2026 will witness a phenomenal surge in trade shows as businesses and professionals eagerly reconnect and explore new opportunities. Trade shows are an excellent opportunity for companies to network, promote their products, and generate valuable leads. As an event planner, you know how important it is to stay ahead of the game when planning and executing successful trade shows. One of the most essential tools in your arsenal is the trade show app software. It can bring more efficiency to your work and get you organized.
However, many appreciate the value of managing and attending trade shows, despite the time and cost involved. That's where trade show apps come in. They help businesses save time and money, streamline their event planning process, and maximize their trade show experience.
Trade shows become more competitive, and technology advances; keeping up with the latest trends is crucial to stay ahead. That's where trade show app software comes in, revolutionizing the tradeshow industry and providing numerous benefits for businesses of all sizes. In this article, we will discuss the top trade show apps of 2026, their features, and how they can benefit your business. With the right trade show app, you can make the most of your experience, generate valuable leads, and maximize your ROI at these events.
What Are Trade Show Applications?
Trade shows are essential platforms for businesses to showcase their products and services, network with potential clients, and gain valuable market insights. Technological advancements have made trade show apps indispensable to the overall trade show experience.
Tradeshow mobile application designed to help exhibitors and attendees navigate tradeshows more efficiently. The app provides a wealth of information, from the event schedule to exhibitor information, maps, and networking features. Using a trade show app for iPhone, participants can plan their itinerary, find interested exhibitors, and receive notifications about events and seminars.
Trade Show App Software vs. Traditional Methods
Trade show app software is a game-changer for the industry, but how does it compare to traditional methods? Traditionally, attendees would receive a printed guidebook with information about the event, exhibitors, and schedule. Exhibitors would use physical lead retrieval systems to capture leads, and networking was done in person. While we continue to leverage these methods, we recognize that they come with a few limitations. Through continuous innovation and customer-centric approach, we aim to overcome these limitations and provide even better solutions..
Initially, printed guidebooks offer valuable information but can be expensive, easily misplaced, and quickly become outdated. In our commitment to sustainability and convenience, we are developing digital alternatives that are cost-effective, easily accessible, and up-to-date.
Additionally, traditional lead retrieval systems, although widely used, can be time-consuming and prone to errors. We are actively exploring innovative approaches to streamline this process and ensure accurate data capture, saving valuable time for our customers. With trade show app software, exhibitors can capture leads quickly and accurately using their mobile devices, saving time and improving the quality of data collected.
Lastly, while in-person networking provides valuable opportunities, we understand that it can be unpredictable, with attendees occasionally missing out on connections due to time constraints or insufficient information. To enhance networking experiences, we are developing robust online platforms that enable efficient networking, extending the potential for meaningful connections beyond physical limitations.
According to a recent report by CEIR, 91% of attendees use a mobile device during tradeshows, with 84% of those using a mobile app. Additionally, 62% of exhibitors use trade show lead retrieval apps to capture leads, with 46% using a mobile app to connect with attendees.
Similarly, transitioning from the traditional trade show method to the application is a significant and beneficial change. According to a Statista survey, 53 per cent of respondents' top concern was reaching their target audience. For 38% of survey respondents, converting web traffic to pre-registration presented a challenge, but it's an opportunity for improvement. Once they had overcome it, their global event marketing hit the charts.
In a 2019 survey conducted among global event marketing industry professionals, E-mail marketing was recognized by 71% of respondents as the most effective strategy for promoting trade exhibitions, followed by a website and social media by 67% and 46%, respectively. And all of these can be handled under one umbrella of Trade Show Application. Indeed, it makes things easier for everyone.
Our Perspective: The Best Trade Show Apps
How to Choose the Best Trade Show App Software for Your Business
Choosing the right trade show app software for your business can be overwhelming, with numerous options available. Some factors to consider when selecting the best trade show app software include:
1. Features
Consider the features that are important for your business type. Some specific apps for trade shows have features like lead capture, scheduling, and networking. And then we have some essential features. To address them all, here are some of the most crucial characteristics that you must consider as well:
It is better to have an AI-assistance option along with all of these features. AI-assistance can help a lot from th eplanning phase to the execution and overall engagement and marketing as well.
2. User-friendly
The app should be user-friendly for the users. It also includes easy-to-navigate features for not just attendees but also business owners and employees.
3. Easy Integration and Compatibility
Trade show applications must be easy to integrate with existing tools like marketing or CRM software. This will make tracking easy for all the employees and help you bring an element of efficiency to the business.
Moreover, you must see if the app works on your current system. It will include your PCs, laptops, tablets, and smartphones with you or at the offices.
4. Customization
Your tradeshow is an extension of your brand. Therfore, the app/spftware must cater to the theme, logo and vision of the brand as well. The customization option is seesential for the execution of the custom treadeshow app and for a custome event website as well.
5. Cost
Finally, all the essential features of the trade show app come down to the cost. Always look for an application that will fit your budget. Furthermore, prioritizing quality is essential, as it demonstrates a commitment to providing the best experience for our valued customers. Look at the long-term prosperity.
6. App Reputation and Reviews
Finally, choose an app from a reputed company with the latest functionalities. It is crucial because you need a trusted company for your data with a confidentiality clause and data high-security measures.
Moreover, you can read the reviews for the specific apps to understand what apps offer based on features, functionality, and customer support.
Top Trade Show Apps of 2026
Here are some of the best trade show apps for 2026 that can help you maximize your trade show experience and help your business to grow to its full potential:
1. Eventify
Eventify is a comprehensive trade show app that offers event planning tools, and social media integration with features like live polling, attendee networking, and personalized schedules. You can quickly generate self-check-in registration with the facility of custom badges and QR codes within just a click. Your attendees can promptly check themselves for the event without hustling and waiting in long queues. Thus, it is ideal for on-site, hybrid events, and virtual events.
Eventify has a user-friendly dashboard that integrates with any existing CRM software and marketing tool. The app's compatibility is an exception; you can use it anytime, anywhere on your PCs, laptops, tablets, and smartphones without any hindrance to the operating system. This high compatibility is outstanding and helps you update with live analytics that includes live polling, surveys, and keeping the data secure.
Eventify helps businesses make the most of their trade show experience. This all-in-one mobile event app will help you with not just event planning but also help with the best lead generation too. Enhance trade shows with Eventify app the best companion for your business events.
Key Features of Eventify
- Event planning tools
- Agenda and speaker management
- Exhibitor and attendee directories
- Enhance trade show success with lead capture
- Social media integration
- Live polling and attendee networking
- Personalized schedules
- Custom Website builder
- Custom Registration badges and check-in system
- 24/7 Customer Support
Pricing
Where Eventify Shines
- AI-powered Networking and Enagagement: From booth setting to the networking, Eventify helps in assisting your query with smart AI.
- End-to-end event integration: Lead retrieval is integrated with in-app meeting and agendas, making it much more than an add-on tool.
- Organizer & exhibitor Alignment: It works for both organizers who want to manage exhibitors.
- Clean, structured lead data: Notes, tags, and exports ensure actionable and seamless post-event follow-ups.
Where Eventify Falls
- Custom pricing opacity: Pricing is quote-based, which may slow decision-making for smaller teams seeking upfront costs.
Customer Reviews
Best for
Eventify is an ideal pick for large conferences that want unified lead and engagement data. It is also a perfect solution for exhibitors who want a simple lead-capture without managing additional tools.
2. Whova
Whova is a popular trade show app focusing on networking and attendee engagement. It offers event planning tools, lead management, and social media integration features that help attendees, exhibitors, and organizers connect and interact at tradeshows, conferences, and corporate events. Whova also provides a unique networking platform, allowing attendees to connect before, during, and after the event.
Moreover, the live analytics and exhibit locator make it easier for attendees. It is also great for the exhibitors to catch the interest of the affiliated group of audiences without any hustle, a lead option for lead scanning. One consideration often mentioned about Whova is the potential for further improving the user-friendly interface for the hosts. The feature navigation may require some initial familiarization before effectively planning your event.
Key Features of Whova
- Event planning tools
- Lead management
- Social media integration
- Networking platform
- Agenda and speaker management
- Sponsor and exhibitor promotion
- Streamlining trade shows with efficient ticketing software
Pricing
Whova's Trade show event pricing isn't public; it's custom, based on your event's size and the features you need.
Where Whova Shines
- Strong attendee engagement tools: Leads are often warmer due to built-in networking.
- Easy onboarding: Booth staff requires little to no learning curve to use it.
- Multi-event support: Useful for exhibitors attending several Whova-powered events
Where Whova Falls
- Expensive custom pricing: The features for trade show event package will be customized to cater the needs, making it expensive.
Customer Reviews
Best for
Whova is best for larger event that needs comprehensive event management solution with strong engagement tools.
3. Boomset
The boomset trade show app focuses on event registration and lead management. It offers event planning tools, lead tracking, and social media integration. Boomset also provides on-site event services like badge printing and event check-in.
The lead retrieval and badge scanning features of Boomset make it simple for exhibitors to gather and qualify leads. The app allows exhibitors to quickly and easily collect crucial contact information and preference data by scanning attendance badges. With no manual data entry, this expedited lead retrieval procedure enables exhibitors to follow up quickly, maximizing their ROI and creating deep relationships with potential clients.
One feedback received for the app is that it primarily caters to the attendees, and there is potential for further enhancing functionality for exhibitors and hosts. While the integration with numerous CRM systems is impressive, it requires some working to enhance the user experience based on valuable feedback from our customers.
Key Features of Boomset
- Event planning tools
- Lead tracking and management
- Social media integration
- Simplifying attendee management with event registration software
- Trade show badge scanner app
- On-site event services
Pricing
Boomset Trade show event pricing isn't public; it's custom, based on your event's size and the features you need.
Where Boomset Shines
- Ticketing management: Ticketing system simplifies the hustle of the trade show.
- Badge scanning services: The services include the lead capturing and on-site services for the tradeshow, making is a complete ease.
Where Boomset Falls
- Integration Challenges: Integration with the exisiting registration and ticketing software can be a challenge.
Customer Reviews
No reviews are publically available.
Best for
Boomset excels at high-volume events where fast badge printing and smooth attendee flow are critical. Thus, it can work with 5,000+ attendees or large scale event.
4. Expo Pass
Expo Pass is a potent tradeshow tool that improves the experience of attendees, exhibitors, and event planners. The tool accelerates lead retrieval and personalized agendas, streamlines event management, and creates networking opportunities. Participants get access to schedules, can customize their agendas, and can do registrations.
While organizers can handle registrations using relevant platform, keep track of attendance, and gather analytics, exhibitors gain from features that help them acquire leads and engage visitors. Expo Pass is a comprehensive platform that maximizes the benefits of conferences and tradeshows for all parties concerned.
One area for improvement in the application is providing more customization options. It is undoubtedly one of the most efficient and cloud-based event planning systems, but this drawback has set its incredibility a little back.
Key Features of Expo Pass
- Event registration
- Lead tracking and management
- Social media integration
- Event planning tools
- Personalized schedules and agendas
- Sponsor and exhibitor promotion
- Elevating trade show success with event management and planning platform
Pricing
Expo Pass event pricing isn't public; It is staring at $2,495 based on event's requirement.
Where Expo Pass Shines
- Seamless Integration from Registration to Check-In: Walk-in registrations, last-minute changes, and corrections are handled fluidly right at the kiosk without breaking the attendee flow.
- On-Site Badge Printing services: Expo Pass allows organizers to print high-quality, aesthetically pleasing badges on-demand instantly.
Where Expo Pass Falls
- Exhibitor Management: Exhibitor management feature is hard to use and often malfunction for managing multiple staff members per booth.
- App Login Issue: A few clients often mention the click-to-login feature does not work leaving them logged out. and seeking Customer service.
Customer Reviews
Reviews are not pubilically available.
Best for
Expo Pass good for mid-sized events and organizations that prioritize a flawless, professional on-site registration aesthetic and operational simplicity over complex data logic.
5. iCapture by Cvent
Cvent has a specialised service "iCapture" designed for Trade show. It is a user-friendly trade show application created to improve exhibitor performance at events and streamline lead capture. It offers a comprehensive solution for exhibitors looking to maximize their ROI.
From registration, gathering information, and scanning attendance badges, it offers exhibitors with live analytics for effective lead generation. By removing the need for manual data entry, the software streamlines the lead retrieval procedure and ensures that exhibitor scans concentrate on interacting with potential consumers.
Key Features of Cvent
- Lead tracking and management
- CRM/marketing automation sync
- Advanced analytics
- Mobile lead capture
- Business card scanning
- Lead qualification and scoring
Pricing
iCapture pricing isn't public and are based of event quotes.
Where iCapture Shines
- CRM integration: The CRM system helps in integrating with the existing system used by the vent for registration and check-in.
- High Customization: The customisation option helps the app cater the theme and vision of the brand.
Where iCapture Falls
- Expensive custom pricing: The features for trade show event package will be customized to cater the needs, making it expensive.
Customer Reviews
Best for
iCapture is good for large enterprise events and organizations that are focused on exhibitor success drive.
6. Gather
Gather offers one of the amazing networking options. With features like event registration, personalized schedules, and attendee networking, Gather helps businesses make the most of their trade show experience.
Again, one concern with Gather is the need for enhanced responsiveness and reduced occurrence of glitches. We value the feedback of our users, and we are actively addressing occasional performance concerns like sluggish loading times and intermittent glitches to ensure a seamless user experience. Users must maintain a stable internet connection and remain aware of these potential limitations. Despite these difficulties, the gathering is still useful for attendees looking to maximize their networking possibilities at tradeshows and events.
Key Features of Gather
- Event planning tools
- Lead tracking and management
- Social media integration
- Event registration and management
- Personalized schedules and agendas
- Attendee networking
Pricing
Gather has 3 plans starting at £250 per month to £4800 per year for enterprises.
Where Gather Shines
- CRM integration: The CRM system helps in integrating with the existing system used by the vent for registration and check-in.
- Great Networking tools: The networking tools help in better engagment between attendees and booths.
Where Gather Falls
- Intermittent glitches: The glitches are common issues with the low speed or unstable internet connection.
Customer Reviews
Best for
Gather is ideal for mid-sized events and organizations that are focused on networking.
7. vFairs
voffers a comprehensive and immersive platform for trade shows and events. With features like custom virtual booths, AI-powered matchmaking, and a dedicated lead capture app, vFairs helps businesses create engaging experiences and maximize their event ROI .
One concern users have noted is a desire for continuous UX improvements and refined feature functionality, such as certificate generation and session access processes . We value the feedback of our users and are actively addressing these areas to ensure a seamless and intuitive user experience. While the platform is robust and highly customizable, users should be aware of these occasional nuances.
Despite these considerations, vFairs remains a top choice for organizations looking to deliver professional, scalable, and impactful trade shows.
Key Features of vFairs
- Event planning tools
- Lead capture and management
- Social media integration
- Event registration and ticketing management
- Personalized agendas and schedules
- Attendee networking
Pricing
vFairs does not publicly disclose pricing, as it is tailored to specific event needs.
Where vFairs Shines
- CRM Integration: The platform offers powerful lead capture tools that seamlessly export data into your preferred CRM system, ensuring no potential customer is overlooked and streamlining the post-event follow-up process .
- Exceptional Customer Support: vFairs is repeatedly praised for its outstanding, responsive, and professional customer service. Dedicated project managers provide white-glove support, guiding clients through every step and ensuring event success .
- Great Customization & Scalability: The platform is highly customizable, allowing organizers to create fully branded experiences. It is also scalable, serving events from 50 to over 10,000 attendees across various industries .
Where vFairs Falls
- UX/Feature Refinements: Some users have noted that the UX design of both the app and website could be improved. Specific issues have included a lack of confirmation after QR code check-ins, problems with certificate generation, and clunky processes for accessing Zoom sessions.
Customer Reviews
Best for
vFairs is ideal for organizations of all sizes. It is particularly well-suited for events where customization, scalability, and dedicated support are high priorities.
8. Swapcard
A comprehensive trade show app that maximizes engagement. SwapCard is the first exhibition swap app to offer a wide range of features designed to help exhibitors and attendees have an incredible experience at the event. With a customer-friendly interface and powerful tools, SwapCard can streamline your planning process and push better results.Swapcard’s user-friendly interface is easy to navigate and use, even for first-time users. It offers a wide range of capabilities to cater to the needs of both exhibitors and attendees. It provides treasured insights into attendee behavior and event overall performance. Swapcard integrates with famous CRM and advertising structures.
Key Features of Swapcard
- Event Scheduling
- Al-based networking
- Lead Generation and capture
- Interactive Engagement tool
- Live Analytics and data tracking
Pricing
Swapcard uses a tiered pricing model based on required features and event scale . Publicly listed plans include :
- Starter: $570 per user, per year (includes 5 exhibitors, unlimited events, 30+ integrations)
- Professional: $4,530 per user, per year (includes 10 exhibitors, onboarding, analytics exports)
- Enterprise: Custom pricing (includes 50+ exhibitors, unlimited attendees, custom integrations, white-label options)
Where Swapcard Shines
- Comprehensive All-in-One Platform: Swapcard unifies registration, engagement, on-site management, and post-event analytics on a single platform, eliminating the need for multiple disparate tools.
- High CRM Comptability: Swapcard has good integration and compatiblilty options for different CRM, making it highly reliable.
Where Swapcard Falls
- App Dependency & Profile Requirement: The AI matchmaking relies heavily on attendees downloading the app and completing detailed profiles; "ghost" profiles with empty information receive poor-quality matches.
Customer Reviews
Best for
Swapcard is ideal for B2B trade show organizers, large conference planners, associations, and community managers who need to prove exhibitor ROI through qualified lead generation.
9. PheedLoop
Pheedloop is a complete trade show management software that offers features and tools for organizing and running trade fairs, conferences, and online events. It provides audience engagement tools, analytics, agenda management, exhibitor and sponsor management, virtual event hosting, and registration.
Pheedloop enables event planners to completely personalize every element of their gathering, while attendees may sign up, view the calendar of events, participate in sessions, and network. Virtual booths, lead retrieval tools, and interaction possibilities benefit exhibitors.
We love how Pheedloop distinguishes itself by seamlessly switching between live and virtual event modes. But the deal will get pricier with more features. So, think of the budget and then choose the app.
Key Features of PheedLoop
- Event planning tools
- Lead tracking and management
- Social media integration
- Networking platform
- Virtual event platform
- Personalized schedules and agendas
Where PheedLoop Shines
- Time-Saving Automation: The platform excels at automating repetitive tasks like speaker management, exhibitor communication, and email reminders. One user reports saving "hundreds of hours of work" through features like the Speaker Portal that tracks tasks and deadlines automatically.
- Flexible Streaming Options: PheedLoop offers built-in Meet & Stream with RTMP, free pre-recorded Simulive playback, and integrations with Zoom/ClickMeeting—allowing organizers to mix and match streaming solutions based on budget.
Where PheedLoop Falls
- Additional Costs for Support: While basic support is available, remote and on-site support require extra payment, which can impact budgets for events needing hands-on assistance
Customer Reviews
Best For
PheedLoop is ideal for conferences, association events, exhibitions, nonprofits, and charities that need specific features in stakeholder management, flexible streaming, and robust exhibitor tools.
Benefits of Using Trade Show Applications
There are several reasons why businesses of all sizes should consider using trade show apps. Here are a few remarkable benefits that many people may not be fully aware of. These include:
1. Lead Generation
Trade show apps enable businesses to keep track of all the people they meet at the show, as well as the leads and contacts they generate. They make it easy to track who you talked to, what they said, and when you need to follow up.
Since it also has the data from the marketing strategies and interacts with many sponsors and audiences for your business records, these apps can help in forecasting, not just leading. Still, the risks also make your lead generation more efficient.
2. Improved ROI
Using trade show applications has proven improved ROI, especially for hybrid and virtual events. The only cost you bear is for the app; the rest is about your marketing tools. The exhibitors will quickly set up booths for virtual and hybrid events, many accessible to global audiences. Hence the Return on Investment is about 70 to 80 percent per event.
3. Easy Data collection
Trade show apps provide a convenient way for businesses to collect contact information from potential customers. You can either give access to the information you already have or use the app for event pre-registration and marketing purposes. They can store the information in a database for future reference.
Not just that, these apps can help you maintain the data through the event with live analytics for you to keep a closer eye on. Such data can be used to store the information in a database for future reference and can be shared among peers too.
4. Stay up-to-date
Trade show apps made the announcements and task of keeping everyone updated easier. It allows businesses to send messages quickly and easily, maintaining attendees and business peers informed about what's happening at the show or the latest update on your product or services.
5. Stay Organized
A trade show app helps businesses stay organized and on track while at the show. They provide a list of exhibitors, their booth numbers, and the products they will showcase. They can also provide a map of the venue with directions to each booth.
You can also check how many people have checked in and if the exhibitors have checked in and settled into their booth.
6. Make Networking Easier
A trade show app can make networking easier for everyone involved. They provide a central place for attendees to find exhibitors and schedule meetings, and they can also help organizers keep track of everything that's going on.
Future of Trade Show App Software
As the trade show industry evolves, the app software will become even more critical. We can expect to see more advanced features, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence, being incorporated into trade show app software. Here are the details of how they can help:
In addition, trade show app software is likely to become more integrated with other marketing tools, such as CRM software and e-mail marketing platforms. This integration will help streamline the marketing process and provide a more holistic view of attendee behavior and preferences.
Use Eventify To Organize Your Trade Show Seamlessly
Trade shows have become the future of how businesses showcase their products to their target audience, and the most successful ones will be those who stay ahead of the curve. From Exhibitor interaction to booth orangization, trade shows are evolving for better outcomes. However, organising successful trade shows requires more than passion; they need an end-to-end understanding of the process and the right event platform - Eventify.
At Eventify, we believe that trade shows aren’t just events; they are the leverage your business needs to move to the next level. Our all-in-one event management platform has everything you need to organise the most successful hybrid events. Whether you want to host your first trade show or scale to reach global audiences, we will equip you with all you need to succeed.
.png)
