10 Best Virtual Event Platforms Shortlist
The best virtual event platforms act like a valued member of your team. When planning, promoting, and hosting your event, they help you create an effective infrastructure and handle the back-end admin and tech support.
Just like bringing on any new member to your team, there’s a level of trust involved. Expos, conferences, and webinars have a lot of moving pieces. It’s important that everything goes off without a hitch! You need to make sure that your virtual event platform will be reliable, and will have your back on the day of the event.
Post-pandemic, it feels like there are millions of virtual event platforms on the market, making it hard to choose the one that’s right for you. The good news is that I’ve compiled a handy list of my favorites to take some of the guesswork out of the selection process.
How I Selected the Best Virtual Event Platforms
If you’re wondering how I gathered my list of the best virtual event platforms, I’ll provide some insight into my process. I began by evaluating and comparing a wide range of virtual event platforms with positive user ratings.
After I decided on the long list, I used the selection criteria below to see how each platform stacked up against the next. I also drew on my previous personal experience planning corporate events to pinpoint the features that add the most value.
If you have general questions about virtual event platforms or how they work, take a look at my Frequently Asked Questions section below. Or, skip ahead to my detailed software summaries to dive straight in.
Selection Criteria
Here’s a short summary of the main selection and evaluation criteria I used to develop my list of the best virtual event platforms for this article:
Ease of Use:
Inevitably, on the day of any event, nerves are running high. The last thing your team needs is a clunky virtual event platform that complicates the login process or makes your attendees jump through hoops just to ask a question. I looked for virtual event platforms that didn’t require prior specialized knowledge in order to effectively launch an event, and that could be easily adopted by team members of varied skill levels.
User Interface:
User interface is to virtual events what interior design is to in-person events. When your attendees check-in, they should get a sense of your brand and the tone of the event instantly. For this reason, I picked virtual event platforms with a visually appealing user interface, and the ability to custom-brand the event experience, including the virtual stage, lobby, and sponsorship features.
Software Integrations:
Sure, events are “fun.” But let’s be honest: We don’t put the work into launching an event just for kicks. We want to be able to capture leads, engage with our community, and create new income streams. This is why I selected virtual event platforms that integrate with a wide range of CRM, marketing, and point-of-sale tools. The platforms on this list allow you to perform functions above and beyond live streaming by integrating with other tools that extend their functionality.
Pricing:
The old adage remains true: You get what you pay for. That being said, there are plenty of platforms with freemium options included in this list that provide excellent functionality at no cost. Depending on how many events you plan to host, and the scale of those events, you may need to choose one of the pricier options on this list to ensure all your needs are supported. In either case, this list contains platforms at every price point.
People Managing People is reader-supported. We may earn a commission when you click through links on our site — learn more about how we aim to stay transparent.
Overviews of the 10 Best Virtual Event Platforms
Here’s a brief description of each virtual event platform, showcasing each system’s best use case, their noteworthy features, and some pros & cons. I’ve also included screenshots to give you a snapshot of each user interface.
Goldcast
Best virtual event platform for B2B marketers
Goldcast is a virtual event platform specifically designed to suit the needs of B2B marketers.
Why I picked Goldcast: Goldcast describes its beautifully branded events as being akin to watching Netflix. The user interface is slick and inviting, and their built-in studio controls allow users to create event experiences with a fully branded stage, live Q&As, and overlays.
In addition to its visual appeal, Goldcast captures in-depth attendee insights and gathers them into your CRM so that you can act on your pipeline leads as soon as the event is finished. You can also host sponsor resource hubs and share sponsor content, maximizing ROI for each event.
Goldcast Standout Features and Integrations
Features include lead generation, messaging, email reminders, event scheduling, lead capture, presentation screening, analytics, a virtual lobby, and customizable branding.
Integrations include Drift, Eloqua, Enigamio, HubSpot, Marketo, SalesForce, Slack, Splash, Validar, Webooth, and Wistia.
Pros
- Super responsive customer support
- Slick visual interface
- Specifically designed for B2B
Cons
- High bandwidth requirements
- Networking rooms have capacity of 15
Airmeet
Best virtual event platform for attendee networking
Airmeet is a virtual event platform that prioritizes networking and attendee connection.
Why I picked Airmeet: Airmeet understands that the way we conduct virtual events is changing from content-focused to connection-focused. Much in the same way that in-person events prioritize networking, Airmeet helps you create immersive event experiences with ample opportunity for event attendees to meet, connect, and grow their contacts.
Airmeet events offer a social lounge specifically designed to mimic in-person networking opportunities and stimulate conversation. Fluid spaces enable participants to chat in whichever format they prefer, and breakout rooms connect participants with smaller groups. Features like Q&A, gamification, and rich chat messaging enhance the depth of connection between event attendees.
Airmeet Standout Features and Integrations
Features include event notifications, breakout rooms, a social lounge, speed networking features, a leaderboard and gamification, large-scale meeting rooms, a mobile app, dynamic stage backdrops, and sponsor and virtual booth tiers.
Integrations are extensive and include Eventbrite, HubSpot, JotForm, Keap, Mailchimp, Pipedrive, Salesforce, Slack, and Unbounce. Additional integrations are available through a paid Zapier account.
Pros
- User-friendly
- Enhanced networking
- Easy to work with sponsors
Cons
- Some limitations on mobile app
- Cannot add LinkedIn info to attendee profiles
Hubilo
Best virtual event platform for event marketing
Hubilo is a virtual event platform with several event marketing functions.
Why I picked Hubilo: From inception through to completion, Hublio can help with every step of the event marketing journey. Their landing page builder helps you to create and customize your landing page with templates, widgets, and registration forms. Ticketing can also be run from their platform, and targeted campaigns can help you reach specific audiences.
Once event attendees are registered, you can boost event attendance with nudge emails. At the event, attendees can visit the networking lounge, watch speakers on the stage, and participate in gamification activities.
Hubilo Standout Features and Integrations
Features include live chat, mobile app, social media engagement, analytics, sponsored sessions, custom landing pages, virtual backgrounds, and banner and logo placement for sponsors.
Integrations include Captello, Interprefy, Kahoot, Kudo, Mailchimp, MootUp, Salesforce, Verbit, and Vodium.
Pros
- Extensive branding opportunities
- Highly scalable
- Events are easy to set up
Cons
- Networking lounge closes after 60 minutes
- Lacking some depth in onboarding materials
SpotMe
Best virtual event platform for accessibility and inclusion
SpotMe is a virtual event platform with extensive captioning and translation features.
Why I picked SpotMe: Accessibility should remain a priority for your event regardless of whether it’s in-person or online. SpotMe provides an industry-leading translation, caption, and interpreting tool that’s powered by Interprefy and AI-Media. The service caters to nearly 20 languages, extending the reach to audience members in all locations, and across a variety of needs.
Conversion-optimized registration pages, attendee engagement features like Q&A and polling, and easy breakout sessions allow groups to connect deeply with each other. SpotMe’s templates come with pre-configured content, navigations, and designs, making it easy to get started.
SpotMe Standout Features and Integrations
Features include activity feed, live streaming, attendee registration, breakout sessions, on-demand replays, live captioning, engagement tools, and a design studio.
Integrations include Eloqua, HubSpot, Marketo, Pardot, RainFocus, Salesforce, and Veeva.
Pros
- Accessibility tools
- Save recordings immediately after livestreams
- Intuitive interface
Cons
- Backstage customization is complex
- Attendee registration / download process takes time
Accelevents
Best virtual event platform for enterprise organizations
Accelevents is a flexible, enterprise-grade virtual event platform that manages the entire event lifecycle.
Why I picked Accelevents: Accelevents can be scaled up or down, used out-of-the-box, or heavily customized. For this reason, it’s equipped to meet the needs of enterprise organizations, while providing adaptable solutions for small team workshops and large global conferences. Their templates enable users to quickly launch a branded online event and promote it on social media, and plentiful integrations make it easy to connect to other pertinent platforms.
Users can work with Accelevents broadcast studio to livestream or pre-record sessions, or you can integrate with other tools like Zoom, Facebook Live, and YouTube and stream from there. Networking sessions include automatic matchmaking, video chat, and live polls to enhance attendee engagement.
Accelevents Standout Features and Integrations
Features include badge design and printing, broadcast studio, lead capture, registration and ticketing, sponsor inclusion, analytics, white labeling, gamification, matchmaking, live video, speed networking, and a mobile app.
Integrations include ActiveCampaign, Cvent, HubSpot, Inteprefy, Intercom, Marketo, Salesforce, Slack, Square, and Stripe. Further integrations can be accessed by connecting a paid Zapier account.
Pros
- Super user friendly
- A la carte options for pay-as-you-go
- Easy to accept payments
Cons
- Frequent system updates can cause confusion
- Unable to send group text to all attendees
Gatherly
Best virtual event platform for job fairs
Gatherly is a virtual event platform that enables users to “walk” freely in networking sessions and meet new contacts.
Why I picked Gatherly: Gatherly is attempting to take the “awkward” out of online networking. Their Gatherly Map allows event attendees to talk to anyone they choose, begin spontaneous conversations, and move in and out of huddles. This functionality is perfect for job fairs and recruitment sessions.
Gatherly allows recruiters to have both 1:1 and group conversations. You can group recruiters into teams and divisions to allow candidates to pick groups specific to their interests. Gatherly collects data like email addresses and engagement metrics so that you can follow up with the right candidates according to their areas of interest.
Gatherly Standout Features and Integrations
Features include sponsor booths, customizable maps, virtual venues, analytics, a drag and drop design builder, custom branding, promotional material designs, video chat, and sponsored booths.
Integrations are not listed on the Gatherly website.
Pros
- Excellent for recruiters
- Unlimited virtual spaces (“floors”)
- In-depth analytics
Cons
- Certain plans limit attendee numbers per “floor”
- Works only with Chrome browser
Hopin
Best virtual event platform for large scale digital events
Hopin is a virtual event platform that offers immersive attendee experiences and interactive programming.
Why I picked Hopin: Hopin is a highly scalable platform that can meet the needs of groups up to 100,000 attendees. Their event sessions feature enables you to break attendees into an unlimited number of groups while maintaining hosting capabilities, and custom tags make it easy for attendees to discover speakers and navigate within the schedule.
Engagement tools like interactive Q&A sessions, polls, and quizzes keep attendees interested and involved, and unlimited group and 1:1 video networking sessions ensure that they connect. Tools like analytics and benchmarking can help event organizers understand which parts of your online events are most successful.
Hopin Standout Features and Integrations
Features include a virtual backstage, video layout templates, a high quality production studio, a reception page, event stages, a mobile app, video hosting and editing, and analytics.
Integrations include ActiveCampaign, GoFundMe, HubSpot, Kahoot, Mailchimp, Miro, and Sensedia.
Pros
- Custom branded app
- Excellent customer support
- Engage with attendees via video and chat
Cons
- No transparent pricing for larger events
- No “backstage” area pre-session
Webex Events
Best virtual event platform for lead retrieval
Webex is a virtual event platform that maximizes the lead generation process by capturing as many data points as possible.
Why I picked Webex Events: Webex Events uses the QR codes associated with event attendees’ badges to capture leads with enriched data. Once the QR code is scanned into the app, booth teams can instantly qualify and prioritize the leads. This information can be shared by the team, and team members can add their own notes to each event attendees’ profile.
The lead retrieval app has an illustrated key metrics dashboard that makes it easy to see details for qualified leads. From there, data is sent directly to your CRM for easy follow-up post event.
Webex Events Standout Features and Integrations
Features include live streaming, video breakout sessions, gamification, analytics, live display, attendee engagement tools, sponsor booths, and a lead retrieval app.
Integrations include Cvent, Dailymotion, Formstack, Remo, Slido, SurveyMonkey, Typeform, Vidcast, Vimeo, Wonder, and YouTube. Further integrations can be accessed via a paid Zapier account.
Pros
- Smooth streaming
- Straight-forward functionality
- Real-time translation and subtitles
Cons
- Desktop application more reliable than mobile
- Camera / audio settings can be confusing for first time users
Vfairs
Best virtual event platform for lifelike 3D venues
vFairs is a virtual event platform that offers interactive features for virtual, in-person, and hybrid events.
Why I picked vFairs: Virtual experiences have traditionally lacked the immersive nature of in-person events. vFairs seeks to close the gap by creating highly customizable and realistic 3D venue designs. The space can contain lobbies, auditoriums, networking lounges and exhibit halls, and can be fully branded to suit your event.
Custom 3D animated avatars add a human element to the event space, and personalized booths can be set up to enhance the attendee experience. Customizability extends into their webinar feature as well, allowing you to include interactive activities in multiple presentation options.
vFairs Standout Features and Integrations
Features include custom 3D virtual venues, custom landing pages, email marketing, virtual exhibitor booths, networking features, gamification, real-time attendee stats, reporting dashboard, mobile app, and event check-in.
Integrations are extensive and include Kudo, Marketo, PayPal, Restream, Salesforce, Slido, Stripe, SyncWords, and Wordly. Further integrations are available by connecting a paid Zapier account.
Pros
- Intuitive booth setup
- Impressive 3D event spaces
- User-friendly interface
Cons
- Slight lag on private chat rooms
- Some challenges with Stripe integration
Remo
Best virtual event platform for small businesses
Remo is a virtual event platform that offers unlimited events for just $15 per month.
Why I picked Remo: Remo is an excellent choice for small businesses who hold lots of events, but don’t have an enterprise-level budget. Their plans offer unlimited events at very low price points, and include features like immersive floor plans, breakout sessions, and networking functionality that allows users to easily move between conversations.
Session hosts can engage with event attendees by using polls, private chat, video chat, and table chat. You can also create private VIP tables to accommodate event management personnel and keynote speakers. Tables have a whiteboard that allows attendees to brainstorm and innovate based on session content.
Remo Standout Features and Integrations
Features include shuffle mode, virtual backgrounds, whiteboards, guest profiles, announcements, unlimited events, video conferencing, networking, and VIP tables for event planners and other key guests.
Integrations aren’t listed on the Remo website but the platform does integrate with paid Zapier accounts.
Pros
- Natural, human, realistic interactions
- Browse group members’ LinkedIn profiles while networking
- Visually appealing interface
Cons
- Presenters cannot see audience while presenting
- Cannot pre-assign guests to breakout rooms
The 10 Best Virtual Event Platforms Comparison Chart
This comparison chart summarizes basic details about each of my top virtual event platform selections. You can view pricing details and the availability of free trials or demos side-by-side to help you find the best platform that works for your budget.
| Tool | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Goldcast Best virtual event platform for B2B marketers | Free demo available | Available upon request | Website |
| 2 | Airmeet Best virtual event platform for attendee networking | Freemium plan available | From $500/month | Website |
| 3 | Hubilo Best virtual event platform for event marketing | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
| 4 | SpotMe Best virtual event platform for accessibility and inclusion | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
| 5 | Accelevents Best virtual event platform for enterprise organizations | Free trial + free demo available | From $500/event or $125/month for unlimited events (billed annually) | Website |
| 6 | Gatherly Best virtual event platform for job fairs | Free demo + freemium plan available | From $500/month | Website |
| 7 | Hopin Best virtual event platform for large scale digital events | Freemium plan available (up to 100 attendees) | Pricing upon request | Website |
| 8 | Webex Events Best virtual event platform for lead retrieval | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
| 9 | Vfairs Best virtual event platform for lifelike 3D venues | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
| 10 | Remo Best virtual event platform for small businesses | Free trial available | From $15/month | Website |
Other Options
Here are a few more options that didn’t make the best virtual event platforms list:
- BigMarker
Best virtual event platform for design customization
- EventsAir
Best virtual event platform for continuity between virtual, hybrid, and in-person events
- Bizzabo
Best virtual event platform for analyzing data across multiple events
- Weve
Best virtual event platform for team building
- Eventtia
Best virtual event platform for B2B matchmaking
- PheedLoop
Best virtual event platform for multi-track scheduling
- Hubb
Best virtual event platform for attracting new speakers
- Whova
Best virtual event platform for tiered ticketing
- EventMobi
Best virtual event platform for event planners
- HeySummit
Best virtual event platform for increasing event profitability
Virtual Event Platforms: Frequently Asked Questions
There’s an incredible amount of planning and careful consideration that goes into every event – whether live, virtual, or hybrid. Take a look at the questions below to learn more before choosing the virtual event platform that’s right for you.
What is a virtual event platform?
What features are commonly included in virtual event platforms?
How should I choose a virtual event platform? Any tips?
What do virtual event platforms cost?
Final Thoughts
Launching a live event online can be easier than you think, provided that you’re working with the right tools. Worried about audience engagement? Choose a tool with gamification, networking, and video chat functionality. Need to share slides? Choose a platform with screen sharing capabilities. Need help with event planning? Choose virtual event software that includes promotion among its key features.
To learn more about engaging a remote workforce within a virtual setting, don’t miss these articles from our subject matter experts:
- Virtual Event Planning: 10 Tips for a Stellar Virtual Event
- 5 Challenges of Managing Remote Employees and How to Overcome Them
- 35 Employee Engagement Ideas (Including Remote-Specific)
- 7 Best Remote Team Building Activities
- How to Keep Virtual Teams Connected, a podcast with Ben Hoffman from cityHUNT
- 7 Types of Virtual Events to Host
- A Virtual Event Planning Checklist for Before, During, and After
- 15 Virtual Meeting Etiquette Guidelines
And for the latest insights from top thinkers on remote and hybrid work, sign up for our People Managing People newsletter. You’ll be first in line to receive new podcast episodes, products, and brand new content, straight to your inbox.