Start.gg vs Hopin: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Start.gg 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Start.gg
Connecting competitive gaming communities through seamless tournament organization and participation.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need community platforms features specifically
- • Organize and manage esports tournaments for various video games.
- • Connects competitive gamers with events and communities.
Hopin
Virtual and hybrid events platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need live streaming features specifically
- • 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 |  Hopin | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Community Platforms | Live Streaming |
Rating | —/100 | 89/100 |
| Feature | Start.gg | Hopin |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 89 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Community PlatformsEsports Tools | Live StreamingWebinar |
How Start.gg and Hopin Compare
Start.gg
Connecting competitive gaming communities through seamless tournament organization and participation.
Free tier available
Hopin
Virtual and hybrid events platform
Paid · 89/100 score
Start.gg is a community platforms tool. Hopin is in live streaming.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Start.gg has a free tier. Hopin is paid only.
Go with: Start.gg
Want the highest-rated option?
Hopin scores 89/100. Start.gg is unrated.
Go with: Hopin
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Hopin
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Start.gg is freemium. Hopin is paid. Start.gg lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Start.gg is a community platforms tool. Hopin is in live streaming. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Hopin
- Higher score: 89/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
Start.gg
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for community platforms
The Bottom Line
Hopin (89/100) is our pick. Start.gg has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Start.gg or Hopin better?
Hopin scores 89/100 in our evaluation. Start.gg is freemium and Hopin is paid.
What are Start.gg and Hopin used for?
Start.gg: Connecting competitive gaming communities through seamless tournament organization and participation.. Hopin: Virtual and hybrid events platform.
What does Start.gg cost vs Hopin?
Start.gg is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Hopin is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.