Best Event Management Software in 2025
Event management software is essential for organizations that host events ranging from small workshops to large conferences. From streamlining registration and ticketing to managing communications and on-site logistics, using the right software can significantly improve efficiency and attendee experience. The options available vary significantly in terms of features, pricing, and target audience. Some offerings focus on comprehensive event lifecycle management, while others offer specialized functionality, like enhanced marketing features or robust mobile event apps. Selecting the ideal platform involves evaluating your specific event needs, technical capabilities, and budget. This buying guide evaluates tools to ensure you select the best fit for your events.
What's In This Guide
Our Selection Methodology
We utilized an AI-driven analysis of event management software platforms, examining various factors, including feature sets, user reviews, pricing, and capabilities. Our AI algorithms processed data from multiple sources, including expert reviews, technology specifications, and market research reports, to identify the top performers based on the criteria described above. We looked at thousands of data points and evaluated dozens of products and services, weighing those aspects against the needs of a variety of use-cases. This included processing customer satisfaction scores and feature usage data to identify strengths and weaknesses. Our scoring system prioritized those features most often requested by users as well as the ease of use of the platform.
Selection Criteria
Feature Set
The breadth and depth of features offered, including registration, ticketing, marketing automation, venue management, reporting, and mobile app capabilities.
Ease of Use
How intuitive and easy-to-navigate the software is for both the event organizers and attendees, including setup, event creation, and attendee management.
Scalability
The ability of the software to handle events of varying sizes, from small meetings to large conferences. Also includes whether the platform can grow with the event organizer's needs.
Integrations
Whether the software integrates with other tools, such as CRM, email marketing platforms, payment gateways, and social media platforms, to streamline workflows.
Pricing
The overall cost, including subscription fees, per-attendee charges, and any extra associated costs.
Customer Support
The availability and quality of customer support, including response times and the availability of training resources.
Reporting & Analytics
The range and depth of reporting and analytics features, offering insights into event performance, attendee engagement, and ROI.
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Top 5 Event Management Software in 2025
Pros
- Comprehensive feature set for all event management needs.
- Robust reporting and analytics.
- Excellent scalability for events of all sizes.
Cons
- Can be expensive for small or infrequent event users.
- Interface can be complex and overwhelming for beginners, though the help documentation goes far to resolve this.
Key Specifications
Cvent is a comprehensive event management platform designed for large-scale, complex events. It offers extensive features, including event registration, venue sourcing, marketing automation, mobile event apps, and sophisticated reporting and analytics. It supports the whole lifecycle of events and is capable of handling every aspect of an event, making it a solid choice for large corporations and event management professionals. It is known for complex enterprise-level deployments. It integrates well with a variety of other systems and delivers enterprise-class security and features.
Pros
- Strong ticketing and registration features.
- Good integration with marketing platforms.
- Ease of use for both organizers and attendees.
Cons
- Pricing can be complex, with different tiers and hidden fees.
- Limited customization options compared to some competitors.
- Some users may find the interface less intuitive, and the marketing tools could use further refinement.
Key Specifications
Eventbrite is a well-known platform best suited to mid-sized events, and allows for high degrees of integration with marketing and communication software. It excels at online ticketing, registration, and promotion, making it ideal for events with a defined focus on monetization. It has an easy-to-use system for creating event pages, managing attendees, and tracking sales. The payment processing system is very streamlined, which is a strength of the product. Eventbrite offers a variety of integrations with other useful tools, making it a versatile choice for a range of event types. The marketing features are powerful, and this ensures Eventbrite stays a prominent player in this field.
Pros
- Excellent for event marketing and promotion.
- Visually appealing event websites and landing pages.
- User-friendly interface.
Cons
- Fewer features compared to more comprehensive platforms like Cvent.
- Can get expensive for high-volume event users.
- Less focused on on-site event management features.
Key Specifications
Splash focuses on marketing and providing attractive landing pages, making it the optimal choice for branding and promotion. It provides powerful tools for creating visually stunning event websites and landing pages, sending attractive emails, and offering a very compelling user experience. It is most suitable for events where marketing is the primary driver. It offers integrations with other platforms, but it isn't as comprehensive as other options. It is very user-friendly and offers a strong platform for communicating about upcoming events. It is an excellent marketing tool for those who want a well-designed approach to events.
Pros
- Strong mobile app for attendee engagement.
- Excellent features for sponsors and exhibitors.
- User-friendly interface.
Cons
- Limited features compared to more comprehensive platforms.
- Customization options are somewhat limited.
- Can be more expensive than some alternatives for smaller events.
Key Specifications
Whova is a popular platform best suited to user conferences. It offers a highly-rated mobile app. Whova allows for robust attendee engagement features such as session scheduling, in-app messaging, and interactive Q&A. The platform also includes features for sponsors and exhibitors. The platform integrates readily with standard productivity tools and can effectively manage user conferences and medium-sized events well.
Pros
- Strong event marketing and engagement features.
- Supports virtual, in-person, and hybrid events.
- Good for sponsors and exhibitors.
Cons
- Feature limitations compared to more robust platforms.
- May not be suitable for very large-scale or complex events.
- Can be expensive compared to some alternatives.
Key Specifications
Bizzabo is an event management platform that emphasizes event marketing and engagement. Offering features for virtual, in-person, and hybrid events, Bizzabo excels at providing a unified experience across all event formats. It includes capabilities for event websites, email communications, and attendee networking, making it ideal for enhancing the engagement and experience of event participants. It also offers a great tool for sponsors and exhibitors through lead generation features. This platform provides a comprehensive suite of tools for the event life cycle.
Conclusion
Choosing the right event management software is critical for the success of your events. The options presented offer a range of features and pricing, but the best choice depends heavily on your specific needs, event size, and technical capabilities. Consider the criteria outlined in this guide to aid your decision-making. For large-scale, multifaceted events, Cvent remains a leader. For robust integration with other software, consider Eventbrite, and for smaller events or those requiring a more simplified user experience and focused on marketing, consider investing in Splash.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is event management software?
Event management software is a digital tool that streamlines the planning, execution, and analysis of events, conferences, and meetings. It automates tasks like registration, ticketing, marketing, communication, and on-site management, improving efficiency and attendee experience.
What features should I look for in event management software?
Key features include online registration, ticketing, marketing automation (email campaigns, promotional materials), venue selection and management, attendee communication, mobile apps, budget management, reporting and analytics, and on-site check-in capabilities.
How much does event management software cost?
The cost varies widely, from free or basic plans for smaller events to thousands of dollars per event or an annual license fee for enterprise-level platforms. Pricing models include tiered subscription plans, per-attendee fees, or custom pricing for extensive feature sets and large-scale usage.
Does event management software integrate with other software?
Yes, many platforms integrate with other business tools such as CRM (Customer Relationship Management) platforms, email marketing software, payment gateways, social media platforms, and project management tools to streamline workflows and data sharing. Check that your preferred software can integrate with your existing infrastructure.
How do I choose the best event management software for my needs?
Factors to consider include: event size and type, required features, budget, user-friendliness, scalability, integration capabilities, customer support, and reporting needs. It's recommended to assess your team's technical skills as well.