perceived value of the items. Clients often ask me for low-profile, lockable options.
Slatwall Merchandiser Displays
Slatwall displays don’t look like traditional cases, but they perform a similar role. They hold products vertically and keep your layout flexible. Instead of being enclosed in glass, items are mounted on hooks, shelves, or bins slotted into the wall panel. You can easily adjust their layout as inventory or season changes.
This system offers convenience and adaptability. It’s especially useful in high-turnover environments. Think convenience stores or hardware shops. Products like bags, accessories, or tools hang neatly and stay visible. Slatwall systems also work well when paired with traditional glass display cases. This creates a mixed-use zone where customers can browse easily. Our factory uses E1-grade board for slatwalls. This ensures durability while keeping costs low.
Museum-Style Display Cases
Museum-style cases aren’t just for galleries. Many retailers now use them to highlight rare or premium items. These cases usually have enclosed glass tops, sturdy bases, and internal lighting. Their main job is to add importance and protection. They’re perfect for limited-edition items, signed merchandise, or handcrafted pieces.
Retailers often place these cases in center positions or spotlight zones. They create focal points that draw attention. At trade shows, museum-style cases help showcase a hero product or flagship design. You can also use them in boutiques to emphasize exclusivity. These cases tell your customer: this item is worth noticing. I often suggest them to clients with luxury products or small-batch goods. With a simple, minimalist design, they add prestige to your store without feeling out of place.
Materials and Features That Matter
Tempered Glass: Clarity and Safety First
Tempered glass is the standard for modern display cases. It’s clear, strong, and shatter-resistant. That makes it ideal for stores that care about safety and aesthetics. Unlike regular glass, tempered glass doesn’t crack easily. Even if it breaks, it crumbles into small pieces instead of sharp shards. This helps protect your staff and customers from injuries.
Many store owners prefer this material because it also resists scratches. You can clean it daily without worrying about damage. It stays transparent even with frequent handling. Display cases made with tempered glass showcase products in their best light. They help boost visibility and build trust with customers.
Another benefit is the professional look. Shiny, clean glass makes your store feel upscale. In smoke shops, boutiques, and tech stores, that first impression can drive a sale. That’s why I always recommend tempered glass over acrylic, especially for stores that sell high-value items or need long-term durability.
E1-Grade Boards: A Smarter Core
While glass covers the exterior, what’s underneath matters too. The base material—often overlooked—plays a major role in both quality and price. E1-grade engineered boards are my go-to choice for cost-effective and safe construction. These boards meet strict European standards for low formaldehyde emissions. That means better air quality inside your store and less risk for staff and shoppers.
E1 boards also offer great balance. They’re sturdy, smooth, and support heavy products without warping. At Fairwill Display, we source only certified boards. That way, we make sure every display case we produce meets both safety and environmental standards. Your customers may not see the board inside the showcase, but they’ll feel the difference in stability.
In budget-conscious markets like Sweden and Australia, clients always appreciate this option. It cuts costs without cutting corners. When you combine the E1 board with tempered glass, the result is a display case that’s affordable, safe, and visually clean. That’s why I include E1 boards in nearly every case we ship overseas.
Aluminum Frames: Strength Without the Bulk
The frame holds everything together, and aluminum is the ideal material. It’s light, strong, and corrosion-resistant. I prefer it over steel because it’s easier to move, cheaper to ship, and still durable enough for daily use. In fact, aluminum doesn’t rust, so your display case stays cleaner over time. That means fewer replacements and better return on your investment.
Another reason aluminum works so well is flexibility. It supports custom designs. You can bend, shape, or finish it in different colors. Whether your store vibe is sleek black or bright silver, aluminum can match it. That makes your display case not only strong but stylish.
Function matters too. Smooth sliding doors and firm corner joints depend on a good frame. Our aluminum hardware ensures drawers open easily, locks stay tight, and glass panels sit flush. For stores with heavy traffic, this durability is essential. I always choose aluminum when a customer needs quality on a tight timeline.
Built-in Locks, Lights, and Custom Add-ons
Beyond materials, small features make a big difference. Locks add basic security. Every case we build comes with a built-in lock as a standard. This protects your high-value goods and reduces shrinkage. For stores in busy urban areas, lockable cases bring peace of mind.
Lighting adds presentation power. Soft LEDs inside your case highlight the product’s details. They also improve the shopping experience by guiding the eye. We install low-heat LED strips that don’t affect product temperature or color. That’s useful for items like cosmetics, food, or electronics.
Custom features help stores stand out. Many clients ask for branded shelves, logo prints, or colored edges. We provide layout flexibility, adjustable trays, and removable panels. All of these are designed to make your store both efficient and unique.
Why Fairwill Display
Choosing the right display case supplier can make or break your store layout. I wanted a partner who understood my needs, respected my budget, and delivered lasting quality. That’s when I found Fairwill Display.
Fairwill isn’t just a manufacturer. They act like a business partner—one who offers expert advice, smart options, and custom-built solutions that actually work. Here’s why I continue to work with them—and why you should too.
Affordable Quality Without Compromise
As a boutique owner, price always matters to me. But I refuse to sacrifice quality. With Fairwill Display, I didn’t have to. Their products are built using tempered glass and E1-grade boards. That means the display cases are both safe and durable. They also use aluminum frames that won’t rust or warp.
I received top-grade materials at a fraction of what I would’ve paid locally. Fairwill has its own factory in China, which cuts out the middlemen. That translates into serious savings. But even better, they never cut corners to lower cost.
The value-for-money is unmatched. Every time I open a new location, I go back to them. Why? Because I know what I’ll get: consistent quality at a fair price.
Expert Guidance, Start to Finish
Fairwill didn’t just send me a catalog and leave me to figure things out. They actually listened. I sent them my store layout, and they helped me pick the right types of display cases for each section.
They asked smart questions:
- What are you selling?
- How much traffic do you expect?
- Do you need mobility or built-in lighting?
- What’s your budget and timeline?
Within a day, I got back a tailored proposal. The team showed me options I hadn’t even considered—like using tower showcases for accessories and slatwalls for boxed items. That kind of insight saved me time and boosted my product visibility.
Every time I had a question, they responded fast. No automated replies. Real people, giving real answers.
Customization That Fits My Brand
My store has a unique style, and Fairwill helped me match it. They offered choices in finishes, shelving styles, glass tinting, and even LED lighting. I was able to customize each unit to reflect my brand identity.
They didn’t charge outrageous fees for modifications either. In fact, they encouraged me to request adjustments. They even added my logo to the base panels of my countertop cases—something I didn’t know was possible until they suggested it.
This flexibility allowed me to create a consistent look across all locations, whether in Stockholm or Gothenburg.
Reliable Global Shipping and Support
One of my concerns was shipping from overseas. But Fairwill made the whole process smooth. They handled packaging, export paperwork, and logistics with care. All my items arrived on time—and in perfect condition.
Their team kept me updated throughout the delivery process. I never had to chase them for tracking numbers or customs forms. They made international buying feel like a local transaction.
And it doesn’t stop after delivery. If I need a replacement part, layout help, or a reorder, Fairwill’s team is always one email away. That level of post-sale support is rare, especially when working cross-border.
Final Thoughts
If you’re asking yourself whether Fairwill Display is the right supplier, stop wondering. Just reach out. You’ll get quality materials, fair pricing, helpful advice, and dependable service from day one.
Whether you run a smoke shop in the U.S., a boutique in Sweden, or a convenience store in Australia, Fairwill Display delivers. They helped me grow my business with better fixtures and smart layout strategies. I’m confident they can help you too.
Send them a message today. You won’t regret it.
