14 Best Event Management Software and Tools: Simplify your event planning with these top-rated options

Last updated: January 2nd, 2024

Planning an event can be one of the most stressful jobs out there. The pressure to organize every detail, cater to attendees' needs, and create a memorable experience can be overwhelming. That's why many event organizers turn to event management software and tools to streamline the process and reduce stress.

In this article, we'll introduce you to the 14 best event management software options available. These tools are designed to help you become more productive, improve efficiency, and deliver successful events. Let's dive in!

How to Choose the Best Event Management Software

Before we delve into the options, it's important to understand the criteria we considered when selecting these tools. Our evaluation was based on the following important metrics:

1. Reputation: We analyzed positive reviews on popular platforms like G2, App Store, and Play Store to gauge user satisfaction.
2. Robustness: Reliability is crucial. We looked for software that runs smoothly without frequent crashes, downtime, or bugs.
3. Security: Data protection is paramount. We considered software that is SOC 2® Type II compliant for secure event data management.
4. Core Features: We explored the range of features offered, including registration, check-in, name badges, exhibitor/sponsor management, and website generation, among others.

Organizers' Favorite Event Management Software

1. Cvent

   • Rating: 4.2/5 on G2, 4.2/5 on Capterra, 3.0/5 on App Store
   • 
   • Cvent is a cloud-based event management system that offers a wide array of features, including event marketing, venue sourcing, attendee engagement tools, and event analytics.
   • While Cvent provides comprehensive tools, some users have found the platform less intuitive and more expensive compared to other options.

2. Whova

   • Rating: 4.8/5 on G2, 4.8/5 on Capterra, 4.8/5 on App Store
   • 
   • Whova is an award-winning all-in-one event management platform. It has received accolades such as the People's Choice Award and the Best Event App Award at the Event Technology Awards.
   • With features like event registration, mobile event apps, name badges, check-in, and more, Whova simplifies event management and has garnered high ratings and positive reviews.

3. Eventbrite

   • Rating: 4.3/5 on G2, 4.6/5 on Capterra, 4.9/5 on App Store
   • Eventbrite is a popular ticketing solution for events of all sizes. It offers customization options, email confirmations, and reminders for attendees. It also supports registrations from both mobile and desktop devices.
   • While Eventbrite is well-known, some organizers find the fees a bit high compared to other registration tools and all-in-one event planning software.

4. eShow

   • Rating: 4.3/5 on G2, 4.4/5 on Capterra, 2.6/5 on App Store
   • eShow provides web-based tools and solutions for event management, including registration, event websites, and abstract collection. It integrates with some AMS and CRM systems and offers a basic mobile app.
   • While eShow serves trade shows well, its interface may not be as intuitive as other platforms with higher ratings.

5. Boomset

   • Rating: 4.6/5 on G2, 4.7/5 on Capterra, N/A on App Store
   • Boomset (now retired) is an event attendance tracking tool that provides check-in, on-demand badge printing, and guest list management. It also supports facial recognition check-in and RFID-enabled wristbands for attendee tracking.
   • While Boomset offers fast check-in capabilities, it may not be the best choice if you don't want to invest in a special device exclusively for check-ins. In such cases, consider event management tools like Whova.

6. Zoom Events

   • Rating: 4.2/5 on G2, 4.2/5 on Capterra, 3.0/5 on App Store
   • 
   • As you may already be familiar with Zoom, Zoom Events offers a virtual event/webinar system. It allows you to host sessions via streaming, manage ticketing, and more. However, it's more suitable for smaller courses and webinars and may lack advanced features.

7. RingCentral Events

   • Rating: 4.5/5 on G2, 4.2/5 on Capterra, 3.4/5 on App Store
   • RingCentral Events (formerly Hopin) is a virtual event platform that enables organizers to create, host, and manage virtual events. It offers a virtual venue that connects distributed attendees through live video. However, some customers have reported issues with ease of use and customer service.

8. Slido

   • Rating: 4.7/5 on G2, 4.8/5 on Capterra, 3.0/5 on App Store
   • Slido is a well-known Q&A and live polling tool that drives meaningful conversations and increases attendee engagement. However, if you're looking for an app that provides other features like personalized agendas or networking, consider all-in-one options like Whova.

9. Poll Everywhere

   • Rating: 4.5/5 on G2, 4.6/5 on Capterra, 4.8/5 on App Store
   • Poll Everywhere is an audience response software that allows attendees to submit live responses using their smartphones. It supports multiple question types and integrates with popular presentation tools like PowerPoint and Google Slides.

10. Airtable

    • Rating: 4.6/5 on G2, 4.6/5 on Capterra, 4.8/5 on App Store
    • Airtable is a cloud-based collaboration platform that combines the ease of use of a spreadsheet with the power of a database. It can be used for event planning, project management, CRM, inventory management, and more. It also integrates with various tools like Zapier, Slack, and Google Drive.

11. Slack

    • Rating: 4.5/5 on G2, 4.6/5 on Capterra, 3.7/5 on App Store
    • Slack is a popular team communication tool that can also be used for session interaction within events. It allows you to create different channels for various topics and enables private and public conversations, video calls, and file sharing.

12. ProjectManager

    • Rating: 4.4/5 on G2, 4.1/5 on Capterra, 3.3/5 on App Store
    • 
    • ProjectManager.com is a cloud-based project management software that focuses on team efficiency and project organization. While not designed specifically for events, it offers tools to manage schedules, tasks, and collaboration, making it a useful option for event project management.

13. BaseCamp

    • Rating: 4.1/5 on G2, 4.4/5 on Capterra, 4.7/5 on App Store
    • Basecamp is a powerful project management software that combines message boards, calendars, to-do lists, and more into one organized place. It helps event planning teams stay coordinated and efficient.

14. Trello

    • Rating: 4.4/5 on G2, 4.6/5 on Capterra, 4.4/5 on App Store
    • Trello is a lightweight project management software with an easy-to-use interface. Its card-based design allows you to define different stages of tasks and keep track of event logistics. While lacking event-specific features, it's a useful tool for task organization.

How It Works - Whova Event Planning Software

Curious about how event planning software like Whova works? Watch the video above to see how it can help busy event organizers save time, money, and enhance attendee experiences.

Free Live Demo - Whova Event Management Software

Now that we've introduced you to a range of event planning software options, it's time to explore further. Remember, the "best" software varies depending on your specific event needs. Click here to request a free live demo from Whova and discover how it can best serve you as a rockstar event organizer.

With these top-rated event management software and tools, you can simplify and streamline your event planning process, increase productivity, and deliver successful and memorable events. Happy planning!