GatherPress vs Hopin: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between GatherPress and Hopin comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: Hopin is our overall pick for event platforms workflows. Pick GatherPress if you need a fully free option.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
GatherPress
Open-source event management tools built by and for the WordPress community.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Open-source event management platform for the WordPress community.
- • Built using WordPress and BuddyPress to facilitate diverse events.
Hopin
Virtual and hybrid events platform
Best for you if:
- • Virtual event platform with five interactive areas: Reception, Stage, Sessions, Networking, and Expo
- • Supports up to 100,000 concurrent viewers with built-in live streaming, Q&A, polls, and networking features
| At a Glance |  GatherPress |  Hopin |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | $99/moEvents Pro |
Best For | Event Platforms | Event Platforms |
Rating | - | - |
Choose GatherPress or Hopin?
Choose GatherPress if
Open-source event management tools built by and for the WordPress community.
- Completely open-source and free to use
- Community-driven development ensures features meet user needs
- Leverages the familiarity and extensibility of WordPress and BuddyPress
- You want a fully free tool (Hopin requires payment)
Choose Hopin if
Virtual and hybrid events platform
- Virtual events platform
- Good for large events
- Networking features
| Feature | GatherPress | Hopin |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.8/5 299 reviews |
| Categories | Event PlatformsCommunity Platforms | Event PlatformsLive Streaming |
In-Depth Analysis
GatherPress
Open-source event management tools built by and for the WordPress community.
Strengths
- +Completely open-source and free to use
- +Community-driven development ensures features meet user needs
- +Leverages the familiarity and extensibility of WordPress and BuddyPress
- +Designed specifically for community events
Weaknesses
- -Still in active development, not yet a fully mature product
- -Requires a WordPress installation to function
- -Reliance on community contributions for feature development and support
Key features
Hopin
Virtual and hybrid events platform
Strengths
- +Virtual events platform
- +Good for large events
- +Networking features
- +Expo booths
- +Analytics
Weaknesses
- -Expensive
- -Declined post-pandemic
- -Complex for simple events
- -Performance issues reported
- -Layoffs concerns
Key features
Pricing: GatherPress vs Hopin
| Plan | GatherPress | Hopin |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | N/A | $99 Events Pro |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $199 Events Pro+ |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $299 Events Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on GatherPress pricing and Hopin pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
GatherPress is free. Hopin is paid.
Go with: GatherPress
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: GatherPress
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Hopin
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
GatherPress is free. Hopin is paid. Go with GatherPress if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are event platforms tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Hopin
- Our pick for this comparison
GatherPress
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Hopin is our pick. That said, GatherPress is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GatherPress or Hopin better?
Hopin is rated in our evaluation. GatherPress is free and Hopin is paid.
What are GatherPress and Hopin used for?
GatherPress: Open-source event management tools built by and for the WordPress community.. Hopin: Virtual and hybrid events platform.
What does GatherPress cost vs Hopin?
GatherPress is completely free. Hopin is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.