Virtual events are no longer just a substitute for in-person gatherings; they are powerful engines for community building, lead generation, and global outreach. But with a crowded market, finding the right tool can feel overwhelming. A generic webinar platform might fail to capture the dynamic energy of a multi-track conference, while an overly complex system can create friction for both presenters and attendees. The key is to match platform capabilities with your specific event goals.

This guide cuts through the noise. We will analyze the 12 best virtual event platforms, comparing their core strengths, ideal use cases, and hidden limitations. Whether you need a simple, secure webinar tool for a healthcare training session or a full-scale virtual conference venue for your enterprise’s annual summit, this resource provides the clarity you need. We've compiled detailed breakdowns, screenshots, and direct links to help you evaluate each option efficiently.

Making an informed decision is the first step toward delivering an unforgettable digital experience. To truly maximize the impact of your chosen platform, consider a comprehensive approach like reviewing The Complete Guide to B2B Event Marketing. This guide will help you build a robust strategy around your technology choice. Let’s dive into the platforms that can help you execute that strategy flawlessly and achieve your engagement and growth objectives.

1. AONMeetings

AONMeetings solidifies its position as one of the best virtual event platforms by offering a powerful, secure, and remarkably accessible all-in-one solution. Its core strength lies in its browser-based architecture, which eliminates the need for software installations. This design choice dramatically simplifies the user experience for both hosts and attendees, allowing anyone with a Google Chrome browser to join an event instantly, a critical advantage for driving high attendance and engagement rates.

AONMeetings virtual event platform interface

This platform excels not just in ease of use but also in its robust feature set and stringent security protocols, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of professional sectors.

Key Strengths & Use Cases

AONMeetings distinguishes itself with a unique combination of unlimited webinar hosting and enterprise-grade compliance. Unlike many competitors that charge extra for webinar functionality or cap participant numbers, every AONMeetings plan includes unlimited webinars. This makes it an exceptionally cost-effective solution for organizations that rely on frequent large-scale broadcasts, such as marketing teams for lead generation, educational institutions for lectures, or corporate trainers for company-wide sessions.

The platform's security features are another major differentiator. With end-to-end encryption and HIPAA-compliant controls, it is tailor-made for industries with strict data privacy requirements.

Feature Analysis & Pricing

The platform integrates essential tools for running professional events, including live polling, virtual whiteboards, closed captions, and seamless screen sharing. Its AI-powered transcription service automatically generates searchable transcripts, a valuable asset for content repurposing and accessibility.

Pricing is transparent and scalable:

Plan Starting Price Max Participants Key Features
Starter $3.99/user/month 25 HD Video, Unlimited Webinars, Recording
Pro Contact Sales Varies All Starter features + Custom Branding
Business Pro Contact Sales Varies All Pro features + RTMP Streaming, Analytics

Practical Considerations

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Website: https://aonmeetings.com

2. Zoom Events and Webinars

Zoom Events and Webinars extends the familiar video conferencing tool into a full-fledged solution for single and multi-session virtual events. Leveraging its near-universal adoption, Zoom makes it incredibly simple for attendees to join, significantly reducing the friction often associated with virtual event platforms. Organizers can build complex events complete with a lobby, virtual expo floor for sponsors, and concurrent sessions, all managed within the familiar Zoom ecosystem.

Zoom Events and Webinars

The platform’s key strength is its deep integration with Zoom Workplace, enabling features like backstage areas for speakers, Simulive (pre-recorded content presented as live), and co-editing for seamless event planning. This makes it an ideal choice for organizations already invested in Zoom for internal communications who want to expand into external marketing and community engagement without a steep learning curve. After setting up your event, you can apply proven strategies for marketing a webinar to maximize attendance and impact.

Platform Breakdown

Best For Enterprise teams, educational institutions, existing Zoom users
Key Features Virtual expo floors, Simulive, flexible ticketing, mobile app
Pricing Subscription, pay-per-attendee, or one-month options available
Website https://www.zoom.com/

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3. RingCentral Events (formerly Hopin)

RingCentral Events, which acquired the mature Hopin platform, offers a comprehensive solution for virtual and hybrid events that models a physical venue. The platform excels at creating immersive experiences with distinct areas like a main stage, multi-track sessions, one-on-one networking, and exhibitor halls. It is designed for organizations that need to go beyond a simple webinar and build a full-scale virtual conference or trade show with deep engagement capabilities.

RingCentral Events (formerly Hopin)

Its strength lies in the robust feature set inherited from Hopin, combined with RingCentral's enterprise-grade governance and integrations. Organizers can manage ticketing, stream to multiple destinations, and leverage a library of over 40 app integrations. The platform's AI tools assist with creating promotional assets and summarizing Q&A sessions, helping event managers scale their efforts. To keep attendees engaged during sessions, it is crucial to learn how to create interactive presentations, which is a key component of a successful virtual event.

Platform Breakdown

Best For Organizations needing a mature virtual venue model with enterprise governance
Key Features Stage and session management, exhibitor halls, 40+ app integrations, AI tools
Pricing Sales-led; bundled with RingCentral offerings
Website https://www.ringcentral.com/rc-events

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4. Webex Webinars and Webex Events

Cisco’s Webex offers a powerful, enterprise-focused stack with distinct solutions for different event types. Webex Webinars is designed for large-scale, single-session broadcasts, while Webex Events caters to more complex multi-session virtual and hybrid programs. This dual-offering approach allows organizations to select the right tool for the job, from a simple marketing presentation to a full-fledged digital conference, all backed by Cisco's renowned security and reliability.

Webex Webinars and Webex Events

The platform's strength lies in its scalability and robust engagement features, which include built-in Slido polling and Q&A, real-time captions, and automated translations to foster a more inclusive and interactive environment. For enterprise teams, the deep integrations with major CRM and marketing automation platforms like Salesforce and Eloqua are a significant advantage. This makes Webex one of the best virtual event platforms for organizations needing end-to-end event management, from registration and ticketing to post-event analytics, within a secure, compliant framework.

Platform Breakdown

Best For Global enterprises, government agencies, organizations with strict security needs
Key Features Scalable webcast mode (100k+), Slido engagement, CRM integrations, ticketing, mobile app
Pricing Subscription-based tiers; advanced options require custom quotes
Website https://pricing.webex.com/us/en/hybrid-work/webinars/

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5. Airmeet

Airmeet is an "event-led growth" platform designed to transform virtual events into immersive, community-building experiences. It stands out by focusing heavily on social interaction and networking, moving beyond simple presentations to create dynamic environments where attendees can genuinely connect. The platform's structure encourages engagement through dedicated social lounges, speed networking sessions, and interactive booths, making it ideal for organizers who prioritize audience participation and lead generation.

Airmeet

The platform’s key differentiator is its suite of networking tools, such as the Social Lounge and Fluid Space, which allow attendees to move freely between virtual tables and initiate conversations. This focus on creating authentic connections is supported by strong marketing and sales integrations, enabling organizers to capture leads and measure event ROI directly. Airmeet’s flexible, attendee-based pricing, including a pay-as-you-go option, makes it one of the best virtual event platforms for organizations running episodic or a varying number of events throughout the year.

Platform Breakdown

Best For Community builders, marketing teams, organizations focused on networking
Key Features Social Lounge, speed networking, advanced analytics, marketing integrations
Pricing Subscription and Flex (pay-as-you-go) models available
Website https://www.airmeet.com/

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6. Bizzabo Event Experience OS

Bizzabo’s Event Experience OS is an all-in-one platform designed for organizations managing a complete portfolio of virtual, in-person, and hybrid events. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools that covers the entire event lifecycle, from registration and website building to content delivery and post-event analytics. The platform's strength lies in its ability to unify data and experiences across different event formats, providing a single source of truth for event organizers.

Bizzabo Event Experience OS

This holistic approach makes Bizzabo a powerful choice for enterprise-level teams that need to scale their event strategy without fragmenting their technology stack. Features like its native mobile app and optional Klik smart wearables for in-person engagement demonstrate its commitment to a true hybrid model. For organizations that treat events as a core part of their marketing and community-building efforts, Bizzabo provides the robust infrastructure and support needed to deliver consistent, high-quality experiences.

Platform Breakdown

Best For Enterprise marketing teams managing a portfolio of events
Key Features Website builder, advanced registration, native mobile app, Klik wearables
Pricing Annual subscription required; pricing available upon request
Website https://www.bizzabo.com/pricing

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7. BigMarker

BigMarker positions itself as a powerful, browser-based solution designed not just for hosting events but for creating entire content ecosystems. It excels in building customizable virtual venues for conferences and summits, complete with branded lobbies, multiple session tracks, and dedicated networking areas. This focus on customization allows organizers to create a unique and immersive brand experience that goes beyond standard webinar templates.

BigMarker

The platform’s standout feature is its robust support for content monetization. Organizers can leverage BigMarker to create paid media hubs, offering on-demand access to event recordings or even launching subscription channels for ongoing content series. This makes it one of the best virtual event platforms for businesses and creators looking to generate revenue directly from their digital events and build a lasting community around their content.

Platform Breakdown

Best For Media companies, associations, content creators, large-scale conferences
Key Features Customizable virtual venues, robust monetization tools, AI-powered networking, advanced sponsor activation
Pricing Multiple subscription tiers; full virtual event packages and large-scale licenses require a sales quote
Website https://get.bigmarker.com/pricing

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8. vFairs

vFairs specializes in creating immersive and visually rich virtual environments for large-scale events like job fairs, trade shows, and global conferences. Its platform excels at replicating the physical event experience with customizable 3D venues, including interactive lobbies, exhibitor halls, and auditoriums. This high level of customization allows organizers to build a unique and branded world for their attendees, setting it apart from more template-driven virtual event platforms.

vFairs

The platform is known for its white-glove service, providing dedicated project managers to assist with event setup and execution. Features like AI-powered matchmaking connect attendees with relevant exhibitors, while robust exhibitor management tools and multi-language support make it ideal for international events. vFairs also offers a suite of onsite tools for hybrid events, including check-in apps and badge printing, providing a unified solution for both virtual and in-person components.

Platform Breakdown

Best For Large enterprises, universities, and organizations hosting career fairs or trade shows
Key Features Custom 3D virtual venues, AI matchmaking, exhibitor management, hybrid event tools
Pricing Custom quote-based; per-event and annual licenses available
Website https://www.vfairs.com/pricing/

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9. Cvent Attendee Hub

Cvent’s Attendee Hub is the virtual and hybrid component of its comprehensive event management ecosystem. Rather than a standalone tool, it integrates deeply with Cvent’s established registration, marketing, and analytics products, making it a powerhouse for organizations already invested in their platform. This all-in-one approach streamlines the entire event lifecycle from initial promotion and ticketing to post-event engagement and reporting, providing a unified experience for both planners and attendees.

Cvent Attendee Hub

The platform excels at managing complex, multi-session virtual conferences and trade shows that require robust functionality. Features like tiered ticketing, detailed exhibitor and sponsor activation tools, and a powerful mobile event app ensure a professional and engaging experience. For large-scale events, Cvent's clear policies for video streaming and conferencing overages provide predictable cost management, a critical factor for enterprise-level planning. This makes it one of the best virtual event platforms for organizations seeking an end-to-end solution.

Platform Breakdown

Best For Enterprise organizations, event management agencies, existing Cvent users
Key Features Full integration with Cvent’s event stack, advanced ticketing, sponsor activation, mobile app
Pricing Primarily custom quotes; models vary by contract and event size
Website https://www.cvent.com/

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10. ON24

ON24 is an enterprise-grade platform that transforms virtual events into powerful data generation and content marketing engines. It moves beyond simple broadcasting to focus on audience engagement and first-party intent data, making it a favorite among marketing and sales teams. The platform is designed to capture deep analytics on user behavior, providing sales teams with valuable insights into lead quality and buying signals.

The platform’s strength lies in its ability to manage the entire content lifecycle. Using its AI engine, ON24 can automatically generate key takeaways, video clips, and even blog posts from a single webinar, maximizing the value of each event. This focus on content repurposing and deep integration with marketing automation platforms (MAPs) and CRMs solidifies its position as one of the best virtual event platforms for demand generation.

Platform Breakdown

Best For Enterprise marketing teams, demand generation, sales enablement
Key Features 20+ interactivity tools, AI content repurposing, deep MAP/CRM integrations
Pricing Subscription-based, requires a sales quote for specific pricing
Website https://www.on24.com/pricing/

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11. Adobe Connect

Adobe Connect provides a secure and highly customizable virtual environment ideal for regulated industries like government, education, and enterprise training. Its standout feature is persistent rooms, which allow hosts to set up a layout with specific "pods" for polls, Q&A, and content sharing once, and then reuse that exact room for future sessions without reconfiguration. This level of control makes it one of the best virtual event platforms for structured, repeatable events where compliance and consistency are paramount.

Adobe Connect

The platform gives hosts granular control over every aspect of the virtual room, from participant permissions to the on-screen layout, ensuring a secure and focused experience. While its interface can feel more traditional compared to newer, more streamlined tools, its robust feature set and security posture are unmatched for organizations that prioritize control and compliance. The licensing model is also flexible, with options for individual hosts, shared rooms, and pay-per-use events, along with add-ons for expanded capacity up to 1,500 attendees.

Platform Breakdown

Best For Government agencies, corporate training, higher education, regulated industries
Key Features Persistent rooms with reusable layouts, granular host controls, custom pods, compliance options
Pricing Individual, shared room, and shared event licensing available; capacity upgrades are add-ons
Website https://www.adobe.com/products/adobeconnect/pricing.html

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12. G2 — Virtual Event Platforms (comparison/marketplace)

Instead of being a platform itself, G2 is a peer-to-peer review site and software marketplace that provides an invaluable meta-view of the virtual event landscape. It aggregates real user reviews, feature data, and satisfaction scores to help you compare the best virtual event platforms side-by-side. This makes it an essential first stop for creating a shortlist based on verified feedback from professionals in similar industries or company sizes.

G2's live grids and leader badges offer a dynamic way to see which platforms are gaining momentum and which are most highly rated by their actual users. You can filter solutions based on specific needs, such as webinar functionality, attendee engagement tools, or ticketing systems, helping you cut through marketing noise. While you can't host an event on G2, its detailed comparisons and direct links to vendor sites streamline the research and procurement process, saving significant time and reducing the risk of choosing the wrong tool.

Platform Breakdown

Best For Buyers in the research phase, teams creating a vendor shortlist
Key Features Verified user reviews, live comparison grids, category definitions, vendor shortlisting
Pricing Free to use for software buyers
Website https://www.g2.com/categories/virtual-event-platforms

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Top 12 Virtual Event Platforms — Side-by-Side Comparison

Product Core features Security & Compliance Target audience & use case Pricing & value
AONMeetings (Recommended) Browser-first HD meetings; unlimited webinars; recording; AI transcripts; whiteboard; polling; virtual backgrounds; RTMP & multi-camera on higher plans HIPAA-compliant; end-to-end encryption; granular access controls Healthcare, legal, education, corporate; SMBs & nonprofits; meetings, webinars, large streams Starts $3.99/user/mo (up to 25); Pro & Business Pro tiers; unlimited webinars; no hidden fees
Zoom Events and Webinars Multi-session events; expo/sponsor areas; simulive; backstage; ticketing & analytics Standard Zoom enterprise security; integrations available Broad SMB to enterprise events; recurring & one-off programs Flexible: subscription, pay-per-attendee, credits; high-capacity tiers sales-led
RingCentral Events (formerly Hopin) Stage/sessions; networking; exhibitor halls; ticketing; AI tools; 40+ integrations Enterprise governance; integrations & APIs Virtual/hybrid events needing mature venue model; enterprises Sales-led pricing; bundle details vary
Webex Webinars & Webex Events Webinars up to 100k+ (webcast); captions & translation; Slido; CRM integrations Enterprise-grade security, compliance & reliability Large-scale enterprise webinars & hybrid programs Enterprise-focused; some options sales-led
Airmeet Social Lounge & speed networking; unlimited sessions; gamification; analytics Standard enterprise options; add-ons for advanced support Networking-heavy events, event-led growth, episodic events Attendee-based pricing; Flex pay-as-you-go option
Bizzabo Event Experience OS Registration, website builder, mobile app; analytics; onsite wearables (Klik) Enterprise-grade services & 24/7 support on many tiers Full event portfolios (virtual + onsite); event teams Annual plans; aimed at larger/committed customers
BigMarker Custom virtual venues; ticketing & interactive streaming; content monetization; AI networking Scales to very large audiences; enterprise options Conferences, summits, creators monetizing content Many features sales-quote based; limited self-serve price cards
vFairs Custom venues (lobby/expo/auditorium); exhibitor management; AI matchmaking; multilingual White-glove services & enterprise project support Job fairs, expos, complex enterprise events Custom pricing; quote-based (no free plan)
Cvent Attendee Hub Multi-session experiences; mobile app; sponsor activation; streaming & analytics Enterprise event stack integration; clear overage policies Organizations using Cvent for event management; large events Pricing via custom quote; per-event/per-registrant models vary
ON24 Live/simulive/on-demand; 20+ interactivity tools; AI content repurposing; deep analytics Enterprise security & integrations for MAP/CRM Marketing & sales teams focused on demand gen & engagement Sales-led pricing; aimed at mid-market/enterprise budgets
Adobe Connect Persistent rooms; reusable layouts & pods; granular host controls; on-demand courses Strong control & compliance for regulated industries Education, government, regulated training programs Flexible licensing; capacity upgrades and add-ons priced separately
G2 — Virtual Event Platforms Market comparisons; verified user reviews; leader grids & filters; vendor links Marketplace (vendor info varies) Buyers shortlisting vendors; comparing features & peer sentiment Free to browse; pricing snippets vary and often link to vendors

Making Your Final Decision and Launching with Confidence

Navigating the landscape of the best virtual event platforms can feel like a monumental task. From enterprise-grade powerhouses like Cvent and Bizzabo to specialized, engagement-focused tools like Airmeet and RingCentral Events, the options are vast and varied. This guide has dissected the strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases for the industry's top contenders, providing a clear path from initial research to confident implementation.

The key takeaway is that the "best" platform is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is the one that aligns perfectly with your organization's unique goals, technical requirements, audience expectations, and budget constraints. Your final choice hinges on a strategic evaluation of these core factors.

From Shortlist to Selection: A Practical Framework

You have reviewed the feature matrices, pricing models, and specific scenarios where each platform shines. Now is the time to translate that knowledge into a final, decisive action. Use the buyer's checklist from earlier in this article as your guide and ask these critical questions one last time:

Beyond the Platform: Preparing for a Successful Launch

Choosing the right technology is only half the battle. Your event's success depends equally on your strategy for promotion, engagement, and post-event follow-up. A powerful platform in a vacuum will not guarantee attendance or impact.

As you move towards launching your chosen virtual event platform, remember that a strong promotional strategy is key. This includes mastering event marketing on social media to ensure broad reach and engagement before, during, and after your event. Plan your content calendar, leverage speaker networks, and create compelling visuals to build excitement.

Ultimately, the goal is to create an experience, not just a broadcast. Whether you choose the all-in-one event OS of Bizzabo, the content-centric approach of ON24, or the secure simplicity of a browser-based tool, your commitment to delivering value will be the true measure of your success. You are now equipped with the insights and tools to select the best virtual event platform for your needs and to launch an online experience that captivates your audience and achieves your business objectives.


Ready to deliver secure, accessible, and professional virtual events without the complexity? AONMeetings offers a powerful, browser-based platform with HIPAA compliance, unlimited webinars, and AI-powered transcripts, all for a predictable, flat-rate price. Discover how AONMeetings can simplify your virtual event strategy and book a demo today.

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