10 Best Virtual Event Engagement Software Platforms

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, event organizers faced unprecedented challenges with cancellations and postponements. Uncertain timelines prompted professionals to pivot toward virtual events. The shift required platforms addressing critical needs: live broadcasting capability, recorded session playback, attendee connectivity, gamification engagement, and sponsor lead generation.

Key Virtual Event Priorities

Organizations implementing online events focused on essential capabilities:

• Real-time session streaming with recording functionality
• One-to-one chat and video call capabilities across web and mobile
• Gamification features enabling attendee interaction and reward systems
• Sponsor showcasing with lead capture tools
• Integration with existing event management infrastructure

These requirements shaped the selection criteria for virtual event platforms as organizations rapidly transitioned to digital-first experiences.

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Video Conferencing and Webinar Tools

1. Zoom

A cloud-based platform featuring HD video and audio supporting up to 1,000 participants. Zoom has become synonymous with virtual meetings and events, offering:

Notable capabilities:

• Recording transcripts for future reference
• Built-in collaboration tools including screen sharing
• Calendar integration with Google Calendar, Outlook, and iCal
• Chat functionality for participant communication
• Breakout rooms for smaller group discussions
• Virtual backgrounds and filters
• Waiting room features for security

Zoom's reliability and ease of use made it the go-to solution for organizations transitioning to virtual events during the pandemic.

2. Google Hangouts

Google's video communication service offers instant messaging, voice calls, and group conferencing. Particularly suited for team meetings, it provides:

Key features:

• Built-in screen sharing for presentations
• Auto-screen focus to highlight active speakers
• HD video experience for clear communication
• Seamless integration with Google Workspace
• Simple join process without downloads
• Up to 250 participants in Google Workspace plans

The platform's integration with Gmail and Google Calendar makes it especially convenient for organizations already using Google's ecosystem.

3. Cisco Webex

Known for exceptional reliability, Webex offers enterprise-grade video conferencing with:

Notable capabilities:

• Automatic background noise filtering for professional audio quality
• File sharing during meetings
• Extensive participant controls for hosts
• Business application integration without complex participant codes
• End-to-end encryption for security
• AI-powered features like real-time transcription
• Support for up to 100,000 attendees in webinar mode

Webex has been a trusted solution for enterprise events and meetings for decades, offering robust security and reliability.

4. Vimeo

While primarily known as a video hosting platform, Vimeo provides powerful livestreaming capabilities:

Features include:

• 1080p livestream video quality
• Collaboration and engagement tools
• Live and uploaded video capabilities for hybrid events
• Professional broadcasting tools
• Customizable video players
• Analytics and engagement metrics
• Monetization options for paid events

Vimeo excels at delivering high-quality, branded video experiences for professional events.

5. RingCentral

A cloud-based unified communications platform that brings together video conferencing, mobility, and online meetings:

Key offerings:

• HD conferencing with up to 200 participants
• Straightforward collaboration features
• Screen sharing and annotation
• Meeting recording and transcription
• Integration with popular calendar apps
• Mobile apps for iOS and Android

RingCentral provides a complete communication solution suitable for both internal meetings and customer-facing events.

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Virtual Immersive Event Tools

These platforms go beyond simple video conferencing to create complete virtual event experiences:

6. VFairs

VFairs enables comprehensive online events connecting organizers with target audiences through complete virtual experiences, including:

• 3D virtual venues and exhibition halls
• Customizable booths for exhibitors
• Networking lounges and chat rooms
• Presentation halls with live and pre-recorded content
• Lead capture and analytics
• Gamification and engagement features

VFairs creates immersive environments that replicate the feel of physical events in the digital space.

7. Ubievent

A versatile platform facilitating various virtual event formats:

• Virtual trade fairs with exhibitor booths
• Webinars and webcasts
• Career fairs with recruitment features
• Customer events and product launches
• Corporate conferences and summits
• Kick-off meetings and team gatherings
• Training academies and educational programs

Ubievent offers flexible tools to support diverse event types and objectives.

8. Hexafairs

Supporting a wide range of virtual formats, Hexafairs enables:

• Virtual trade fairs and exhibitions
• Property showcases and real estate events
• Industry summits and conferences
• Networking events and meet-ups
• Job fairs and career expositions
• Education fairs for institutions
• Corporate events and annual meetings
• Business training and workshops

The platform provides customizable virtual spaces that adapt to different industry needs.

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Audience Engagement Tools

These specialized tools enhance interaction during virtual events:

9. Sli.do

A dedicated Q&A and polling platform that connects speakers with attendees through interactive conference features:

Capabilities:

• Live Q&A with question upvoting
• Real-time polls and surveys
• Word clouds for brainstorming
• Quizzes for education and engagement
• Analytics on participation and sentiment
• Integration with presentation tools

Sli.do is particularly effective for keeping virtual audiences engaged during presentations and panel discussions.

10. Poll Everywhere

Provides live audience interaction tools functioning on phones and laptops, offering:

Features include:

• Real-time response visualization
• Multiple question types (multiple choice, word clouds, open-ended)
• Works during presentations, meetings, training sessions, and classes
• No app download required for participants
• PowerPoint and Google Slides integration
• Moderation tools for managing responses
• Competition modes for gamification

Poll Everywhere transforms passive viewing into active participation, essential for maintaining engagement in virtual settings.

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Comprehensive Hybrid Events Platform

11. webMOBI Virtual Engagement

A comprehensive mobile event management platform automating the entire event lifecycle. webMOBI stands out with:

Complete feature set:

• Website integration with livestream capabilities
• Branded native mobile apps for iOS and Android
• Pre- and post-event surveys for feedback collection
• Push notifications for real-time attendee updates
• Live interactive polling during sessions
• Social media integration for amplified reach
• Mobile streaming for on-the-go access
• Complete organizational branding customization
• Gamification with leaderboards and badges
• Networking tools for attendee connections
• Analytics dashboard for comprehensive insights

webMOBI provides an all-in-one solution that supports the full spectrum of virtual, hybrid, and in-person events with AI-powered features that enhance attendee engagement and organizer efficiency.

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Choosing the Right Platform

Selecting virtual event platforms requires balancing several key factors:

Audio and Video Quality

High-definition streaming is non-negotiable for professional virtual events. Look for platforms that support:

• At least 1080p video resolution
• Clear audio with noise cancellation
• Reliable streaming even with large audiences
• Adaptive bitrate streaming for varying connection speeds

Attendee Engagement Options

The best platforms provide multiple ways to keep audiences engaged:

• Interactive polls and surveys
• Live Q&A with moderation
• Chat and networking features
• Gamification elements
• Breakout rooms for smaller discussions

Integration Capabilities

Your virtual event platform should integrate seamlessly with:

• Registration and ticketing systems
• CRM platforms for lead management
• Marketing automation tools
• Analytics platforms
• Calendar applications

Scalability

Choose platforms that can grow with your needs:

• Support for your expected attendance
• Ability to scale for larger future events
• Flexible pricing based on usage
• Features that expand with higher tiers

Conclusion

The shift to virtual events accelerated dramatically during the pandemic, and many of these changes are here to stay. Combining specialized event tools with comprehensive event management software enables hybrid experiences that reach audiences across digital and physical spaces.

Whether you need simple video conferencing for small meetings or immersive virtual environments for large-scale conferences, there's a platform suited to your needs. The key is identifying your specific requirements around audience size, engagement features, branding, and budget—then selecting the tools that best address those priorities.

For organizations looking for a complete solution that bridges virtual and in-person events, platforms like webMOBI offer the comprehensive features needed to deliver professional, engaging experiences regardless of how attendees choose to participate.

--- Ready to elevate your virtual and hybrid events? Explore webMOBI's virtual engagement platform to see how AI-powered features can transform your event experiences.