Quick Overview
- 1#1: Eventbrite - Comprehensive event ticketing platform for creating, promoting, and selling tickets to events of all sizes with integrated marketing tools.
- 2#2: Ticketmaster - Premier ticketing solution for large-scale live events, concerts, and sports with advanced seating charts and resale features.
- 3#3: Cvent - Enterprise event management software with robust registration, ticketing, and attendee tracking for corporate and conference events.
- 4#4: TicketTailor - Affordable, no-fee ticketing platform designed for independent event organizers with customizable checkout and reporting.
- 5#5: Purplepass - All-in-one ticketing system supporting online sales, box office, RFID scanning, and mobile apps for diverse events.
- 6#6: ThunderTix - Reserved seating ticketing software with low fees, real-time inventory, and on-site printing for theaters and venues.
- 7#7: Bizzabo - Event experience platform offering seamless ticketing, registration, and engagement tools for professional events.
- 8#8: Tix - Flexible ticketing and CRM software tailored for performing arts, attractions, and multi-venue organizations.
- 9#9: Etix - Global ticketing platform providing fan-to-fan resale, dynamic pricing, and venue management tools.
- 10#10: Brown Paper Tickets - DIY ticketing service for small independent events with transparent pricing and easy setup.
Tools were evaluated based on feature depth, ease of use, reliability in handling demand, and value, ensuring they suit everything from small independent events to large-scale corporate and live entertainment productions.
Comparison Table
Choosing the right event ticket sales software is key for smooth event management, but with tools like Eventbrite, Ticketmaster, and platforms such as Cvent, TicketTailor, and Purplepass, narrowing down the best fit can be complex. This comparison table outlines features, pricing, and usability of top options to help readers identify the ideal solution for their specific event needs and goals.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Eventbrite Comprehensive event ticketing platform for creating, promoting, and selling tickets to events of all sizes with integrated marketing tools. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Ticketmaster Premier ticketing solution for large-scale live events, concerts, and sports with advanced seating charts and resale features. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 3 | Cvent Enterprise event management software with robust registration, ticketing, and attendee tracking for corporate and conference events. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | TicketTailor Affordable, no-fee ticketing platform designed for independent event organizers with customizable checkout and reporting. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 5 | Purplepass All-in-one ticketing system supporting online sales, box office, RFID scanning, and mobile apps for diverse events. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 6 | ThunderTix Reserved seating ticketing software with low fees, real-time inventory, and on-site printing for theaters and venues. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Bizzabo Event experience platform offering seamless ticketing, registration, and engagement tools for professional events. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Tix Flexible ticketing and CRM software tailored for performing arts, attractions, and multi-venue organizations. | enterprise | 7.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 9 | Etix Global ticketing platform providing fan-to-fan resale, dynamic pricing, and venue management tools. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | Brown Paper Tickets DIY ticketing service for small independent events with transparent pricing and easy setup. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
Comprehensive event ticketing platform for creating, promoting, and selling tickets to events of all sizes with integrated marketing tools.
Premier ticketing solution for large-scale live events, concerts, and sports with advanced seating charts and resale features.
Enterprise event management software with robust registration, ticketing, and attendee tracking for corporate and conference events.
Affordable, no-fee ticketing platform designed for independent event organizers with customizable checkout and reporting.
All-in-one ticketing system supporting online sales, box office, RFID scanning, and mobile apps for diverse events.
Reserved seating ticketing software with low fees, real-time inventory, and on-site printing for theaters and venues.
Event experience platform offering seamless ticketing, registration, and engagement tools for professional events.
Flexible ticketing and CRM software tailored for performing arts, attractions, and multi-venue organizations.
Global ticketing platform providing fan-to-fan resale, dynamic pricing, and venue management tools.
DIY ticketing service for small independent events with transparent pricing and easy setup.
Eventbrite
specializedComprehensive event ticketing platform for creating, promoting, and selling tickets to events of all sizes with integrated marketing tools.
Event Discovery Marketplace, which exposes listings to millions of users for effortless promotion and ticket sales.
Eventbrite is a comprehensive event ticketing and management platform that enables organizers to create, promote, and sell tickets for events of all sizes, from small workshops to large festivals. It provides customizable event pages, integrated marketing tools like email campaigns and social sharing, and a vast discovery marketplace to reach millions of potential attendees. The platform also offers real-time sales analytics, mobile ticketing, and on-site check-in via a dedicated app for seamless event execution.
Pros
- Massive event discovery marketplace for organic reach
- Intuitive interface with quick event setup
- Robust mobile app for ticketing and check-in
- Comprehensive analytics and reporting tools
Cons
- Transaction fees can reduce margins on low-ticket events
- Advanced features require higher-tier plans
- Customer support response times can vary
- Limited design customization for event pages
Best For
Event organizers and promoters seeking a user-friendly platform with built-in promotion and discovery to maximize attendance.
Pricing
Free for free events; paid tickets incur 3.7% + $1.79 service fee (Essentials), with Professional ($29/month) and Premium (custom) plans reducing fees.
Ticketmaster
enterprisePremier ticketing solution for large-scale live events, concerts, and sports with advanced seating charts and resale features.
Verified Fan program, which uses registration and fan authentication to prioritize real fans over bots and resellers
Ticketmaster is the premier online ticketing platform for events including concerts, sports, theater, and festivals, allowing organizers to create events, manage seating charts, process payments, and track sales in real-time. It serves both consumers and enterprise clients with tools for inventory control, dynamic pricing, and mobile delivery. The platform powers millions of tickets annually through partnerships with major venues worldwide.
Pros
- Extensive global network and partnerships for maximum exposure
- Advanced security features like Verified Fan to combat bots and scalping
- Robust analytics, reporting, and integration with venue systems
Cons
- High transaction and service fees that cut into profits
- Frequent technical issues and long queues during peak sales
- Steep learning curve for smaller organizers without dedicated support
Best For
Large-scale venues, promoters, and festivals needing high-volume ticketing and broad audience reach.
Pricing
Custom enterprise contracts; typically 10-25% of gross ticket sales plus flat per-ticket fees ($0.50-$2.50).
Cvent
enterpriseEnterprise event management software with robust registration, ticketing, and attendee tracking for corporate and conference events.
Integrated group registration and housing management tied directly to ticketing for streamlined corporate event logistics
Cvent is a robust event management platform specializing in ticket sales, registration, and full event lifecycle management for professional organizers. It offers customizable ticketing options, including tiered pricing, group sales, seating charts, and seamless payment processing integrated with major gateways. The software provides advanced analytics, mobile apps for attendees, and CRM integrations to streamline large-scale event operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive ticketing with group sales, upsells, and seating management
- Powerful analytics and reporting for sales performance insights
- Seamless integrations with CRMs, email tools, and payment processors
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-enterprise users
- High cost unsuitable for small events
- Customization can require developer support
Best For
Large enterprises and event agencies managing high-volume corporate events, conferences, and trade shows.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $5,000-$10,000 per event or annual subscriptions from $15,000+ depending on scale.
TicketTailor
specializedAffordable, no-fee ticketing platform designed for independent event organizers with customizable checkout and reporting.
Zero booking fees for customers – organizers cover a low, transparent fee instead, making tickets more affordable for buyers.
TicketTailor is an intuitive online ticketing platform that enables event organizers to create, manage, and sell tickets for events of all sizes without charging booking fees to customers. It provides customizable event pages, seating charts, promotional tools, and integrations with tools like Zapier, Mailchimp, and Stripe. Focused on transparency and affordability, it's particularly suited for independent organizers, festivals, and community events seeking a hassle-free ticketing solution.
Pros
- No booking fees for ticket buyers, keeping costs low for attendees
- Highly intuitive interface with quick event setup
- Transparent pay-per-ticket pricing with no monthly fees
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting compared to enterprise tools
- Fewer native integrations than some competitors
- Less suited for very large-scale events with complex requirements
Best For
Independent event organizers and small to medium venues seeking affordable, user-friendly ticketing without customer fees.
Pricing
Free plan with 1.75% + £0.59 per paid ticket (UK); lower rates on paid plans starting at £19/month for advanced features; no monthly fees required.
Purplepass
specializedAll-in-one ticketing system supporting online sales, box office, RFID scanning, and mobile apps for diverse events.
Advanced fraud detection with dynamic pricing and duplicate ticket prevention
Purplepass is a user-friendly online ticketing platform tailored for event organizers, enabling seamless ticket sales, event management, and on-site scanning for a wide range of events from small gatherings to large festivals. It offers features like mobile apps for buyers and scanners, real-time reporting, and marketing tools to boost attendance. The platform stands out with its low-cost, pay-per-ticket model and strong focus on fraud prevention.
Pros
- Low transaction fees with no monthly subscriptions
- Intuitive dashboard and mobile scanning app
- Reliable customer support and quick setup
Cons
- Limited advanced customization options
- Fewer integrations compared to top competitors
- Reporting features lack depth for enterprise users
Best For
Small to mid-sized event organizers seeking affordable, straightforward ticketing without complex enterprise needs.
Pricing
Pay-per-ticket: $0.99 + 2.9% online, $0.49 + 2.9% on-site; volume discounts available, no setup or monthly fees.
ThunderTix
specializedReserved seating ticketing software with low fees, real-time inventory, and on-site printing for theaters and venues.
Advanced interactive seating charts with real-time hold, waitlist, and upgrade management
ThunderTix is an online ticketing platform tailored for event organizers, providing tools for ticket sales, reserved seating, box office management, and fundraising. It supports a wide range of events including theaters, festivals, and nonprofits, with features like mobile ticketing, inventory controls, and marketing integrations. The software stands out for its no-contract flexibility and low entry barriers, making it accessible for smaller operations.
Pros
- Flexible pay-per-ticket pricing with no long-term contracts
- Intuitive interface and mobile box office app for on-site sales
- Strong support for reserved seating and waitlists
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting compared to enterprise tools
- Per-ticket fees can add up for high-volume events
- Fewer integrations with CRM or marketing platforms
Best For
Small to mid-sized event venues, theaters, and nonprofits needing cost-effective ticketing without vendor lock-in.
Pricing
Pay-per-ticket starting at $0.99 per ticket plus 2.9% + $0.30 processing; monthly subscriptions from $49 for higher volume.
Bizzabo
enterpriseEvent experience platform offering seamless ticketing, registration, and engagement tools for professional events.
AI-powered attendee matchmaking and networking directly integrated with ticketing for personalized upsell opportunities
Bizzabo is an all-in-one event management platform with robust ticketing and registration capabilities, enabling seamless online ticket sales for events of all sizes. It supports customizable ticket types, dynamic pricing, group bookings, and secure payment processing, integrated with marketing tools to drive attendance. The platform also provides onsite check-in via mobile app and post-event analytics to measure ROI.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of ticketing with event marketing and engagement tools
- Advanced analytics and reporting for ticket sales performance
- Mobile-first attendee experience with badge scanning and networking features
Cons
- High cost unsuitable for small or one-off events
- Steep learning curve for non-enterprise users
- Custom pricing lacks transparency without a demo
Best For
Mid-to-large event organizers hosting conferences or corporate events needing end-to-end ticketing and management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; starts around $5,000/year for basic access, scales with event volume and add-ons.
Tix
enterpriseFlexible ticketing and CRM software tailored for performing arts, attractions, and multi-venue organizations.
Advanced season pass and flex ticket management with automated renewals and CRM-like patron tracking
Tix (tix.com) is a full-service ticketing platform tailored for sports teams, performing arts venues, fairs, and nonprofits, enabling online ticket sales, box office management, and mobile entry. It provides customizable seating charts, season ticket handling, group sales, and integrated reporting for streamlined event operations. With a focus on reliability and customer support, Tix serves mid-market organizations handling thousands of tickets per event.
Pros
- Reliable platform with high uptime and secure payment processing
- Strong season ticket and group sales management
- Responsive customer support and dedicated account managers
Cons
- User interface appears dated compared to modern competitors
- Limited native integrations with third-party CRM or marketing tools
- Transaction fees can accumulate for low-margin or high-volume events
Best For
Mid-sized venues, sports teams, and performing arts groups needing dependable ticketing without enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Transaction-based with $0.99 base fee + 5.5-7% per ticket (customizable); no setup fees, volume discounts for larger clients.
Etix
specializedGlobal ticketing platform providing fan-to-fan resale, dynamic pricing, and venue management tools.
Global Distribution Network for seamless multi-channel ticket sales across websites, apps, and partner outlets
Etix is a robust event ticketing platform designed for venues, promoters, and event organizers, providing end-to-end solutions for online and box office ticket sales, inventory management, and mobile delivery. It features advanced CRM integration, marketing automation, real-time analytics, and fraud prevention tools to maximize revenue and fan engagement. Widely used for concerts, sports, and performing arts, Etix supports both primary and secondary markets with scalable infrastructure for high-volume events.
Pros
- Scalable for mid-to-large events with high-volume capacity
- Strong fraud detection and anti-scalping measures
- Comprehensive analytics and CRM integrations
Cons
- Higher per-ticket fees less ideal for small events
- Interface can have a learning curve for beginners
- Limited free tier or trial options
Best For
Mid-sized venues and promoters handling frequent, high-attendance events who prioritize reliability and data-driven insights.
Pricing
Per-ticket service fees (typically 2.5-3% + $0.99-$1.50); custom enterprise pricing for high-volume users.
Brown Paper Tickets
specializedDIY ticketing service for small independent events with transparent pricing and easy setup.
Transparent low-fee model with optional charitable donations from a portion of proceeds to arts organizations
Brown Paper Tickets is a user-friendly online ticketing platform tailored for independent event producers, enabling easy creation and management of ticket sales for live events like concerts, theater, festivals, and community gatherings. It offers tools for online sales, box office scanning, reserved seating, and basic promotions without requiring upfront fees. Ideal for small-scale organizers, it emphasizes low costs and transparency, allowing producers to retain more revenue while handling payments securely.
Pros
- Very low transaction fees (3.49% + $0.99 per ticket, configurable who pays)
- Quick event setup with no upfront costs or subscriptions
- Reliable customer support and mobile box office app
Cons
- Limited advanced marketing and analytics tools
- Basic integrations with few third-party apps
- User interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Small event organizers, nonprofits, and community groups seeking affordable, straightforward ticketing without complex enterprise features.
Pricing
Free setup; $0.99 + 3.49% per ticket sold (buyer or seller pays, no monthly fees).
Conclusion
The reviewed tools cater to diverse event needs, from small independent gatherings to large-scale concerts and corporate conferences. Leading the pack is Eventbrite, a versatile platform with robust ticket creation, promotion, and sales tools that suit events of all sizes. While Ticketmaster excels in large-scale live events and resale features, and Cvent stands out for enterprise event management, Eventbrite remains the top choice for its integrated, user-friendly approach.
Begin with Eventbrite to leverage its comprehensive tools and simplify your ticket sales process, ensuring a seamless experience for both organizers and attendees.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison