Hopin vs Crowdcast: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Hopin and Crowdcast 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 wins this matchup. Our overall Event Platforms pick is Whova. Our free Event Platforms pick is Zeffy. Pick Crowdcast if you need live streaming.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Hopin
Virtual and hybrid events platform
Best for you if:
- • You want virtual events platform
- • You want good for large events
Crowdcast
Host engaging live events with registration, Q&A, and monetization
Best for you if:
- • You want built-in monetization
- • You want replay automation
| At a Glance | Hopin | Crowdcast |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $99/moEvents Pro | $49/moLite |
Best For | Event Platforms | Live Streaming |
Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.5/5 |
Free plan | No | No |
Choose Hopin or Crowdcast?
Choose Hopin if
Virtual and hybrid events platform
- You want virtual events platform
- You want good for large events
- Your work is event platforms-shaped, not live streaming-shaped
Choose Crowdcast if
Host engaging live events with registration, Q&A, and monetization
- You want built-in monetization
- You want replay automation
- Your work is live streaming-shaped, not event platforms-shaped
| Feature | Hopin | Crowdcast |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.8/5 301 reviews | ★4.5/5 214 reviews |
| Categories | Event PlatformsLive Streaming | Live StreamingWebinar |
In-Depth Analysis
Hopin
Virtual and hybrid events platform
Hopin was acquired by RingCentral in 2023 and rebranded as RingCentral Events.
Watch out
Per-organizer pricing means each person who creates events needs their own license, a 5-person events team costs $495-$1,495/mo, not $99-$299/mo
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
Crowdcast
Host engaging live events with registration, Q&A, and monetization
Crowdcast's pricing is moderately expensive compared to some market alternatives, especially for smaller users.
Watch out
5% transaction fee on Lite/Pro tiers
Strengths
- +Built-in monetization
- +Replay automation
- +Engagement tools
Weaknesses
- -No free tier
- -Learning curve
Key features
Pricing: Hopin vs Crowdcast
| Plan | Hopin | Crowdcast |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $99 Events Pro | $49 Lite |
| Tier 2 | $199 Events Pro+ | $89 Pro |
| Tier 3 | $299 Events Enterprise | $195 Business |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Hopin pricing and Crowdcast pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Hopin
Want the highest-rated option?
Hopin: 4.8/5 (301 reviews). Crowdcast: 4.5/5 (214 reviews).
Go with: Hopin
Value user reviews?
Hopin: 301 reviews (4.8/5). Crowdcast: 214 reviews (4.5/5).
Go with: Hopin
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Hopin is a event platforms tool. Crowdcast is in live streaming. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Hopin is rated higher: 4.8/5 vs 4.5/5.
Key Takeaways
Hopin
- Higher user rating: 4.8/5 vs 4.5/5
- Larger review base (301 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Crowdcast
- Better fit for live streaming
The Bottom Line
Hopin wins this matchup. Our overall Event Platforms pick is Whova. Our free Event Platforms pick is Zeffy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hopin or Crowdcast better?
Hopin is rated in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Hopin and Crowdcast used for?
Hopin: Virtual and hybrid events platform. Crowdcast: Host engaging live events with registration, Q&A, and monetization.
What does Hopin cost vs Crowdcast?
Hopin is a paid tool. Crowdcast is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.