Top Event Platforms for Virtual and Hybrid Events (2024)

You hear people say "it's all uphill from here," but anyone who's climbed a mountain knows the real trick is staying on top. Event planning's the same. I used to love crafting awesome in-person events, but then  the world changed, and virtual events became the new hot thing.

Just like everyone else, I had to adjust, learn a whole new set of skills for virtual and hybrid events. That's where event platforms became my lifesaver. These tools let me keep doing what I love – creating connections and experiences – but in the digital world.

But the problem is with so many platforms out there, picking the right one felt overwhelming. So, I dug in, tested a bunch of options, and now I'm here to share what I learned with you.

Your 6 Event Platforms for Virtual & Hybrid Events That Are Worth Your Time in 2024

Now you can connect with people worldwide, all from the comfort of your (or their) couch. But with tons of platforms out there, picking the right one can feel like picking a needle in a haystack. Let’s unveil 6 of the hottest event platforms in 2024, so you can pick the perfect one for your next virtual or hybrid bash.

A. InEvent

InEvent cuts out the hassle by centralizing everything you need for your virtual or hybrid event.  Imagine managing registration, marketing, attendee engagement, and even monetization (selling tickets, sponsorships, etc.) all from a single platform.  This eliminates the need to use multiple tools and saves you valuable time and effort.

InEvent focuses on creating a smooth and enjoyable experience for your attendees.  The user-friendly online space,  often called a "virtual lobby," is designed to be clean, modern, and easy to navigate.  Attendees can easily find the information they need, access presentations, and connect with other participants.

InEvent boasts top-notch video streaming capabilities (if it's made in top-notch quality, of course).  This ensures your presentations, workshops, and keynote speeches are delivered in crystal-clear quality. Its dedicated mobile app keeps everyone connected and fosters engagement throughout the event.  Attendees can access the event agenda on the go, participate in polls and Q&A sessions, network with other participants, and even chat with organizers in real-time. 

B. SpotMe: Engagement at the Forefront

When it comes to attendee engagement, SpotMe stands out from the crowd. This platform understands that happy, engaged attendees are a must for a successful event. They achieve this focus through features designed to personalize the experience from start to finish.

SpotMe offers registration that feels less like a chore and more like a customized welcome, meaning a personalized event registration option. Attendees will feel valued from the get-go. Plus, SpotMe takes the hassle out of onsite check-in and badging with a seamless process. No more long lines or wasted time.

But the true star of the show is SpotMe's intuitive mobile event app. This handy tool keeps everyone connected and informed throughout the event. Attendees can easily access schedules, speaker bios, networking opportunities, and even participate in live polls and Q&A sessions. 

C. RingCentral Events (formerly Hopin): 

Remember Hopin ? Well, they've joined forces with RingCentral to create RingCentral Events, an all-in-one platform brimming with features for your virtual or hybrid event.

RingCentral Events offers everything you need to create an engaging online experience. From high-quality webcasting to customizable lobbies that reflect your brand, you can design a virtual space that feels unique and inviting. Plus, attendees can connect and interact through features like chat rooms and even virtual exhibit halls, perfect for replicating the buzz of an in-person event.

RingCentral Events also shines with its mobile app, allowing attendees to network via video chat, participate in real-time polls and discussions, and access all event content on the go. This ensures everyone can stay involved, regardless of location.

However, it's important to consider all sides. Some reviewers have mentioned that RingCentral Events' reporting tools could be more comprehensive, and the visual templates might feel a bit basic. But don't let that deter you. With its strong feature set and focus on real-time interaction, RingCentral Events is a solid choice for creating dynamic virtual experiences.

D. vFairs:

vFairs transports your attendees to a world beyond the ordinary. This innovative platform goes beyond basic video conferencing, offering a fully immersive 3D virtual environment for your event. 

vFairs lets you create custom 3D spaces, from expo halls to auditoriums. Attendees can navigate these environments in real-time, fostering a sense of presence and exploration. But vFairs doesn't stop there. They offer features like personalized booths for exhibitors, allowing them to showcase their brand in a unique and interactive way. 

Additionally, immersive rooms and networking lounges provide dedicated spaces for attendees to connect, share ideas, and build relationships – just like they would at an in-person event.

E. Accelevents: One Platform for All Your Event Needs (Virtual, Hybrid, In-Person)

Planning an event, whether it's virtual, hybrid, or in-person, can be a hassle. Accelevents comes to the rescue as an all-in-one event management platform.  Think of it as a central hub for everything you need to organize a successful event, from start to finish.

Accelevents offers a variety of tools to manage all aspects of your event.  This includes creating ticketing options for attendees, designing marketing campaigns to promote your event, and analyzing data to gain insights after the event. They even have features specifically designed to keep your audience engaged and interacting throughout the event.

F. Eventbrite: (Webinars & Conferences)

Eventbrite is a household name in the event planning world, and for good reason.  This user-friendly platform shines for virtual events, particularly webinars and conferences.  Their clean interface makes it easy to set up your event, and they offer a variety of registration options to suit your needs.  Plus, Eventbrite boasts built-in marketing tools, allowing you to promote your event directly through the platform.

While Eventbrite excels at virtual gatherings, it's important to consider its limitations.  For complex hybrid events with intricate features, some users might find it less robust compared to other platforms on this list.  However, for straightforward virtual events like webinars and conferences, Eventbrite's user-friendly approach and built-in marketing tools make it a powerful and convenient choice.

Choosing the Right Event Platform: Your Essential Checklist

So, you've explored the amazing world of virtual and hybrid event platforms, but with so many options, how do you pick the perfect one? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Here's a checklist to guide your decision-making:

Must-Haves:

• Event Size & Type: Consider the scale and format of your event. Are you hosting a small webinar or a large-scale conference? Is it purely virtual, hybrid, or in-person? Different platforms cater to different needs.

• Features: Make a list of the features crucial for your event. Do you need live streaming, breakout rooms, or audience engagement tools? Prioritize features that enhance the attendee experience.

• Budget: Event platforms come with varying pricing structures. Be realistic about your budget and choose a platform that offers the features you need within your financial constraints.

• Ease of Use: You don't want to spend hours wrestling with complex interfaces. Look for platforms with intuitive dashboards and clear navigation.

  
  

Bonus Considerations:

• Integrations: Does the platform integrate with other tools you use, like marketing software or webinar platforms? Seamless integrations can make your workflow better.

• Customer Support: Having access to reliable customer support is crucial in case you encounter any technical difficulties during your event.

• Data Security: Protecting attendee information is paramount. Choose a platform with robust security measures to ensure your data is safe.

Finally…

There you have it, we've explored six of the top virtual and hybrid event platforms that are shaking up the game in 2024. With their innovative features and focus on attendee engagement, you have the power to create unforgettable experiences, no matter the format.

Remember, the best platform is the one that aligns with your specific needs and vision. Don't be afraid to experiment, explore free trials, and see which platform sparks your creativity. Don't forget to share your experiences and platform recommendations in the comments below, Happy planning.