Universe Ticketing vs Hopin: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Universe Ticketing 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 wins this matchup. Our overall Event Platforms pick is Whova. Our free Event Platforms pick is Zeffy. Pick Universe Ticketing 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:
Universe Ticketing
Streamline event operations and boost ticket sales
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
- • You want extensive marketing reach through Ticketmaster and partner network
- • You want high degree of customization for branding and checkout experience
Hopin
Virtual and hybrid events platform
Best for you if:
- • You want virtual events platform
- • You want good for large events
| At a Glance | Universe Ticketing | Hopin |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $99/moEvents Pro |
Best For | Event Platforms | Event Platforms |
Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.8/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose Universe Ticketing or Hopin?
Choose Universe Ticketing if
Streamline event operations and boost ticket sales
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want extensive marketing reach through Ticketmaster and partner network
- You want high degree of customization for branding and checkout experience
Choose Hopin if
Virtual and hybrid events platform
- You want virtual events platform
- You want good for large events
| Feature | Universe Ticketing | Hopin |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.4/5 27 reviews | ★4.8/5 301 reviews |
| Categories | Event PlatformsE-commerce | Event PlatformsLive Streaming |
In-Depth Analysis
Universe Ticketing
Streamline event operations and boost ticket sales
Universe Ticketing's pricing model, starting at 2% + $0.59 per ticket for both Starter and Standard tiers, is competitive and generally fair for event organizers.
Strengths
- +Extensive marketing reach through Ticketmaster and partner network
- +High degree of customization for branding and checkout experience
- +Advanced tools for managing complex timed-entry schedules and inventory
- +Comprehensive analytics for informed business decisions
- +Scalable customer support available in multiple languages and time zones
Weaknesses
- -Pricing structure involves per-ticket fees which can add up for high volume events
- -Advanced features like dedicated account management and onsite support are limited to higher-tier plans
- -Integration with Ticketmaster for selling is only available on certain plans
Key features
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
Pricing: Universe Ticketing vs Hopin
| Plan | Universe Ticketing | Hopin |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 2% + $0.59 per ticket Starter | $99 Events Pro |
| Tier 2 | 2% + $0.59 per ticket Standard | $199 Events Pro+ |
| Tier 3 | Custom pricing Pro | $299 Events Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Universe Ticketing pricing and Hopin pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Universe Ticketing has a free tier. Hopin is paid only.
Go with: Universe Ticketing
Want the highest-rated option?
Universe Ticketing: 4.4/5 (27 reviews). Hopin: 4.8/5 (301 reviews).
Go with: Hopin
Value user reviews?
Universe Ticketing: 27 reviews (4.4/5). Hopin: 301 reviews (4.8/5).
Go with: Hopin
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Universe Ticketing is freemium. Hopin is paid. Universe Ticketing 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 4.4/5.
Key Takeaways
Hopin
- Higher user rating: 4.8/5 vs 4.4/5
- Larger review base (301 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Universe Ticketing
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Hopin wins this matchup. Our overall Event Platforms pick is Whova. Our free Event Platforms pick is Zeffy. Universe Ticketing has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Universe Ticketing or Hopin better?
Hopin is rated in our evaluation. Universe Ticketing is freemium and Hopin is paid.
What are Universe Ticketing and Hopin used for?
Universe Ticketing: Streamline event operations and boost ticket sales. Hopin: Virtual and hybrid events platform.
What does Universe Ticketing cost vs Hopin?
Universe Ticketing is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Hopin is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.