March 30, 2024
Our comprehensive guide to the top 16 hybrid event platforms of 2024 is designed to assist you in selecting the ideal tool for your events. Whether you're in search of advanced tools for hybrid events, software solutions, platforms for hybrid expos, or platforms for hybrid conferences, this article provides the optimal solution for you and your organization.
Hybrid events are gaining unprecedented popularity. The escalating costs of traditional, in-person events and the preference of attendees for multiple participation options have made hybrid events the preferred choice for a significant number of large organizations in the life sciences, professional services, and technology sectors.
The shift towards hybrid events signifies a growing demand among digital platform managers for tools that can enhance the customer experience in this new era of events.
But, what exactly constitutes hybrid event software? How does one identify the platform that best meets their requirements? Furthermore, are there hybrid event platforms available that can integrate with your CRM system to simplify the process of collecting enriched data?
We will explore the various types of hybrid events and outline the essential features that every hybrid event platform must possess to meet your event technology needs. We conclude with a list of the top 16 hybrid event software tools available in 2024.
What is Hybrid Event?
Hybrid events mark a significant evolution in the way events are organized, combining the direct interaction of traditional meetings with the vast accessibility provided by digital platforms. This innovative model not only makes it possible to reach a global audience but also increases participant engagement through a variety of interactive features. Especially important during worldwide disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic, hybrid events have proven to be a flexible and resilient option for various types of gatherings, promoting inclusiveness and wide participation.
These events are tailored to meet various needs and preferences, positioning them as a crucial element in the contemporary event scene. The advancement of technology further emphasizes the value of hybrid events, positioning them as a fundamental approach for forward-thinking event planning. By welcoming both on-site and online attendees, hybrid events ensure an inclusive and accessible experience for everyone involved.
What are the formats of Hybrid Event?
Hybrid conferences & workshops and training sessions
Hybrid events are available in multiple formats, each aimed at fulfilling particular goals and catering to different audience needs. For example, hybrid conferences combine in-person presentations with content streamed online to broaden the reach and enhance interaction. This approach is also beneficial for workshops and training sessions, which allow for live involvement of attendees present at the location and online engagement through digital tools.
Hybrid trade shows and exhibitions
Additionally, the hybrid model is applied to trade shows and exhibitions, where physical displays are complemented by virtual booths, enabling exhibitors to connect with a global audience. Networking events and seminars also adopt hybrid formats to encourage networking and facilitate discussions, creating a dynamic and comprehensive experience. The versatility of these event types highlights the hybrid model's ability to merge physical attendance with digital participation, creating engaging and inclusive events.
What are the trends of Hybrid Event?
The event planning scene has undergone a significant transformation, especially in large organizations with over 5,000 employees, where hybrid events have become increasingly common. By 2022, an impressive 71% of such organizations had adopted hybrid events as part of their standard operations, a trend expected to grow. This move towards hybrid events is driven by participants' growing preference for combining the unique appeal of face-to-face interactions with the convenience and environmental benefits of virtual participation.
In particular, industries like life sciences and professional services at the corporate level are at the forefront of this shift. They have realized that hybrid event platforms offer attendees the flexibility to choose how they want to participate, thereby broadening the event's appeal and accessibility by integrating in-person and online experiences. By adopting hybrid events, these organizations not only meet the current demands of their audiences but also set themselves up for greater success in the future. Hybrid platforms effortlessly connect the physical and digital worlds, ushering in a new era of inclusive and extensive event experiences.
Why do you need a hybrid event platform?
Utilizing hybrid event tools offers numerous benefits, allowing organizers to combine elements to create a unique and engaging experience that caters to both in-person and virtual attendees.
In today's dynamic environment, there's a noticeable trend towards reduced travel, influenced by health considerations or environmental concerns. This shift results in a higher proportion of virtual participants at hybrid events. Consequently, there's an increasing demand for hybrid event platforms capable of effectively accommodating both virtual and in-person attendees.
Explore the advantages in depth and learn why investing in a hybrid events platform is a strategic decision for your organization.
Extended Reach and Improved Accessibility
Hybrid event platforms considerably widen an event's scope, making it possible to engage with an international audience. By merging physical attendance and virtual participation, these platforms eliminate geographical and logistical constraints, inviting participation from anyone, anywhere. This approach enhances event inclusiveness, attracting a more diverse group of attendees and fostering greater engagement, thereby serving as a key instrument in expanding an event’s influence and reach.
Cost Savings
Organizing events can be expensive, yet hybrid platforms present an economical alternative. Traditional events often come with significant venue, travel, and accommodation costs, which can be mitigated through hybrid events by hosting some attendees online. This method effectively reduces overall expenses while offering flexible attendance options, potentially increasing participation without the necessity for bigger, pricier locations.
Environmental Sustainability
At a time when environmental preservation is paramount, hybrid events are notable for their minimal ecological impact. Reducing the need for travel and physical materials, these platforms advocate for a greener approach to organizing events, resonating with both the environmental goals of organizations and the eco-conscious values of participants.
Boosted Participant Engagement
Hybrid event platforms prioritize participant interaction, featuring tools like Q&A sessions, live polls, and networking opportunities that link onsite and online attendees. These interactive capabilities enhance the participant experience, promoting greater engagement, better information retention, and higher satisfaction levels.
Key Features of a Hybrid Event Platform
When selecting hybrid event software for your event, expo, or conference, it's essential to ensure it includes certain key features to maximize the benefits of your hybrid event experience. Here are the fundamental elements to look for in your chosen software.
Live Streaming
Central to any effective hybrid event is the capability for high-quality live streaming. This ensures that virtual participants can join in real time, capturing the essence and vibrancy of being there in person. It's critical to have robust streaming that can accommodate various devices and internet speeds, keeping engagement high and providing a smooth viewing experience.
Interactive Tools
To effectively connect in-person and online audiences, interactive features are indispensable. Tools such as live polls, Q&A sessions, and instant feedback options enable virtual attendees to interact with the content, speakers, and one another in real time, enriching the overall event participation.
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Networking Capabilities
Networking remains a fundamental aspect of events. Hybrid platforms need to support networking by offering virtual meeting spaces, messaging functions, and intelligent matchmaking capabilities. These features ensure that all participants, whether onsite or online, can forge valuable professional connections.
Analytics and Reporting
Access to data and analytics is essential for evaluating an event's success and understanding participant behavior. Hybrid event platforms should provide detailed analytics and reporting, tracking engagement metrics, attendance, and interactions. This data is invaluable for refining future events and demonstrating value to sponsors and stakeholders.
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Integration with Event Management Software
The ability to integrate smoothly with current event management software is crucial for streamlined planning and execution. Whether it's registration systems, customer relationship management (CRM), or marketing platforms, integration helps simplify organizational tasks, enhance the participant experience, and improve data handling and analysis.
16 Best Hybrid Event Platforms
Embark on a streamlined event management journey with our expertly curated list of the top 16 event management software platforms. Each platform is meticulously selected to ease every phase of your event planning process. Our guide enriches your selection experience with a comprehensive comparison of various event management systems, highlighting their unique strengths. Additionally, it includes a detailed breakdown of platform and gateway pricing, offering a clear and transparent view of your potential investment.
It's important to note that the pricing information is accurate as of Apr 2024. Although future changes in pricing are possible, this guide remains a valuable resource for gaining insights into the services and features offered by each platform.
EventX
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EventX, founded in 2013 as Eventxtra Limited, is strategically headquartered in Hong Kong, China. As a company focused on the Asia-Pacific region, EventX specializes in SaaS-based event lead generation and management solutions, catering to the needs of businesses, marketers, and event organizers. The company has achieved a substantial global footprint, serving enterprises in over 100 cities and managing events for more than 5 million attendees worldwide. With an operational team of 100+ employees, EventX maintains a significant presence across multiple Asian locations, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, reflecting its expansive growth and commitment to delivering comprehensive event management solutions in the region.
EventX's hybrid event platforms offer a comprehensive suite of features designed to facilitate both in-person and virtual event experiences seamlessly. Their platform stands out for its user-friendly interface that allows for seamless editing of event registration pages and webinar content, all without the need for any coding expertise.
Standout Features & Service
Hybrid Event Management Portal:
Offers a unified content management system for creating tailor-made mobile event apps and virtual event spaces, enabling a cohesive event experience for all participants.
Event Registration and Marketing:
Features include the creation of stunning event marketing websites with options for in-person, virtual, and hybrid tickets, alongside flexible payment solutions and streamlined check-in processes.
Dynamic Video Options:
The platform supports live sessions and provides flexibility for on-demand video uploads, allowing for engaging virtual environments with interactive elements.
Comprehensive Attendee Management:
Real-time attendance monitoring through a check-in app, including instant VIP guest arrival notifications, and analysis of session engagement for insights into popularity.
Engaging Event App:
Includes polls, chat boxes, Q&As, and reactions to facilitate interactive and engaging attendee experiences.
Virtual Immersive Experience:
Features a virtual lobby and interactive booths that can be customized with engaging videos and clickable banners through a user-friendly interface.
Networking Opportunities:
Provides a Networking Lounge for meaningful business interactions and customizable networking tables to facilitate valuable networking experiences.
Pricing Modal
Freemium Model:
EventX offers a free sign-up option for small events, providing a taste of their services with EventX Lite. (Try it Now)
Tiered Plans:
For medium and large events, EventX Pro and Virtual Event & Expo plans are available, with pricing details accessible upon contacting sales.
Attendee Limits:
The plans accommodate varying attendee limits, from 100 for small events to unlimited for large events
Rating and User Feedback:
4.9 out of 5 on G2 (123 Reviews) (Last updated in Apr 2024)
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Cvent
Cvent's hybrid event platform stands out as a comprehensive solution designed to manage and enhance both in-person and virtual event experiences. The platform is celebrated for its extensive array of tools, encompassing engagement scoring, meeting approval, budgeting, and beyond, all of which converge to enable a seamless and efficient event planning experience. This comprehensive suite of features is designed to streamline the entire event management process, ensuring that every aspect, from initial planning to final execution, is managed with precision and ease.
Unique Features & Service
Attendee Hub for Web and Mobile:
Cvent bridges the gap between in-person and online audiences with the Attendee Hub, incorporating interactive features such as AI-powered networking, live Q&A, chat, and polling to enhance engagement across both platforms.
Venue Sourcing and Event Design:
Offers access to over 300,000 venues to find the perfect location that accommodates technological needs for hybrid events. Additionally, it includes event diagramming software to plan for optimal camera placements and A/V setups.
Event Registration and Marketing:
Enables the creation of a unified event agenda with distinct program offerings for different audiences, alongside optimizing event websites to boost attendance.
Onsite Technology and Solutions:
Facilitates a quick and seamless check-in experience, supports on-demand printing, and allows exhibitors to connect with potential buyers efficiently, integrating lead capture directly into CRM systems.
Comprehensive Event Lifecycle Support:
Cvent provides tools for every phase of the event—from planning and promotion with venue sourcing, meeting approval, and budget management, to attendee engagement during the event with networking and an event app, and finally, post-event with surveys, lead management, and engagement scoring.
Pricing Modal
Product-Based Pricing: For 1-5 events or specific event types, pricing is based on the products needed, such as event registration, check-in, badging, and mobile event app, and the volume of registrations.
Solution-Oriented Pricing: For comprehensive event management, particularly for large events or high volumes of events, pricing is influenced by registration volume and the advanced features required.
Rating and User Feedback:
4.3 out of 5 on G2 (1796 Reviews) (Last updated in Apr 2024)
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Eventtia
Eventtia offers a robust platform for hybrid event management, incorporating a suite of features designed to enhance both the planning and execution stages of an event. Their platform caters to the unique challenges and advantages of hosting hybrid events, emphasizing accessibility, versatility, and attendee engagement.
Unique Features & Service
Virtual Stage Branding:
Customize the virtual stage to match your brand’s identity, offering a fully immersive brand experience for attendees.
Live Streaming Integrations:
Utilize integrations like StreamYard to provide professional live streaming services, reducing latency and enhancing the presentation quality with perfectly crafted overlays.
Engagement Tools:
Foster attendee interaction with features such as live polls, quizzes, emoji reactions, and live chat, creating a dynamic and engaging event environment.
Event Lobby and Agenda:
Design an informative event lobby and a dynamic, customizable event agenda that allows attendees to tailor their event experience.
On-Demand Content:
Record sessions and make them available on the virtual stage for on-demand access, allowing attendees to revisit their favorite moments or catch up on missed content.
Pricing Modal
Express Package: Aimed at in-person events, this package provides 3 admin users, unlimited events, and attendees for 12 months. Starting at US$2,500. (Try it Now)
Digital Package: Designed for virtual and hybrid events, offering unlimited events and attendees with 3 admin users, and includes all features in Express plus additional ones such as mobile app, virtual stage, engagement tools, B2B networking, and sponsorship management. Starting at US$2,500.
Enterprise Solution: Includes unlimited events and attendees, 12-month access, and advanced features such as SSO, white labeling, unlimited API calls, audit logs, datalake integration, custom event portals, role-based access, white glove support, and SLA support
Rating and User Feedback:
4.4 out of 5 on G2 (63 Reviews) (Last updated in Apr 2024)
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Bizzabo
Founded in 2011, Bizzabo is a renowned event technology company dedicated to empowering event marketers. It focuses on bringing people together to enhance event experiences. Bizzabo's Event Experience Operating System (OS) caters to event organizers and B2B marketing professionals, offering an end-to-end solution for various event management aspects. The platform is versatile, supporting a broad spectrum of events, including in-person events with efficient check-in and custom badge printing, studio-quality virtual events, seamless hybrid events, and engaging webinars, thus providing comprehensive solutions for diverse event needs.
Unique Features & Service
Webcast Live Sessions:
Facilitates the broadcasting of large keynotes to smaller meetings, enhancing accessibility and reach.
Robust Engagement Tools:
Engages attendees with real-time chat, networking, whiteboarding, Q&A, polls, and more, ensuring interactive experiences.
Real-time Insights:
Provides the ability to monitor virtual events actively, ensuring unparalleled attendee and speaker experiences.
Unified Platform for In-Person & Virtual Events:
Offers a seamless experience by managing all event strategies in one place, with technology that updates changes across all event assets instantly.
Enhanced Attendee Experience:
Builds a community for networking and maximizes engagement with various interactive tools accessible across devices.
Pricing Modal
Essential Plan:
Targeted at organizations with early-stage event programs and small to medium-sized audiences.
Offers unlimited events and users.
Pricing is based on a per-registrant model.
Premium Plan
Suitable for companies with multiple events year-round, including at least one in-person event.
Unleash Plan:
Designed for event professionals hosting several virtual or in-person events with high-volume registration.
Enterprise Plan:
Aimed at premium brands seeking to deliver a private-label, curated event experience.
Rating and User Feedback:
4.4 out of 5 on G2 (312 Reviews) (Last updated in Apr 2024)
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Accelevents
Founded in 2015, Accelevents emerged from a desire to improve event technology and fundraising platforms, starting with a charity event in Boston. This led to the creation of a platform aimed at streamlining the registration and fundraising experience for both attendees and hosts. Today, Accelevents is recognized for its all-in-one event management and marketing software platform, offering solutions for virtual, hybrid, and in-person events. It provides features like ticketing, event marketing, analytics, and audience engagement tools to enhance the event experience for organizers and attendees alike. The platform is designed to accommodate events of any size, from small webinars to large-scale conferences, aiming to streamline event management processes and improve participant engagement through interactive and accessible technology.
Unique Features & Service
Advanced Registration Flows:
Enables customization of event registration and ticketing workflows to capture the exact data needed.
Branding Options:
Provides tools to brand every aspect of the event, ensuring consistency across all touchpoints.
Streamlined Onsite Check-in & Badge Printing:
Facilitates a smooth check-in process with options for both assisted and self-service via kiosk mode, including built-in badge design and printing.
Integrated Live Streaming:
Delivers high-quality streaming experiences for sessions, enabling seamless participation from both in-person and virtual attendees.
Engagement Tools:
Includes mobile app for attendee engagement, virtual hub for hosting immersive online events, check-in and badge printing s
