Whether it is an in-person event, a virtual conference, or a hybrid one, the right event management platform could be the difference between success or failure of your event.
For years, Eventbrite has stood out as a destination for event planners because of its reliable ticketing and event management solutions. However, with the ever-increasing number of events and the diversification of each event type, most organizers seek alternatives to Eventbrite that promise flexibility, customization, or a cost-effective advantage.
Of course, when choosing the best platform for your event, budget, scale, and features required will be the differentiating factors. Here’s a broad guide covering the best alternatives to Eventbrite to help you choose the perfect platform for your next event.
Criteria for Choosing an Event Management Platform
When evaluating event management platforms, there are several key factors that event organizers should consider. Here’s a deeper dive into the aspects that matter most:
1. Cost Considerations
Pricing varies between platforms, but some may charge per ticket sold, while others might have a flat rate or free solutions, depending on the scale of the event. If you’re hosting an event with many attendees, flat-rate or volume-based pricing is better than charging per ticket sold for the platform. However, if you host small, close-knit events, a per-ticket fee is acceptable.
For example:
- Ticketbud provides transparent pricing, flat fees, and customizable options to meet your needs. This allows you to budget more effectively.
- Eventcube offers white-label options with flexible pricing plans according to the scale of your event
2. Feature Set
Every event is unique, and your platform should support all the necessary features. Look for event customization options, including custom branding, integration with social media, flexible ticketing, and tools that engage attendees. Some platforms even support virtual events, while others exclusively focus on in-person events. For hybrid events, ensure that your chosen platform effortlessly combines both formats.
Some features you must consider include:
- Custom event pages with branded options.
- Ticket types such as early-bird, VIP, and group discounts.
- Engagement tools like live polling, chat rooms, or networking spaces.
3. User Experience
The platform must be user-friendly for both the event organizers and the attendees. The more intuitive the interface, the smoother the event will set up and run. A good event management platform should have a clear dashboard to create events, manage tickets, and provide real-time sales updates and an easy registration and ticket-purchasing process for attendees.
4. Customer Support
Event management can become very complex, primarily as the event draws near. Ensure the platform you choose offers reliable customer support. Some platforms provide 24/7 live chat, email support, and phone assistance. Responsive customer service is a game-changer for hosting a big event, especially when issues arise on event day.
5. Scalability
Whether it’s an intimate workshop or a grand international conference, your platform has to be capable of scaling according to your needs. Some event platforms are made for small and local events; others can comfortably seat thousands. Be sure you choose a flexible event platform for all your expansion needs.
Top Eventbrite Alternatives
Here are the top alternatives to Eventbrite, detailed according to the feature they may serve best under specific conditions.
1. Eventcube
Eventcube is a white-label event platform that can be fully customized so the organizer can brand the platform to suit their theme.
Key Features:
- Fully customizable event pages
- Flexible ticketing options, such as early bird and VIP tickets
- Integration with popular social media channels
- Virtual event capabilities, such as streaming and online workshops
- Merchandise sales and donations
Ideal for: Organizers seeking a branded experience and customizable event features.
2. Ticketbud
Ticketbud is popular for its easy interface and transparent pricing. This flexible platform is suitable for both small and large events.
Key Features:
- Real-time sales analytics for tracking ticket sales.
- Customizable event pages for branding.
- No hidden fees are charged for payment processing.
- There is an option for discounted tickets for multiple types of tickets.
Ideal For: Those seeking varied event size varies and flexible payment terms
3. Eventbee
Eventbee is a relatively more affordable platform with flat-fee pricing, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious event organizers.
Key Features:
- Flat-fee pricing structure
- Social media integration to promote events
- Multiple payment gateways and seating management
- Detailed reporting on ticket sales
Ideal For: Budget-conscious organizers who need a simple, straightforward platform with basic features.
4. TicketTailor
TicketTailor provides a cost-effective, pay-per-sale approach, ideal for organizers seeking to be involved in managing their events.
Key Features:
- Have as many tickets as they need.
- Takes along any widget they so wish
- Be in absolute ownership of one’s data -the attendee’s information.
- No per-ticket rate
Ideal For: Planners who need controlling capacity over tickets and their data
5. Swoogo
Swoogo is an all-inclusive event management platform that caters to the needs of significant events. It offers all its powerful features in both in-person and virtual events.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-drop website builder for an event
- Analytics and reporting are also compelling.
- Ideal for Non-profit events or any social cause event.
Ideal For: Large-scale events or conferences that require advanced features, including sponsor management and analytics.
6. RSVPify
Key Features:
- Customizable RSVP forms.
- Guest list management, QR codes, and contact tagging.
- Automatic reminders & seamless check-in.
Ideal For: Private weddings, corporate events, and intimate gatherings.
Use Case: RSVPify excels in the wedding industry. It offers customizable invitation forms, guest lists, and seating charts to ensure the smooth running of your event.
7. Whova
Whova is an all-in-one event management platform focusing heavily on attendee engagement, making it perfect for conferences and expos.
Key Features:
- Event calendar and schedule
- Networking and matchmaking features for attendees
- Live Q&A and real-time polling
- Event app for attendees
Ideal For: Conferences, expos, and any event that requires high engagement and networking of attendees.
Use Case: Whova is very useful for conferences where networking is a big part of the experience. Its mobile app allows attendees to network and participate in live polls, Q&A sessions, and more.
Specialized Platforms for Unique Event Needs
Humanitix
Humanitix is a non-profit ticketing platform. All booking fees go to charity, making it an ethical choice for event organizers.
Key Features:
- Causes with donation integration
- All profits go to charity. The fee structure is very transparent
- Ticketing and event management. This applies both to physical and virtual events.
Ideal for: Non-profit events or any social cause event.
Use Case: If you’re organizing a charity event or fundraiser, Humanitix will help you raise funds for your cause while making event management easy and cost-effective.
Zeffy
Zeffy is a 100% free, purpose-built platform for nonprofits.
Key Features:
- Donation management tools.
- Tax receipts for donors.
- Customizable ticketing options.
Ideal For: Fundraising and nonprofit events.
Use Case: Zeffy allows nonprofits to host events. The tool provides ticketing and donation management without fees, making it ideal for charity galas or fundraising drives.
Ticketstripe
Ticketstripe is another straightforward ticketing & event management solution, which supports every kind of event, including nonprofits, music & concerts, food fests, and performing arts.
Key Features:
- Easy ticketing setup
- Promotion tools to increase visibility
- Sponsorship management features
Suitable for: Non-profits who must promote an event and deal with sponsorships.
Use Case: Ticketstripe’s solutions for effectively promoting an event and ticketing while handling donations can be applied in the nonprofit space.
Additional Considerations When Choosing an Alternative
Apart from the price and features, many other parameters must be considered before opting for an alternative to Eventbrite. Some of them include:
1. Event Type & Scale
- How little or big is your event? Does it require virtual mode or in-person support? Ensure that your platform matches the scale of your event.
- If you are hosting a hybrid event, ensure the platform seamlessly integrates virtual and in-person components.
2. Budget
- Compare platforms’ pricing structures and hidden fees, such as payment processing fees or fees for certain features.
3. Feature Needs
- Do you need virtual event support? Customizable event page? Check if the platform has these features or offers integrations with external services.
4. User Reviews & Case Studies
- Review user reviews and case studies of similar events to establish how potent the platform is.
Conclusion
Choosing the appropriate event management platform is crucial for ensuring a smooth event. Due to the number of Eventbrite alternatives, their unique features, pricing models, and customization options, event managers now have more flexibility than ever. For this reason, by evaluating your needs—pricing, customization, engagement tools, or scalability—you can find the perfect platform to host your next event.
FAQ
Other free event management systems are Zeffy and Ticketstripe, which are great for charity or community-driven events.
If you are specifically looking for a ticketing platform for virtual events, then you can opt for a unified virtual event platform like Airmeet. It ensures a seamless registration and ticketing process. From online event invitations to coupon options to integrated payment processing to event entry—you can manage everything from one platform.
Most virtual event systems provide integrated payment gateways, such as PayPal and Stripe, and frequently include multi-currency support for events worldwide.
Yes, Zeffy and Humanitix specialize in nonprofit events and give all their booking fees to charity.
