19 Must-Have Paid and Free Event Check-In Apps for Organizers

Nov 24, 2025 Shruti Shah

Attendees don't notice good check-in. They only notice bad check-in. 

And planners know check-in is the first moment where their behind-the-scenes work gets exposed. If the system fails, everything downstream feels twice as heavy. 

Check-in also acts as the point where your event data becomes real. The numbers in your registration report stop being projections and start becoming confirmed facts. Actual attendance, walk-in patterns, and early crowd-flow signals all originate at the scanner. When the system captures that data accurately, every decision you make for the rest of the day stays grounded in reality. 

This guide explores what event check-in app solutions are that deliver results, including both premium and free event check-in app options to help you find the perfect fit. 

What Are Event Check-In Apps? 

Event check-in apps (also called check-in apps for event management) are systems that manage attendee entry through digital scanning, verification, and real-time data updates. They replace manual check-in workflows with faster, more reliable tools that validate attendees instantly and keep your data accurate from the start. 

These apps also unify attendance tracking, registration details, and onsite logistics within one platform—so your team moves people quickly without second-guessing what's happening at the entrances. 

Key Features to Look for in Event Check-In Apps 

Effective event check-in apps focus on two things: preventing lines before they build and giving you accurate visibility from the first minute of entry. Event check-in Apps need to provide secure, contactless options and immediate data visibility. 

Top features worth considering include: 

• QR code check-in 
  QR code event check-in technology offers fast scans that keep attendees moving and prevent bottlenecks from forming at the door. 
• Self check-in kiosks 
  Self check-in kiosks provide a no-wait option that reduces pressure on staff and speeds up the first wave of arrivals. 
• Touchless or facial recognition entry 
  Touchless or facial recognition entry helps fast-moving crowds validate quickly while keeping the process secure and contactless. 
• Attendance updates 
  Any event check-in app with a real-time attendee tracking option gives your team a constant view of room counts and arrival surges. 
• Badge printing and onsite registration 
  Badge printing and onsite registration tools handle walk-ins and last-minute additions smoothly without slowing the check-in line. 

How do Paid and Free Event Check-In Apps Differ 

Free and paid event check-in apps serve different event formats. Understanding why you need an event check-in app with premium features helps clarify which option matches your operational needs. Each works well in the right setting. Free tools give organizers a simple way to manage entry for smaller groups, while paid platforms support events that need more customization, heavier throughput, or deeper coordination across teams. 

Here's a clear way to understand the difference: 

• Capacity Handling: Free tools work well for smaller groups. Paid platforms stay steady when multiple doors, higher foot traffic, or tighter timing are involved. 
• Functionality: Free apps usually include essential scanning and basic tracking. Paid options add layers like badge printing, access controls, and more detailed reporting when events require them. 
• Ecosystem Fit: Free tools suit straightforward setups. Paid platforms integrate more deeply when data needs to flow into CRMs, marketing systems, or internal event tools. 
• Support Level: Free versions rely on self-help resources. Paid plans typically include hands-on support when an event needs a quick fix onsite. 

Both categories have strong use cases. The difference isn't capability—it's about the scale and environment they're built to support. 

Choosing Between Paid and Free Event Check-In Solutions 

If you’re wondering how to choose an event check-in app that fits your workflow, start by understanding how your attendees arrive and how complex your onsite movement really is. Selecting the right option depends on how your event operates, how many people arrive at once, and how much coordination your check-in flow requires. 

Here's a simple way to think about the decision: 

Events with straightforward arrival patterns 

Small workshops, community gatherings, and single-room events run smoothly with free tools that handle basic scanning and lists without complication. 

Events with layered logistics 

Conferences, expos, corporate programs, and multi-room schedules benefit from paid platforms that keep pace with higher traffic and more complex onsite movements. 

Both free and paid tools improve check-in. If you’re evaluating the best event check-in app for large conferences, prioritize platforms that support multi-door scanning, badge automation, and synced team access. The key is matching the system to the type of crowd, the pressure at the door, and the workflow your team needs to manage. 

This list highlights every top-rated event check-in app that organizers rely on across both free and paid categories. 

The 19 Must-Have Event Check-In Apps for 2025 

You’ll find both paid platforms and the best free event check-in app options that support small, medium, and large events. 

App Name	Pricing Model	Best For	Key Features	Integration Options
Eventcombo EntryPilot	Paid	All event sizes, in-person & hybrid	QR scanning, real-time reports, badge printing, hybrid event support	Full Eventcombo ecosystem
Cvent OnArrival	Paid	Large corporate, trade shows	Mobile scanning, instant badge printing, attendance tracking	Cvent ecosystem
Whova	Paid	Conferences, expos	QR code check-in, badge printing, real-time attendance	Various platforms
Bizzabo	Paid	Corporate events, trade shows	Facial recognition, device sync, quick processing	CRM and marketing tools
EventX	Paid	Hybrid, Asia-Pacific	Facial recognition, mobile check-in, hybrid support	Hybrid event integrations
Zkipster	Paid	VIP, premium corporate events	Guest list management, secure check-in, badge printing	CRM integrations
Splash	Freemium	Marketing-oriented events	Basic check-in, on-demand badge printing, event reporting	Marketing platforms
Attendium	Paid	Networking-focused events	Real-time session tracking, easy search, attendance export	Engagement tools
Dreamcast	Paid	Virtual and hybrid events	Virtual check-in, engagement tools, session integration	Video platforms
Eventleaf	Free/Paid	Small-medium workshops	Badge printing, QR scanning, time tracking	Reporting integrations
Eventbrite Organizer	Free with ticketing	Ticketed concerts, local events	QR code scanning, ticket validation, fast setup	Eventbrite platform
Eventzilla	Freemium	Webinars, workshops	Multi-device sync, real-time attendance, onsite sales	Reporting tools
Zoho Backstage	Free/Paid	Small corporate gatherings	Contactless check-in, QR scanning, badging	Zoho ecosystem
Ticket Tailor	Free/Paid	Non-profit, free events	Mobile check-in, ticketing, customization	Ticketing and reporting
Google Forms	Free	Informal and community events	Custom forms, manual check-in	Google Workspace
Checkout Page	Paid	Unlimited event check-ins	Touchless entry, flat pricing, health screening	Attendance tools
Sched	Freemium	Multi-session conferences	Scheduling, mobile check-in, engagement features	Event management platforms
RingCentral Events	Paid	Hybrid events	Session capacity control, QR scanning, communication tools	Hybrid ecosystems
Guidebook	Freemium	Engagement-heavy events	Maps, notifications, schedule integration	Engagement tools

Detailed App Reviews 

1. EntryPilot Organizer App (Eventcombo)

Eventcombo's EntryPilot Organizer App is a comprehensive, mobile-first solution designed to manage every aspect of attendee check-in and onsite event operations efficiently.  

Key features: 

• Fast, secure QR code check-in and QR code event check-in optimized for high-volume environments, eliminating bottlenecks and accelerating attendee flow. 

• Real-time dashboard updates that provide live monitoring of attendance, session check-ins, pending arrivals, and queue lengths, enabling dynamic staffing and operational adjustments. 

• On-demand badge printing with fully customizable templates that incorporate event branding and access permissions for smooth entry control. 

• Seamless support for hybrid events, integrating data from both in-person and virtual attendees into one cohesive platform for unified reporting and management. 

• Deep integration with the full Eventcombo ecosystem, linking registration, email marketing, venue logistics, lead retrieval, and meeting management to ensure real-time synchronization of attendee data. 

• Unique QR codes help prevent fraud and unauthorized access, with manual check-in/search options to handle exceptions like lost badges or walk-up registrations. 

• Multi-user login support for teams and volunteers, enabling collaborative management of check-in operations from mobile devices. 

• Financial tracking capabilities for paid events, providing live payment verification and tracking fulfillment status onsite. 

• Session-level check-in and check-out tracking for compliance, attendance analysis, and inventory management. 

• Intuitive, user-friendly interface designed for rapid staff and volunteer training, minimizing onsite friction. 

• Robust post-event analytics and reporting to optimize future events and demonstrate ROI clearly. 

EntryPilot App empowers event organizers with full control over attendee workflows from registration through post-event insights, transforming the check-in process into a streamlined, secure, and data-driven experience that maximizes operational efficiency and attendee satisfaction. 

2. Cvent OnArrival

Cvent OnArrival speeds up check-in with mobile scanning and instant badge printing. It offers real-time reporting, helping organizers monitor attendee flow continuously. 

Key Features: 

• Mobile QR/barcode scanning 

• Instant badge printing 

• Live attendance data 

• User-friendly interface for staff 

Best Suited For: Large corporate events, trade shows, conventions  

3. Whova

Whova combines attendee check-in with scheduling, networking, and event insights. It provides integrated check-in for a seamless experience. 

Key Features: 

• In-platform check-in 

• Attendee networking tools 

• Real-time data insights 

• Schedule integration 

Best Suited For: Conferences, expos, associations 

4. Bizzabo

Bizzabo offers QR code check-ins and integrates with event management tools to optimize workflow. It also helps boost attendee interaction with engagement features. 

Key Features: 

• Fast QR code scanning 

• Integration with marketing and CRM tools 

• Session tracking and networking 

• Multi-device support 

Best Suited For: Corporate events, trade shows

5.EventX

EventX supports hybrid and virtual events with mobile check-ins and facial recognition. Its platform is especially popular in the Asia-Pacific region. 

Key Features: 

• Mobile check-in with facial recognition 

• Hybrid event support 

• Real-time attendance analytics 

• Multi-language interface 

Best Suited For: Hybrid conferences, international events 

6. Zkipster

Zkipster focuses on guest list management for premium and VIP events. It offers secure check-in with badge printing and integrates with CRM systems. 

Key Features: 

• Guest list tracking 

• Badge printing 

• Secure entry with verification 

• CRM integration support 

Best Suited For: VIP events, corporate gatherings

7. Splash

Splash provides basic check-in tools in its free tier and adds badge printing and real-time reporting in paid versions, serving marketing-focused events. 

Key Features: 

• Basic QR code scanning 

• On-demand badge printing 

• Event day analytics 

• Custom branding (paid plans) 

Best Suited For: Marketing events, brand activations

8. Attendium

Attendium blends mobile check-in with session tracking and real-time analytics, helping events focused on networking and attendee engagement. 

Key Features: 

• Mobile-first check-in by attendees 

• Session attendance tracking 

• Real-time engagement metrics 

• Easy search and filters 

Best Suited For: Trade shows, meetups, expos 

9. Dreamcast

Dreamcast specializes in virtual and hybrid event check-in, supporting virtual attendance tracking and engagement features alongside onsite check-ins. 

Key Features: 

• Virtual event check-in options 

• Engagement and session integration 

• Real-time attendance data 

• Event analytics dashboard 

Best Suited For: Virtual conferences, hybrid expos

10. Eventleaf

Eventleaf offers free check-in for smaller events with QR scanning and badge printing. Paid plans add branding and detailed reporting. 

Key Features: 

• QR code scanning 

• Mobile check-in app 

• Badge printing 

• Custom branding (paid plans) 

Best Suited For: Small workshops, local meetups 

11. Eventbrite Organizer

This app integrates with Eventbrite ticketing, allowing fast QR code check-ins and managing ticketed events efficiently. 

Key Features: 

• QR code scanning 

• Ticket validation 

• Sync with the Eventbrite platform 

• Simple interface 

Best Suited For: Local concerts, ticketed community events 

12. Eventzilla

Eventzilla provides free check-in for smaller events, syncing across devices, with paid plans adding advanced analytics and reporting. 

Key Features: 

• Multi-device check-in sync 

• Real-time attendance tracking 

• Onsite ticket sales capability 

• Integration with event tools 

Best Suited For: Webinars, workshops, community gatherings

13. Zoho Backstage

Zoho Backstage offers free and paid plans supporting mobile check-in with basic event management tools, integrating well with the Zoho suite. 

Key Features: 

• Mobile app check-in 

• Event registration and scheduling 

• Integration with Zoho CRM and tools 

• Contactless attendance options 

Best Suited For: Small corporate events, internal meetings 

14. Ticket Tailor

Ticket Tailor supports free event check-in for non-ticketed events and offers ticketing and customizable event management through paid plans. 

Key Features: 

• Free mobile check-in app 

• Ticketing and sales options 

• Event customization tools 

• User-friendly interface 

Best Suited For: Non-profit events, free public gatherings 

15. Google Forms

Google Forms lets organizers build custom registration and check-in forms. It lacks QR scanning but offers a practical manual solution. 

Key Features: 

• Customizable registration forms 

• Easy data export to Google Sheets 

• Simple attendee management 

• No automated scanning features 

Best Suited For: Small, informal, community events 

16. Checkout Page

Checkout Page offers an unlimited event check-in solution with touchless entry and health screening features. 

Key Features: 

• Touchless/QR code check-in 

• Flat-rate pricing model 

• Health screening and compliance 

• Simplified attendee management 

Best Suited For: Events requiring health protocols, large attendance 

17. Sched

Sched combines check-in with detailed event scheduling and attendee engagement features in its freemium model. 

Key Features: 

• Multi-session scheduling 

• Mobile check-in 

• Attendee engagement tools 

• Real-time updates 

Best Suited For: Conferences, multi-track events 

18. RingCentral Events

RingCentral offers QR scan check-in with session capacity controls and integrates communications for hybrid events. 

Key Features: 

• QR-based check-in 

• Session capacity management 

• Hybrid event integration 

• Communication tools integration 

Best Suited For: Hybrid conferences, large-scale meetings 

19. Guidebook

Guidebook focuses on attendee engagement with integrated check-in, event maps, notifications, and scheduling. 

Key Features: 

• Integrated event check-in 

• Interactive maps and schedules 

• Push notifications and alerts 

• Engagement and feedback tools 

Best Suited For: Engagement-focused conferences, expos 

Pro Tips for Smooth Check-In Execution 

Technology is only as good as the people operating it. Proper staff training, clear workflows for walk-ins and registrants, and multiple rehearsals of the check-in process help avoid bottlenecks and issues on event day. 

Key points include: 

• Conduct thorough training sessions before the event to familiarize staff with the app 

• Define procedures for onsite registrations and walk-ins 

• Test all hardware and software elements in advance to catch and fix glitches 

• Have backup plans ready (offline mode, manual lists, extra devices) 

• Choose an event check-in app with offline functionality recommendations from planners who manage venues with inconsistent connectivity. 

The Future of Event Check-In Technology 

The shift toward integrated, AI-powered attendance tracking and compact event workflows represents the next frontier in event check-in technology. Platforms must balance security, convenience, and rich data collection in an increasingly health- and privacy-conscious world. 

Investing in solutions that evolve with your event strategy prepares you to meet attendee expectations today and tomorrow. 

Conclusion 

Effective event check-in sets your event on the right track. Understanding what event check-in app capabilities are and choosing the best check-in app provides operational control, reliability, and data accuracy that significantly enhance the attendee experience and event success. Create a seamless checki-n experience with Evenetcombo. Book a demo now.