WildApricot vs MemberPlanet: Which is the Best Fit for Your Membership Site?

Running a membership site is tough. You want to bring your people together, but most of your time goes into admin work like chasing renewals, tracking payments, updating spreadsheets, and juggling too many tools.

That’s why platforms like MemberPlanet and WildApricot look appealing. They promise to take care of the chaos. And to be fair, they do a good job at it. They manage your members, automate invoices, and make admin life a lot easier.

But here’s the thing: they are built to manage people, not to engage them. And your community is more than a list of names. People don’t just want a receipt; they want a place to connect, learn, and belong.

That gap between managing members and building an online community is why I built GroupApp. It handles the admin so you do not get stuck in the weeds, and it also gives you the tools to create a space people enjoy logging into.

In this review, we are going to put WildApricot vs MemberPlanet head-to-head. We will look at which one makes payments easier, which one is simpler to use, and most importantly, which one actually helps you build a community your members will love.

WildApricot vs MemberPlanet Quick Overview

Here’s a simple side-by-side look at WildApricot vs MemberPlanet across their main features. I’ve also added GroupApp, so you can quickly see how a modern learning community platform stacks up.

Category	WildApricot	MemberPlanet	GroupApp (Suggested Alternative)
Memberships & Community	Strong database and member self-service tools, but outdated forums and weak engagement features	Powerful segmentation and “Member Circles” for groups, but community tools feel administrative	Community-first approach with activity feeds, channels, direct messaging, and content sharing
Branding & Customization	Deep customization with gadgets and code access, but steep learning curve	Easier drag-and-drop builder with consistent branding, but locked into their framework	True white-labeling with branded mobile apps and simple customization
Events	Excellent for in-person events with flexible registration and QR check-ins; weak for virtual events	Attractive event microsites and strong post-event reporting; missing calendar sync and video tools	Native virtual + hybrid events, Zoom/Google Meet integration, and one-click calendar sync
Monetization & Payments	Predictable subscription pricing, no platform fees—but 20% surcharge if not using preferred processors	Very flexible (cards, ACH, installments, purchase cards), but layered fees eat into revenue	Flat pricing, 0% transaction fees, full self-service billing, and built-in landing pages
Website & Landing Pages	Database-integrated website with live gadgets, but rigid editor and no funnel/landing pages	User-friendly Hub builder with cohesive branding, but no landing page or lead CRM tools	Drag-and-drop landing page builder, templates for offers, and built-in lead management
Analytics	Strong financial reporting, but no engagement tracking	Customizable reports and email analytics, but limited to financial/transactional data	Engagement-focused analytics with dashboards for activity, course progress, and content performance
Mobile Apps	Admin and member apps available, but branded as WildApricot and no offline use	Admin and member apps with offline membership cards, but branded as MemberPlanet	Fully branded iOS/Android apps with offline access and full community features
Integrations	Zapier + 1,600 apps, WordPress plugin, strong API	Developer-focused API, QuickBooks sync, widgets; no Zapier or marketing integrations	Native integrations with built-in automation, no need for Zapier or heavy coding
Course Creation	No LMS features, requires external integrations	No true course builder, only workarounds via forms/events	Full LMS with courses, quizzes, drip content, certificates, and resource library
Customer Support	60-day free trial, onboarding coaches, large resource library; email/chat only	Phone support included, VIP options on higher tiers; no trial available	1-on-1 onboarding support on all tiers, live resources, and trial access
Pricing	Starts at $63/month (100 contacts), predictable unless avoiding processors (20% penalty)	Starts at $50/month but adds platform % fees + processing fees (up to 6% total)	Flat-rate pricing from $49–$259/month, no hidden fees, 0% platform transaction fees

What is WildApricot?

WildApricot is a management tool for membership organizations. It’s designed for associations, clubs, and nonprofits that need to cut down on repetitive admin work.

The main goal is simple: manage members, events, websites, and payments from one place. Over the years, they have added extras like donation tools, an online store, and basic forums, but the focus remains on being a central hub for admin tasks.

For administrators, the benefit is clear. Instead of switching between different tools, you can run most of your daily operations inside one system.

Pros of WildApricot

• Centralized member database with strong search and filters
• Reliable event management with custom forms and QR check-in
• Built-in website builder with member-only content options
• Supports complex membership structures like family or corporate plans
• 60-day free trial with no credit card required
• Solid financial reporting for invoices, dues, and payments
• Zapier integration with 1,600+ other apps

Cons of WildApricot

• Adds a 20% service fee if you avoid their preferred payment processors
• No landing page builder for marketing campaigns
• The website editor feels limited and inflexible
• Community features are basic and outdated
• No built-in video tools for virtual events
• Mobile apps are generic and not white-labeled
• No tools for creating courses or managing learning content

WildApricot works well if your top priority is dependable admin management. But if your goal is to build an active and engaged community, its limits will show quickly.

Learn more about WildApricot and its limitations from this detailed review.

What Is MemberPlanet?

MemberPlanet takes a different path. It positions itself as a full platform for member-based organizations, but with a stronger focus on payments and monetization. It is built for groups that need flexible financial options along with basic member management.

Its biggest strength is in its financial tools. You can collect standard dues, set up installment plans, or run detailed donation campaigns. While it offers the basics for managing members, its real value comes from its payment and monetization features.

Pros of MemberPlanet

• Very flexible payment options (cards, ACH, cash, checks, installments)
• Strong monetization tools, including donation sites with progress tracking
• “Member Circles” for group or family accounts
• Detailed financial reporting and marketing analytics
• Dynamic distribution lists that update automatically based on member actions
• Professional invoicing and purchase cards for staff
• Direct phone support available

Cons of MemberPlanet

• Complicated fee structure (subscription, platform percentage, processing fees)
• No self-service billing portal for members to update payment details
• Basic community tools that feel more administrative than engaging
• No free trial to test the platform before paying
• Generic mobile apps that do not reflect your brand
• No multi-currency support for international growth

MemberPlanet is a strong choice if flexible payments and monetization are your top needs. But its costs rise quickly as your organization grows, and like WildApricot, it falls short when it comes to real community engagement.

We wrote a detailed review on MemberPlanet to help you learn more about what you’re investing in. 

Now that we’ve covered the basics of both WildApricot vs MemberPlanet, let’s compare them feature by feature to see which one delivers more value.

WildApricot vs MemberPlanet: Memberships & Community

If you run a club, association, or any kind of group, your software needs to do two things well: manage your members, and help them connect. One is about admin, the other is about community.

So which of these platforms actually helps you build a community, and which is simply a better version of spreadsheets? 

Let’s break it down.

WildApricot

WildApricot does a great job at keeping member data organized. It works as a central hub where you can manage members, donors, and event attendees. The search and filtering tools are strong, and the platform handles complex structures like family or company memberships.

Members also get self-service options. They can update their own profiles, manage privacy, and pay invoices directly, which saves you time. On top of that, there are forums, blogs, and even photo albums.

The problem is that the community features don’t create much engagement. The forums are flat and have no clear structure, and important posts get buried quickly. There’s no automation to send digests or prompts that keep people active. Reporting is also focused on payments, not on member activity or engagement.

WildApricot gives you tools to host a conversation, but not much to keep it going.

MemberPlanet

MemberPlanet shines when it comes to data and payments. Its flexible database lets you add unlimited custom fields and build smart lists that update automatically based on member activity.

The “Member Circles” feature is also decent, making it easy to manage families, companies, or departments under one account. Admin permissions are very detailed, giving you a lot of control.

The downside is what members actually see. The community tools are basic and feel more administrative than social. There’s no built-in content library, so you need third-party integrations. It also lacks a modern activity feed to make the community feel alive.

MemberPlanet is a powerful system for managing data, but falls short on engagement.

Who took this round? It’s a tie… and that’s the problem.

Both WildApricot vs MemberPlanet are strong at managing members as data. WildApricot organizes well. MemberPlanet segments with precision. But neither helps you build a truly active community. They focus on transactions and admin, not on interaction or connection.

What’s missing is a platform that does both: strong backend management and modern, engaging community features. That means organized channels, automated digests, a built-in content library, and an activity feed that shows real interaction.

That’s what GroupApp delivers.

You get channels for structured conversations, automated digests to keep members updated, and a searchable content library built in. On top of that, you get direct messaging, customizable profiles, and an activity feed that makes your community feel active every day.

Stop just managing members and start building a connected community.

Create your free GroupApp community today and see the difference.

WildApricot vs MemberPlanet: Branding and Customization

Branding is more than a logo. It’s the full experience people have with your organization, from the first email to the payment form. Your platform should make that experience feel consistent and professional.

So how do WildApricot and MemberPlanet handle customization?

WildApricot

WildApricot offers powerful tools, but they often require technical skills.

Where it stands out:

• Website Gadgets: You can embed live tools like event calendars, donation forms, or member directories directly on your site. They pull real-time data, creating a connected experience.

• Deep Customization: If you know how to code, you can add custom CSS or override theme files. This gives you detailed control.
• White-Labeling Options: You can add your own domain, replace the WildApricot logo in the admin area, upload a favicon, and even remove the “Powered by WildApricot” tag on your site.

The drawbacks:

• Complicated Setup: Connecting a custom domain means editing DNS records, which usually requires a developer.
• Rigid Page Builder: The drag-and-drop editor is limited. You can only place gadgets into pre-set zones, which makes modern design difficult.

WildApricot gives you powerful customization, but it has a steep learning curve.

MemberPlanet

MemberPlanet focuses on ease of use and consistency. It’s more user-friendly, especially if you don’t have technical skills.

Where it stands out:

• Consistent Branding: You can fully customize emails, payment forms, donation pages, and invoices so your brand is always front and center.
• The Hub Website Builder: A real drag-and-drop editor that’s mobile-friendly and easy to match with your organization’s style.
• Enterprise Controls: Larger organizations can use “Fill-and-Lock Templates.” This lets headquarters lock brand elements while giving local groups room to add their own content.

The drawbacks:

• No True White-Labeling: Members must use the generic MemberPlanet mobile app, which hides your brand.
• Locked Framework: You can customize a lot, but can’t redesign core screens or the overall flow.

MemberPlanet is easier to brand and manage, but you still work within their system.

Memberplanet takes the crown, but it also depends on your skills.

For most users, MemberPlanet feels more cohesive and is easier to brand across daily touchpoints. WildApricot is stronger if you need full code-level control and can handle technical setup. Both WildApricot vs MemberPlanet fall short of giving you complete white-label freedom.

But why choose between complex code and generic mobile apps?

GroupApp offers true white-label control:

• One-click custom domains with no DNS hassles
• A fully branded native mobile app on iOS and Android with your name and logo
• Simple controls to customize your community’s look without coding

With GroupApp, you get a cohesive brand experience that builds trust and keeps your community engaged.

WildApricot vs MemberPlanet: Events Creation & Management

Events are where members connect and where your organization shows its value. A good platform should handle the logistics so you can focus on creating a great experience.

So, which platform makes running events effortless, and which adds more work to your plate?

Let’s get into the details.

WildApricot

WildApricot is built for logistics. It handles registrations, payments, and check-ins very well. You can design detailed registration forms, collect unlimited custom information, and offer different ticket types for members, non-members, and VIPs.

Members can also register guests under their account, which makes things simple.

Payments are flexible. People can pay online or choose “invoice me,” and you can even combine event registration with a membership sign-up in one step. On event day, check-in is smooth thanks to QR codes and the mobile app.

But WildApricot has its limits. Reporting is basic and doesn’t easily compare RSVPs against actual attendance. More importantly, it has no native video integration. If you want to run a webinar or virtual workshop, you have to manage it outside the platform, which makes the experience stressful.

WildApricot is excellent for in-person events but weak for digital ones.

MemberPlanet

MemberPlanet focuses more on branding and presentation. Instead of just giving you a form, it lets you build attractive, customizable event pages where you can add photos, videos, and detailed descriptions. The admin app also lets you sell tickets and accept payments at the door, which is handy for last-minute attendees.

Its reporting goes beyond the basics. After an event, you can see not only finances and check-ins but also email invite performance, such as opens and clicks. This helps you understand what worked and what didn’t.

The problem is that MemberPlanet misses some basics. Attendees can’t add events to their calendars with one click, which makes it more likely they’ll forget. Like WildApricot, it also lacks native integration with video tools, leaving you to juggle external links.

MemberPlanet makes events look professional, but it falls short on convenience.

Winner: It’s a tie for a bygone era.

Both WildApricot vs MemberPlanet are exceptionally strong for managing the logistics of traditional, in-person events. If your world is solely conferences, galas, and local meetups, either will do the job well.

But that’s a big “if.”

The modern organization runs hybrid and virtual events, and both platforms struggle with managing these functions.

On the other hand, GroupApp takes a different and much more convenient approach. 

We handle everything in one place:

• Native video integration: Just add your Zoom or Google Meet link. Members join with one click inside the community.
• One-click calendar sync: Attendees automatically add events to their calendars, slashing no-show rates.
• Full hybrid support: Seamlessly manage both in-person and virtual events from the same dashboard.

With GroupApp, you stop managing logistics and start creating memorable event experiences.

WildApricot vs MemberPlanet: Monetization and Payments

The right platform should make it simple to collect payments, keep more of your revenue, and give you the tools to grow. Let’s see how these two compare.

How Does WildApricot Handle Payments?

WildApricot makes it easy to bring in money from different sources.

• Membership dues with automated invoicing and renewals
• Event ticket sales
• Donations with a goal tracker
• An online store for merchandise
• A job board add-on for extra non-dues revenue

Pricing is also predictable, as your subscription is based on the number of contacts, and there are no platform transaction fees.

But there are drawbacks:

• A 20% servicing fee if you use Stripe or PayPal in the US or Canada instead of their preferred processors.
• No built-in marketing tools like landing pages or funnels to help you attract new paying members.

WildApricot works well for collecting payments from people already in your system, but doesn’t help you grow beyond them.

What About MemberPlanet?

MemberPlanet takes a different approach and focuses on flexibility. You can accept almost any form of payment:

• Credit cards, ACH bank transfers, cash, and checks
• Installment plans where members set their own schedule
• Prepaid purchase cards for staff with spending limits and tracking

It also adds strong fundraising features:

• Branded donation pages with progress thermometers
• Peer-to-peer fundraising campaigns
• Bundled forms that combine sign-ups, waivers, and payments

But all this comes at a cost.

• Fees pile up: subscription + 1–4% platform fees + standard processing (3% + $0.30). On lower plans, this can eat up to 6% of revenue.
• No self-service billing—admins must manually update expired credit cards.
• No multi-currency support, which limits international growth.

MemberPlanet gives you unmatched options, but takes more of your revenue and adds extra admin work.

So which one wins?

MemberPlanet wins due to its flexible payment methods and advanced fundraising tools.

The real problem? Both WildApricot vs MemberPlanet are built to process payments, not to grow your revenue. Neither one provides marketing funnels or landing pages to attract new members.

GroupApp gives you the freedom to monetize without hidden costs.

• Sell anything: memberships, one-time courses, digital downloads, and event tickets—all from one dashboard.
• Keep 100% of your revenue: No platform percentage fees on any plan. You only pay your standard payment processor fees.
• True self-service: Members manage their own billing details, so you never have to manually update an expired card again.

GroupApp is built to grow your revenue, not chip away at it. You get a complete system that’s flexible, simple to use, and free from unnecessary costs.

WildApricot vs MemberPlanet: Websites and Landing Pages

Your website is often the first place people interact with your community, and landing pages are where casual visitors decide if they want to join. The right platform should help you do both well.

So, which platform helps you build a home, and which one just gives you the bricks?

WildApricot: Powerful but Complicated

WildApricot ties your website directly to your member database. This makes it easy to display live data like events, directories, or donation forms without extra work. 

You can also control access with precision, showing some content to the public and keeping other areas exclusive to members.

But the system is not easy to use. The page builder feels rigid, with gadgets you drop into predefined zones instead of true drag-and-drop freedom. 

On top of that, it doesn’t include tools for marketing funnels. If you want to create a landing page for sign-ups or lead capture, you’ll need another platform.

WildApricot works well for serving existing members, but falls short when it comes to bringing new ones in.

MemberPlanet: Simple and Polished

MemberPlanet makes website creation easier. Its drag-and-drop builder is more modern and mobile-friendly, and it ensures your branding stays consistent across forms, invoices, and microsites.

This helps create a professional and trustworthy experience for members.

However, it has the same core weakness as WildApricot. There’s no dedicated landing page builder and no lead CRM. If you want to capture new prospects or manage them before they become members, you’ll need other tools.

MemberPlanet creates a smoother experience for your current members, but doesn’t give you what you need to grow your community.

Who should you choose? It depends on your priority.

WildApricot is the stronger choice if you value data integration. MemberPlanet is better if you want an easier builder and consistent branding. 

But both WildApricot vs MemberPlanet stop short of helping you attract new people, forcing you to rely on extra tools for landing pages and lead management.

Why choose between an integrated website and effective landing pages? GroupApp gives you a powerful landing page builder directly into your community platform.

With GroupApp, you get:

• A library of ready-to-use templates for webinars, lead magnets, and product offers
• A simple drag-and-drop editor with no coding required
• Integrated lead management that stores prospects directly in your CRM

You can build beautiful landing pages, capture leads, and instantly connect them to your courses and community without leaving GroupApp.

WildApricot vs MemberPlanet: Analytics

Analytics should give you more than a list of payments. They should show if your community is active and growing. Are members connecting? Are they learning? Or are they just names in your database?

What WildApricot Measures

WildApricot makes it easy to track money. You can:

• Monitor invoices and payments
• See active, lapsed, or pending members on the dashboard
• Export data for deeper analysis

That’s where it stops. Once the payment clears, the trail ends. You can’t see who logs in often, who posts in forums, or who reads your content. Reports are fixed, so you can’t create custom views that answer deeper questions. The system tells you about transactions but not relationships.

What MemberPlanet Measures

MemberPlanet offers stronger reporting, especially for finances. You can:

• Customize reports to track and filter every transaction
• Export detailed data to Excel
• Measure email performance with opens, clicks, and bounces

This helps you target communication better. But again, the bigger picture is missing. You’ll know who donated or RSVP’d, but not who participates daily in your community. Without a learning management system, you also can’t track course progress or educational impact.

So where does that leave us?

Both WildApricot vs MemberPlanet excel at counting dollars but fail at measuring engagement. You get excellent operational reporting but zero insight into community health.

You can track who pays, but not who participates. This creates a dangerous blind spot: you might not notice your community fading until renewal time comes around and everyone leaves.

WildApricot vs MemberPlanet: Mobile Apps

Mobile access isn’t optional anymore. Members expect to connect, pay, and participate on the go. But do these apps feel part of your community or just another utility?

WildApricot on Mobile

WildApricot gives you two separate apps:

• Admin app: Check members into events, process payments, and look up contacts.
• Member app: Update profiles, register for events, and message people in the directory.

Their websites also adapt well to mobile browsers. But the problems are clear:

• Both apps carry the WildApricot brand, not yours.
• No offline functionality. Everything stops when the internet drops.

MemberPlanet on Mobile

MemberPlanet’s apps deliver mixed results too.

• Admin app: Sell tickets at the door, collect donations, and send SMS broadcasts.
• Member app: Use digital membership cards that even work offline after download.

Still, you face the same issues:

• Members download the “MemberPlanet” app, not your branded app.
• The apps focus on transactions and event management, not community discussions or content.

What’s Missing?

Both WildApricot vs MemberPlanet provide functional mobile apps that handle essential tasks. WildApricot works well for administrative functions, while MemberPlanet offers better offline capabilities and payment features. 

But neither delivers what truly matters: a branded, immersive experience that makes members feel connected to your community rather than just using another app.

The mobile experience becomes just another transaction point rather than a gateway to engagement.

How GroupApp Does It Differently

GroupApp was built to make mobile a natural extension of your community. Members download a native iOS or Android app with your name and logo, not ours.

Once inside, they have full access to discussions, courses, and content, not just transactions. They can even stay engaged offline with resources and materials that remain available without an internet connection.

Instead of sending people to a generic third-party app, you give them a mobile space that feels like it belongs entirely to your community.

WildApricot vs MemberPlanet: Integrations

Let’s talk about how these platforms play with others because no software lives in isolation anymore. You’ve probably got email tools, accounting systems, and a CRM you want to connect. How easy is it to make everything work together?

How does WildApricot handle integrations?

WildApricot focuses on accessibility. You get:

• Zapier and make connections to more than 1,600 apps
• A strong API for developers
• A WordPress plugin to add membership features to existing sites

The downside? You still need third-party tools for anything beyond basic automation. There’s no built-in workflow builder, and advanced setups can be overwhelming if you’re not technical.

What about MemberPlanet?

MemberPlanet builds integrations differently. You get:

• A developer-friendly API that works well with financial systems like QuickBooks
• Widgets to embed events or directories on your website

But here’s where it falls short:

• No Zapier integration for easy connections
• No native support for Facebook Pixel or Google Tag Manager
• Limited options for non-technical users

So who wins this round?

WildApricot takes the crown for accessibility. The Zapier integration alone puts powerful automation capabilities within reach of users without technical skills.

While MemberPlanet offers strong API capabilities for developers, it effectively locks out non-technical users from creating meaningful integrations.

Both WildApricot vs MemberPlanet ultimately require you to manage additional complexity and technical overhead when connecting to modern marketing stacks. You’re either paying for Zapier subscriptions or hiring developers—either way, you’re adding cost and complexity to make your systems talk to each other.

What if everything just worked together?

GroupApp includes native integrations and built-in automation tools, so everything works smoothly right out of the box. You don’t have to struggle with complicated APIs or pay for extra Zapier subscriptions just to make basic tasks happen.

With GroupApp, your community, courses, and marketing tools all run together in one system. That means less time managing tech and more time focusing on growing and engaging your members.

WildApricot vs MemberPlanet: The Course Creation Gap

Neither WildApricot nor MemberPlanet was built for course creation. If education is part of your value proposition, you’re essentially working with tools that weren’t designed for the job.

What WildApricot Offers (or Doesn’t)

WildApricot makes no attempt to provide learning features. There’s no content hosting, quizzes, progress tracking, or certificates. The only option is to connect a separate LMS through Zapier, which creates a fragmented experience for you and your members.

Where MemberPlanet Falls Short

MemberPlanet doesn’t solve the problem either. Their documentation suggests using Bundled Forms, Events, or Surveys as workarounds, but this doesn’t create a true learning experience. There’s no course builder, no way to drip content, and no structure for progressive education. You end up with scattered tools rather than a complete system.

This isn’t a slight against either WildApricot vs MemberPlanet; they simply weren’t designed for education. But that’s precisely the problem. When your members expect learning experiences rather than just transactional relationships, both systems leave you scrambling for solutions.

We built GroupApp with education as a core feature.

You get a proper course builder that organizes content into clear learning paths with videos, text, PDFs, and interactive quizzes. You can drip content on a schedule, track progress, and issue certificates when courses are complete.

On top of that, you can create assignments with feedback, enforce structured paths, and manage resources in one central library. Everything works together in one platform, without external tools or clumsy integrations.

The Bottom Line

With WildApricot and MemberPlanet, you’ll always be working around missing features. With GroupApp, you can focus on building meaningful learning experiences that keep members engaged and deliver real value.

WildApricot vs MemberPlanet: Customer Support

Every platform has its quirks, so the real question is how quickly you can get help when something goes wrong.

WildApricot: A Generous Trial and Lots of Resources

WildApricot stands out with its 60-day free trial. You can test everything without a credit card, giving you two months to see how it fits your needs.

They also offer onboarding coaches and a huge library of resources, videos, webinars, and blog posts, so if you like learning on your own, you’ll have plenty of support material.

But there’s a catch. When you can’t solve something yourself, the options are limited. There’s no live phone support for technical issues. You must rely on email or chat, and response times vary.

MemberPlanet: Direct Phone Support, But No Trial

MemberPlanet takes a different approach. They give you a phone number to call, which feels reassuring if you’re dealing with payments or urgent technical problems. Their knowledge base and tutorials are always available, and if you’re on a Pro or Premium plan, you’ll get priority or VIP support with faster responses.

Their biggest weakness? You can’t properly test any of this before committing. There’s no free trial to speak of, which means you’re buying the car without taking it for a test drive. You have to make a financial commitment before you can experience what their support is actually like.

So who comes out ahead?

WildApricot edges ahead because of its excellent onboarding resources and that generous 60-day trial. You can explore the platform fully and see if you even need much support before paying a cent.

MemberPlanet’s phone line is a strong point, but without a trial, you’re taking a risk on whether the support will live up to your expectations.

WildApricot vs MemberPlanet: Pricing

Revenue only matters if you actually get to keep it. The wrong pricing model can quietly eat away at your margins, leaving you with far less than expected. So how do WildApricot and MemberPlanet really stack up when it comes to costs?

WildApricot

WildApricot keeps things simple at first glance. Your monthly fee depends only on the number of contacts in your database. For example, 100 contacts cost $63 per month. The nice part is that they don’t charge platform percentage fees on transactions—you just pay the standard payment processor fees.

But then comes the fine print. If you’re in the US or Canada and decide to use a processor outside their preferred partners, WildApricot adds a 20% “servicing fee” to your entire subscription. That $63 monthly plan jumps to $75.60, just because you prefer Stripe or PayPal.

Key points

• Predictable subscription pricing tied to contact count.
• No transaction fees—but only if you stick with their processors.
• A 20% penalty if you don’t.

MemberPlanet

MemberPlanet’s pricing looks different. Their tiers (Basic, Essentials, Pro, Premium) are based on features and credits, not the size of your contact list. The Essentials plan starts at $50 per month.

But here’s where it gets expensive.

MemberPlanet charges three separate layers of fees:

• Your monthly subscription
• A platform percentage fee (ranging from 1-4% depending on your plan)
• The standard payment processing fees (3% + $0.30 per transaction)

If you process $5,000 monthly on the Essentials plan, you could be paying around $300 in total fees—about 6% of your revenue before you even factor in add-ons like website migration ($1,500) or custom themes ($500).

The Verdict

WildApricot offers more predictable pricing if you accept their payment processors, while MemberPlanet’s fee structure becomes increasingly expensive as your organization grows. Both approaches have significant drawbacks that can quietly eat into your margins.

How GroupApp Does It Differently

We believe your revenue should stay in your hands, not disappear in hidden fees. That’s why our pricing is flat, simple, and transparent.

• Plans start at $49/month for Starter and go up to $259/month for Business with advanced features.
• 0% transaction fees across all plans.
• You only pay your payment processor’s standard fees.

This means you keep 100% of your earnings. Whether you’re just starting or running a large organization, your costs stay predictable and fair. 

If you’re ready to move beyond spreadsheets and payments and instead create a space where members stay active, learn, and feel connected, GroupApp is the clear choice. Sign up for GroupApp today.

WildApricot vs MemberPlanet: Which Platform Actually Serves Your Needs?

After everything we’ve covered, the question isn’t “which platform is better?” It’s “which platform fits the way you actually work?” Both WildApricot vs MemberPlanet have strengths, but they also come with trade-offs you can’t ignore.

When WildApricot Makes Sense

Go with WildApricot if your main priority is administration and order. The platform gives you a strong database, a functional website tied directly to your member data, and solid event management tools. The 60-day free trial is generous and gives you time to really test it out.

But remember: you’ll either need to use their payment processors or deal with a steep 20% penalty on your subscription. For traditional associations or clubs focused on management over growth, it can be a reliable choice.

When MemberPlanet Fits Better

Pick MemberPlanet if payment flexibility is your biggest concern. If you need ACH payments, installment plans, or the ability to manage groups with Member Circles, this is where it shines. The reporting and financial segmentation also make it easier to target communications.

The downside? The layered fee structure. Between subscription, platform percentage fees, and processing costs, your expenses rise as your organization grows. Add the fact that there’s no free trial, and you’re committing before you truly know how it works for you.

Here’s the real question: are you trying to manage a static list of members, or are you trying to build a thriving community?

WildApricot and MemberPlanet are built for management. They help you collect payments, run events, and maintain order. But they don’t give you the tools to drive engagement, foster learning, or create real long-term value for your members.

What if you want more than just member management?

Managing a member list is one thing. Building a community where people actually connect, learn, and stay engaged is something else entirely. If your goals go beyond administration, you need a platform designed for today’s expectations—not just yesterday’s tasks.

That’s where GroupApp comes in.

WildApricot and MemberPlanet are strong at handling the admin side. But GroupApp goes further by helping you foster real connections and deliver meaningful value, turning passive members into active participants.

GroupApp: Where Membership Management Meets True Community Engagement

Managing members is important, but it’s not enough anymore. If you want to build a community people actually care about, you need more than admin tools. You need engagement, connection, and growth.

That’s why we built GroupApp.

While WildApricot and MemberPlanet stop at administration, GroupApp combines membership management with the tools that make communities thrive.
Here’s what sets GroupApp apart:

• From static directories to real conversations: Instead of just listing members, you get activity feeds, organized channels, and direct messaging so people can talk, collaborate, and connect.
• From simple emails to integrated learning: Deliver native courses, workshops, and resources right inside your community to boost engagement and retention.
• From generic apps to your branded experience: Offer iOS and Android apps with your own name and logo, not a third party’s.
• From complex fees to transparent pricing: Pay a flat monthly rate with 0% transaction fees, so your revenue stays with you as you grow.
• From scattered tools to built-in growth: Use the landing page builder and lead CRM to attract new members directly, without juggling extra apps.

In short, GroupApp gives you everything you need to manage members and everything you’ve been missing to build a thriving community.

Start growing a community that connects, engages, and lasts with GroupApp.

Sign up for a Free account today

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Comparing Wildapricot vs Memberplanet

1. What are the key differences in pricing between WildApricot and MemberPlanet?

WildApricot starts at $63/month for 100 contacts, with pricing based only on contact count. MemberPlanet starts at $50/month but adds platform fees (1–4%) and payment processing costs, which makes pricing less predictable. GroupApp keeps it simple with flat-rate plans ($49 to $259/month) and 0% transaction fees.

2. Which platform is better for event management?

Both WildApricot vs MemberPlanet handle registration, ticketing, and promotions. WildApricot stands out with QR check-ins and detailed financial reports. MemberPlanet offers customizable event microsites. Neither supports virtual events, but GroupApp does with built-in Zoom and Google Meet tools plus calendar sync.

3. How do their payment processing options compare?

WildApricot charges a 20% fee if you use outside processors. MemberPlanet supports cards, ACH, and checks, but adds layered fees. GroupApp supports popular gateways with no extra platform fees.

4. Which platform is more user-friendly for admins?

WildApricot is simple to use but harder to customize. MemberPlanet has a modern interface but feels fragmented. GroupApp offers a clean, all-in-one dashboard for members, courses, and events.

5. Do they support membership automation?

Yes, both do. WildApricot covers basics like renewals and reminders. MemberPlanet adds targeted communications with distribution lists. GroupApp goes further with onboarding, engagement workflows, and member segmentation.

6. How do they handle community engagement?

WildApricot and MemberPlanet stick to forums and directories. GroupApp adds modern tools like activity feeds, messaging, and content sharing to build stronger communities.

7. Are there limitations on members or contacts?

WildApricot limits contacts by plan. MemberPlanet allows unlimited contacts but locks features behind higher tiers. GroupApp scales easily with unlimited members on advanced plans.

8. Which platform offers better customer support?

WildApricot provides chat, email, and phone support during business hours. MemberPlanet offers phone and email, but no chat. GroupApp includes priority support on higher plans and a full knowledge base.

9. Can I create and sell online courses with these platforms?

WildApricot and MemberPlanet do not include course tools, so you need integrations. GroupApp has a built-in course builder with quizzes, drip content, and certificates.

10. Is GroupApp a better alternative for growing communities?

If you want more than just membership management, yes. GroupApp combines courses, events, engagement, and community tools in one platform with clear pricing and no transaction fees.