Online events platforms

Selecting the appropriate live streaming platform is crucial for the success of any virtual event, directly impacting technical execution, participant engagement, and content delivery. However, the decision is often constrained by factors beyond choosing the most feature-rich option; organisations must consider internal IT policies, data security, regulatory compliance, and budget.

The ideal platform balances these operational restrictions with the event’s specific needs, ensuring a seamless experience that aligns with organisational objectives.

Zoom

Known for its video conferencing capabilities, Zoom also offers a webinar feature which can be used for live streaming. It’s popular due to its ease of use, reliability, and built-in features like screen sharing, live chat, and recording.

Microsoft Teams

Teams provide live events as part of its suite, integrating seamlessly with other Microsoft products. It’s suitable for internal communications, meetings, and training sessions, offering features like Q&A, detailed analytics, and attendee engagement resources.

YouTube Live

This platform is widely accessible and supports high-quality live streaming. It’s ideal for companies looking to reach a larger public audience, offering features like live chat, super chat, and extensive audience analytics.

Facebook Live

Best for businesses looking to leverage their social media presence, Facebook Live offers interactive features like reactions, comments, and live discussions. It’s great for informal chats, Q&As, and more casual live stream events.

LinkedIn Live

This is particularly effective for B2B companies, thought leadership events, or professional branding, allowing live streaming directly to your company’s LinkedIn page or personal profile.

Webex

Cisco’s Webex offers robust video conferencing and webinar solutions, known for its security and scalability, making it suitable for large-scale corporate events or confidential business meetings.

Vimeo Live

Vimeo provides high-quality live streaming services, including features like no viewer limits, 4K streaming, direct streaming to social media, analytics, and post-production capabilities. It’s ad-free, ensuring a professional viewer experience.

Twitch

Although primarily known for gaming, Twitch can be used for creative content or tech companies looking to engage communities in a more informal and interactive way.

Kaltura

Designed for high-scale live events, Kaltura is known for its advanced security, analytics, and customisation options, ideal for large enterprises or educational institutions.

ON24

Specifically built for webinars and virtual events, ON24 focuses on driving deep engagement and generating actionable insights, suitable for marketing events, virtual conferences, and training.

Crowdcast

Crowdcast is designed for interactive webinars, workshops, Q&As, and live courses, offering features like easy setup, HD streaming, real-time analytics, and unique participant engagement tools (polls, chat, Q&A, etc.). It’s known for its user-friendly interface and robust analytics.

Hopin

Hopin provides a virtual venue for live online events, offering features that aim to recreate the in-person event experience, including receptions, stages, networking areas, and vendor booths.

Each of these platforms offers unique benefits, so the right choice will depend on your company’s specific needs for the live stream event. Factors to consider include the level of audience interaction you desire, the size of the audience, the need for integration with other business tools, budget constraints, and the technical expertise available within your team.