GatherPress vs Whova: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between GatherPress and Whova 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: Whova 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.
Whova
Event management and networking app
Best for you if:
- • All-in-one event management platform for in-person, virtual, and hybrid events
- • Registration, attendee app, networking, exhibitor tools, and analytics
| At a Glance |  GatherPress |  Whova |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | Paid |
Best For | Event Platforms | Event Platforms |
Rating | - | - |
Choose GatherPress or Whova?
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 (Whova requires payment)
Choose Whova if
Event management and networking app
- Comprehensive platform covering the full event lifecycle
- Strong attendee networking features with smart matching
- Works for in-person, virtual, and hybrid event formats
| Feature | GatherPress | Whova |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Enterprise |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.8/5 4,177 reviews |
| Categories | Event PlatformsCommunity Platforms | Event PlatformsCommunity Platforms |
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
Whova
Event management and networking app
Strengths
- +Comprehensive platform covering the full event lifecycle
- +Strong attendee networking features with smart matching
- +Works for in-person, virtual, and hybrid event formats
- +Award-winning event app with high attendee adoption rates
- +Exhibitor lead retrieval adds value for sponsors
Weaknesses
- -No published pricing requires requesting a custom quote
- -Add-on features can escalate costs quickly
- -Less transparent pricing compared to competitors like Eventbrite
- -Overkill for small or simple events
- -Initial setup requires more time than simpler tools
Key features
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
GatherPress is free. Whova is enterprise.
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: Whova
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
GatherPress is free. Whova is enterprise. 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
Whova
- Our pick for this comparison
GatherPress
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Whova is our pick. That said, GatherPress is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GatherPress or Whova better?
Whova is rated in our evaluation. GatherPress is free and Whova is enterprise.
What are GatherPress and Whova used for?
GatherPress: Open-source event management tools built by and for the WordPress community.. Whova: Event management and networking app.
What does GatherPress cost vs Whova?
GatherPress is completely free. Whova is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.