Stubhub vs Ticketmaster Fees: Which Charges Less?
Planning to catch your favorite artist or cheer on your team? The excitement is real, but the sticker shock from ticket prices can be a buzzkill. Hidden fees often inflate the final cost, making you question your budget. Navigating the world of online ticket vendors can feel like a minefield, especially when it comes to understanding the extra charges.
Two of the biggest players in the game are StubHub and Ticketmaster. Both offer access to a vast selection of events, but their fee structures are notoriously different. Understanding the nuances of these fees is crucial if you want to save money. This comparison will help you navigate the ticket-buying process with more confidence and avoid unwanted surprises at checkout.
We’ll dive deep into the fee structures of StubHub and Ticketmaster, breaking down the various charges you might encounter. We’ll compare their service fees, processing fees, and any other potential add-ons. By the end, you’ll know exactly which platform offers the better deal for your next event, helping you make a more informed purchase decision.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | StubHub | Ticketmaster |
|---|---|---|
| Ticket Availability | Wide Variety | Official & Resale |
| Event Types | Concerts, Sports, Theater | Concerts, Sports, Theater |
| Mobile App | Yes | Yes |
| Ticket Verification | Guaranteed | Verified |
| Seller Tools | Listing & Pricing | Listing & Pricing |
| Customer Support | Available | Available |
| Payment Options | Various | Various |
| Ticket Transfer | Electronic & Physical | Electronic |
| Seating Charts | Interactive | Interactive |
| Inventory | Large Resale Market | Official & Resale |
| FanProtect Guarantee | Yes | Yes |
| International Events | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Service Fees
- Stubhub: StubHub typically charges a buyer fee that can range from 10% to 15% of the ticket price, and a seller fee, usually around 10%. This fee structure is transparent, but can add a significant cost to the overall purchase.
- Ticketmaster Fees: Ticketmaster’s fees are known to be variable, often consisting of a “convenience fee,” a “facility fee,” and sometimes other charges. These fees can sometimes be higher than the ticket price and are often considered opaque and difficult to predict.
- Winner: StubHub
Ticket Availability
- Stubhub: StubHub offers a vast selection of tickets, covering a wide array of events from concerts and sports to theater and comedy shows. Availability is reliant on sellers listing tickets, which can sometimes be limited for highly in-demand events.
- Ticketmaster Fees: Ticketmaster has access to a wide selection of tickets, including those for events where they are the primary vendor. However, they may also face competition from the resale market, especially for popular events.
- Winner: Tie
Transparency
- Stubhub: StubHub displays fees upfront, allowing buyers to see the total cost before purchase. This transparency is a strong advantage, as it avoids surprises at checkout.
- Ticketmaster Fees: Ticketmaster’s fees are often hidden until the final checkout stage. This lack of transparency can be frustrating for buyers and makes it difficult to compare prices.
- Winner: StubHub
Resale Market Focus
- Stubhub: StubHub primarily operates as a resale marketplace. This means the prices are determined by sellers, leading to fluctuating costs based on demand.
- Ticketmaster Fees: Ticketmaster also has a resale market, but it primarily sells tickets directly from event organizers. This can mean a mix of face value and resale tickets, with corresponding fee structures.
- Winner: Tie
Buyer Protection
- Stubhub: StubHub offers a FanProtect Guarantee, which ensures that buyers receive valid tickets or a refund if there are any issues. This protection provides peace of mind.
- Ticketmaster Fees: Ticketmaster offers a similar guarantee, ensuring that tickets purchased through their platform are valid. This is an important security feature for buyers.
- Winner: Tie
Seller Fees
- Stubhub: StubHub seller fees are typically around 10%, which is a competitive rate compared to other resale platforms. However, this is still a cost that sellers must factor into their pricing.
- Ticketmaster Fees: Ticketmaster charges sellers a fee for listing and selling tickets, which varies based on the event and the selling price. These fees can be significant, especially for high-value tickets.
- Winner: StubHub
Mobile Experience
- Stubhub: StubHub has a user-friendly mobile app that allows users to easily browse, purchase, and manage tickets. The app is well-designed and offers a smooth user experience.
- Ticketmaster Fees: Ticketmaster’s mobile app is also user-friendly but has been known to crash during high-demand events. However, it still offers easy access to tickets.
- Winner: Tie
Customer Service
- Stubhub: StubHub offers customer support through various channels, including phone, email, and live chat. Their customer service is generally responsive and helpful.
- Ticketmaster Fees: Ticketmaster customer service has received mixed reviews, with some users reporting difficulties in resolving issues. Response times can sometimes be slow.
- Winner: StubHub
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Ticket Availability | StubHub |
| Official Source | Ticketmaster |
| Seller Tools | Tie |
| Fan Protection | StubHub |
| Ticket Transfer Options | Ticketmaster |
What They Have in Common:
- Event Variety: Both platforms offer tickets to a wide array of events, including concerts, sporting events, and theater performances. They cater to a diverse audience with varying interests.
- Mobile Apps: Both StubHub and Ticketmaster provide mobile applications, allowing users to browse, purchase, and manage tickets on their smartphones or tablets. This feature enhances user convenience and accessibility.
- Customer Support: Both platforms offer customer support to assist users with inquiries, issues, and concerns related to ticket purchases or sales. This ensures a positive user experience.
- Ticket Transfer: Both platforms offer options for transferring tickets, making it easy to share tickets with friends, family, or other attendees. This feature enhances flexibility for users.
- Seating Charts: Both sites provide interactive seating charts, which allows users to view available seats and select their preferred locations within a venue. This visual aid assists in making informed seating choices.
StubHub Vs Ticketmaster Fees Buying Guide
Understanding Fee Structures
Both StubHub and Ticketmaster employ complex fee structures, making it crucial for buyers to understand how these charges are calculated. Ticketmaster typically includes fees directly during the purchase process, often displayed as “convenience fees” and “order processing fees.” These fees are generally a percentage of the ticket price, but can also be a flat fee per ticket or per order. StubHub, as a secondary marketplace, has a different approach. Their fees are also percentage-based, but are added on top of the listed price, making it appear that the fees are higher than Ticketmaster’s. The variability of fees depends on the event and the demand.
Comparing Convenience Fees
Convenience fees are a major component of the overall cost when buying tickets. Ticketmaster’s convenience fees can vary significantly depending on the venue, event, and the method of purchase (online, phone, or in-person). Online purchases generally incur the highest fees. StubHub’s fees are included in the final price, and they can vary. Because of this, it is important to compare the final price, not just the base ticket price, when deciding between the two platforms. Always consider the total cost when making your decision.
Hidden Costs and Surcharges
Be aware of hidden costs and surcharges that might not be immediately apparent. Ticketmaster may add fees for mobile tickets, print-at-home tickets, or even for using a specific payment method. StubHub’s fees are typically included in the listed price, but it’s still essential to scrutinize the final total. Both platforms may charge extra for delivery, especially for physical tickets. Always review the order summary carefully before completing your purchase to avoid any unexpected charges. Pay close attention to the fine print.
Negotiating Fees (or Avoiding Them)
While directly negotiating fees with Ticketmaster is generally not possible, there are strategies to minimize them. Choosing the “mobile ticket” option can sometimes reduce fees compared to print-at-home tickets. Purchasing tickets at the venue box office (if available) can also bypass some fees. For StubHub, there isn’t direct negotiation, but you can sometimes find better deals by comparing prices for similar tickets from different sellers. Sometimes, buying tickets closer to the event date can lead to lower prices as sellers attempt to offload their tickets.
Refund and Cancellation Policies’ Impact on Fees
The refund and cancellation policies of both platforms significantly affect the overall cost. Ticketmaster’s policies vary depending on the event and the venue. Some tickets are non-refundable, while others may offer refunds under specific circumstances. StubHub generally has a more buyer-friendly policy, often providing a full refund if the tickets are not delivered or if the event is canceled. Understand the refund policies before you buy to protect yourself from potential financial losses. Carefully review the terms and conditions.
Maximizing Value and Avoiding Overpayment
To maximize value and avoid overpayment, compare prices across different platforms, including the official venue website and other secondary marketplaces. Consider the total cost, including all fees, before making a purchase. Be flexible with your seating choices; sometimes, less desirable seats offer better value. Look for deals and promotions, such as discounts for specific events or for using particular payment methods. Finally, always read reviews and check the seller’s rating (especially on StubHub) to minimize the risk of a negative experience and unexpected fees. The key is comparison.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy StubHub If…
- You want access to a vast marketplace of tickets from various sellers.
- You prioritize the FanProtect Guarantee for secure transactions.
- You are looking for tickets to a sold-out event.
- You want to compare a wide variety of ticket options.
Buy Ticketmaster If…
- You prefer purchasing tickets directly from the official source.
- You want to easily manage and transfer your tickets electronically.
- You are looking for tickets to a specific event and are okay with paying fees.
- You want to purchase tickets for events with exclusive access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are convenience fees?
Convenience fees are charges added by Ticketmaster for the convenience of purchasing tickets online or by phone. They cover the costs of processing orders, providing customer service, and maintaining the online platform. These fees are typically a percentage of the ticket price or a flat fee per ticket or order. They are a common source of frustration for ticket buyers as they add to the overall cost of the tickets. The amount can vary widely.
How do StubHub’s fees work?
StubHub’s fees are included in the final price displayed to the buyer. Sellers set the initial price, and StubHub adds its fees on top of that. The fees are a percentage of the ticket price and help cover the costs of operating the marketplace, providing customer support, and guaranteeing the transaction. The total price visible is what you pay, making the fee structure more transparent, but often higher than Ticketmaster’s initial listed price.
Are Ticketmaster fees always the same?
No, Ticketmaster fees are not always the same. They vary based on several factors, including the venue, the event, the ticket price, and the method of purchase. Online purchases generally incur higher fees than in-person purchases. The type of event (concert, sports game, etc.) and the popularity of the event can also influence the fee structure. Always check the final price before completing a purchase.
Can I avoid Ticketmaster fees?
Yes, there are some ways to potentially avoid or minimize Ticketmaster fees. Purchasing tickets at the venue box office (if available) often eliminates or reduces convenience fees. Opting for mobile tickets can sometimes lower fees compared to print-at-home options. Purchasing tickets during presales or through certain promotions may also offer lower fees. However, these options are not always available.
What if my event is canceled?
If an event is canceled, both Ticketmaster and StubHub typically offer refunds. Ticketmaster’s refund policy depends on the specific event and the terms outlined at the time of purchase. StubHub generally provides a full refund for canceled events, including the fees. It’s essential to review the refund policies before purchasing tickets to understand your rights in case of cancellation. Always check the fine print of the conditions.
How do I compare prices effectively?
To compare prices effectively, look at the final total cost, including all fees, for each platform. Compare the same type of tickets (e.g., similar seats) across Ticketmaster, StubHub, and other ticket vendors. Consider the seller’s rating on StubHub. Factor in potential delivery fees, and check the refund policies. It is important to know the total price and the additional fees. Comparison shopping ensures getting the best possible price.
Is StubHub safer than Ticketmaster?
Both StubHub and Ticketmaster offer protections for buyers, but they operate differently. Ticketmaster is the primary seller, so it controls the ticket supply. StubHub is a marketplace, so it relies on sellers. StubHub’s FanProtect Guarantee ensures buyers receive valid tickets or a refund. Ticketmaster’s policies vary, but it is generally a reliable source. Both offer security, but StubHub’s guarantee may provide more peace of mind.
Final Verdict
Both StubHub and Ticketmaster have their pros and cons when it comes to fees. Ticketmaster’s fees can sometimes be lower upfront, but the additional charges can make the final cost unpredictable. StubHub’s fees are included in the price, which makes it transparent, but can appear higher. Considering the refund policies and overall transparency, a final decision can be made.
Winner: StubHub