Hopin vs Eventbrite: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Hopin and Eventbrite 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 Eventbrite if you need a free tier to start with.
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
Eventbrite
Event management and ticketing
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
- • You want easy event management
- • You want ticket sales
| At a Glance | Hopin | Eventbrite |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $99/moEvents Pro | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Event Platforms | Event Platforms |
Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.3/5 |
Free plan | No | Yes |
Choose Hopin or Eventbrite?
Choose Hopin if
Virtual and hybrid events platform
- You want virtual events platform
- You want good for large events
Choose Eventbrite if
Event management and ticketing
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want easy event management
- You want ticket sales
| Feature | Hopin | Eventbrite |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.8/5 301 reviews | ★4.3/5 914 reviews |
| Categories | Event PlatformsLive Streaming | Event PlatformsPayment Processing |
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
Eventbrite
Event management and ticketing
Eventbrite's pricing for free events is excellent, as there are no fees.
Watch out
Payment processing fee (2.9%) on top of ticket fee
Strengths
- +Easy event management
- +Ticket sales
- +Good for marketing
- +Mobile check-in
- +Free for free events
Weaknesses
- -Fees on paid tickets
- -Limited customization
- -Basic reporting
- -Customer service varies
- -Competitors emerging
Key features
Pricing: Hopin vs Eventbrite
| Plan | Hopin | Eventbrite |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $99 Events Pro | $0 Free Events |
| Tier 2 | $199 Events Pro+ | 3.7% + $1.79/ticket Paid Events |
| Tier 3 | $299 Events Enterprise | From $15 Pro |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Hopin pricing and Eventbrite pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Eventbrite has a free tier. Hopin is paid only.
Go with: Eventbrite
Want the highest-rated option?
Hopin: 4.8/5 (301 reviews). Eventbrite: 4.3/5 (914 reviews).
Go with: Hopin
Value user reviews?
Hopin: 301 reviews (4.8/5). Eventbrite: 914 reviews (4.3/5).
Go with: Eventbrite
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Hopin is paid. Eventbrite is freemium. Eventbrite lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are event platforms tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Hopin is rated higher: 4.8/5 vs 4.3/5.
Key Takeaways
Hopin
- Higher user rating: 4.8/5 vs 4.3/5
- Our pick for this comparison
Eventbrite
- Has a free tier
- Larger review base (914 reviews)
The Bottom Line
Hopin wins this matchup. Our overall Event Platforms pick is Whova. Our free Event Platforms pick is Zeffy. Eventbrite has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hopin or Eventbrite better?
Hopin is rated in our evaluation. Hopin is paid and Eventbrite is freemium.
What are Hopin and Eventbrite used for?
Hopin: Virtual and hybrid events platform. Eventbrite: Event management and ticketing.
What does Hopin cost vs Eventbrite?
Hopin is a paid tool. Eventbrite is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.