So, you want to host a virtual event but you’re not sure where to start. Perhaps your live event has been affected by recent gathering restrictions, or you've just decided to move things online. With so many streaming options on the market, it’s difficult to know which one is right for you.
Not to worry! We did the work for you. We’ve corralled our 4 favorite streaming services to break down top features and best use cases for hosting virtual events.
Whether you go with one of the options below or try something totally different, it's important you find a streaming platform that fits your organization's needs. Make a wish-list of features you know you want and vet services using the list to make sure you find one that covers all your bases.
1. Zoom
Zoom might be one of the better-known video conferencing services available. This streaming platform has a clean, professional look and has tons of management features that make hosting a breeze. Depending on your plan, you can have up to 1,000 video participants & 10,000 viewers!
Host controls make it easy to manage the event to give attendees the best experience possible. These allow you to control who is in the event, who can screenshare, and have microphone access. Plus, the meeting Waiting Room lets you customize a message for your attendees while they wait for your even to start.
Check out Zoom's great bank of training resources to get up to speed on their features quickly.
Features |
|
| ✓ Multiple service levels | ✓ Free service option |
| ✓ Subscription-based | ✓ Cloud recording |
| ✓ 24/7 customer support | ✓ Live Q&A and audience chat |
| ✗ Top-notch security features | ✓ Embeddable video |
2. Vimeo Live Streaming
Vimeo is widely known for its high-quality video. They pride themselves on their HD and 4K capabilities. With streaming available up to 1080p, it's no wonder this platform is a popular one for film festivals and concerts.
There are two packages available that include live streaming: Premium and Enterprise. Both come with unlimited live streaming, but if you want extra security and support you'll want to go with the Enterprise option.
If you’re still not sure Vimeo is the right fit for you, they offer 30 days free for any of their plans, risk-free.
Features |
|
| ✓ Multiple service levels | ✗ Free service option |
| ✗ Subscription-based | ✓ Cloud recording |
| ✓ 24/7 customer support | ✓ Live Q&A and audience chat |
| ✓ Top-notch security features (private link sharing) | ✓ Embeddable video |
3. Facebook Live
Facebook Live might be one of the most accessible streaming platforms available today. As long as you have an existing Facebook page, it takes almost nothing to log on and start streaming.
Tap into your audience where they’re most engaged by hosting your event with Facebook Live. Your followers will automatically be notified when you’re streaming, and the ability for viewers to share across their networks extends your reach.
Put on a concert series or host a virtual cooking class. Engage users with the live chat feature and get direct feedback through post reactions. Qualified pages can even add a Donate button to their live videos to drive real-time donations. Your video is automatically recorded and is accessible to your followers via your Facebook Page, so the content can continue to be shared even after you sign off.
You can also test out running a Facebook Live video ahead of time by using the “Only Me” privacy feature. Take some time before the real event to play around with the broadcast settings so you’re a pro when the time comes to launch.
Features |
|
| ✗ Multiple service levels | ✓ Free service option |
| ✗ Subscription-based | ✓ Cloud recording |
| ✗ 24/7 customer support | ✓ Live Q&A and audience chat |
| ✗ Top-notch security features (private link sharing) | ✓ Embeddable video |
4. YouTube Live
If you want all your video content in one place, create a YouTube Channel, go live, and save those live streams to your channel so people can access content even after the event. YouTube has huge potential due to the amount of daily traffic.
In order to live stream, you need a verified YouTube channel and you need to opt in to the live feature. Note: It can take up to 24 hours for live stream to enable for your account the first time. Once enabled, you can go live instantly.
The new Live Control Room makes it easy to focus on supporter engagement and review analytics on a new and improved dashboard. You can even duplicate a past live stream to keep key features and make setup a cinch.
Features |
|
| ✗ Multiple service levels | ✓ Free service option |
| ✗ Subscription-based | ✓ Cloud recording |
| ✗ 24/7 customer support | ✓ Live Q&A and audience chat |
| ✗ Top-notch security features | ✓ Embeddable video |
Pair your streaming service of choice (we can integrate with any!) with Eventgroove's dynamic event management platform for access to powerful analytics and for truly memorable virtual events.
Speak with one of our knowledgeable Solutions Specialist about a 30 minute demo today!
Do you have a favorite streaming service you use that we didn't list? Let us know what you use in the comments below!