Here’s Which Event Ticket Sites Have the Best Deals
When it comes to concerts, music festivals, and theater shows, ticket prices can vary wildly depending on where you buy them. Whether you’re after a front-row seat for your favorite band or a budget-friendly entry to a sold-out gig, knowing where to look can save you money — and sometimes even score you better seats.
We’ve compared some of the most popular event ticket sites to see which ones offer the best deals, highlight their pros and cons, and help you figure out which is best for your next night out.
1. Ticketmaster – The Industry Giant
Ticketmaster is the largest and most recognized ticketing platform in the world. It’s often the official seller for major tours and venues.
Pros:
- Direct source for official tickets
- Verified resale options available
- Strong mobile app experience
Cons:
- High service fees
- Prices can surge due to dynamic pricing
Best For: Securing official tickets at face value — especially right when they go on sale.
2. StubHub – The Resale Powerhouse
StubHub is one of the biggest names in resale tickets, allowing fans to sell and buy from each other.
Pros:
- Huge inventory for sold-out events
- Transparent pricing with seat maps
- Buyer guarantees on every purchase
Cons:
- Prices can be well above face value for high-demand events
- Fees can still be steep
Best For: Last-minute purchases when official tickets are gone.
3. SeatGeek – User-Friendly & Deal Ratings
SeatGeek aggregates tickets from multiple sellers and uses a “Deal Score” to show value for money.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface
- Deal Score makes it easier to find bargains
- Integrates resale and primary listings
Cons:
- Not always the cheapest option
- Some tickets still have hidden fees
Best For: Price comparison and finding fair deals at a glance.
4. Vivid Seats – Rewards for Repeat Buyers
Vivid Seats is known for its rewards program that lets buyers earn credit toward future ticket purchases.
Pros:
- Loyalty program with cashback on purchases
- Wide variety of events
- Secure checkout
Cons:
- Prices can be higher than other platforms
- Service fees not always clear upfront
Best For: Frequent ticket buyers who want rewards.
5. TickPick – No Hidden Fees
TickPick stands out by showing all-in pricing from the start — no surprise charges at checkout.
Pros:
- No hidden fees
- Transparent pricing from the start
- Bidding feature lets you make offers on tickets
Cons:
- Smaller inventory compared to giants like Ticketmaster and StubHub
Best For: Buyers frustrated by hidden fees.
Comparison Table – Event Ticket Sites at a Glance
| Platform | Year Founded | Special Features | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ticketmaster | 1976 | Official ticket seller for major venues | Verified resale, mobile app | High fees, dynamic pricing | Official sales |
| StubHub | 2000 | Resale marketplace with seat maps | Huge inventory, buyer guarantee | Higher resale prices, fees | Sold-out events |
| SeatGeek | 2009 | Deal Score for value ratings | Price comparison, easy use | Some hidden fees | Bargain hunting |
| Vivid Seats | 2001 | Rewards program | Cashback rewards, secure | Higher prices, unclear fees | Frequent buyers |
| TickPick | 2011 | No hidden fees, bidding option | Transparent pricing | Smaller inventory | Avoiding fees |
How to Get the Best Deal No Matter the Platform
- Buy Early (or Super Late): Prices often spike in the middle but can be low right after release or right before the show.
- Compare Multiple Sites: Use platforms like SeatGeek to see multiple sellers at once.
- Check for Verified Resale: It’s safer than buying from unverified sources.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Ticketmaster, Vivid Seats, and StubHub offer notifications for price drops.
The Bottom Line
There’s no single “best” ticket site — it depends on your priorities. If you want official tickets at face value, Ticketmaster is your go-to. If you’re hunting for a last-minute seat at a sold-out show, StubHub or SeatGeek might be better. For frequent buyers, Vivid Seats’ rewards can add up, and if you hate surprise fees, TickPick’s upfront pricing will save you frustration.
Whether you’re catching a small club gig or a massive stadium tour, knowing where to look can make all the difference — both for your wallet and your concert experience.
Which ticket site do you trust the most for concerts and music events? Share your go-to in the comments below, and check out more music industry insights at ChicagoMusicGuide.com.