Free registration typically converts a fraction of sign-ups into attendance. Paid tickets convert most of them. That single fact should drive the decision more than any philosophy about accessibility.
Free makes sense when reach is the goal
A launch, a community meet-up, a sponsor-funded activation. If the value comes from who walks through the door rather than what they paid, free is correct, and you should plan for the no-show rate rather than pretend it will not happen.
Charging is a filter, not just revenue
Even a small fee changes the composition of the room. People who paid turn up, arrive on time, and pay attention. For a workshop or anything with limited seats, that is often worth more than a larger, flakier audience.
The middle option
A refundable deposit, or a nominal fee that includes something tangible, keeps the barrier low while restoring commitment. It reliably outperforms both extremes for community events.
If you go free, overbook deliberately
Know your historical show-up rate and register above capacity accordingly. Confirm attendance by email or WhatsApp two days out and release the seats of people who do not respond.
Do not go free to hide a weak proposition
If nobody will pay for it, a free room full of people who half-wanted to come has not told you anything encouraging. It has just delayed the feedback.