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Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.
Webinar software makes it easy and affordable to host webinars for marketing, sales, training events and more. There are many options on the market today, with a wide range of features. To help you find the right solution for your needs and budget, Forbes Advisor researched multiple platforms. Here is the best webinar software in 2023, based on pricing, features, ease of use, customer support and more.
Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Small Business
The Forbes Advisor Small Business team is committed to bringing you unbiased rankings and information with full editorial independence. We use product data, strategic methodologies and expert insights to inform all of our content and guide you in making the best decisions for your business journey.
We reviewed 20 webinar software providers using a detailed approach to help determine the 13 best webinar software for small businesses. Our ratings used numerous factors, such as price range, the ability to share screens, if a provider offers on-demand and live webinars, customer ratings on top-rated review sites and our own expert reviews. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Read more
Show Summary
- The Best Webinar Software of 2023
- Forbes Advisor Ratings
- What Is Webinar Software?
- How To Choose the Best Webinar Software
- Webinar Equipment Setup
- How To Use Webinar Software Effectively
- Methodology
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Next Up In Business
Featured Partners
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1
Ooma Office
Toll-free numbers
Yes
Voicemail transcription
Yes
Pricing from
$19.95 per user, per month
2
Nextiva
Toll-free numbers
Yes
Voicemail transcription
Yes
Pricing from
$21.95 per user, per month
3
RingCentral
Toll-free numbers
Yes
Voicemail transcription
Yes
Pricing from
$19.99 per user, per month
The Best Webinar Software of 2023
- Zoom: Best for enterprise businesses
- ClickMeeting: Best free trial
- GetResponse: Best for customizable URLs
- Zoho Meeting: Best for Zoho users
- BigMarker: Best for simulated live webinars
- Webex: Best for real-time translations
- Livestorm: Best free option
- GoToWebinar: Best for source tracking
- Blue Jeans: Best for automated closed-captioning
- Demio: Best for marketing
- WebinarJam: Best for customer relationship management (CRM) integration
- U Webinar: Best for professional backgrounds
- EverWebinar: Best for evergreen webinars
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best for Enterprise Businesses
Zoom
Read Forbes' Review
Starting Price
Free for up to 100 attendees with a 40-minute time limit
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Why We Picked It
Zoom Webinars is our top pick for best webinar software. It’s a comprehensive solution that can be used for everything from small seminars to large conferences. Zoom is easy to use and comes with a variety of features, including screen sharing, mobile app support and webinar sessions of up to 30 hours each. Hosts can export attendee and registrant lists, integrate them with CRMs and other automation tools, livestream to third-party platforms and white label the webinar.
Learn more: Read our full Zoom review.
Who should use it:
Zoom is best for enterprises and businesses that need a comprehensive webinar solution with a variety of features to host large audiences.
Pros & Cons
- Free forever plan for up to 100 users
- User-friendly
- Features, such as waiting rooms, individual mute functions and private chatting
- Integrates with customer relationship management (CRM)
- Mobile app support
- Free plan has a 40-minute time limit
- Its paid plans are expensive
- No automated webinars
- Unlimited plan is not available
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best Free Trial
ClickMeeting
4.6
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Starting Price
$25 per month for up to 25 attendees
(billed annually)
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Starting Price
$25 per month for up to 25 attendees
(billed annually)
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Why We Picked It
ClickMeeting is a full webinar solution with a variety of features, including unlimited online meetings and webinars, up to eight cameras in webinars, a single host, breakout rooms, virtual backgrounds, high-definition (HD) quality ideal for repurposing later, screen sharing, whiteboard, Q&A, real-time chat translation ideal for international webinars, event landing pages and automated recurring webinars. It comes with a 30-day free trial and paid plans start at $25 per month (billed annually).
Who should use it:
ClickMeeting is best for businesses that want to test-drive a webinar solution with a free trial before committing to a paid plan.
Pros & Cons
- Free 30-day trial for up to 25 attendees
- Unlimited meetings
- Breakout rooms
- Chat moderation
- On-demand webinars
- Auto-publish recordings to YouTube
- Instant chat translation
- Survey feature
- Requires no installation
- Customer service complaints
- Expensive for businesses with large number of attendees
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best for Customizable URLs
GetResponse
4.6
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Starting Price
$41.30 per month for up to 1,000 contacts
(billed every 24 months)
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Starting Price
$41.30 per month for up to 1,000 contacts
(billed every 24 months)
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Why We Picked It
GetResponse is a complete webinar solution that allows you to customize your webinar URL. This is ideal for businesses that want to use their brand name in the webinar URL. GetResponse also offers a variety of features, including built-in marketing tools, such as landing pages and one-click Meta Pixels, automated follow-ups, nurture campaigns, polls, tests, screen sharing, call-to-action (CTA) buttons within the webinar, livestreaming to social media, whiteboards, evergreen webinars and registration templates.
Who should use it:
GetResponse is best for businesses that want to use their brand name in the webinar URL and those that need a complete marketing solution along with their webinar software.
Pros & Cons
- Geared toward businesses hosting online events
- Sell tickets to events
- Contact scoring
- Search engine optimization (SEO)-friendly landing pages
- Sales funnels
- Must contact support to downgrade your plan
- No free plan for webinars
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best for Zoho Users
Zoho Meeting
On Zoho Meeting's Website
Starting Price
Free for up to 100 attendees
( 60-minute time limit)
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Why We Picked It
Zoho Meeting is best for businesses that already use Zoho products as it integrates with the rest of the Zoho suite. Other features include webinar scheduling, recurring webinars, co-organizers and guest speakers, branded registration forms, customized emails, ability to embed a registration form elsewhere, attendee moderation, screen sharing voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP), no downloads required, polls and you can even allow your attendees to speak and ask questions.
Who should use it:
Zoho Meeting is best for businesses that already use Zoho products and those that need attendee moderation.
Pros & Cons
- Free forever plan allows for up to 100 attendees and 60-minute webinars
- Attendee moderation
- Allow attendees to speak
- No download required
- Must pay to record calls
- Need a paid plan for integrations
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best for Simulated Live Webinars
BigMarker
4.5
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Starting Price
Must contact for a quote
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Starting Price
Must contact for a quote
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Why We Picked It
Even the most seasoned professional speakers can get stage fright when speaking to an audience they can’t see or hear. BigMarker’s simulated live webinars feature allows you to give your presentation as if it’s live, but without the pressure of an actual audience. Record your presentation in advance and schedule it to play at a later date and time. Then, join the webinar at the appointed time and watch as your recording plays live to the audience.
Who should use it:
BigMarker is best for businesses and solopreneurs that want to give a live presentation without the pressure of an actual audience.
Pros & Cons
- Designed for hosting webinars and online events
- Host up to 500,000 attendees
- Landing page templates
- Integrates with CRM and marketing software
- Lacks pricing transparency
- Automated and evergreen webinars not available with its base plan
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best for Real-Time Translations
Webex
4.4
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Starting Price
Free for up to 100 attendees with a 40-minute time limit
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Starting Price
Free for up to 100 attendees with a 40-minute time limit
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Why We Picked It
With real-time translations to more than 100 languages, Webex is ideal for businesses with international teams or audiences. Choose your desired language when scheduling your webinar and Webex will provide live translations for all attendees. Other features include live polling, chat, breakout sessions, integrations, custom branding, themes, up to 100,000 attendees and moderated Q&A.
Who should use it:
Webex is best for businesses with international teams or audiences.
Pros & Cons
- Free plan available for up to 100 attendees
- Translates live webinar to more than 100 languages
- Host up to 100,000 attendees
- Live polling
- 40-minute time limit on free plan
- Real-time translation costs extra
- Must contact sales to get started
- No download required, but it doesn’t make the web version evident
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best Free Option
Livestorm
4.3
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Starting Price
Free for up 30 attendees with a 20-minute time limit
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
No
Starting Price
Free for up 30 attendees with a 20-minute time limit
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
No
Why We Picked It
If you’re hosting short webinars (up to 20 minutes) for small teams (up to 30 attendees), you might appreciate Livestorm’s free plan. It requires no software or credit card to use. You can have up to 25 simultaneous speakers and it integrates with Zapier, has an application programming interface (API), offers email support, gives analytics and allows for Q&A.
Who should use it:
Livestorm is best for businesses that are hosting short webinars (up to 20 minutes) for small teams (up to 30 attendees).
Pros & Cons
- Has an API
- Audience analytics
- Up to 25 simultaneous speakers
- Free plan only has email support
- Webinar duration must be 20 minutes or less for its free plan
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best for Source Tracking
GoTo Webinar
4.2
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Starting Price
$49 per month for up to 250 participants
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Starting Price
$49 per month for up to 250 participants
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Why We Picked It
Knowing exactly which channels brought you the most webinar registrations allows you to better focus your marketing efforts. With GoTo Webinar, you can track where your registrants come from with source tracking. Other features include event analytics, attendee reports, integrations, pre-recorded events, live streaming, GoToStage event promotion, access to a professional event producer, webinar series, templates and branding.
Who should use it:
GoTo Webinar is best for businesses that want to track where their registrants come from.
Pros & Cons
- Livestreaming option available
- Source tracking
- Access to a professional event producer
- Free trial is only seven days and only with its Pro plan
- Paid webinars not available on Lite plan
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best for Automated Closed-Captioning
BlueJeans
4.1
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Starting Price
$9.99 per month per host
(billed annually)
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Starting Price
$9.99 per month per host
(billed annually)
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Why We Picked It
BlueJeans offers automated closed-captioning for your webinars, so you can ensure that all of your attendees can understand and follow along with your presentation. Other features include livestreaming to Facebook, attendee reporting, intermissions, pausing broadcast, presenter prep room, attendee waiting area, Q&A with up-voting, live polling, chat and raise hand.
Who should use it:
BlueJeans is best for businesses that want closed-captioning.
Pros & Cons
- Backed by Verizon
- No download required
- Base plan includes automated closed-captioning
- Webinar duration max is two hours for its base plan
- You can’t upgrade or downgrade your account without canceling and repurchasing
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best for Marketing
Demio
4.0
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Starting Price
$25 or $34 per month, per host
(billed annually)
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
No
Starting Price
$25 or $34 per month, per host
(billed annually)
Screen Sharing
Yes
Mobile App
No
Why We Picked It
Demio was designed with marketing in mind. It offers features, such as live chat, polls, CTAs, event analytics, app integrations, customizable domains, registration embedding, source tracking, up to ten hours per session, email branding and automated events. Its base plan allows for up to 50 attendees, a single host and a three-hour session limit.
Who should use it:
Demio is best for businesses that want to use webinars for marketing purposes.
Pros & Cons
- 14-day free trial
- Up to six people simultaneously on stage
- 24/7 email and chat support
- No free plan
- Max room size is 3,000 attendees
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best for CRM Integration
WebinarJam
3.7
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Starting price
$39 per month
(billed annually)
Screen sharing
Yes
Mobile app
No
Starting price
$39 per month
(billed annually)
Screen sharing
Yes
Mobile app
No
Why We Picked It
WebinarJam is a powerful tool for hosting webinars as it provides real-time performance stats and allows for team member collaboration. It also has features, such as the ability to share your computer screen, webcam or run a slideshow presentation, and has the ability to automatically ban inappropriate words. Additionally, it can be fully translated into multiple languages, making it a great option for hosting webinars for a global audience.
Who should use it:
WebinarJam is best for businesses that need to integrate their CRM system with a webinar hosting platform.
Pros & Cons
- Attendees and presenters don’t have to download anything
- Can charge a fee to attendees via credit card or PayPal
- Integrates with your CRM
- Real-time performance stats
- No option for monthly payments
- To cancel, you must submit a ticket with lots of information, such as product, order number and your full name and email address
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best for Professional Backgrounds
U Webinar
3.6
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Starting price
Free for up to 25 attendees
(30-minute time limit)
Screen sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Starting price
Free for up to 25 attendees
(30-minute time limit)
Screen sharing
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Why We Picked It
U Webinar is a live broadcast solution for companies and educational organizations that offers a variety of features to enhance the online webinar experience. It has a user-friendly interface and is compatible with a range of devices and browsers, allowing attendees to join from anywhere. You can create a catalog of online content for your audience to access anytime. It has features, such as an online roll call and panel discussion mode and the option to create and edit pre-recorded presentations.
U Webinar also integrates with PerfectCam, which allows for private video calls with professional looks through the use of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered background blur technology and optimized lighting and touch-up tools.
Who should use it:
U Webinar is ideal for professionals, educators and students who need a reliable online meeting solution with the ability to blur backgrounds.
Pros & Cons
- Paid plans include PerfectCam virtual makeup plugin
- Free for up to 25 participants (30 minutes)
- Has a PowerPoint-like interface
- Analytics only available with its Enterprise plan
- Maximum eight hours per live event
FEATURED PARTNER OFFER
Best for Evergreen Webinars
EverWebinar
3.0
Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Starting price
$499 per year
Screen sharing
No
Mobile App
No
Starting price
$499 per year
Screen sharing
No
Mobile App
No
Why We Picked It
EverWebinar is built specifically for evergreen webinars and works in conjunction with WebinarJam. It has a browser-based solution that does not require downloads and allows for the seamless import of previous live webinars right from WebinarJam. Additionally, EverWebinar has live chat and survey features to engage with attendees and allows for split testing to maximize conversions. You can even display active offers and integrate with email marketing platforms.
Who should use it:
EverWebinar is best for businesses and entrepreneurs who are looking to create evergreen webinars. And if you’re already using WebinarJam, its seamless integration is ideal.
Pros & Cons
- Live chat simulator
- Split test for better conversion
- Can display an offer right on the screen for attendees to buy
- Only bills annually and biennially
- It’s expensive
Forbes Advisor Ratings
Company | Company - Logo | Forbes Advisor Rating | Forbes Advisor Rating | Starting Price | Screen Sharing | Mobile App | Learn More CTA text | Learn more CTA below text | LEARN MORE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Zoom | ![]() | 4.7 | ![]() | Free for up to 100 attendees with a 40-minute time limit | Yes | Yes | Learn More | Read Forbes' Review | |
ClickMeeting | ![]() | 4.6 | ![]() | $25 per month for up to 25 attendees (billed annually) | Yes | Yes | View More | ||
GetResponse | ![]() | 4.6 | ![]() | $41.30 per month for up to 1,000 contacts (billed every 24 months) | Yes | Yes | View More | ||
Zoho Meeting | ![]() | 4.5 | ![]() | Free for up to 100 attendees ( 60-minute time limit) | Yes | Yes | Learn More | On Zoho Meeting's Website | |
BigMarker | ![]() | 4.5 | ![]() | Must contact for a quote | Yes | Yes | View More | ||
Webex | ![]() | 4.4 | ![]() | Free for up to 100 attendees with a 40-minute time limit | Yes | Yes | View More | ||
Livestorm | ![]() | 4.3 | ![]() | Free for up 30 attendees with a 20-minute time limit | Yes | No | View More | ||
GoTo Webinar | ![]() | 4.2 | ![]() | $49 per month for up to 250 participants | Yes | Yes | View More | ||
BlueJeans | ![]() | 4.1 | ![]() | $9.99 per month per host (billed annually) | Yes | Yes | View More | ||
Demio | ![]() | 4.0 | ![]() | $25 or $34 per month, per host (billed annually) | Yes | No | View More | ||
WebinarJam | ![]() | 3.7 | ![]() | $39 per month (billed annually) | Yes | No | View More | ||
U Webinar | ![]() | 3.6 | ![]() | Free for up to 25 attendees (30-minute time limit) | Yes | Yes | View More | ||
EverWebinar | ![]() | 3.0 | ![]() | $499 per year | No | No | View More |
What Is Webinar Software?
Webinar software is a type of online platform that allows users to host and attend virtual events and meetings, typically in the form of a webinar or web conference. These platforms offer a range of features, such as video and audio broadcasting, screen sharing and interactive elements, such as chat and surveys to facilitate online communication and engagement. Businesses, educational institutions and other organizations often use webinar software to host presentations, training and other events online.
Webinar Software Uses
- Delivering presentations to a remote audience: Webinars can be used to present information to a large group of people in a virtual setting.
- Generating leads: Webinars can be used to generate leads by offering valuable content and providing opportunities for attendees to opt in to receive further information or follow-up.
- Offering customer support: Webinars can be used to provide customer support and assist customers in using a product or service.
- Demonstrating products: Webinars can be used to demonstrate a product or service to potential customers.
- Providing remote training: Webinars can help train employees remotely, eliminating the need for in-person training sessions.
- Hosting virtual events: Webinars can be used to host events, such as conferences or trade shows online, allowing attendees to participate from anywhere.
- Facilitating networking: Webinars can be used to facilitate networking and relationship building among attendees.
Benefits of Webinar Software
- Increased audience reach: Webinar software allows for a wider audience reach by hosting events and meetings online.
- Cost and time savings: In-person meetings and travel can be eliminated with webinars, saving time and money.
- Improved engagement: Interactive elements, such as chat and surveys, can enhance engagement and participation among attendees.
- Greater convenience: Attendees can join from any location, making webinars a convenient option.
- Enhanced accessibility: Webinars can be accessed via a range of devices, increasing accessibility.
- Increased sales: Webinars can be used to generate leads and close sales through valuable content and product or service offerings.
- Improved customer satisfaction: Providing customer support and assistance through webinars can improve customer satisfaction.
- Enhanced professionalism: Webinars can help users project a professional image and establish credibility by demonstrating expertise and offering high-quality content.
Who Needs Webinar Software?
- Businesses: Webinars can be used by businesses to host presentations, training and other events.
- Educational institutions: These organizations can use webinars to host lectures, workshops and other events, as well as provide remote learning opportunities.
- Consultants and coaches: These professionals can use webinars to deliver presentations, provide training and offer services to clients. Many coaches/consultants use webinars as a lower ticket paid offer.
- Trainers and teachers: Webinars can be used by trainers and teachers to deliver lessons, provide training and assess student progress.
- Event planners: Webinar software can be used by event planners to host virtual events such as conferences and trade shows.
- Marketing and sales professionals: Webinars can be used by these professionals to generate leads and close sales through valuable content and product or service offerings.
- Customer support teams: These teams can use webinars to provide help and support to customers.
- Any individual or organization looking to host virtual events or meetings: Webinar software is a useful tool for anyone looking to host virtual events or meetings, regardless of industry or profession.
How To Choose the Best Webinar Software
When selecting webinar software, it’s important to consider which features are most important to your business and audience. Some key features to consider include international dial-in numbers for global teams, marketing tools, such as registration sourcing and CTAs, and Q&A capabilities. It’s also important to consider the price of the software and read online reviews to get a sense of its quality and effectiveness. Although ultimately, the best webinar software will depend on the specific needs and goals of your business.
Essential Features
- International dial-in numbers: This feature allows attendees to join the webinar from any location, regardless of their country.
- Marketing tools: Features such as registration sourcing and CTAs can be useful for generating leads and converting sales through webinars.
- Q&A capabilities: Allowing attendees to ask questions and get answers in real time can enhance engagement and participation.
- Video and audio quality: Ensuring high-quality video and audio is important for a professional and smooth webinar experience.
- Customization options: Customization options, such as branding and themes, can help make the webinar feel more personalized and professional.
- Mobile compatibility: Ensuring that the webinar software is compatible with mobile devices can increase accessibility for attendees.
- Security: Webinar software should offer secure connections and data protection to ensure the privacy and safety of attendees.
- Support and resources: Look for webinar software that offers good customer support and helpful resources, such as tutorials and frequently asked questions (FAQs).
- Integration with other tools: Integration with tools, such as CRM systems and marketing automation platforms, can be useful for managing and tracking webinar performance.
Compare Pricing
Webinar software costs can vary widely, with some options offering free plans and others charging hundreds of dollars per month. The price of webinar software typically is based on the number of attendees and the features included in the plan.
Plans are usually structured as pay-as-you-go or subscription-based. Pay-as-you-go plans charge a fee per webinar while subscription plans offer a set number of webinars per month for a flat fee. Some webinar software also offers annual plans, which can offer a discounted rate compared to monthly subscriptions.
It’s difficult to determine a specific “good price” for webinar software as it will depend on the specific needs and budget of the user. However, users should generally expect to pay more for plans with more attendees and advanced features.
Users may want to consider a more expensive option if they plan on hosting a high volume of webinars or require advanced features, such as integration with other tools or custom branding. On the other hand, users with lower volume or more basic needs may be able to find suitable options at a lower price point. It’s important for users to evaluate their needs carefully and compare different plans and pricing options before making a decision.
Sample Pricing
Webinar Software | Starting Price |
---|---|
Zoom | Free |
ClickMeeting | $25 per month |
GetResponse | $41.30 per month |
Zoho Meeting | Free |
Request a Demo
It’s important to test webinar platforms before committing to a purchase as many providers require a one-year contract. Request a live demonstration and a free trial to get a feel for the platform and its customer experience. The webinar platform you choose should have features and functionality that align with your goals and strategies. It should also be intuitive for both you and your participants.
Look for features, such as registration and payment integration, customizable surveys, automated follow-up emails, slide and video sharing and streaming capabilities. By test driving these features, you will determine if the webinar platform is right for your organization.
Webinar Equipment Setup
When hosting a webinar, there are a few key pieces of equipment that can help ensure a smooth and successful event. From a webcam and headset to presentation software and a reliable computer, these tools can help you connect with your audience and deliver a professional experience. Here is a list of some of the key equipment to consider when hosting a webinar:
- Webcam: A webcam is a video camera that allows you to be seen on camera during the webinar. This is important for creating a personal connection with your audience.
- Headset with microphone: A headset with a microphone allows you to communicate clearly with your audience and minimizes background noise.
- Computer: A reliable computer with a fast internet connection is essential for hosting a smooth webinar.
- Presentation software: Presentation software, such as PowerPoint or Prezi, allows you to create and display visual aids during the webinar.
- Webinar software: Webinar software is the platform you will use to host and manage the webinar.
- Backup internet connection: It is always a good idea to have a backup internet connection in case your primary connection fails during the webinar.
- Monitor: A second monitor can be helpful for displaying your presentation and managing the webinar controls at the same time.
- Light source: Good lighting is important for creating a professional look and feel during the webinar.
- Green screen: A green screen allows you to customize your background and create a more polished appearance.
- Whiteboard: A whiteboard or dry erase board can be useful for demonstrating ideas or taking notes during the webinar.
Featured Partners
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Ooma Office
Toll-free numbers
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Pricing from
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Nextiva
Toll-free numbers
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Voicemail transcription
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Pricing from
$21.95 per user, per month
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RingCentral
Toll-free numbers
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Voicemail transcription
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How To Use Webinar Software Effectively
To get the most out of your webinar software, there are a few key things to consider. From conducting audience research and promoting your event to engaging with attendees and following up after the webinar, these tips can help you effectively use your webinar software to connect with your audience and deliver a successful event:
- Audience research: It’s important to research your audience and understand their needs and interests in order to create a webinar that will be valuable and relevant to them.
- Branding: Use your webinar to showcase your brand and create a cohesive look and feel that reflects your business.
- Analytics and reporting: Use the analytics and reporting features of your webinar software to understand how your webinars are performing and identify areas for improvement.
- Engagement: Engage with your audience during the webinar through features, such as polls, Q&A and chat to create a more interactive and dynamic experience.
- Follow-up: Follow up with attendees after the webinar to thank them for participating and provide any additional resources or information.
- Practice: Practice beforehand to ensure that you are comfortable with the webinar software and confident in your delivery.
- Promote: Promote your webinar to reach a larger audience and drive registrations.
- Testing: Test your equipment and internet connection beforehand to ensure a smooth and seamless webinar.
- Time management: Manage your time effectively during the webinar to ensure that you cover all the key points and leave time for audience interaction.
Methodology
To create our ranking of the best webinar software, we looked at a variety of factors, including but not limited to features, price, customer support, ease of use and online reviews. We also took into account the different needs of businesses, such as those with international teams or audiences, businesses that want to track where their registrants come from and businesses that want to use webinars for marketing purposes. We assigned weighted scores to several factors to help narrow down our list to the best of the best. In the end, we came up with a comprehensive ranking of the best webinar software of 2023.
Pricing
For pricing, we first looked at the starting price of a webinar software and then compared it to the highest range of pricing for all available plans available from a provider. Those that were more affordable or added more usable features for each higher-priced tier fared favorably in our rankings. Another price consideration we gave was to those providers that made free trials or free versions of their webinar software available as well as those that had transparent pricing. This accounted for 20% of our weighted scoring.
Features
While most of the important features necessary for webinar software were included with even the most basic package from each provider, not all included them until you purchase a more expensive plan or include them as part of an add-on, which weighed heavily in our scoring system. The features we considered to be essential for webinar software includes screen share ability, having attendee limits, offering webinars on-demand and live, providing integrations with third-party software and having compatibility with PowerPoint files. This accounted for 35% of our weighted scoring.
Third-party reviews
We looked at reviews from real users of webinar software left on third-party reviews sites, including Capterra and G2, to gauge their opinion of each provider. When looking at these reviews, we scored webinar software with a higher number of reviews (500 to 1,000 or more) better than those with fewer reviews. We scored those providers that received better reviews (3.5 points or higher out of 5) as well. These accounted for 15% of the total score.
Expert analysis
Taking all of these details into consideration our experts then looked at what real users had to say about each webinar software. We focused specifically on four categories: ease of use, stand-out features, popularity and value for the money. Using this information accounted for the final 30% of the total score.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best webinar software?
• Zoom is easy to use and allows hosts to export attendee and registrant lists, integrate with CRMs and other tools, livestream to third-party platforms and customize the branding of the webinar.
• ClickMeeting offers a wide range of features for webinars, including multiple cameras, screen sharing, real-time chat translation and more. The platform also allows for HD-quality video and the creation of event landing pages and recurring webinars.
• GetResponse is a webinar software that allows you to customize the URL of your webinar to include your brand name, which is a useful feature for businesses looking to strengthen their brand.
Do I need webinar software?
Yes, to host a webinar, you will need webinar software. This software will allow you to share your screen, present slides, record your webinar and generate leads.
How much does webinar software cost?
Webinar software can vary greatly in price, from free to $500 per month. The price will depend on the features you need and the quality you’re looking for.
Is webinar software secure?
Like most types of software, the best webinar software offers many levels of security. When choosing this type of software, you want to look for security features, such as two-factor authentication (2FA) or multifactor authentication (MFA), documentation that shows frequent security updates and patches, intrusion detection, the monitoring of user activities, data encryption and privacy protection.
How do you create a webinar?
To create a webinar, you will need to first choose a webinar platform and sign up for an account. Then, you can schedule a date and time for your webinar, invite attendees and prepare any necessary materials, such as slides or demos. Some platforms may also allow you to customize the look and feel of your webinar page as well as add features, such as polls or Q&A sessions. Once you have everything set up, you can start your webinar and engage with your audience in real time.
Can you record a webinar?
Yes, most webinar software allows you to record your webinar so that you can watch it again later or share it with others who could not attend. Some software may even offer automatic recording, so you don’t have to worry about manually starting and stopping the recording.
How do you promote a webinar?
There are several ways to promote a webinar. You can send emails to your email list, post about it on social media and create a landing page for your website. You can also reach out to industry influencers and ask them to promote your webinar to their audience. Partnering with other businesses or organizations can also help increase the visibility of your webinar.
Information provided on Forbes Advisor is for educational purposes only. Your financial situation is unique and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. We do not offer financial advice, advisory or brokerage services, nor do we recommend or advise individuals or to buy or sell particular stocks or securities. Performance information may have changed since the time of publication. Past performance is not indicative of future results.
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Contributor
Kathy Haan, MBA is a former financial advisor-turned-writer and business coach. For over a decade, she’s helped small business owners make money online. When she’s not trying out the latest tech or travel blogging with her family, you can find her curling up with a good novel.
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FAQs
What is the best free webinar software? ›
- ON24.
- Livestorm.
- Livestorm.
- GoTo Webinar.
- Zoho.
- Adobe Connect.
- Airmeet.
- BigMarker.
How Much Do Webinar Platforms Cost? There is quite a large price range depending on how many live attendees you have and the features you need. For the most part, prices range from $39/month to $199/month, although most people can expect to pay $129/month or less.
How do I choose a webinar platform? ›- Confirm your webinar goals.
- Understand how you'll use webinars as part of your online events and marketing strategy.
- Determine the type of webinar platform and software you need.
- Test the webinar platforms yourself.
For your organization, consider more compelling and accurate names like learning experience, live virtual classroom, funfest, deep dive or online masterclass … anything but webinar, which sounds dull and trite and somewhat old-fashioned.
Is Zoom or teams better for webinars? ›Zoom is better for external meetings; Teams is better for internal meetings. It's beyond easy for external participants to join a Zoom meeting from anywhere on any device—all you need is a link. This makes it a great option if you host a lot of meetings, large or small, with people outside your organization.
Is Zoom the best for Webinars? ›Best platform for effective webinars
Zoom Video webinar is the perfect platform for high-quality webinars. We have been using this webinar tool for the past four years and I can say this is the best webinar tool.
Zoom Webinar is great for single-session large broadcasts. The product is flexible giving you the ability to easily stream to third party platforms, embed into a webpage and send out a single link to attendees. Set up is straightforward and easy, allowing you to host a large broadcast at any moment.
Do webinars make money? ›The most direct way to make money with webinars is to charge an admission price to your live, online events. People will pay thousands of dollars to learn about specific topics from verifiable experts. There's no reason why you shouldn't sell tickets to your webinar broadcasts.
Is a 2 hour webinar too long? ›On average, a webinar should last between 60 and 90 minutes. This gives the presenter enough time to cover the material thoroughly without overwhelming the audience. Of course, there are always exceptions to this rule. Some topics may require more time, while others can be covered more quickly.
Are Microsoft webinars free? ›Anyone can attend a Teams meeting, webinar, or Public Live Event for free—no license is required. For the people who organize, schedule, and host meetings, webinars, or live events, they'll need one of the Microsoft 365 licenses listed in the Microsoft Teams service description.
Do I need webinar software? ›
Customers expect a lot more flexibility, and webinars provide it. None of these events can take place without one thing - webinar software. It's what takes care of your technical background and provides your attendees with the highest quality experience.
What equipment do I need for webinar? ›- A Webcam.
- Good Lighting.
- A Fast, Stable Internet Connection.
- Audio Equipment (A Good Microphone)
That said, the average attendance rate for a webinar is between 20 and 30 percent. This means that if you invite 100 people to your webinar, you can expect anywhere from 20 to 30 people to actually attend.
Is Microsoft teams suitable for webinars? ›Microsoft Teams webinars provide the tools to schedule your webinar, register attendees, run an interactive presentation, and analyze attendee data for effective follow-up.
Is Zoom good for webinars? ›Zoom Webinars allow you to connect with large audiences and share video, audio, and content from any location and device for better engagement. The simple interface allows you to plan, present, and host webinars at an affordable price.
Can Microsoft teams be used for webinars? ›Microsoft Teams webinars. Meet with customers and coworkers from nearly anywhere. Connect with audiences through engaging webinars and events that support up to 1,000 participants.
Is Zoom the best for webinars? ›Best platform for effective webinars
Zoom Video webinar is the perfect platform for high-quality webinars. We have been using this webinar tool for the past four years and I can say this is the best webinar tool.