Whether you’re looking to purchase concert, sports, or theater tickets, Ticketmaster is one of the most popular ticket retailers. With both an app and a website available, you may wonder which is better for your ticket purchasing needs. There are pros and cons to each platform that are worth considering.
Ease of Use
One of the most important factors when deciding between the Ticketmaster app and website is how easy each is to use. Here is a comparison of the user experience on each platform:
Finding Events
The Ticketmaster app features an events feed on the main page where you can scroll through upcoming events in your area or search for specific events. The website has a more traditional search bar where you must enter location and keywords to find events. The app feed makes discovering new events simpler.
Purchasing Tickets
Both platforms guide you through the ticket purchasing process in a similar step-by-step manner. You select your event, choose your tickets, and checkout. The interfaces are clean and intuitive on both.
Managing Tickets
The Ticketmaster app allows you to store all of your tickets in one place for easy access. You can view barcodes, transfer tickets to friends, or sell tickets you can’t use right from the app. The website does not offer centralized ticket management.
Ease of Use Winner: The App
With the events feed and consolidated ticket management, the Ticketmaster app generally provides a smoother user experience than the desktop website.
Features
The features available on the Ticketmaster platforms can also influence which option you choose to use. Here is an overview of unique features:
App Features
– Mobile ticket access – tickets stored directly in the app
– Location-based event recommendations
– In-app messaging with friends
Website Features
– Larger event search database
– Desktop ticket printing
– More detailed event information and seating charts
Features Winner: Varies
The app takes advantage of mobile-centric features, but the website offers a deeper event database and info. The best option depends on if having tickets on your phone or more expansive event browsing is more valuable to you.
Performance
Speed and reliability are important when buying tickets. Here is how the platforms compare:
Page Load Speed
The Ticketmaster app is optimized for quick page loads. The website has more images and content that can sometimes lag on the page.
Checkout Process
Both the app and website use responsive checkout processes to prevent timeouts. The app checkout may be slightly faster with less page loading.
Reliability
Ticketmaster maintains strong uptime for both platforms. Outages are rare. The app may work better in areas with low connectivity.
Performance Winner: The App
The Ticketmaster app offers a reliably fast experience crucial for hot ticket purchases. The website is reasonably quick but may falter in poor connectivity.
Ticket Availability
Will you see more available ticket options on one platform versus the other? Here are the details:
Differences in Listings
The Ticketmaster website and app both pull from the same ticket inventory database. There are no exclusives to either platform.
Timing Differences
Newly listed tickets appear at the same time across both website and app. One platform will not have earlier access to new seats.
Pricing Differences
Prices remain consistent no matter if you book via the app or website. You’ll pay the exact same amount.
Ticket Availability Winner: Tie
There are no advantages to either platform when it comes to ticket availability. You’ll have equal access to all seats and prices.
Perks
Ticketmaster offers users various perks that provide value. Here are the perk differences:
App Perks
– First access to select event tickets during presales
– Free refills on large sodas at select venues
– Occasional ticket discounts exclusive to app users
Website Perks
– Ticket insurance only available online
– Ticketmaster Verified fan access – earn preferred event access by engaging with artists via the website
– Entry into online ticket lotteries
Perks Winner: Varies
Depending on the events you attend and personal preferences, you may find greater value in the app or website perks. Compare and choose the perks most relevant to your needs.
Payment Options
Convenience of payment could be a determining factor. Here are the ways you can pay on each platform:
App
– Credit card
– Apple Pay/Google Pay
– PayPal
Website
– Credit card
– PayPal
– Ticketmaster gift cards
– Ticketmaster Credit Card
Payment Options Winner: Website
While both platforms accept credit cards and PayPal, the website offers more ways to pay through gift cards and their own credit card.
Security
Safely securing tickets and personal data matters. Here are the security considerations:
App Safety
– Logins protected with 2-factor authentication
– AES-256 encryption secures all data
– Secure token-based authentication for payments
Website Safety
– Site certified secure by Norton and TrustGuard
– SSL encryption on all pages
– Regular 3rd-party security auditing
Security Winner: Draw
Ticketmaster implements top security practices and technology across both website and app. Your personal information remains protected on both platforms.
Customer Support
If any issues arise, customer service is available through the following channels:
App Support
– In-app chat with a ticket agent
– Support section with FAQs
Website Support
– Phone support
– Email support
– Live chat support
Support Winner: Website
With phone, email, and chat support, the Ticketmaster website offers more ways to conveniently connect with a live agent if needed.
Conclusion
While both provide a solid ticketing experience, we come down on the side of the Ticketmaster app as the better option for most use cases thanks to:
– Smoother mobile interface
– Faster page loads and checkout
– App exclusive perks and presales
– Centralized ticket wallet
However, the website remains a sound choice for those who:
– Prefer purchasing tickets on desktop
– Want the widest event database search
– Find value in the website’s unique perks
So consider if mobile convenience or an expanded online experience matters more. Both platforms allow you to securely purchase the tickets you want.
The best ticketing home comes down to your priorities as a live event fan. Focus on where you can access the greatest advantages. With the Ticketmaster app offering a fully-featured mobile experience, it meets the needs of most users. But the website still retains strengths for specific functionality.
Evaluate both platforms using this comparison. Whether you want to enjoy a concert on your phone or search for the perfect seats on your computer, rest assured Ticketmaster has you covered.
| Category | App | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Winner | |
| Features | Varies | |
| Performance | Winner | |
| Ticket Availability | Tie | |
| Perks | Varies | |
| Payment Options | Winner | |
| Security | Draw | |
| Customer Support | Winner |
