Entertainment Ticketing Platform Comparison
Independent comparison of major online ticketing platforms to help you find the best deals and avoid hidden fees.
Platform Comparison Overview
| Platform | Market Focus | Typical Fees | User Rating | Standout Feature | Founded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ticketmaster | Major venues worldwide | $5-25 + 10-20% | 3.2/5 | Exclusive venue partnerships | 1976 |
| StubHub | Resale marketplace | 10% buyer + 10% seller | 3.8/5 | FanProtect guarantee | 2000 |
| SeatGeek | North America focus | 10-35% (all-inclusive) | 4.1/5 | Deal Score algorithm | 2009 |
| Eventbrite | Small to mid-size events | 2.9% + $0.99 | 4.0/5 | Event creation tools | 2006 |
| BookMyShow | India, Southeast Asia | ₹15-50 convenience fee | 3.9/5 | Regional market leader | 1999 |
| Vivid Seats | US resale market | 15-25% (varies) | 3.5/5 | Price transparency | 2001 |
Detailed Platform Analysis
Ticketmaster
✅ Pros
- Access to major venues and exclusive presales
- SafeTix technology reduces fraud
- Mobile app with digital wallet integration
- Verified Fan system for high-demand events
❌ Cons
- High service fees (often 25-40% of ticket price)
- Limited customer service options
- Restrictive transfer and resale policies
- Website can be slow during high-demand sales
StubHub
✅ Pros
- Large inventory of resale tickets
- FanProtect guarantee covers issues
- Price prediction tools
- Mobile tickets with instant download
❌ Cons
- Prices often above face value
- Fees charged to both buyers and sellers
- Limited inventory for smaller events
- Customer service can be inconsistent
SeatGeek
✅ Pros
- Deal Score helps identify good value
- Clean, user-friendly interface
- Interactive venue maps
- Transparent all-inclusive pricing
❌ Cons
- Limited to North American events
- Smaller selection compared to major platforms
- Higher fees for premium seats
- Less established customer protection
Eventbrite
✅ Pros
- Low fees for most events
- Great for discovering local events
- Easy event creation for organizers
- Good mobile experience
❌ Cons
- Limited major venue partnerships
- Basic resale marketplace
- Fewer big-name events
- Less sophisticated fraud protection
Key Policies & What to Know
Refund Policies
Most platforms only offer refunds if events are cancelled or significantly changed. Ticketmaster and StubHub have the most restrictive policies, while Eventbrite offers more flexibility for smaller events. Always check individual event policies before purchasing.
Hidden Fees
Service fees can add 20-40% to your total cost. Ticketmaster shows fees at checkout, while SeatGeek includes them upfront. International transactions may include currency conversion fees. Always review the total cost before completing your purchase.
Ticket Transfers
Digital tickets have made transfers easier but policies vary. Some platforms allow free transfers, others charge fees or restrict transfers entirely. High-demand events often have stricter transfer policies to prevent scalping.
Authenticity Guarantees
Major platforms now use digital tickets and verification systems. StubHub's FanProtect and Ticketmaster's SafeTix are industry leaders. Always buy from verified sellers and avoid third-party transfers when possible.
Mobile Requirements
Most platforms now require mobile apps for ticket delivery. Ensure your phone is compatible and has the latest app version. Some venues only accept mobile tickets, so check requirements before attending events.
International Purchases
Cross-border ticket purchases may face restrictions or additional fees. Some platforms limit international sales for certain events. Currency conversion rates and international transaction fees can significantly increase costs.