GuestlistOnline
vs Luma
Community events vs private events. See how they compare on features, pricing, and which is right for your use case.
Feature comparison
An honest look at how the two platforms compare.
| Feature | GuestlistOnline | Luma |
|---|---|---|
| Guest list management | Full management with import, filters, tags, and dietary tracking | Basic attendee list with approval controls |
| Free plan limits | 50 guests per event, no platform fees | Unlimited events and guests, 5% fee on paid tickets |
| QR code check-in | Built-in with offline mode (PWA scanner) | Online only — requires internet connection |
| Custom branding | Full white-label — your brand, no badges | Luma-branded pages on all plans |
| Virtual & hybrid events | In-person events only | Zoom integration with attendance tracking |
| Notifications | Email-based notifications | Email, SMS, push, and WhatsApp |
| Promoter tracking | Built-in with commission management | Event referrals only (no commissions) |
| Platform fees | No platform fees — flat pricing per event or monthly | 5% on free plan; 0% on Plus ($59/mo annual) |
| Event discovery | Private by default — invite only | Luma Discover public marketplace |
| Multi-language UI | 7 full language translations | English-focused platform |
| Best for | Private events, weddings, clubs, door operations | Community events, meetups, workshops, virtual events |
Luma pricing: Free plan 5% platform fee; Plus $59/mo (annual). Stripe processing 2.9% + $0.30 applies to all paid tickets. Data accurate as of April 2026.
What sets them apart
The details that matter when choosing between the two.
Offline check-in
GuestlistOnline's PWA scanner works without Wi-Fi — syncs guest lists before the event and processes scans locally. Luma's QR check-in requires an active internet connection, which can be unreliable in venues like warehouses, festival sites, or basement clubs.
Private by default
GuestlistOnline events are never listed in a public marketplace. Luma's Discover platform publicly lists events by default — great for community builders who want exposure, but a problem for private or corporate events that need discretion.
When Luma is the better choice
If you run community meetups, virtual workshops, or social events and want public discovery, multi-channel notifications (SMS, WhatsApp, push), Zoom integration, and token gating for Web3 communities — Luma is genuinely built for that. Different tool, different job.
Door operations & control
GuestlistOnline is built for professional door management: promoter tracking with commissions, artist guest allocations, badge printing, and white-label branding. Luma focuses on community engagement rather than venue operations.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions about GuestlistOnline vs Luma.
Ready to take control of your guest list?
Start free with up to 50 guests. No credit card, no platform fees, no public marketplace listing.