Virtual events are still center stage even as in-person conferences rebound. But not every platform shines online.
Choosing the wrong provider can dim your event’s interactive spark and frustrate attendees.
The ideal platform has intuitive features, stellar support, and the flexibility to customize branding and experiences – whether fully virtual, hybrid, or streaming an in-person event to remote audiences.
This guide analyzes the top virtual event platforms vying for your business today.
We compare critical factors like pricing, production quality, security, analytics, and usability across leading contenders.
With in-person events ramping up in 2023, now is the perfect time to level up your virtual capabilities as well.
Let’s explore premier options to find the platform that aligns with your budget and creates immersive online experiences as impactful as IRL events.
Virtual venues can still take conferences and trade shows to engaging new heights.
Key Factors to Consider
Before getting lost in the weeds, let’s talk big picture.
What really matters when deciding on a platform?
As you compare platforms, keep the following key factors in mind.
- Features – What built-in features does the platform offer for registration, networking, sessions, exhibitors, analytics, and more? Consider which specific tools are must-haves for your event format.
- Pricing – What does the platform cost, and does the pricing align with your budget? Take into account per-attendee fees, flat rates, or customizable packages.
- Customization – Can you tailor the platform to match your brand? Assess available templates, themes, landing pages, and ability to modify options.
- User Experience – Is the platform intuitive for organizers and attendees? Review ease of navigation and accessibility on desktop and mobile.
- Support – What training, resources, and customer service does the provider offer? You’ll want readily available support.
- Security – Does the platform offer robust security and privacy features? This is especially important when managing sensitive data.
- Integrations – What other event apps and services can you connect? Relevant integrations expand capabilities.
- Reviews – Does the provider have a good reputation? Positive user reviews indicate a platform is delivering satisfaction.
By comparing providers across these factors using the details below, you’ll be equipped to make the right virtual event platform choice for your needs.
Comparing Platforms
When it comes to choosing a virtual event platform, there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
Different platforms cater to different needs, preferences, and budgets.
We’ll evaluate each platform based on the key factors mentioned previously.
Hubilo
Hubilo is one of the fastest growing virtual and hybrid event platforms, offering robust features for conferences, trade shows, networking events, and more.
Features
Hubilo’s extensive built-in features include:
- Session streaming with HD video and screen sharing
- Exhibit booths with lead generation tools
- Networking through 1:1 video chatting, private chat, and live Q&A
- Customizable registration flows and event microsites
- Gamification through live polls, quizzes, and leaderboards
- Robust analytics and NPS surveys
- Native mobile apps for attendees
Pricing
Hubilo offers several pricing tiers:
- Free – Up to 25 attendees with basic features
- Pro – $99/month for up to 100 attendees
- Business – Custom pricing for 100-500 attendees
- Enterprise – Custom pricing for 500+ attendees
Volume discounts are available. Additional fees apply for extended support, branding, and other services.
Customization
Hubilo allows organizers to fully white label the platform with custom branding.
Multiple templates are available, and nearly all aspects of the UI can be tailored, including lobby, session pages, emails, and more.
User Experience
The platform interface is modern and easy to navigate.
Attendees can join sessions, visit exhibits, network, and access amenities all from a single portal.
Mobile apps streamline the experience for remote viewers.
Support
Hubilo provides 24/7 customer support via live chat, email, and phone.
They also offer expert consulting services to ensure customers build successful events.
Security
Hubilo utilizes HTTPS, 256-bit SSL encryption, secure authentication via SAML/SSO, and integrates with services like Auth0 for enhanced security.
User data is hosted on AWS servers.
Integrations
Hubilo has an API and webhooks to integrate with marketing, payment, CRM, and other tools.
Some notable integrations include Salesforce, Mailchimp, PayPal, Slack, and HubSpot.
Reviews
Users praise Hubilo for its modern interface, networking features, security, mobile experience, and responsive support.
It has a 4.6/5 rating on Capterra.
Airmeet
Airmeet positions itself as an all-in-one virtual and hybrid event platform. Beyond standard meeting features, it offers more advanced event elements.
Features
Key features provided by Airmeet include:
- Session streaming in HD video with live Q&A
- Virtual exhibit halls and expo lobbies
- 1:1 and group video networking
- Custom registration flows with badge printing
- Robust webinar functionality
- Polls, surveys, lead generation forms
- Deep analytics on engagement, source tracking, ROI
- Native apps for web, iOS, and Android
Pricing
Airmeet has tiered pricing as follows:
- Lite – Free for up to 25 attendees
- Pro – $129/month for up to 100 attendees
- Business – $249/month for up to 500 attendees
- Enterprise – Custom pricing for 500+ attendees
Add-on fees apply for extended customer support, additional features, and services.
Customization
The platform can be rebranded to match company colors, logos, and event pages.
There are also multiple built-in themes and custom CSS options.
User Experience
Reviews praise the intuitive, easy-to-use interface for organizers and attendees.
The apps streamline engagement on any device.
Support
Airmeet provides 24/7 customer support via live chat, email, phone, and an online help center with training resources.
Account management services are available.
Security
The platform uses 256-bit SSL encryption, SAML SSO authentication, and secure data storage on AWS infrastructure.
Granular user roles and permissions enhance security.
Integrations
Notable integrations include Zapier, YouTube, Vimeo, Slido, Calendly, HubSpot, Marketo, and other web apps.
Airmeet also has an open API.
Reviews
Users highlight Airmeet’s networking features, production quality streaming, customization capabilities, and valuable analytics.
It has a 4.7/5 Capterra rating.
Cadence
Cadence bills itself as a virtual and hybrid event platform built for premier experiences. It focuses on high production value and engagement.
Features
Cadence offers the following main features:
- Multi-stream broadcasting with pro production tools
- Interactive expo halls and exhibit booths
- 1:1 video meetings for scheduled and spontaneous networking
- Robust webinars, speakers lobbies, and green rooms
- Polls, surveys, live Q&A, and gamification
- Customizable registration flows and follow-up
- Data analytics on engagement, demographics, content, and ROI
- Integrated mobile experience through web and apps
Pricing
Cadence has custom pricing tailored to each event. Published tiers are:
- Starter – For up to 300 attendees
- Pro – For 300 to 3,000 attendees
- Enterprise – For over 3,000 attendees
Add-ons like extended support, production services, and custom integrations affect costs.
Customization
The platform interface can be fully branded to match company and event aesthetics.
Multiple templates provide a starting point for customization.
User Experience
Cadence focuses extensively on UX.
Reviewers praise the platform for its intuitive navigation, seamless streaming, and engaging tools.
Support
Cadence provides 24/7 support via phone, email, and chat.
Dedicated event producers help manage technical setup and production.
Security
The platform uses enterprise-grade security protocols including SOC 2 compliance, ISO certification, TLS encryption, and role-based permissions.
Integrations
Cadence offers core integrations with Salesforce, Marketo, On24, LinkedIn, and other tools. The open API enables further connections.
Reviews
Users highlight Cadence’s high-end production, customization, intuitive interface, data-driven ROI, and excellent support. Its G2 rating is 4.9/5 stars.
Welcome
Welcome is an end-to-end virtual, hybrid, and in-person event platform. It focuses on creating human connections and data insights.
Features
Welcome provides:
- Broadcast-quality video streaming and webinars
- Customizable networking spaces and meeting tables
- Expo booths with lead capture and analytics
- Registration and access control tools
- Integrated email, calendar, and CRM capabilities
- Audience engagement analysis and heat maps
- Tailored apps for web, iOS and Android
Pricing
Welcome offers these pricing options:
- Basic – Free for events under 25 attendees
- Pro – $199/month for up to 500 attendees
- Business – Custom pricing for over 500 attendees
Add-on fees apply based on usage, support needs, and integrations.
Customization
The platform can be customized with company branding, logos, and design templates to match the event aesthetic.
User Experience
Welcome places heavy emphasis on UX. Reviewers praise the platform for its intuitive interface, seamless apps, and human-centric networking.
Support
24/7 customer support is provided via live chat, phone, email, and an online knowledge base. Dedicated account management is also available.
Security
Welcome utilizes enterprise-grade security protocols including 256-bit SSL encryption, SOC 2 compliance, ISO certification, and role-based permissions.
Integrations
Welcome offers core integrations with tools like Salesforce, Marketo, Hubspot, Eventbrite, and Stripe. It also has an open API for custom connections.
Reviews
Users highlight Welcome’s human-centric features, data insights, production value, customization, and excellent support. It’s rated 4.8/5 on G2.
BigMarker
BigMarker positions itself as an all-in-one virtual and hybrid event platform built to make online events impactful.
Features
BigMarker provides:
- Multi-stream video technology up to 4K resolution
- Custom virtual lobbies and exhibit halls
- 1:1 video meetings and group networking rooms
- Webinars, voting, Q&A, and engagement tools
- Automated emails, registration, and follow up
- Data analytics on engagement, content, and sales
- Native apps for iOS, Android, and desktop
Pricing
BigMarker has the following pricing:
- Basic – Free up to 25 attendees
- Pro – $72/month up to 100 attendees
- Business – Custom pricing for over 100 attendees
Extended services, support, and some features incur added fees.
Customization
The platform can be customized with branded layouts, logos, themes, and more. HTML access allows deeper branding.
User Experience
Reviewers praise BigMarker’s easy-to-use interface and streamlined attendee experience across devices. The mobile apps are highly rated.
Support
24/7 customer support is available via phone, email, and chat. There are also onboarding resources and an online knowledge base.
Security
BigMarker utilizes industry-standard security protocols like SSL/TLS encryption, SOC 2 compliance, and role-based user permissions.
Integrations
Notable integrations include Salesforce, Marketo, Microsoft Teams, YouTube, and other platforms. API access allows for further connections.
Reviews
Users highlight BigMarker’s intuitive interface, solid streaming quality, useful integrations, and helpful support. It has a 4.6/5 Capterra rating.
Goldcast
Goldcast offers an end-to-end virtual and hybrid event platform focused on engagement, design, and data.
Features
Key features of Goldcast include:
- Multi-stream broadcasting in up to 1080p
- Customizable virtual venue spaces
- 1:1 and group video chat capabilities
- Webinars, polling, Q&A, surveys, and emoji reactions
- Automated emails and registration workflows
- Detailed analytics on engagement, content, and ROI
- Tailored web, iOS and Android apps
Pricing
Goldcast has the following pricing:
- Lite – Free for under 25 attendees
- Pro – $99/month for up to 500 attendees
- Business – Custom pricing for over 500 attendees
Additional fees apply for some features, services, and integrations.
Customization
The platform can be rebranded to match company and event aesthetics. Multiple templates allow further customization.
User Experience
Reviewers highlight Goldcast’s intuitive attendee experience on both web and mobile apps. The virtual venue layouts also encourage engagement.
Support
24/7 customer service is provided via email, chat, phone, and an online knowledge base. Extended support packages are available.
Security
Goldcast utilizes 256-bit SSL encryption, SAML SSO, secure AWS data storage, and granular user permissions for security.
Integrations
The platform integrates with Office 365, Gmail, Eventbrite, SurveyMonkey, HubSpot, Marketo, Slack and more. Further APIs allow customization.
Reviews
Users praise the platform’s engaging layouts, strong branding capabilities, data insights, and helpful support. Goldcast has a 4.5/5 Capterra rating.
Hopin
Hopin is an all-in-one virtual venue platform built to feel like an in-person event experience online.
Features
Notable Hopin features include:
- Multi-stage video streaming up to 4K
- Expo and vendor booth capabilities
- Networking through group chat and 1:1 video
- Polls, Q&A, surveys, and other interactive tools
- Automated email and registration workflows
- Detailed analytics on engagement and conversions
- Web and mobile apps tailored to the platform
Pricing
Hopin offers the following packages:
- Free – For events under 100 attendees
- Starter – $99/month for 101-500 attendees
- Pro – $169/month for 501-3,500 attendees
- Enterprise – Custom pricing for 3,500+ attendees
Add-ons are available for extended services and capabilities.
Customization
Hopin provides templates and themes to customize branding, as well as options to edit colors, logos, and event pages.
User Experience
The platform is designed for intuitive use for both organizers and attendees. Reviewers highlight Hopin’s ease of navigation and seamless streaming.
Support
Hopin offers 24/7 customer support via chat, email, phone, as well as an online knowledge base. Account management services are also available.
Security
Hopin uses enterprise-grade security protocols including 256-bit SSL encryption, SOC 2 compliance, and ISAO verified security practices.
Integrations
Notable integrations include YouTube, Twitch, Salesforce, HubSpot, Marketo, Slack, and 70+ other apps. Hopin also provides developer APIs.
Reviews
Users praise Hopin’s event-centric features, sleek interface, strong engagement tools, top-notch production, and helpful support. It’s rated 4.7/5 on Capterra.
Whova
Whova positions itself as an all-in-one event app and website builder for virtual, hybrid, and in-person events.
Features
Key features of Whova include:
- Webinars, streaming, and video conferencing
- Gamification through live polls, quizzes, andleaderboards
- Private chat and 1:1 video calls
- Customizable schedules, maps, and profiles
- Robust event apps for iOS, Android, and web
- Attendee management, registration, and e-tickets
- Actionable analytics for engagement and event ROI
Pricing
Whova has the following pricing:
- Free – For events under 100 attendees
- Basic – $1,490/year for up to 300 attendees
- Pro – $2,990/year for up to 1,000 attendees
- Enterprise – Custom pricing for over 1,000 attendees
Extended services and features incur additional fees.
Customization
Whova offers custom templates to tailor branding for the website and event app. Further UI customization is available.
User Experience
The company focuses heavily on UX. Reviewers praise Whova’s intuitive platform and seamless event app experience.
Support
24/7 support is provided via live chat, email, phone, and online resources. Whova also offers dedicated event consultants.
Security
Whova uses enterprise-level security protocols including 256-bit TLS encryption, SOC 2 compliance, and ISO certification.
Integrations
Whova integrates with platforms like Webex, ON24, Intrado, HubSpot, Salesforce, Marketo and more. Custom APIs allow deeper connections.
Reviews
Users highlight Whova’s robust mobile event apps, intuitive platform interface, valuable analytics, and top-notch support. It’s rated 4.7/5 on Capterra.
Easy starting packages • Advanced options • Proven results
Eventee
Eventee is an AI-powered end-to-end platform for creating branded virtual, hybrid, and in-person events.
Features
Key features of Eventee include:
- Broadcast studio streaming quality up to 4K
- Customizable virtual event spaces
- Automated session scheduling tools
- Integrated webinars, chat, and video networking
- Robust registration management and e-ticketing
- Lead capture forms and product showcases
- Real-time data analytics for engagement and sales
- Tailored web and mobile apps
Pricing
Eventee offers the following packages:
- Free – For up to 50 attendees
- Pro – $99/month for up to 500 attendees
- Business – Custom pricing for over 500 attendees
Added fees apply based on features, integrations, services, and support needs.
Customization
Eventee allows for complete customization of branding, themes, logos, and design templates to match the event aesthetic.
User Experience
The platform uses AI to optimize UX. Reviewers praise Eventee’s intuitive navigation and seamless event delivery across devices.
Support
24/7 customer service is provided via phone, email, chat, and an online knowledge base. Extended support packages are available.
Security
Eventee utilizes enterprise-grade protocols like 256-bit SSL encryption, SSO authentication, and secure AWS data storage. Access controls and permissions enhance security.
Integrations
Notable integrations include Salesforce, Marketo, Hubspot, Slack, Eventbrite, YouTube, and more. Eventee also provides developer APIs for custom connections.
Reviews
Users highlight Eventee’s robust streaming, engaging custom spaces, lead generation capabilities, data insights, and strong support. It has a 4.6/5 Capterra rating.
ON24
ON24 is a virtual and hybrid event platform focused on recreating live experiences through webinars, conferences, and branded studios.
Features
Key capabilities offered by ON24 include:
- Broadcast studio quality video up to 4K resolution
- Customizable virtual environments and exhibitor booths
- Robust webinar features like polls, Q&A, and screen sharing
- Automated follow up of sales leads and attendee data
- Deep reporting on event analytics and ROI
- Personalized experiences through web and mobile apps
Pricing
ON24 has the following pricing tiers:
- Pro – $99/month for 100-attendee webinars
- Premium – Custom pricing for branded studios and larger events
- Enterprise – Custom pricing with volume discounts
Additional fees apply based on usage, add-ons, and services.
Customization
ON24 offers various studio environments that can be customized with brand assets, colors, graphics, and themes. Further UI branding is available.
User Experience
The platform focuses on creating broadcast-style event experiences. Reviewers praise the polished UX and intuitive engagement tools.
Support
ON24 provides 24/7 customer support as well as launch managers, success managers, and premium services for large events.
Security
The platform is SOC 2 compliant and uses security measures like encryption, access controls, and secure data centers to protect user data.
Integrations
ON24 integrates with marketing and sales tools like Salesforce, Marketo, HubSpot, and new integrations can be built via API.
Reviews
Users highlight ON24’s high production value, data-driven ROI, customizable studio environments, and helpful customer support. ON24 is rated 4.7/5 on G2.
Brandlive
Brandlive is a self-service virtual and hybrid event platform focused on audience engagement.
Features
Key features of Brandlive include:
- Multi-stream HD video broadcasting
- Interactive chats, Q&A, and polls
- Customizable landing pages and registration
- Webinars, speaker rooms, and session lobbies
- Integrated email and CRM capabilities
- Automated follow-up and surveys
- Detailed analytics for audience insights
- Optimized experience across web and mobile
Pricing
Brandlive offers these pricing options:
- Lite – Free for events under 50 attendees
- Pro – $99/month for up to 500 attendees
- Enterprise – Custom pricing for over 500 attendees
Add-ons are available for extended services, support, and capabilities.
Customization
The platform allows branding with logos, themes, colors, and tailored landing pages. Some template customization is also available.
User Experience
The interface prioritizes ease of use for organizers and engagement for viewers. Mobile optimization is a key focus.
Support
All subscribers receive email and chat support. Higher tiers provide additional live training, launch management, and event producers.
Security
Brandlive uses security measures like encryption, access controls, and secure data storage. It also meets SOC 2 compliance requirements.
Integrations
The platform integrates with tools like Salesforce, Marketo, SurveyMonkey, tubular, ON24, and more. API access allows further connections.
Reviews
Users praise Brandlive’s intuitive interface, interactive tools, mobile optimization, analytics, and solid support. It has a 4.6/5 rating on G2.
Sequel
Sequel is an AI-powered virtual and hybrid event platform focused on delivering human connection and data insights.
Features
Key features offered by Sequel include:
- Broadcast-quality video production and streaming
- Customizable virtual networking environments
- 1:1 video meetings and group conversations
- Robust engagement analytics and sales tracking
- Integrated calendars, email, and CRM capabilities
- Automated follow-up based on interactions and interests
- Personalized web and mobile experiences
Pricing
Sequel offers the following tiers:
- Team – $49/month for up to 25 attendees
- Pro – $149/month for up to 100 attendees
- Business – Custom pricing for over 100 attendees
Extended services and capabilities incur additional fees.
Customization
Sequel enables extensive branding of logos, colors, themes, and templates. Unique virtual environments can be designed.
User Experience
The AI-powered platform optimizes experiences for both organizers and attendees. Reviewers highlight the human-centric feel.
Support
24/7 customer service is provided via chat, email, phone, and an online knowledge base. Account management services are also available.
Security
Sequel utilizes enterprise-grade security like 256-bit SSL encryption, SSO authentication, SOC 2 compliance, and ISO certification.
Integrations
Core integrations include Salesforce, HubSpot, Marketo, Slack, Eventbrite, and others. The API also enables custom connections.
Reviews
Users praise Sequel’s human-focused experience, data-driven insights, customization, intuitive interface, and excellent support. It has a 4.8/5 Capterra rating.
Cvent
Cvent provides a virtual and hybrid event marketing and management platform used by event planners and marketers.
Features
Cvent offers:
- Webinars, streaming, and video conferencing
- Customizable registration and ticket sales
- Email marketing and follow up automation
- Robust analytics on engagement, sales, and ROI
- Mobile event apps for attendees
- Exhibitor directory and sponsor management
- Integration with Cvent’s venue sourcing and RFP tools
Pricing
Cvent has three main packages:
- Express – $379/month base fee
- Pro – Custom quote based on needs
- Enterprise – Custom quote based on needs
Certain features and services incur additional fees.
Customization
Cvent offers custom branding of logos, colors, and event microsites. Choose from various templates or design your own.
User Experience
The platform interface focuses on accessibility for organizers and attendees. Management is centralized for streamlined execution.
Support
24/7 support is available by phone, email, and chat. All subscribers have access to an account manager for personalized service.
Security
Cvent is PCI, SOC 2, and GDPR compliant and uses security measures like encryption, access controls, and secure data centers.
Integrations
Cvent integrates with CRM, marketing, sales, and web conferencing tools. Open API allows building custom integrations.
Reviews
Users highlight Cvent’s powerful event management capabilities, robust analytics, sponsorship tools, mobile apps, and helpful support. Cvent has a 4.4/5 Capterra rating.
Cisco Webex Events
Webex Events is a full-service virtual event platform from Cisco Webex. It focuses on engagement, branding, and data insights.
Features
Notable features of Webex Events include:
- HD video broadcasting with screen sharing
- Customizable virtual environments
- Exhibitor booths, demos, and interactive elements
- Robust webinar capabilities
- Integrated chat, Q&A, and polling
- Lead capture forms and sales pipeline tracking
- Automated emails, registration, and surveys
- Detailed analytics on engagement and conversions
Pricing
Webex Events offers:
- Free – For meetings under 50 attendees
- Pro – Starting at $35/month for up to 1,000 attendees
- Enterprise – Custom pricing for over 1,000 attendees
Extra services like support and storage incur added fees.
Customization
Environments, booths, lobbies and more can be tailored with branding elements. Multiple templates allow further customization.
User Experience
Intuitive navigation and seamless attendee experiences across devices are key focuses.
Support
24/7 customer support is provided via phone, chat, and an online knowledge base. Enterprise plans include launch managers.
Security
Webex Events uses encryption, access controls, SOC 2 compliance, and other measures to protect user data and privacy.
Integrations
Core integrations with CRM, marketing, and analytics tools are offered. The API enables custom connections.
Reviews
Users highlight the engaging virtual environments, data-driven insights, branding capabilities, attendee experience, and strong support Webex Events delivers. It has a 4.7/5 G2 rating.
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