What is a virtual event platform?
A virtual event platform is a digital tool that allows businesses and individuals to organize and manage online events.
These platforms offer a virtual space where the participantss - whether it's employees, exhibitors, sponsors or the general public - can interact with each other dynamically.
The virtual event software market is growing exponentially.
Valued at around $9.6 billion in 2021, it expected to reach $24 billion by 2028, with a average annual growth rate of 12.4%.
When choosing a virtual event platform, it is essential to carefully consider the built-in web delivery features.
Key features to look for include:
- Group chat to facilitate conversations between participants
- Q&A sessions to encourage engagement
- Live polls to gather feedback in real time
- Other specific features to meet your specific needs
By selecting a platform with the right features, you can create interactive and engaging virtual events that effectively meet your organization's goals.
List of the best virtual event platforms
List of popular and impressive online event platforms:
1. Livestorm: Interactive webinars and engagement automation.
Created in 2016, the platform LiveStorm focuses on the needs of marketing teams.
Son clean interface And its connections with CRM tools suchlike HubSpot and Salesforce make it popular with over 4000 businesses in 165 countries, including Workday and Pipedrive.
Used to organize webinars and video meetings, Livestorm is appreciated for its simplicity and collaborative functions. However, some users would like more options for customizing their events.
Features
Users particularly praise its engagement and analytics capabilities, although some find the customization options limited.
- Live and on-demand webinars for up to 1000 participants
- Integration with over 100 tools (Salesforce, HubSpot, Slack, etc.)
- Surveys, Q&A, and real-time chat
- Documents and screen sharing tools
- Automatic session recording
- Detailed analytics data with over 30 metrics
- Customizing the interface in brand colors
- Broadcast on social networks (Facebook Live, YouTube)
- Management of registrations and automatic sending of emails
- Breakout rooms for up to 20 sub-groups
- Multilingual support (more than 15 languages)
Pricing
Livestorm offers a range of pricing plans that are suitable for various event sizes, but users note that costs increase rapidly with the number of participants. The free plan is limited, pushing professionals to more expensive options.
- Free: $0 (Up to 10 participants, 20 minutes maximum)
- Pro: $110 per month (Up to 500 participants)
- Business: On request (up to 3,000 participants)
- Enterprise: On demand (custom features)
User reviews : Livestorm shines by its ease of use. Its intuitive interface appeals to many users, but some lament the lack of customization options for more complex events.
FIND OUT MORE: Go to the Livestorm website
2. SpatialChat: Creating immersive spaces and collaborative online events
Launched in 2020, SpatialChat offers an innovative approach to online dating with its interactive spaces in 2D. Popular in creative communities, startups and universities, this platform allows more natural exchanges between participants.
Its unique concept seduces, but may require time for new users to adapt, especially those unfamiliar with this type of environment.
Features
SpatialChat distinguished by its innovative approach virtual interactions, offering a more natural and immersive experience. Users appreciate the flexibility of virtual spaces, but some find the learning curve A bit steep for less tech-savvy participants.
- Customizable virtual spaces for up to 500 participants
- Proximity-based audio and video interactions
- Integration of multimedia content (videos, images, documents)
- Creation of thematic areas in virtual space
- Presentation tools and of screen sharing tools
- Public and private chat
- Creation of private rooms
- Avatar creation and customization and from the background
- Integrate with Zoom, YouTube, and Miro
- Participant engagement metrics
- Spectator mode available
- Security with data encryption and access control
Pricing
SpatialChat offers an immersive experience for online events, with a flexible pricing model. However, prices can get high for big events or intensive use.
- Free: $0 (up to 5 users, use limited to 2 hours per day)
- Core: $75 per month (up to 30 participants)
- Enterprise: $12 per user per month (advanced features, 200 customizable rooms)
- Event Pack: $500 per event (for up to 1,000 attendees)
- On-Premise: Starting at $12,000 (for unlimited use)
User reviews : The immersive SpatialChat experience is a major asset for online collaboration. However, Watch out for possible slowdowns during large virtual gatherings.
FIND OUT MORE: Go to the SpatialChat website
3. GoTo Webinar: Professional Webinars with Advanced Features
A leading player since 2004, GoTo Webinar is the trusted solution for over 50,000 businesses, including Comcast.
Recognized for its reliability during major events, however, it may seem less modern compared to the new virtual event platforms on the market.
Features
GoTo Webinar is appreciated for its stability and webinar-oriented features. Users praise its reliability for big events, but some find the interface a bit dated compared to more modern solutions.
- Webinars for up to 3000 participants
- Full customization of the interface in brand colors
- Polls, Q&A, and live chat
- Documents and screen sharing
- Automatic recording and post-event editing
- Integration with the main CRMs (Salesforce, HubSpot)
- Automated registration management and emails
- Detailed analytics with customizable reports
- Broadcast on YouTube Live and Facebook Live
- Practice mode for presenters
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android
- SSL security and 256-bit AES encryption
- Multilingual support for over 25 languages
Pricing
GoTo Webinar is known for its features, but its high cost can be a drag on small businesses, especially as the number of attendees increases.
- Lite : $49 per month (up to 100 participants)
- Standard : $99 per month (up to 250 participants)
- Pro : $199 per month (up to 500 participants)
- Enterprise : $499 per month (Up to 3,000 participants)
User reviews : GoTo Webinar offers a solid platform for professionals. Its strengths:
- Professional
- Advanced features But its interface could benefit from modernization to remain competitive.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the GoTo Webinar website
4. RingCentral Events (formerly Hopin): Large-scale hybrid and virtual events
RingCentral Events, formerly known as Hopin, is a platform that makes it possible to manage large-scale virtual and hybrid events. Its interface and interactive options make it possible to create digital experiences that are suitable for events of all sizes.
Features
RingCentral Events maintains the core options that Hopin is known for, while adapting to the current needs of hybrid events. Here is an overview of the main features:
- Welcome until 100,000 online participants
- Simultaneous broadcast of several video streams
- Five distinct spaces : Home, Main Stage, Sessions, Networking, and Exhibition Area
- Random matchmaking for professional meetings
- Interactive virtual spaces for partners and exhibitors
- Live interaction tools (messaging, quizzes, questions and answers, feedback)
- Customizing the interface according to the visual identity of the event
- Connect with over 1,000 tools via Zapier or API
- Live stats and detailed reports
Pricing
RingCentral Events offers several pricing plans to meet the different needs of event organizers:
- Beginner : Free (limited functions)
- Essential : $99 per month (up to 100 participants)
- Advanced : $799 per month (up to 1,000 participants)
- Tailor-made : Price on quotation for specific needs
User reviews : Users appreciate the wealth of options in RingCentral Events, which are particularly suited to complex, large-scale events. However, prices can be considered high for small and medium-sized businesses, especially for large events. The free version is considered too restricted for professional use, while large organizations value the reliability and adaptability of the platform.
FIND OUT MORE: Go to the RingCentral Events website
5. Zoom: Versatile for small meetings and big events
Having become a must since its creation in 2011, Zoom gathers daily 300 million participants. Its ease of use makes it a popular choice for small and large businesses for meetings and events.
Despite initial concerns about security and privacy, these issues have largely been resolved through updates.
Features
Zoom is widely recognized for its reliability and ease of use. Users appreciate its features for large events, although some find that the platform lacks advanced options for engaging attendees compared to specialized virtual event solutions.
- Webinars and meetings for up to 1000 interactive participants and 10,000 spectators
- Integration with over 1500 applications via Zapier
- Breakout rooms for up to 100 subgroups
- Surveys, Q&A, and virtual hand raising
- Screen sharing and collaborative annotation
- Local or cloud recording
- Live streaming on social networks like Facebook Live and YouTube
- Automatic transcription and subtitling in real time
- Virtual backgrounds and video filters
- Security with end-to-end encryption and waiting rooms
- Detailed analytics on participation and engagement
- Support for over 30 languages
- Calendar integration with Google, Outlook, and Exchange
Pricing
Zoom offers a variety of pricing options, from free to paid, but the criticisms focus on time limitations in the free plan and increased costs for advanced features.
- Free : $0 (Up to 100 participants, limited to 40 minutes)
- Pro : $149.90 per year (Up to 100 participants, unlimited meetings)
- Business : $199.90 per year (Up to 300 participants)
- Webinar : $79 per month (100 participants)
User reviews : Reliability and ease of use are the key words. Novices and experts alike appreciate its user-friendly interface, even if issues of security and bandwidth consumption persist.
FIND OUT MORE: Go to the Zoom Meetings website
6. BigMarker: Marketing webinars and events with CRM integration
Founded in 2010, BigMarker stands out for its exceptional flexibility in terms of personalization. Businesses like Google are using it to organize immersive virtual conferences.
The platform offers numerous options for adapting webinars on a large scale. However, less experienced users may find the interface complex to master, especially for simpler events.
Features
BigMarker is recognized for its versatility and advanced webinar and virtual conference features. Users particularly like its personalization and engagement options, although some find the platform a bit complex for simpler events.
- Webinars and virtual conferences for up to 10,000 participants
- Live stream on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter
- More than 15 types of virtual events (webinars, conferences, virtual fairs, etc.)
- Integration with over 500 applications via Zapier
- Full customization of the interface in brand colors For branding
- Surveys, Q&A, and real-time chat
- Breakout Rooms for up to 100 subgroups
- Interactive virtual stands for sponsors
- One-to-one networking and AI-based matchmaking
- Real-time data and detailed reports after each event
- Integrated ticketing with thoughtful pricing options
- End-to-end information encryption
Pricing
BigMarker is loved for its numerous customization options, but costs can increase rapidly with the addition of advanced features and participants. It is often considered to be more suitable for larger businesses.
- Starter : $79 per month (up to 100 participants)
- Elite : $159 per month (Up to 500 participants)
- Premier : $299 per month (Up to 1,000 participants)
User reviews : BigMarker stands out for its advanced marketing integrations. Its interface is full of options, which can be an advantage or a disadvantage depending on your level of expertise.
FIND OUT MORE: Go to the BigMarker website
7. Hubilo: Virtual conferences with networking.
Created in 2015 and reoriented to the virtual in 2020, Hubilo is used by companies like Walmart.
It is distinguished by its audience engagement features such as quizzes and polls. The platform excels in organizing large-scale interactive events. However, its high cost can be a hindrance for small businesses or events on a limited budget.
Features
Hubilo is appreciated for its simplicity and its engagement features. Users particularly praise its networking and gamification options., although some find that the interface can be a bit overloaded for smaller events.
- Virtual and hybrid events for up to 100,000 participants
- Full customization of the interface in brand colors
- AI networking
- Advanced gamification with points system and rankings
- Interactive virtual booths with live video chat
- Integration with more than 1500 applications via Zapier or its API
- Surveys, Q&A, and real-time chat
- Real-time analytics and detailed post-event reports
- Integrated ticketing with flexible pricing options
- Multilingual support (more than 100 languages)
- GDPR and SOC 2 Type II compliant security
Pricing
Hubilo is known for its intuitive interface and customization options for virtual events. However, its high costs can be a problem for businesses on a limited budget, and the lack of clear public pricing is often criticized.
- Essential : $99 per month (up to 100 participants)
- Pro : On request (up to 1,000 participants)
- Enterprise : On request
User reviews : Hubilo's networking features are particularly appreciated. However, beware of possible slowness during events involving a large number of participants.
FIND OUT MORE: Go to the Hubilo website
8. Google Meet: Adapted for simple and collaborative team meetings
Launched in 2017, Google Meet is integrated into Google Workspace. It offers a simple and free solution for online meetings and small events.
Easy to use, Google Meet lacks some of the advanced features that are present. with competitors like Zoom or Livestorm, which can the limit for more complex events or of a large scale.
Features
Google Meet is appreciated for its ease of use and its seamless integration with the Google ecosystem. Users praise its reliability and ease of access, but some find event-specific features to be limited compared to specialized platforms.
- Video meetings for up to 250 participants (paid version)
- Native integration with Google Workspace (Gmail, Calendar, Drive)
- Screen sharing and presenting
- Live chat
- Real-time subtitling in multiple languages
- Virtual backgrounds and blur
- Meeting recording (paid version)
- Live streaming for up to 100,000 viewers (Enterprise version)
- Security with end-to-end encryption
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android
- Integration with video conferencing hardware devices
- API for integration
- Support of more than 100 languages
Pricing
Google Meet is loved for its ease of access and integration with Google Workspace. However, users note that advanced features and larger events require paid subscriptions.
- Free : $0 (up to 100 participants)
- Google Workspace Business Starter : $6 per month (up to 100 participants)
- Google Workspace Business Standard : $12 per month (up to 150 participants)
- Google Workspace Business Plus : $18 per month (up to 250 participants)
User reviews : Google Meet is synonymous with its simplicity and perfect integration into the Google ecosystem. Great for basic meetings, but may be limited for more sophisticated virtual events.
FIND OUT MORE: Go to the Google Meet site
9. Eventcube: Event ticketing and hybrid experiences.
Founded in 2014, Eventcube specializes in ticketing management and virtual or hybrid events. Used by institutions such as the NHS and the University of Cambridge, it offers great flexibility for customizing event ticketing.
While she excels in this area, some users note that she can lack some live streaming features offered by other platforms.
Features
Eventcube is appreciated for its flexibility and advanced ticketing features. Users particularly praise its customization options and intuitive interface, although some find the live-streaming features to be less developed than on other platforms.
- Management of virtual, hybrid and physical events
- Customizable ticketing with flexible pricing options
- Creation of a website with your integrated event
- Integration with the main streaming platforms (Zoom, Vimeo, YouTube)
- Marketing tools and email automation
- Real-time analytics and detailed reports
- Management of sponsors and exhibitors
- Networking options and matchmaking
- Full customization in brand colors
- Mobile applications for iOS and Android
- Integration with over 2000 applications via Zapier
Pricing
Eventcube is well received for its quality-price ratio, especially compared to Eventbrite. However, reservation fees may seem high for some participants. Flexible pricing and advanced features are appreciated by organizers of recurring or large-scale events.
- Free : Available for open access events
- Paying : Fee per ticket sold (varies depending on the event and the volume of tickets)
User reviews : Eventcube excels in customizing ticketing. Its interface offers a lot of possibilities, but may seem complex at first glance.
FIND OUT MORE: Go to the Eventcube website
10. Vimeo: HD video streaming for private or public events
Founded in 2004, Vimeo is recognized for its superior video quality for video streaming. Companies like Starbucks and Deloitte use it for their video delivery needs.
Vimeo excels at delivering quality video content, but it may lack some of the live interactive features that platforms like Zoom or Hopin offer. Its interface, although powerful, may require some learning time for new users.
Features
Vimeo is known for its superior video quality and professional streaming features. Users especially like its built-in video editing tools and customization options, although some find the price high for small businesses.
- HD live streaming for up to 100,000 spectators
- Video hosting and sharing with privacy control
- Built-in video editing tools
- Customizing the video player in brand colors
- Integration with more than 1000 applications via Zapier
- Detailed video performance analytics
- Team collaboration with access control
- Monetization options for content creators
- Simultaneous streaming on multiple platforms (Facebook, YouTube, etc.)
- Unlimited storage for business plans
- 24/7 tech support for premium plans
Pricing
Vimeo is popular for its video quality and professional features, but the rates are considered high for large events. The lack of some live interaction features in the basic plans is criticized.
- Starter : $12 per month (up to 5GB of storage per week)
- Standard : $35 per month (up to 10GB of storage per week)
- Advanced : $65 per month (live event streaming capacity)
User reviews : The exceptional video quality of Vimeo is unanimous. The interface, while powerful, may require time to learn to exploit its full potential.
FIND OUT MORE: Go to the Vimeo website
11. HeySummit: Virtual summits and multi-session events.
Created in 2018, HeySummit is a practical solution for organize virtual summits. It is used by companies like Shopify and ConvertKit. HeySummit is distinguished by its simplicity in organizing multi-session events.
However, it depends a lot on others video streaming services, which can make integration difficult for some users. Despite this, it remains a popular choice for those looking to set up virtual summits easily.
Features
HeySummit is appreciated for its ease of use in organizing virtual summits. Users praise its flexibility and built-in marketing features, although some find that the customization options could be more extensive.
- Organization of virtual summits for a unlimited number of participants
- Creating customizable homepages and registration pages
- Integration with the main webinar platforms (Zoom, YouTube, Vimeo)
- Managing speakers and sessions
- Marketing automation tools
- Real-time analytics
- Networking functions between participants
- Integration with more than 2000 applications via Zapier
- Live and on-demand content streaming
- Customizing the interface in the colors of the brand
- Multilingual support
Pricing
HeySummit is effective for organizing virtual summits, but its rates are considered expensive for small businesses or independent creators. The wealth of features, however, justifies the prices for many.
- Starter : $29 per month (up to 1,000 participants)
- Growth : $99 per month (up to 10,000 participants)
- Success : $299 per month (up to 50,000 participants)
User reviews : HeySummit is the ideal tool for multi-session virtual summits. Its weak point? The sometimes delicate integration with other streaming tools.
FIND OUT MORE: Go to the HeySummit website
Key features of a virtual event platform
1. Live and on demand
The”Live and On-Demand“is an essential part of modern virtual event platforms. It allows you to broadcast content in high definition, up to 4K for superior image quality.
High-performance platforms stand out for:
- Real time streaming with minimal latency
- The broadcast of several simultaneous streams
- Automatic recording of sessions
- Customized playback options for replays
Multi-stream broadcasting is very useful for complex events, to provide a richer experience for participants.
2. Customizing the interface
The adaptability of the interface is essential to create an experience that is consistent with the identity of the event. The best platforms allow the organizer's logo, colors, and custom fonts to be integrated. They also offer the creation of custom home and registration pages.
The addition of interactive widgets and the personalization of event-related emails reinforce the immersion of participants in the unique virtual environment of each event.
3. Participation of participants
Interaction is at the heart of successful virtual events. Participation tools generally include real-time chats and Q&A.
Gamification elements can significantly increase participation:
- Point systems
- Rankings
- Virtual rewards
- Interactive challenges
4. Managing sessions and speakers
Session management is essential for a well-run event. Key features include support for multiple time zones and a virtual waiting room to prepare for sessions.
Multi-language support with simultaneous translation is a major advantage for international events, to significantly expand the target audience.
5. Integrations and compatibility
The ability to integrate with other tools is essential to manage the event. Modern platforms stand out for their flexibility and openness.
Key integration features:
- Connections with the main CRMs
- API compatibility for custom integrations
- Single Sign-On (SSO) Support
- Integrations with common productivity tools
The open API allows developers to create custom extensions, to adapt the platform to the specific needs of each event.
6. Analytical data and reporting
Detailed analyses and reports are essential for assess the impact of a virtual event. Advanced platforms offer customizable dashboards with real-time metrics.
The analysis of the user journey makes it possible to understand the behavior of participants, while engagement heatmaps show key moments from the event.
Export capabilities:
- CSV format for analysis in spreadsheets
- PDF reports for a professional presentation
- Direct integration with advanced analytics tools
7. Security and compliance
Data protection is the number 1 priority for virtual events. Serious platforms put solid security measures in place.
AES 256-bit encryption is the standard for secure exchanges, compliance with regulations such as GDPR and CCPA protect participants' personal information.
A role-based access control system allows for fine management of permissions and reinforces the overall security of the event.
8. Sponsor and exhibitor
Sponsor and exhibitor features are essential for the commercial success of virtual events. Modern platforms offer tools to maximize visibility and return on investment.
Customized virtual stands : These digital spaces allow sponsors to present their products and services interactively. They may include videos, downloadable brochures, and live chat options.
Private demo rooms : These spaces allow exhibitors to offer private presentations or one-on-one meetings with interested prospects.
Leads are qualified thanks to analysis tools that measure the engagement of visitors with the content of the stands.
9. Networking and matchmaking
Networking remains a main reason for registering for an event. High-performance platforms offer innovative solutions to facilitate connections between participants.
Popular networking tools:
- Thematic chat rooms
- Speed networking sessions
- Virtual business card exchange
- Algorithms of AI-based matchmaking
Intelligent matchmaking uses participants' profiles and interests to Suggest relevant connections, reinforces the value of the networking experience
10. Support and training
Technical support is essential for a virtual event. The best platforms offer comprehensive support to organizers and participants.
THE24/7 technical support will respond quickly to any issues that may arise during the event. Regular training, in the form of webinars or tutorials, helps organizers master all the functionalities of the platform.
For major events, dedicated account managers can be awarded, for personalized support throughout the organization process.
FAQS
How much does it cost to organize a virtual event?
The organization of a virtual event depends on the number of participants in the event and the cost per user of the scheduling software of events. For example, the cost of organizing an event in Eventcube with a maximum of 5 participants is $14.98. Organizing an event with up to 100 participants costs approximately $297.
What is the best platform for virtual meetings?
The top virtual event platforms that have received positive reviews are Hoppier, SpatialChat, Hopin, Big Marker, and Zoom. You should read our review to find out the features and prices of virtual event software.
How do virtual events make money?
Answer: You can monetize virtual events by selling ads online. You can contact reputable brands to promote their products to participants. In addition, you can promote and sell merchandise online to participants.
Conclusion
HeySummit and Hubilio are great virtual event platforms for organizing events with monetization features. The best platform with question and answer functions, Live chat And of surveys is Vimeo and GoTo Webinar.
If you want a free virtual event platform, you should consider Hopin, LiveStorm, Zoom, Google Meet, and Miro. Marketers can choose BigMarker, which supports automated, live, and continuous webinars.
