Comparative Review of Top Membership Management Software
By Amanda Reyes | Published: 2025-04-16 | Category: Membership Management Software
About Membership Management Software
Membership management software helps organizations like associations, clubs, and nonprofits manage their member databases, communications, events, dues, and engagement activities. These platforms streamline administrative tasks and enhance the member experience.
Scoring Criteria
- → Feature Set
- → Ease of Use
- → Integration Capabilities
- → Customer Support
- → Pricing/Value
The Best Membership Management Software
Wild Apricot
By Personify
All-in-one membership management software designed for small to medium-sized volunteer-run organizations, associations, and clubs.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based, iOS, Android
Best For: Nonprofits, Clubs, Associations, Community Groups
Key Features
- ✓Membership Management: Manages member database, applications, renewals, and directories.
- ✓Website Builder: Includes tools to create and host a membership website with member-only areas.
- ✓Event Management: Handles event registration, ticketing, and attendee tracking.
- ✓Online Payments: Processes membership dues, event fees, and donations securely.
- ✓Email & Contact Database: Facilitates targeted email communication and contact management.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)
Pricing
Free
Contact Vendor
- Up to 50 contacts
- Basic functionality
Limitations: Limited contacts, Limited features, Wild Apricot branding
Personal
$60.00 / Monthly
- Up to 100 contacts
- Core features
Group
$75.00 / Monthly
- Up to 250 contacts
- Full feature set
Community
$140.00 / Monthly
- Up to 500 contacts
- Full feature set
Pros
- + User-friendly interface
- + Comprehensive feature set for small orgs
- + Integrated website builder
- + Affordable pricing tiers including a free plan
Cons
- - Website customization can be limited
- - May lack advanced features needed by larger organizations
- - Tiered pricing based on contact list size
Verdict
"An excellent, user-friendly, and affordable all-in-one solution for small to mid-sized membership organizations, particularly those run by volunteers."
MemberClicks
By Personify
A comprehensive association management software (AMS) focused on small to mid-sized professional and trade associations.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based
Best For: Professional Associations, Trade Associations, Chambers of Commerce
Key Features
- ✓AMS Core: Centralized member database, dues renewal automation, and reporting.
- ✓Integrated Website/CMS: Provides website design and content management integrated with member data.
- ✓Event Management: Tools for managing conferences, meetings, and virtual events.
- ✓Financial Processing: Handles dues, event fees, and other transactions with reporting.
- ✓Learning Management System (LMS): Optional module for delivering online courses and certifications.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Oasis
Contact Vendor
- Core AMS features
- Website management
- Event registration
Limitations: Pricing requires quote, Focus on smaller staff associations
Atlas
Contact Vendor
- More advanced features
- Enhanced reporting
- Integrations
- LMS option
Limitations: Pricing requires quote, Geared towards larger staff associations
Pros
- + Robust feature set tailored for associations
- + Strong customer support reputation
- + Integrated website and communication tools
- + Scalable solutions (Oasis and Atlas)
Cons
- - Pricing is not transparent (quote-based)
- - Can be complex to learn initially
- - Less suitable for very small clubs or non-profits
Verdict
"A powerful choice for small to mid-sized associations needing a comprehensive AMS with strong support, but requires a custom quote."
YourMembership
By Community Brands
An enterprise-level association management software designed for large associations and non-profits.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based, iOS, Android
Best For: Large Associations, Professional Societies, Nonprofits, Alumni Organizations
Key Features
- ✓Membership Management: Advanced member tracking, segmentation, engagement scoring, and automated workflows.
- ✓Event Management: Comprehensive tools for large conferences, trade shows, and virtual events.
- ✓Online Community: Features for building member engagement through forums and social features.
- ✓Career Center: Integrated job board functionality for members and employers.
- ✓Reporting & Analytics: Deep insights into membership trends, financials, and engagement.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.6 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom
Contact Vendor
- Tailored feature set based on organizational needs
- Dedicated support options
Limitations: Pricing requires consultation and quote, Significant investment required
Pros
- + Highly scalable and feature-rich for large organizations
- + Strong community and engagement features
- + Integrated career center module
- + Powerful reporting capabilities
Cons
- - Complex system with a steeper learning curve
- - Expensive, geared towards enterprise budgets
- - Opaque, quote-based pricing
Verdict
"A robust, enterprise-grade solution ideal for large, complex associations needing extensive features, particularly around community and careers, but comes at a premium price."
StarChapter
By StarChapter
Membership management software specifically designed for local chapters of professional and trade associations.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based
Best For: Association Chapters, Professional Societies (Local), Business Leagues
Key Features
- ✓Membership Management: Tools for managing chapter members, applications, renewals, and directories.
- ✓Meeting & Event Registration: Manages registration, payments, and communication for local meetings.
- ✓Website Management: Provides chapter website templates with content management capabilities.
- ✓Email Communication: Built-in tools for newsletters, meeting announcements, and member outreach.
- ✓Board Management Tools: Features to assist chapter leadership with planning and communication.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing
Lite
$69.00 / Monthly
- Basic website
- Membership
- Limited events
Limitations: Limited event features, Basic support
Standard
$129.00 / Monthly
- Full event management
- Blog
- Sponsorship tools
- Standard support
Premier
$189.00 / Monthly
- Job board
- Member forum
- Premium support
Pros
- + Specifically tailored for the needs of association chapters
- + Excellent customer support and onboarding
- + All-in-one platform simplifies chapter operations
- + Transparent pricing tiers
Cons
- - Limited customization options for website design
- - Fewer integrations compared to broader platforms
- - May not be suitable for non-chapter based organizations
Verdict
"An ideal solution for local chapters of larger associations, offering tailored features and strong support to streamline chapter management."
ClubExpress
By ClubExpress
An internet platform designed to help clubs and associations manage their operations and website presence.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based, iOS, Android
Best For: Social Clubs, Sports Clubs, Hobby Clubs, Community Associations, Nonprofits
Key Features
- ✓Member Management: Handles member database, renewals, member types, and interest tracking.
- ✓Website Hosting & CMS: Provides website hosting with customizable templates and content management.
- ✓Event Calendar & Registration: Manages club events, sign-ups, payments, and waitlists.
- ✓Communications Suite: Includes email marketing, forums, blogs, and surveys.
- ✓Financial Tools: Tracks dues, event fees, donations, and integrates with payment gateways.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing
Based on Active Members
$24.00 / Monthly
- Starts for clubs up to 100 members
- Full feature set included
- Scales based on member count
Limitations: Pricing increases with member count (e.g., $58/mo for 301-500 members)
Pros
- + Comprehensive feature set geared towards clubs
- + Transparent pricing based on active member count
- + Includes website hosting and powerful communication tools
- + Mobile app available for members
Cons
- - Interface can feel slightly dated to some users
- - Setup fee applies
- - May be overly complex for very simple clubs
Verdict
"A robust and well-rounded platform particularly suited for active clubs and associations needing strong website, event, and communication tools with clear pricing."
GrowthZone
By GrowthZone
Association Management Software (AMS) focused on helping associations and chambers of commerce grow their membership and revenue.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based, iOS, Android
Best For: Chambers of Commerce, Trade Associations, Professional Associations, Economic Development Organizations
Key Features
- ✓AMS/CRM Functionality: Combines member management with sales pipeline and marketing automation tools.
- ✓Billing & Payments: Automated invoicing, dues collection, and financial reporting.
- ✓Event Management: Tools for managing events, registration, and sponsor tracking.
- ✓Website Integration: Offers website modules, member directories, and event calendars for integration.
- ✓Marketing Automation: Features for lead generation, email campaigns, and engagement tracking.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing
Essential
Contact Vendor
- Core AMS features
- Basic communication tools
- Event basics
Limitations: Pricing requires quote
Premier
Contact Vendor
- Advanced marketing automation
- Project management
- Enhanced reporting
Limitations: Pricing requires quote
Pro
Contact Vendor
- Sales funnel management
- Advanced integrations
- Full marketing suite
Limitations: Pricing requires quote
Pros
- + Strong focus on membership growth and sales (CRM features)
- + Powerful marketing automation tools
- + Well-suited for chambers of commerce
- + Mobile apps for staff and members
Cons
- - Quote-based pricing lacks transparency
- - Can be complex due to the breadth of features
- - Interface may not be as intuitive as some competitors
Verdict
"A powerful AMS with a strong emphasis on growth, marketing automation, and CRM, making it ideal for chambers and associations focused on recruitment and engagement."
Raklet
By Raklet
A flexible membership management platform offering tools for communication, payments, and event management for various organization types.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based, iOS, Android
Best For: Nonprofits, Clubs, Associations, Alumni Networks, Digital Communities
Key Features
- ✓CRM & Membership: Manages contacts, custom fields, member levels, and automated renewals.
- ✓Communication Tools: Includes email, SMS messaging, and discussion boards.
- ✓Digital Membership Cards: Allows creation and distribution of digital cards for members.
- ✓Event Management: Handles event creation, ticketing, and attendee check-in.
- ✓Job Board & Fundraising: Optional modules for career listings and donation campaigns.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.6 / 10.0)
Pricing
Free
Contact Vendor
- Up to 50 contacts
- Basic CRM
- Bank account connection
Limitations: Limited contacts, Raklet branding, Transaction fees apply
Essentials
$59.00 / Monthly
- Up to 1000 contacts
- Custom domain
- Email/SMS tools
- Basic automation
Limitations: Transaction fees apply
Professional
$119.00 / Monthly
- Up to 2000 contacts
- Advanced automation
- API access
- Digital cards
Premium
$299.00 / Monthly
- Up to 5000 contacts
- Branded mobile app
- Dedicated support
Pros
- + Flexible platform suitable for diverse organizations
- + Modern interface and user experience
- + Offers digital membership cards
- + Transparent pricing with a free starting tier
Cons
- - Some advanced features require higher tiers
- - Customer support reviews are mixed
- - Transaction fees on lower tiers can add up
Verdict
"A modern and flexible platform with good core features and transparent pricing, suitable for a variety of organizations, especially those valuing digital engagement tools."
Memberful
By Patreon
Membership software focused on integrating with existing websites (especially WordPress) for content creators, publishers, and educators.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based
Best For: Content Creators, Podcasters, Educators, Publishers, Community Builders
Key Features
- ✓Website Integration: Seamlessly integrates with WordPress and other platforms to sell memberships.
- ✓Member Management: Manages member accounts, subscriptions, and access levels.
- ✓Content Gating: Restricts access to premium content based on membership level.
- ✓Recurring Payments: Handles secure subscription billing via Stripe.
- ✓Analytics: Tracks membership growth, revenue, and churn.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.6 / 10.0)
Pricing
Starter
Contact Vendor
- Unlimited members
- 2 membership plans
- Stripe integration
Limitations: 10% transaction fee, Basic features only
Pro
$25.00 / Monthly
- Unlimited plans
- Custom branding
- Analytics
- Zapier integration
Limitations: 4.9% transaction fee
Premium
$100.00 / Monthly
- Remove Memberful branding
- Private podcasts
- Staff accounts
Limitations: 4.9% transaction fee
Pros
- + Excellent integration with existing websites, especially WordPress
- + Very easy to set up and use
- + Focuses specifically on selling memberships for content
- + Clean interface
Cons
- - High transaction fees on all plans
- - Lacks broader association management features (e.g., complex events, comprehensive CRM)
- - Not an all-in-one solution (requires an existing website)
Verdict
"A top choice for creators and businesses looking to add paid memberships to their existing website, especially WordPress users, prioritizing simplicity over broad AMS features."
Glue Up
By Glue Up
An all-in-one CRM platform that includes membership management, event management, and marketing automation capabilities for associations and event organizers.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based, iOS, Android
Best For: Associations, Chambers of Commerce, Event Organizers, Marketing Agencies, Nonprofits
Key Features
- ✓Membership Management Suite: Manages member lifecycle, renewals, engagement tracking, and directories.
- ✓Event Management Platform: Supports in-person, virtual, and hybrid events with registration and check-in apps.
- ✓CRM & Marketing Automation: Integrated CRM with tools for email campaigns, lead scoring, and workflows.
- ✓Community Engagement: Features for online community building, networking, and communication.
- ✓Mobile Apps: Provides branded apps for members and event attendees.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom
Contact Vendor
- Modular platform - choose needed components (Memberships, Events, Community, etc.)
- Tailored implementation and support
Limitations: Pricing requires consultation and quote, Can be expensive depending on modules selected
Pros
- + Modern, integrated platform with strong CRM capabilities
- + Excellent event management features (virtual/hybrid support)
- + Good community engagement tools
- + Mobile app focus enhances member experience
Cons
- - Quote-based pricing, potentially high cost
- - Modular approach means core membership features might require additional event/community modules for full benefit
Verdict
"A sophisticated, modern platform excelling in event management and CRM integration, ideal for medium to large organizations focused on engagement and events, but requires a custom quote."
Zen Planner
By Zen Planner
Membership management software tailored specifically for fitness businesses like gyms, studios, and martial arts schools.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based, iOS, Android
Best For: Gyms, Fitness Studios (Yoga, Pilates), Martial Arts Schools, CrossFit Boxes
Key Features
- ✓Member Management & Billing: Handles memberships, automated payments, and attendance tracking.
- ✓Scheduling: Manages class schedules, appointments, and online booking.
- ✓Workout Tracking: Allows members and trainers to log and track workouts.
- ✓Website Integration: Embeddable schedules and sign-up forms for websites.
- ✓Staff & Member Apps: Dedicated mobile apps for staff management and member access.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.6 / 10.0)
Pricing
Based on Active Members
$121.00 / Monthly
- Starts for businesses up to 50 members
- Core scheduling, billing, member management
- Scales based on member count
Limitations: Pricing increases significantly with member count, Some features (e.g., advanced marketing) may cost extra
Pros
- + Highly specialized feature set for fitness businesses
- + Integrated scheduling and workout tracking
- + User-friendly interface for staff and members
- + Dedicated mobile apps
Cons
- - Not suitable for non-fitness organizations
- - Pricing can become expensive for larger gyms
- - Limited scope outside of fitness business operations
Verdict
"An excellent choice for fitness-based businesses needing specialized tools for scheduling, billing, and member tracking, though less applicable to general associations or clubs."
Fonteva
By Togetherwork
Enterprise-level association management software built entirely on the Salesforce platform.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web-based (Salesforce)
Best For: Large Associations, Enterprise Nonprofits, Professional Societies, Organizations using Salesforce
Key Features
- ✓Salesforce Native: Leverages the full power and flexibility of the Salesforce platform.
- ✓Membership & Subscription Management: Complex membership structures, billing, and reporting within Salesforce.
- ✓Events Management: Manages large-scale events, registration, and financials natively.
- ✓Member Portal & Community: Leverages Salesforce Experience Cloud for member engagement.
- ✓Extensibility & Integration: Access to Salesforce AppExchange and customization capabilities.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom
Contact Vendor
- Full suite built on Salesforce
- Requires Salesforce licenses
- Implementation services
Limitations: Requires significant investment in Salesforce and Fonteva licenses, Complex implementation process, Requires Salesforce expertise
Pros
- + Unmatched power and flexibility via Salesforce platform
- + Seamless integration with other Salesforce applications
- + Highly scalable for the largest organizations
- + Extensive customization possibilities
Cons
- - Very expensive; requires significant budget
- - Complex to implement and manage; requires Salesforce expertise
- - Steep learning curve
- - Overkill for small or mid-sized organizations
Verdict
"The most powerful option for large, complex organizations already invested in or planning to adopt the Salesforce ecosystem, offering unparalleled flexibility but at a high cost and complexity."
Final Thoughts
The membership management software landscape offers diverse solutions catering to various organizational types and sizes. Options range from user-friendly, all-in-one platforms for smaller clubs and nonprofits like Wild Apricot, to specialized tools for association chapters (StarChapter) or fitness businesses (Zen Planner), and powerful, enterprise-grade AMS solutions built on platforms like Salesforce (Fonteva). Key differentiators include pricing models (transparent vs. quote-based), ease of use, integration capabilities, website builders, event management sophistication, and CRM/marketing features.