You’ve got an event to plan, and you’re not sure where to start when it comes to selecting the right software.
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Whether it’s a virtual gathering, a hybrid affair, or an in-person extravaganza, finding the perfect platform to manage the process can be a game-changer.
After extensively testing over 50 leading event solutions, we’ve narrowed it down to the top 9 that truly shine.
These platforms offer robust features and user-friendly interfaces, making event planning a breeze.
In this definitive guide, we'll dive deep into each platform, highlighting their strengths, unique capabilities, and ideal use cases.
You’ll get an inside scoop on the tools that will help you:
- Streamline event registration and ticketing
- Create immersive virtual and hybrid experiences
- Boost attendee engagement with interactive features
- Gain actionable insights from powerful analytics
- And so much more!
No matter if you’re organizing a cozy networking soiree or a massive multi-day conference (or anything in between), we’ve got you covered with the inside scoop.
One Event. Two Experiences.
Skillfully engage both your in-person and online attendees through our cutting-edge hybrid event production services.
Key Features to Look for in an Event Management Platform
But before we jump into our top picks, let’s break down the essential features that set the best event software apart from the rest:
1. Customizable Registration and Ticketing
A smooth registration process is the foundation of any successful event.
You’ll want a platform that offers customizable registration forms and landing pages to match your branding.
Flexible ticket types and pricing options are a must, so every attendee can find the perfect fit.
Seamless payment processing and invoicing will keep things running like a well-oiled machine.
And let’s not forget automated email confirmations and reminders – no one wants to miss out on the fun!
2. Engaging Virtual and Hybrid Event Capabilities
With virtual and hybrid events on the rise, your platform should provide top-notch tools like:
- High-quality live streaming and on-demand video capabilities
- Interactive features like polls, Q&A sessions, and chat rooms
- Virtual networking lounges and breakout rooms for meaningful connections
- Exhibitor and sponsor virtual showcases to amplify their presence
3. Robust Attendee Engagement Tools
Keeping your attendees engaged and connected is key. The best platforms offer features like:
- Mobile event apps for easy access to schedules, resources, and more
- Gamification and challenges to incentivize participation and add fun
- Personalized agendas and matchmaking capabilities for tailored experiences
- Social media integration to expand your event’s reach and buzz
With those essential features in mind, let’s dive into our curated list of the top 15 online event planning platforms!Â
The Top 15 Online Event Planning Platforms
If you’re on the hunt for online event planning and registration software, there’s no shortage of options available.
The key is finding the right platform tailored to your specific use case – whether you’re planning small networking events, large multi-day conferences, virtual events, or a hybrid approach.
This overview covers 15 of the top contenders on the market to consider.
1. Hubilo
Hubilo is an all-in-one platform built for large-scale virtual and hybrid events.
With features like branded event hubs, gamification, and AI-powered networking, Hubilo delivers immersive experiences that keep attendees engaged from start to finish.
Key Strengths:
- Customizable virtual venues with interactive exhibitor booths
- Advanced lead retrieval and meeting scheduling tools
- Robust analytics and real-time reporting capabilities
Pricing: Hubilo offers custom pricing based on event size and requirements.
Ideal For: Large conferences, trade shows, and exhibitions with a focus on networking and lead generation.
2. Hopin
Hopin has quickly become a go-to platform for virtual events of all types and sizes.
Its user-friendly interface and extensive feature set make it a versatile choice for event planners looking to create engaging online experiences.
Key Strengths:
- Customizable registration and ticketing options galore
- Interactive stage, session rooms, and networking areas
- Expo booths with live video, chat, and lead capture functionalities
- Powerful analytics and in-depth attendee insights
Pricing: Hopin offers a free plan for events up to 100 attendees, with paid plans starting at $99/month.
Ideal For: Conferences, summits, and community events that prioritize attendee engagement and networking in the virtual space.
3. Cvent
Cvent offers an end-to-end solution for virtual, hybrid, and in-person events.
Its robust feature set covers everything from registration to logistics to post-event analysis, making it a powerhouse in the industry.
Key Strengths:
- Flexible registration and ticketing options for any event type
- Customizable event websites and mobile apps to match your branding
- Integrated live streaming and on-demand video capabilities
- Powerful reporting and analytics tools to measure success
Pricing: Cvent provides custom pricing based on event requirements and volume.
Ideal For: Large-scale conferences, trade shows, and corporate events that require comprehensive planning and management capabilities across multiple event formats.
4. Bizzabo
Bizzabo is an all-in-one event success platform that powers immersive in-person, virtual, and hybrid experiences.
Its user-friendly interface and robust feature set make it a popular choice among event professionals looking to create memorable gatherings.
Key Strengths:
- Customizable registration and checkout process for a seamless attendee journey
- Branded event websites and mobile apps to amplify your presence
- Interactive live streams and session engagement tools to captivate audiences
- AI-powered networking and matchmaking capabilities for meaningful connections
Pricing: Bizzabo offers custom pricing tailored to each event’s unique needs.
Ideal For: Conferences, summits, and company events that aim to create immersive experiences and foster meaningful connections, no matter the format.
Easy starting packages • Advanced options • Proven results
5. Airmeet
Airmeet is a versatile platform designed for engaging virtual and hybrid events.
With its focus on creating immersive experiences, Airmeet offers a range of interactive features to keep attendees involved and excited.
Key Strengths:
- Customizable event landing pages and email invitations to match your branding
- Virtual lounge and speed networking sessions for casual connections
- Interactive polls, Q&A, and chat capabilities to encourage participation
- Detailed analytics and post-event reports to measure success
Pricing: Airmeet has a free plan for events up to 100 participants, with paid plans starting at $99/month.
Ideal For: Conferences, webinars, and workshops that prioritize attendee engagement and want to replicate the energy of an in-person experience in the virtual space.
6. vFairs
vFairs specializes in creating immersive virtual environments that mimic real-life events down to the smallest detail.
Its 3D designs and interactive features make it stand out from other platforms, offering a truly unique online experience.
Key Strengths:
- Realistic 3D virtual venues and exhibit halls for an authentic feel
- Customizable booths with live chat and video capabilities
- Gamification and scavenger hunts to boost engagement
- Robust lead generation and tracking tools for exhibitors
Pricing: vFairs provides custom pricing based on event requirements and features.
Ideal For: Trade shows, expos, and career fairs that want to create a visually stunning and interactive virtual experience for attendees and exhibitors alike.
7. Whova
Whova is a comprehensive event management platform with a focus on attendee engagement and networking.
Its mobile app and web-based tools make it easy for participants to connect, interact, and make the most of the event experience.
Key Strengths:
- Customizable event agenda and session scheduling capabilities
- In-app networking and community board discussions
- Live polls, surveys, and Q&A capabilities to encourage participation
- Sponsor promotion and lead retrieval features for exhibitors
Pricing: Whova offers affordable plans starting at $2,000 per event, with custom enterprise pricing available.
Ideal For: Conferences, associations, and corporate events that prioritize attendee engagement and want to create a seamless mobile experience for attendees to connect and interact.
8. SpotMe
SpotMe is an enterprise-grade event platform that powers engaging in-person, virtual, and hybrid experiences tailored for brands.
Its white-label solutions and extensive customization options make it a top choice for companies seeking a branded event experience.
Key Strengths:
- Fully brandable event apps and websites to amplify your presence
- Interactive live streaming and session features to captivate audiences
- AI-driven matchmaking and networking tools for meaningful connections
- Comprehensive analytics and data integrations for actionable insights
Pricing: SpotMe provides custom pricing based on event scope and requirements.
Ideal For: Large-scale conferences, product launches, and company-wide events that require a high level of customization and branding across all touchpoints.
9. Eventcube
Eventcube is an all-in-one event management software that streamlines the planning process from start to finish.
Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features make it a go-to choice among event organizers seeking a seamless experience.
Key Strengths:
- Customizable registration forms and landing pages to match your branding
- Automated email marketing and reminders to keep attendees engaged
- Integrated payment processing and invoicing for a smooth financial flow
- Real-time analytics and post-event reporting to measure success
Pricing: Eventcube offers flexible pricing plans starting at $1.50 per registration, with custom options for larger events.
Ideal For: Conferences, seminars, and trade shows that require a seamless registration and communication process to ensure a flawless attendee experience.
As a preferred production partner with top virtual event platforms, we get exclusive discounts and pass the savings along to our clients.
Choosing the Right Online Event Planning Platform
So, how do you choose the right one for your needs? Here are some key factors to consider:
- Event Type and Size: Some platforms are better suited for large conferences, while others excel at smaller, more intimate events. Consider the type and size of your event when evaluating options.
- Virtual, Hybrid, or In-Person: If you’re planning a virtual or hybrid event, look for platforms with robust live streaming, interactive features, and networking capabilities. For in-person events, prioritize registration, check-in, and on-site logistics support.
- Budget: Event platforms vary widely in pricing, from free plans for small events to custom enterprise solutions. Determine your budget and look for platforms that offer the features you need at a price point you can afford.
- Attendee Engagement: Engaging your attendees is crucial for event success. Look for platforms with interactive features like polls, Q&A, gamification, and networking tools to keep participants involved and connected.
- Customization and Branding: If creating a branded event experience is important to you, choose a platform that offers extensive customization options for event websites, mobile apps, and email communications.
- Integrations: Consider how well the platform integrates with your existing tools and workflows, such as CRM, marketing automation, and analytics software. Seamless integrations can save time and provide valuable insights.
- Customer Support: When running an event, having reliable customer support is essential. Look for platforms with responsive customer service, extensive documentation, and training resources to help you make the most of the software.
By carefully evaluating your needs and priorities, you can find the perfect online event planning platform to bring your vision to life and create a truly memorable experience for your attendees.
Let’s be real – planning an exceptional virtual, hybrid or in-person event can leave even the most seasoned organizers feeling frazzled and overwhelmed at times.
But it doesn’t have to be that way!
We’ve carefully evaluated over 50+ of the top event platforms to identify the best software partners that deliver stress-free event execution with intuitive tools tailored for your unique gathering.
From sleek product launches to large-scale conferences, we’ve got the inside scoop on the event planning soulmate that speaks to your specific needs.
Schedule a strategy session with our team of event experts to experience first-hand the capabilities that provide end-to-end event orchestration guaranteed to wow your attendees.
It’s time to find the hassle-free event partner you’ve been dreaming of and make your upcoming event shine brighter than ever before.
