The best community management software in 2025 combines powerful engagement tools with user-friendly interfaces to help organizations build thriving online communities.
Looking for the right online community platform? Here's what you need to know: Today's top platforms offer advanced features for content management, member engagement tracking, and customizable spaces, all while reducing your administrative burden.
We've analyzed the market's leading online community management software
based on:
- Feature sets and scalability
- Pricing and value proposition
- User experience and interface
- Integration capabilities
- Customer support quality
In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover which software for community management best fits your needs, complete with detailed pricing breakdowns and real user insights.
What is Community Management Software?
Community management software is an all-in-one resource that enables organizations to create, manage, and grow their brand-owned community. These platforms provide essential tools for content planning, user engagement, and community analytics.
Modern community management platforms help businesses:
- Foster fruitful conversations and build relationships
- Track engagement rates and community insights
- Streamline moderation conversations
- Manage online events and resources
- Integrate with your existing tech stack
The right platform acts as your central hub for delivering exceptional community experience while meeting your business objectives.
Who Needs a Community Management Software?
Community management software has become essential for organizations seeking to build engaged digital spaces and meaningful connections. Here's who benefits most from these platforms:
Businesses
Companies need community management tools to transform customers into advocates. From handling customer service issues to gathering product feedback, businesses use these platforms to boost retention and drive growth. Modern brands leverage custom branded communities to create exclusive spaces away from noisy social media.
Nonprofit Organizations
Community associations and nonprofits use these platforms to coordinate volunteers, manage donations, and maintain donor engagement. With features like resource library and discussion forums, they can create sustainable support networks and maximize their social impact through organized online community management.
Educational Institutions
Schools and universities leverage community management platforms to connect students, faculty, and alumni. They use features like online courses, virtual events, and content calendar management to create collaborative learning environments. This helps maintain engagement long after graduation through active community channels.
Membership Organizations
Professional associations and member-based groups rely on community management features to deliver value to their active users. They use these platforms for managing online forums, facilitating networking through custom rules, and organizing events—all while maintaining their community standards through effective moderation conversations.
6 Key Features to Consider in a Community Management Software
When choosing your community management app, focus on these essenti al features that differentiate basic tools from comprehensive solutions:
User-Friendly Interface
A user friendly interface reduces the learning curve for both administrators and members. Look for platforms with intuitive navigation, clear layouts, and mobile responsiveness. Your community space should be accessible across all digital channels without technical hurdles.
Customization Options
Strong custom branding capabilities ensure your community reflects your organization's identity. Prioritize platforms offering custom fields, custom plans, and flexible design options. This allows you to create a unique environment that aligns with your brand while supporting various community channels.
Analytics and Reporting
Comprehensive community analytics help track success and guide strategy. Your platform should provide detailed insights into engagement rates, member behavior, and content performance. Look for an analytics tool that offers both high-level metrics and granular community insights.
Integration Capabilities
Your community management feature set must work seamlessly with your existing tech stack. Seek platforms offering custom integrations with popular tools like CRM systems, email marketing platforms, and payment processors. This ensures smooth data flow across your entire digital ecosystem.
Monetization Features
Choose platforms that support your revenue goals through multiple monetization options. Whether through online courses, premium memberships, or virtual events, your software should provide flexible tools to generate value from your community space.
Security Measures
Robust security features protect your brand-owned community and member data. Look for platforms offering advanced permissions, data encryption, and compliance with industry standards. This builds trust with members while protecting sensitive information.
11 Best Community Management Software The Pros Use in 2025
Finding the right community management software can be overwhelming.
To make your decision easier, we’ve compiled the 11 best online community management software—evaluating their custom integrations, content management, engagement rates, and scalability.
Whether you need an all-in-one resource or a discussion forum for online events, you’ll find the ideal
solution below.
1. Innoloft's LoftOS:
LoftOS is the ultimate community management platform designed for organizations that want full control over their digital spaces. Unlike other online community platforms, LoftOS offers custom branding, community analytics, and customizable matchmaking and more. All with an intuitive, user-friendly interface.
Whether you're running customer communities, an association management software, or even a branded online community platform, LoftOS delivers community success with minimal administrative burden.
LoftOS Pricing Plans
LoftOS provides flexible pricing to suit different business objectives and community sizes, and the ability to scale as you grow.
- Start Free: Test and explore launching a community space with essential community management tools.
- Starter: $29/month for small communities
- Team: $349/month with essential features and personal support
- Professional: $829/month including all community management features and success services for active communities
- Enterprise: $1,949/month for expanded support for larger communities and high user volumes
LoftOS Features
LoftOS is a fully customizable ecosystem designed for brand-owned communities, customer communities, and membership organizations that need complete control over their digital spaces.
Here’s what makes LoftOS stand out:
- Flexible Access Control: Manage platform access with customizable registration and login options based on your governance needs.
- Custom Modules & AI Assistance: Build tailored databases with LoftOS’s module creator kit. Whether you’re organizing online courses, discussion forums, or a resource library. Plus, the built-in AI Assistant learns from your content management system, guiding users to the most relevant insights.
- Custom Branding & Integrated Web Page Builder: LoftOS lets you craft a fully branded experience with its no-code web page builder. Customize landing pages, community spaces, databases and more without relying on developers.
- Monetization Through Ads & Memberships: Generate revenue directly from your community space by running ads, setting up premium membership tiers, or selling access to virtual events and exclusive content.
- AI-Powered Matchmaking for Smarter Networking: Curate meaningful interactions with custom AI matchmaking that adapts to your community strategy. Define exactly what makes a perfect match—shared interests, location proximity, industry expertise—and enable 1:1 networking opportunities that drive engagement.
- Advanced Analytics & Community Insights: Track engagement rates, community growth, and content performance with real-time analytics tools. Optimize your online community management strategy with data-driven insights that measure customer experience and business objectives.
LoftOS Pros and Cons
Making an informed choice means understanding where LoftOS excels and where it may require strategic planning.
Pro 1: Unmatched Customization
LoftOS provides an unparalleled level of customization, allowing organizations to tailor every aspect of their community management platform. From custom modules and branded interfaces to AI-driven matchmaking, users can design an experience that aligns perfectly with their business objectives.
Pro 2: Superior Support & Implementation
A dedicated customer success team ensures online community managers get the most out of the platform. Whether you're configuring custom integrations or scaling your community, LoftOS provides hands-on support at every stage.
Con 1: Requires Strategic Planning for Best Results
The platform's extensive feature set means it works best for organizations with a clear vision of their community space. While this level of flexibility ensures better outcomes, strategic planning is necessary to fully utilize its community management features.
Con 2: Learning Curve for Advanced Features
LoftOS offers deep customization, but some advanced functionalities—such as custom rules, analytics tools, and matchmaking—may take time to master for non-technical users. However, the platform's documentation and support help bridge this gap.
2. Hivebrite: Secure, Branded Communities for Universities & Enterprises
Hivebrite is designed for organizations that need a branded, secure member hub. It’s a popular choice among universities, alumni networks, nonprofits, and enterprises that require customizable community engagement tools with strong data security measures.
Hivebrite Pricing Plans
Hivebrite pricing follows a custom model, tailoring costs based on the size of the community, features required, and organizational needs.
- No publicly listed pricing—requires a demo or consultation for a quote.
- Industry reviews estimate starting costs at around $800 per month, making it more suitable for mid-sized to large organizations.
For businesses and institutions that need enterprise-grade security, advanced community analytics, and a feature-rich community experience, Hivebrite offers a scalable solution—but at a premium cost.
Hivebrite Features
Hivebrite provides a comprehensive suite of tools for managing community associations, professional networks, and membership-based organizations.
- Branded Community Spaces: Full custom branding with white-label options, allowing organizations to create visually distinct community hubs.
- Advanced Member Directory: Segmentation tools enable personalized networking experiences for different user groups.
- Event & Virtual Engagement: Event management tools, including ticketing, scheduling, and live-streaming capabilities for online events.
- Built-in Monetization: Support for donations, membership fees, gated content, and other monetization features.
- CRM & Third-Party Integrations: Connects seamlessly with Salesforce, analytics tools, and other tech stack components for a cohesive online community management strategy.
- Community Analytics: Real-time insights into engagement rates, content performance, and membership retention.
Hivebrite Pros and Cons
Pro 1: High-Level Customization & Security
Hivebrite is one of the most customizable community platforms, offering deep branding options, advanced segmentation, and strong data security, making it ideal for enterprise and institutional use.
Pro 2: Robust Event & Member Management
From event ticketing to member directories, Hivebrite makes it easy to organize networking opportunities, virtual conferences, and exclusive member interactions in one place.
Con 1: Expensive & Pricing Lacks Transparency
With custom pricing starting around $800 per month, Hivebrite is cost-prohibitive for smaller teams. Additionally, lack of public pricing can make budgeting difficult for organizations comparing community management tools. For teams on a tighter budget, a hivebrite alternative might offer more trans parent pricing and better cost flexibility.
Con 2: Steep Learning Curve & Limited Integrations
While feature-rich, Hivebrite’s UI requires time to master. The platform also lacks extensive third-party integrations, meaning community leaders may need to rely on manual workarounds.
3. Softr: No-Code Community Building for Startups & Entrepreneurs
Softr is a no-code platform designed for entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses looking to create community-driven websites and apps.
It offers drag-and-drop simplicity while integrating with Airtable and Zapier, making it a strong choice for those needing a lightweight, customizable solution without development expertise.
Softr Pricing Plans
Free: Start for free with basic features.
Basic: $139/month Access to member portals and gated content.
Professional: $269/month Includes advanced community templates and integrations.
Business: (Custom Pricing) Tailored for larger-scale platforms requiring custom workflows.
Softr Features
Drag-and-Drop Builder: Create online community platforms with an intuitive editor.
Pre-Made Templates: Forums, directories, and course platforms for quick deployment.
Member Portals & Gated Content: Restrict access to premium content and digital spaces.
Stripe Payment Integration: Monetization via subscriptions and one-time payments.
Airtable & Zapier Support: Connect your tech stack seamlessly for workflow automation.
Softr Pros and Cons
Pro 1: Easy Drag-and-Drop Functionality
Softr enables fast deployment of community spaces with no coding required, making it an accessible choice for small businesses and solo creators.
Pro 2: Budget-Friendly for Small Teams
Unlike enterprise community management platforms, Softr offers a low-cost entry point, making it ideal for those seeking affordable community engagement tools.
Con 1: Limited Customization for Complex Needs
For large organizations needing advanced branding and backend control, Softr's customization options may feel restrictive.
Con 2: No Native Mobile App
Softr lacks a mobile-first approach, which can be a drawback for community managers seeking cross-platform engagement.
4. Bettermode: Feature-Rich Community Platform for SaaS & E-Learning
Bettermode is a comprehensive online community management software designed for SaaS companies, subscription businesses, and e-learning platforms. It offers customizable community hubs, gamification, and automation, making it a great fit for user engagement and customer support.
Bettermode Pricing Plans
- Starter: Free. Limited access for small communities.
- Pro: $49/month Supports unlimited members with basic tools.
- Enterprise: (Custom Pricing) Includes advanced analytics, API access, and custom integrations.
Bettermode Features
- Branded Community Hubs: Fully customizable spaces for customer communities.
- Gamification Tools: Badges, leaderboards, and rewards to boost engagement.
- Content Library: Centralized space for resources, tutorials, and documentation.
- Automated Workflows: Onboarding, engagement tracking, and content planning.
- Multi-Channel Notifications: Email and in-app messaging to keep members informed.
Bettermode Pros and Cons
Pro 1: Modern UI & User Experience
Bettermode’s clean interface makes navigation easy, improving customer experience and engagement rates.
Pro 2: Strong API & Workflow Automation
The platform integrates seamlessly into existing business objectives, enabling automated community management tools.
Con 1: Limited Advanced Features on Lower Plans
Higher-tier functionality, including community analytics and custom AI integrations, is locked behind premium pricing.
Con 2: Learning Curve for Customization
While highly flexible, Bettermode requires technical expertise to unlock its full potential, making it less ideal for first-time community managers.
5. Circle: Best for Content Creators
Circle positions itself as an all-in-one community management platform for creators and brands prioritizing member engagement rates. This platform excels in combining content management with robust community features, making it ideal for businesses focused on course creation and membership sites. Their online community platform stands out for its clean interface and strong monetization capabilities.
Circle Pricing Plans
Circle offers four-tier pricing to accommodate different community management needs.
The Professional plan starts at $89/month for essential features, while the Business tier at $199/month adds advanced workflows. The Enterprise plan ($360/month) provides full feature access with priority support. Custom pricing is available for branded apps, making it flexible for various business objectives.
Circle Features
Circle's community management tools include built-in payment processing and comprehensive content planning capabilities. The platform offers robust discussion forums, live streaming functionality, and detailed community analytics. Key features include custom branded spaces, event management tools, and gated content options. Their mobile app ensures members can access the community space anywhere, while the Teachable integration enhances course delivery capabilities.
Circle Pros and Cons
Pro 1: Outstanding Interface Design
Circle's clean, intuitive interface reduces the administrative burden on community managers. The platform's thoughtful design makes navigation seamless for both administrators and members, ensuring high user engagement rates across all community channels.
Pro 2: Strong Monetization Tools
The platform excels in revenue generation features, offering seamless integration with Stripe and versatile options for creating paid memberships. This makes it particularly valuable for creators looking to monetize their online community management efforts.
Con 1: Limited Analytics Capabilities
While Circle offers basic community insights, its analytics tools may not satisfy organizations needing deep data analysis. The platform's reporting features could use enhancement for tracking complex engagement rates and member behavior patterns.
Con 2: Integration Constraints
Circle's focus on being a standalone community management platform means it may require additional tools for comprehensive functionality. Organizations needing extensive custom integrations might find the platform's capabilities limiting.
6. B2match: Best for Event-Focused Communities
B2match specializes in event-driven community management software, focusing on facilitating meaningful business connections through intelligent matchmaking algorithms. This platform transforms traditional networking into structured, results-driven digital spaces.
B2match Pricing Plans
B2match operates on a custom pricing model, requiring potential users to contact sales for detailed quotes. This approach allows for tailored solutions based on event scale and specific features needed, though it may impact transparency for organizations seeking immediate cost of community management information.
B2match Features
The platform's core strength lies in its advanced matchmaking capabilities and comprehensive event management tools. It offers sophisticated participant management, detailed analytics tool integration, and virtual meeting capabilities. The platform excels in creating structured online events with features like automated scheduling and real-time feedback collection.
B2match Pros and Cons
Pro 1: Advanced Networking Tools
The platform's intelligent matchmaking algorithms create meaningful connections, significantly improving the quality of fruitful conversations and networking outcomes during events.
Pro 2: Comprehensive Event Features
B2match offers robust tools for virtual and hybrid events, including registration systems, video conferencing, and informal networking lounges that enhance the overall community experience.
Con 1: High Cost Barrier
The platform's pricing structure may be prohibitive for smaller organizations or those just starting their community management journey, particularly for hosting smaller-scale events.
Con 2: Limited Community Features
While excellent for events, B2match's focus on networking means limited features for ongoing community engagement and everyday content management needs.
7. Mighty Networks: Best for Course Creators
Mighty Networks provides a versatile online community platform that combines course delivery with robust community management features. It's designed for entrepreneurs and creators who want to build dedicated learning communities with strong engagement potential.
Mighty Networks Pricing Plans
The platform offers a tiered pricing structure starting with the Community Plan at $41/month. The Courses Plan ($99/month) adds learning features, while the Business Plan ($179/month) includes advanced customization. The Path-to-Pro Plan ($360/month) provides comprehensive features for scaling communities, all beginning with a 14-day free trial.
Mighty Networks Features
Mighty Networks excels in combining community management tools with learning features. The platform offers integrated course creation, subscription management, and live streaming capabilities. Their custom branded mobile apps and comprehensive community analytics help maintain engagement across various digital channels.
Mighty Networks Pros and Cons
Pro 1: Versatile Community Building
The platform offers highly customizable spaces that support various community channels, making it
ideal for creating dynamic learning environments and engaged member communities.
Pro 2: Strong Mobile Experience
Their native mobile app provides excellent accessibility, ensuring members can engage with content planning and community activities seamlessly across devices.
Con 1: Integration Limitations
The platform's limited integration capabilities may challenge organizations needing extensive connections with their existing tech stack.
Con 2: Technical Inconsistencies
Users occasionally experience glitches during live streaming and face inconsistent customer support response times, which can impact community engagement.
8. Disco: Best for Cohort-Based Learning
Disco specializes in creating structured learning communities through its community management platform. It's particularly suited for educational institutions and professional development programs requiring cohort-based online community management.
Disco Pricing Plans
Disco offers two main pricing tiers:
- Organization: ($359/month) for smaller groups
- Enterprise: (custom pricing) for larger implementations. This structure caters to different scales of community management needs while maintaining feature accessibility.
Disco Features
The platform combines robust learning management with community features, offering cohort management, progress tracking, and Slack-like discussions.
It includes certification tools, gamification elements, and seamless integration with popular platforms like Slack and Zoom for enhanced user engagement.
Disco Pros and Cons
Pro 1: Learning-Focused Design
Disco excels in creating structured educational experiences, with features specifically designed to support online courses and professional development programs.
Pro 2: Engagement-Driven Features
The platform's gamification and progress tracking tools help maintain high engagement rates and create meaningful learning experiences within the community space.
Con 1: Price Point Challenges
The starting price point may be prohibitive for smaller communities or organizations just beginning their community management journey.
Con 2: Limited Marketing Capabilities
While strong in learning features, Disco's marketing and promotion tools are limited, potentially affecting community growth and member acquisition efforts.
9. Vanilla Forums: Best for Enterprise Support Communities
Vanilla Forums provides enterprise-grade community management software focused on customer support and knowledge sharing. This platform particularly suits large tech companies needing robust discussion forums and comprehensive moderation capabilities for their brand-owned community.
Vanilla Forums Pricing Plans
Vanilla Forums' enterprise-focused pricing starts at $1,700 monthly, with annual contracts averaging $22,000. While some sources cite $689/month, enterprise packages typically start at $24,000 annually. This pricing structure targets established organizations requiring extensive community management tools.
Vanilla Forums Features
The platform excels in providing sophisticated moderation conversations tools and knowledge base functionality. Its core features include customizable themes, advanced spam filtering, and comprehensive Q&A capabilities. The SSO integration and robust API support enable seamless connection with existing tech stack components.
Vanilla Forums Pros and Cons
Pro 1: Enterprise-Grade Security
The platform offers top-tier security compliance and advanced moderation capabilities, making it ideal for large-scale community management.
Pro 2: SEO Performance
Built-in SEO optimization tools help maximize community visibility and organic traffic, enhancing overall community engagement.
Con 1: Dated User Experience
The platform's interface feels outdated compared to modern community management platforms, potentially impacting user engagement.
Con 2: High Cost of Entry
Significant pricing barriers make it unsuitable for smaller organizations seeking community management features.
10. Zapnito: Best for Knowledge-Sharing Communities
Zapnito specializes in creating expert-driven digital spaces for publishers and enterprises. The platform emphasizes thought leadership and professional content management within specialized industry contexts.
Zapnito Pricing Plans
Pricing starts at $900/month for the Basic plan, with Essential, Premium, and Enterprise tiers requiring custom quotes. This structured approach allows organizations to scale their community management investment based on needs.
Zapnito Features
The platform combines expert profile management with robust content planning tools. Key features include webinar hosting, virtual events management, and sophisticated community analytics. Multi-language support enables global community engagement.
Zapnito Pros and Cons
Pro 1: Expert-Focused Design
Purpose-built for thought leadership, facilitating high-quality fruitful conversations and knowledge sharing within professional communities.
Pro 2: Analytics Excellence
Comprehensive community insights and impact measurement tools help track and optimize engagement strategies.
Con 1: Premium Pricing
High cost structure may limit accessibility for smaller organizations or emerging community channels.
Con 2: Complex Implementation
Steep learning curve and complex setup process can delay achieving optimal community experience.
11. Kajabi: Best for Course Creator Communities
Kajabi offers an integrated approach to online community management, combining course delivery with community features. It's ideal for digital entrepreneurs who prioritize monetization through educational content.
Kajabi Pricing Plans
Tiered pricing includes
- Kickstarter ($71/month)
- Basic ($119/month)
- Growth ($159/month)
- Pro ($319/month)
Each tier progressively adds features for scaling community management capabilities.
Kajabi Features
The platform combines robust course creation tools with community features. Key functionalities include customizable learning environments, integrated payment processing, and comprehensive marketing tools for driving user engagement.
Kajabi Pros and Cons
Pro 1: All-in-One Solution
Comprehensive integration of course management and community management tools reduces administrative burden.
Pro 2: User-Friendly Interface
Intuitive design makes it accessible for creators without technical expertise to manage their online community platform.
Con 1: Limited Community Tools
Primary focus on course delivery means some community management features are less developed than dedicated platforms.
Con 2: Email Limitations
Restricted email management capabilities can hamper effective community engagement and marketing efforts.
2 Case Studies Of Organizations Using LoftOS
RWTH Aachen University: Building Germany's Leading Startup Ecosystem
RWTH Aachen University needed a centralized digital platform to support its entrepreneurship program. Their biggest challenge was managing a growing startup ecosystem while reducing administrative complexity. The solution? Collæb, a digital community powered by LoftOS.
Results:
- 600+ active startups engaged in the platform
- 89 new ventures launched in 2022
- 60+ successful grant applications
- 8,000+ entrepreneurs, mentors, and partners actively collaborating
With LoftOS, RWTH Aachen streamlined its operations, replacing multiple disconnected tools with a single, scalable platform. The result was an efficient, well-connected startup ecosystem that fostered innovation and collaboration.
Innomatch: Scaling a Regional Startup Network Into a Thriving Innovation Hub
Niedersachsen.next Startup aimed to unify Lower Saxony’s fragmented startup ecosystem. They selected LoftOS to power their digital platform, Innomatch, bringing together startups, investors, and corporations in one place.
Results:
- 5,000+ active users
- Simplified networking between startups, investors, and corporates
- Centralized access to events, awards, and accelerators
- Automated partnership matching
LoftOS enabled Niedersachsen.next Startup to transform Innomatch into an innovation hub. The platform eliminated networking inefficiencies, ensuring seamless connections and fostering meaningful collaborations within the region’s startup ecosystem.
How to Choose the Best Community Management Platform
After reviewing these leading platforms, focus on these critical factors for your selection:
1. Core Requirements:
- Robust user engagement tracking
- Flexible content management tools
- Reliable community analytics
- Mobile accessibility
- Security and compliance
2. Business-Specific Needs:
- Integration capabilities with existing systems
- Scalability potential
- Customization options
- Support for your specific use case (events, courses, networking
3. Budget Considerations:
- Total cost of ownership
- Platform scaling costs
- Hidden fees (implementation, support, custom features)
- ROI potential based on your community size
4. Implementation Factors:
- Technical expertise required
- Setup timeline
- Training and support availability
- Migration complexity
Ready to Transform Your Community Management?
While others are still figuring out their relationships with community members through disconnected tools, you could be launching your perfect ecosystem in days.
Take control of your digital spaces with LoftOS. Our platform combines enterprise-grade features with intuitive design, making it the ideal choice for organizations ready to build thriving communities where failure isn't an option.
Our no code approach means you can:
- Launch faster (days, not months)
- Customize everything (without ever writing a single line of code)
- Scale confidently (just like RWTH and Innomatch)
Start your journey with LoftOS for free and take your community experience to the next level today.
