Top 5 Affordable Event Ticketing Software Options for 2023

Choosing the right event ticketing software can make or break your event. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one will best suit your needs and budget. To help you out, we've compiled a list of the top 5 affordable event ticketing software options for 2023. These platforms offer a range of features to streamline your ticketing process, enhance the attendee experience, and ensure your event's success without breaking the bank.

Key Takeaways

• Eventbrite is a versatile platform suitable for various event types but may have higher fees.

• Ticketbud offers a user-friendly interface and competitive pricing, making it a strong alternative to Eventbrite.

• Eventcube provides comprehensive tools for event management and ticket sales, ideal for organizers seeking customization.

• Ticket Tailor stands out for its straightforward pricing model and ease of use, especially for smaller events.

• Brown Paper Tickets is known for its low fees and excellent customer service, making it a budget-friendly choice.

1. Eventbrite

Eventbrite is a popular event management and ticketing platform that provides a comprehensive set of tools for event organizers to plan, promote, and sell event tickets for various types of events such as tradeshows, fairs, conferences, music festivals, and virtual conferences. Eventbrite is an outstanding platform for event planning and ticketing. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to create events in a matter of seconds.

Event Ticketing

Eventbrite provides a user-friendly event ticketing and registration system that allows event organizers to create various ticket types, set pricing, and manage sales.

Event Promotion

Eventbrite offers built-in tools for event promotion, including customizable event pages, social media integration, and email marketing capabilities.

Attendee Management

Eventbrite includes features for managing attendees, such as tracking attendance, checking in guests, and communicating with participants.

Analytics

Eventbrite provides robust analytics tools that help organizers track ticket sales, monitor event performance, and gain insights into attendee behavior.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• User-friendly interface

• Comprehensive set of tools

• Ideal for events and businesses of all sizes

Cons:

• Some users find it a bit too complex to use

Pricing

Eventbrite offers a variety of pricing plans to suit different needs, including a free tier for basic events and paid plans with additional features.

2. Ticketbud

Ticketbud is a user-friendly online ticketing solution designed to simplify your ticketing process, accelerate your sales, and ensure you receive payments swiftly. The platform not only streamlines ticketing but also equips you with a suite of promotional tools to target the right audience effectively.

Key Features

• Seamless Facebook integration

• Custom URLs for different marketing campaigns

• Flexible payment terms

• White-label options

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Customization

• Powerful cash-flow reports

• Low flat-rate fees

Cons:

• Lack of standout features

• Skimpy attendee registration data

Pricing

Ticketbud offers an all-inclusive flat-rate pricing model. Their ticketing fee is 2.0% plus $0.99 per ticket, along with a payment processor fee of 2.9%. You can choose to pass on these fees or absorb them. For example, if you sell 100 tickets priced at $15 each, the customer would pay $16.73 and you make $1500. If you choose to absorb the fees, you would $1336. Ticketbud provides daily payouts and supports non-profits with reduced rates.

3. Eventcube

Eventcube is a reliable white-label ticketing platform that empowers event organizers to sell tickets fast and at a fair price. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in London, UK, Eventcube is designed to tailor the ticketing experience to the unique requirements of your event. Event organizers can create a free account and start selling tickets in just minutes. This rapid setup is ideal for those who need to act swiftly and efficiently.

Key Features

• Complete white-label options for branding

• Flexible payment options

• Group discounts

• Reserved seating

• Upsells

Sold Out Marketplace

What really makes Eventcube stand out is its Sold Out Marketplace. This innovative feature allows event organizers to continue generating revenue even after their events have reached full capacity, enabling you to maximize the profitability of an event.

Promotional Tools

Beyond its user-friendly ticket-selling features, Eventcube offers a range of promotional tools to maximize the event's reach and profitability. Organizers can leverage deposit schemes, secret links, group offers, and social discounts, aligning the ticketing strategy with their brand and marketing vision.

4. Ticket Tailor

Overview

Ticket Tailor, founded in 2010 and headquartered in London, United Kingdom, is a versatile event ticketing software trusted by event professionals across multiple industries. It offers an exhaustive list of features for any ticketing use case imaginable.

Key Features

• Password-protected tickets

• Recurring events

• Custom URLs for better name recall

• Unlimited ticket types

• Event categories

• Private and public listings

• Integrations with third-party systems such as Google Analytics and MailChimp

User Ratings

Affordability

Ticket Tailor eliminates the need for any ticketing fees, making it a very affordable option for event organizers. This feature alone sets it apart from many competitors.

5. Brown Paper Tickets

Overview

Brown Paper Tickets is a versatile and affordable event ticketing software that caters to a wide range of events. It provides a free platform service with advanced features, making it an attractive option for event organizers on a budget.

Key Features

• Offers different ticket types for its clients.

• Discounts for multiple ticket purchases and pre-sale tickets.

• Option to skip service fees.

• Opportunities for attendees to get more involved in their events.

Pricing

Brown Paper Tickets charges each ticket $0.25 in box office fees, and online tickets range from $1 to $1.50.

User Experience

In the summer of 2023, I used Brown Paper Tickets to sell tickets for a summer musical. We closed on August 3, 2023, and still have not received any funds. This highlights some potential issues with the platform's payment processing.

Conclusion

Choosing the right event ticketing software is crucial for the success of your event. The top 5 affordable options for 2023, as discussed in this article, offer a range of features and pricing models to suit various needs. Whether you prioritize ease of use, low fees, or comprehensive support, there is a solution out there for you. By carefully considering your specific requirements and testing out different platforms, you can find the perfect ticketing partner to enhance your event experience. Remember, the right software can streamline your ticket sales, improve attendee satisfaction, and ultimately contribute to the overall success of your event.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Event Ticketing Software?

Event ticketing software is a tool that allows event organizers to sell tickets online, manage registrations, and track attendance. It often includes features like email invitations, RSVP tracking, and payment processing.

What are the benefits of using an event ticketing system?

Using an event ticketing system can streamline the ticket sales process, improve attendee management, and provide valuable insights through analytics. It also enhances the overall attendee experience by making the ticket purchasing process easier and more efficient.

How do I choose the right event ticketing software for my event?

When choosing event ticketing software, consider factors such as pricing, ease of use, customer support, and the specific features you need for your event. It's also helpful to read reviews and request demos to get a better understanding of each platform.

Which ticket site has the lowest seller fees?

Seller fees can vary widely between different ticketing platforms. It's important to compare the fee structures of various options to determine which one offers the lowest fees for your specific needs.

Is Eventbrite expensive?

Eventbrite is known for its versatility and wide range of features, but some users find its fees to be on the higher side. If cost is a concern, there are several alternative ticketing platforms that may offer more affordable pricing.

Can I test event ticketing software before making a decision?

Yes, many event ticketing software providers offer free trials or demos. This allows you to test the platform's features and usability before committing to a purchase.