StubHub and Ticketmaster are two of the most well-known platforms in the ticketing industry, often leaving users wondering, "Are they the same thing?" While they share many similar features, they also have distinct characteristics that set them apart.
Both StubHub and Ticketmaster facilitate online ticket sales, offering a convenient alternative to traditional box office purchases. However, the way they operate and some of their key features differ considerably.
Primary Ownership and Business Model
The primary distinction between StubHub and Ticketmaster lies in their ownership and business models. Ticketmaster is owned by Live Nation Entertainment, one of the largest live entertainment companies in the world. It functions primarily as a primary ticketing platform, selling tickets directly from event organizers at face value.
On the other hand, StubHub was founded independently and was later acquired by eBay. It operates as a secondary market platform, where users can buy and sell tickets, often at prices above or below face value, depending on demand.
Primary Ticket Sales
As mentioned, Ticketmaster specializes in primary ticket sales,meaning you're buying tickets directly from the event organizers or promoters. This includes season tickets, pre-sales, and general on-sale dates. Ticketmaster also offers functionality for lottery and verified fan purchasing.
Forinstance, if you're looking to buy tickets for a popular concert or sports event shortly after they go on sale, Ticketmaster would likely be your best bet for securing primary tickets.
Secondary Ticket Market
In contrast, StubHub is a secondary market platform. This means users buy tickets from other users, not the event organizers. As a result, prices can fluctuate based on demand, and tickets may not always be available at face value. However, StubHub does offer a "StubHub Certified Tickets" program, which guarantees tickets come directly from the event organizers.
If you've missed the initial sale or want to wait to see if ticket prices drop, StubHub can be a good option. It's also where you might find unique, hard-to-get tickets for sold-out events or exclusive experiences.
Fees and Pricing
Both platforms charge fees for using their services, but the types of fees and how they're calculated differ. Ticketmaster has a consistent service fee for each ticket purchased, as well as a processing fee that varies by event.
StubHub, however, charges a buyer fee and often has lower service fees. Additionally, sellers on StubHub set their own resale prices, which can sometimes result in lower total costs, including fees, compared to Ticketmaster's primary ticket prices.
Ticketmaster Fees
Ticketmaster's fees can add a significant amount to your total cost. For example, a $100 ticket might come with a $15 service fee and a $3.50 processing fee, bringing the total to $118.50. These fees are consistent across all Ticketmaster events and platforms.
StubHub Fees
StubHub's fees are charged per order, not per ticket, which can make them more affordable for larger orders. A $100 ticket might come with a $9.50 buyer fee, plus any additional fees the seller has chosen to pass on. The total cost depends on the seller's chosen fees and any StubHub charges they opt to pass along.
Additional Features and Perks
Both platforms offer rewards and loyalty programs, but Ticketmaster's’ includes perks like presales, toiletry vouchers, and access to premium seating. StubHub's program, called StubHub Rewards, offers perks like cashback, discounts, and free upgrades based on your purchase history.
Ticketmaster's Verified Fan Program
The Verified Fan program uses unique technology to keep tickets out of the hands of scalpers and bots. It requires users to verify their identity, ensuring tickets go to genuine fans rather than resellers. This exclusivity can be a massive advantage for fans looking to buy primary tickets.
StubHub's Group Tickets and Split Payment Options
StubHub offers an easy way to purchase tickets in groups and allows buyers to use split payment, letting them use multiple payment methods for a single order. This can be convenient if you're buying tickets in groups or want to use multiple reward points/cashback options.
Ultimately, the choice between StubHub and Ticketmaster depends on your ticket buying needs, budget, and preferences. While they both offer convenient online ticketing, they cater to different market segments and offer unique benefits that make them stand out. Happy ticket hunting!"