What is the difference between standard and general admission tickets?

When attending a concert, show, or other event, customers are usually given the option to purchase different types of tickets. The two most common ticket types are standard admission and general admission. While they may sound similar, there are some key differences between standard and general admission tickets.

Definition of Standard Admission Tickets

Standard admission tickets are probably what most people think of when they imagine an event ticket. With standard admission tickets, each ticket is assigned to a specific seat in the venue. The seat number will be printed on the ticket. Standard admission tickets ensure that customers will be able to sit in reserved spots that are assigned to them.

Some key things to know about standard admission tickets:

• Each ticket is tied to a specific seat in the venue
• Seat numbers are printed on the tickets
• Tickets are usually sold at different price points based on seat location (front row tickets typically cost more than nosebleed seats)
• Customers with standard admission tickets are guaranteed a seat
• Tickets are sold in advance of the event
• Standard admission seating is common for theaters, sporting events, and concerts in arenas or amphitheaters

Definition of General Admission Tickets

General admission (GA) tickets are different from standard admission tickets in some important ways. With GA tickets, each ticket provides entry to the event but does not guarantee any specific seat. It is up to the customer to arrive early enough to claim a seat.

Some key things to know about GA tickets:

• Tickets allow entry but do not reserve specific seats
• No seat number is printed on GA tickets
• Customers must arrive early to get the best available seats
• GA tickets are usually first come, first served seating
• Tickets are often sold at one general price, regardless of seat location
• GA seating is common at smaller music venues, festivals, and some theaters

Key Differences Between Standard and General Admission

While both standard and general admission tickets grant entry to an event, there are some notable ways that they differ:

As you can see, the main difference comes down to assigned seating versus open seating. Standard admission tickets ensure customers will have a reserved spot while GA ticket holders must compete for prime seats by showing up early.

When Are General Admission Tickets Used?

General admission seating is commonly used for certain types of events where reserved seating does not make as much sense:

• Concerts at small music venues – The floor area is open for fans to stand rather than having rows of seats. GA allows as many people to cram in as safely permitted.
• Festivals – Outdoor festivals rarely have neatly organized rows of seats. Instead there are open fields or grounds. GA tickets allow free flowing crowds.
• Small theater shows – More intimate theater performances sometimes opt for GA standing room space over assigned seating.
• Sporting events with large standing room sections – Some stadiums or arenas have GA standing room areas like on the floor or in certain endzones.

The flexibility and simplicity of GA ticketing makes sense for these types of events. Fans are able to claim spots at their own discretion rather than filling rows in order.

When Are Standard Admission Tickets Used?

Standard admission tickets are appropriate for events held in venues built with tiered rows of seats. The predefined seats make it easy to sell tickets linked to specific locations. Standard admission is commonly used for:

• Concerts in large arenas or amphitheaters – Most major arena concerts are done with standard reserved seating since seats are already in place.
• Theater performances – Plays, musicals, and other theatrical shows utilize the existing rows of theater seats. Specific seats can be sold.
• Sporting events in stadiums – Arenas and stadiums have rows of seats making it easy to sell defined tickets.
• Movie theaters – Almost all cinemas use reserved seating since the rows and locations are predetermined.

Standard admission ticketing matches up perfectly with venues that already have specific numbered seats. It provides order and organization for selling tickets in large volumes for big events.

Should I Choose Standard or GA Tickets?

If given the choice between purchasing standard or GA tickets, there are some factors to consider:

• Type of event – As discussed above, some events like festivals inherently lend themselves better to GA while seated theaters or cinemas are better suited for standard admissions.
• Expected popularity – Very popular shows that are likely to sell out may warrant buying standard admission tickets well in advance to secure seats. GA tickets carry more risk of missing out.
• Group size – It is easier to get consecutive standard admission seats for large groups or families compared to scrambling for a block of open GA spots.
• Timing flexibility – If you are willing and able to arrive extremely early, GA tickets provide more opportunity to claim prime spots. Standard tickets remove timing pressures.
• Price difference – In some cases GA tickets may be more affordable than standard so the value may offset the seating uncertainty.

There are valid cases to be made for both standard and general admission tickets depending on personal preferences. Consumers should weigh out the pros and cons based on the specific event and their own priorities.

Purchasing Standard or GA Tickets

Standard and general admission tickets can typically be purchased:

• Online via the event or venue website
• By phone through the box office
• In person at the box office or ticket outlet
• Through a ticket resale marketplace

Purchasing directly through the event’s primary channels typically ensures the best availability and prices. Buying well in advance is recommended for very popular events that are likely to sell out quickly.

Keep in mind that standard admission tickets will be attached to specific seat numbers while GA tickets are not. When shopping for tickets, carefully check what type of admission you are selecting.

Benefits of Standard Admission Tickets

Some key benefits of standard admission tickets include:

• Guaranteed seat – Customers are assured a reserved spot in the venue
• Secure location – Specific spots can be selected in advance such as closer seats
• Convenience – No need to arrive extremely early or wait in long lines
• Ideal for groups/families – Easier to get consecutive seats together
• Predetermined prices – Cost is consistent based on seat location

Downsides of Standard Admission

Potential downsides of standard admission tickets:

• Less flexibility – Customers must sit in their assigned seat
• More expensive – Premium seat locations can be costly
• Reselling is restricted – Tickets cannot be freely transferred since they are tied to specific seats

Benefits of General Admission Tickets

Some benefits of general admission tickets include:

• Freedom in seating – Get the best available seat upon arrival
• More affordable – Usually one flat price instead of tiered pricing based on seat quality
• Open transferability – Tickets can be freely transferred or resold since they are not tied to specific seats
• Spontaneity – GA tickets may go on sale closer to event date compared to standard

Downsides of General Admission

Some potential disadvantages of GA tickets:

• No seat guarantees – Have to arrive extremely early to secure a good spot
• Long waits – Potential for very long lines to get into venue
• Standing room only sections – Often have to stand in crowded group situations
• Harder to sit together – May be impossible to get consecutive spots for groups
• Increased chaos – Commonly more frenzied atmosphere trying to get spots

Is One Type Better Than the Other?

There is no definitive answer for whether standard or general admission ticketing is better overall. Each method has advantages that lend themselves better to certain event scenarios. Key factors are the venue layout, the type of event, expected demand, and personal preferences.

Standard admission tickets provide reserved seating, which customers may view as safer, more organized, and better suited for group outings. General admission allows more freedom and flexibility for fans willing to take a more active role in staking out good spots.

In many cases, an event will offer some tickets of both types. For example, a concert may have standard admission seating in the stands of an arena but general admission floor access directly in front of the stage. This allows customers to choose their preference.

Conclusion

Standard admission and general admission tickets each have their own pros and cons for event attendees. Standard tickets guarantee reserved seats while general admission requires arriving early to claim spots. Factors like event type, venue layout, group size, and cost come into play when choosing between them. There is no consensus on one ticket type being inherently better, as they are each suitable for different scenarios based on customer priorities. In some cases, having both options available provides the most flexibility.