Agilysys PMS vs. NewBook (PMS):
Which Is Right for You?

The Decision

Choosing the right property management system (PMS) is crucial for your hotel’s operational efficiency, guest experience, and revenue growth. Agilysys PMS by Agilysys Hospitality Solutions and NewBook are both prominent options, but they serve different segments and come with distinct strengths. Agilysys offers a comprehensive, multi-feature solution with a long-standing history in the industry, while NewBook emphasizes simplicity, ease of use, and a strong customer support reputation.

Both aim to streamline operations, but their approaches and focus areas differ significantly. Which one aligns best with your hotel’s specific needs and growth plans? Let’s explore their features, support, and suitability.

Is Agilysys PMS or NewBook Better for Hotels?

Agilysys PMS is tailored for larger, complex properties like resorts, casinos, and branded hotels, offering over 29 unique features and extensive integrations. NewBook, with a focus on simplicity and user-friendliness, caters well to boutique properties, short-term rentals, and smaller hotels, emphasizing an intuitive experience and top-notch support.

Agilysys boasts a solid 3.22/5 overall rating based on 42 reviews, with recent feedback noting its system stability and feature depth. Meanwhile, NewBook’s 4.75/5 rating from 16 reviews, with all recent reviews being highly positive, underscores its reputation for ease of use and excellent customer service. Given the more recent reviews, NewBook’s data is more current and thus more reliable.

Are you looking for a feature-rich system suitable for larger properties or a straightforward platform for smaller, independent hotels? The choice hinges on your operational complexity.

Agilysys PMS vs NewBook: Which Should Your Hotel Choose?

If your hotel needs a highly customizable, all-in-one PMS capable of handling complex operations like automated space optimization, integrated ID scanning, and real-time reporting, Agilysys PMS is the better fit. Its extensive feature set (29 unique features) is tailored for large-scale, multi-department properties that require deep operational control.

Conversely, if your main priorities are ease of use, quick onboarding, and strong customer support, NewBook should be your pick. It’s ideal for boutique hotels, RV parks, and short-term rentals that want to streamline bookings and daily management without technical complexity.

Property size, operational sophistication, and staff technical proficiency are decisive factors here. For larger, high-demand properties, Agilysys offers depth; for smaller, service-oriented hotels, NewBook provides simplicity.

Is Agilysys PMS or NewBook Easier to Use?

Agilysys PMS has a usability rating of 4.36/5 but receives some criticism for its steep learning curve and the abundance of buttons and sub-menus. Users report that it’s easy once learned but can be overwhelming initially, especially for new staff.

NewBook scores even higher at 4.69/5, with reviews praising its intuitive interface, straightforward onboarding, and the minimal training needed for staff. Customers highlight that its user-friendly design reduces onboarding time and helps staff quickly adapt.

Edge: NewBook.

Which Has Better Features: Agilysys PMS or NewBook?

Agilysys PMS offers 29 distinct features, including online check-in, guest messaging, automated reminders, task management, mobile notes, integrated ID scanners, and shift planning—features that cater to complex, multi-department operations. Its online checkout, rate management, and real-time reporting are also notable, providing operational control at a granular level.

NewBook, with only 5 unique features, focuses on core booking, guest profiles, CRM, and a wellness module. While it lacks many advanced operational tools, it excels at managing reservations and guest communication in a simple, efficient manner.

Edge: Agilysys PMS.

Which Has Better Customer Support: Agilysys PMS or NewBook?

Agilysys receives a support rating of 3.92/5, with reviews indicating that support can be slow and delayed, especially when requesting product enhancements. Some users mention that system crashes and feature updates could be improved, impacting their operational confidence.

NewBook scores a perfect 5/5 in customer support, with reviews emphasizing prompt, knowledgeable, and dedicated assistance. Clients describe support as “amazing,” “creative,” and “helpful,” often praising the responsiveness that keeps their operations running smoothly.

Edge: NewBook.

Which Has More Integrations: Agilysys PMS or NewBook?

Agilysys integrates with 23 verified partners, including industry leaders like SiteMinder, Revinate, and IDeaS, as well as specialized integrations like Aven Hospitality, Springer-Miller, and Whistle. Its broad array of integrations supports complex operations across various hotel departments.

NewBook offers 16 verified integrations, including popular platforms like TripAdvisor, PriceLabs, and GuestRevu. While fewer in number, these integrations cover essential functions for smaller properties, particularly online distribution and guest feedback.

Edge: Agilysys PMS.

Which Do Hoteliers Rate Higher: Agilysys PMS or NewBook?

Based on recent reviews, NewBook’s stellar 4.75/5 rating reflects high user satisfaction, particularly among boutique hotels and smaller properties. Hoteliers praise its ease of use, support, and ability to manage bookings efficiently.

Agilysys PMS has a more modest 3.22/5 rating, with reviews highlighting its extensive features but also noting issues like system crashes and support delays. Larger resorts and properties with complex needs tend to value its depth despite these drawbacks.

Given the recency and positivity of NewBook reviews, it currently enjoys higher user ratings.

Edge: NewBook.

How Much Do Agilysys PMS and NewBook Cost?

Both systems are priced at a base fee of $1,000, with no additional implementation or monthly fees disclosed. Since no trial or tiered pricing is available, your investment is straightforward but may vary depending on customization and integrations.

Pricing transparency is limited, so consider potential costs for add-ons or extensive support. For most hotels, the initial $1,000 is comparable, but ongoing costs might differ based on your chosen modules and support level.

What Type of Hotel Should Use Agilysys PMS?

• Hotels that require deep operational control, including large resorts, casinos, and branded properties.
• Teams that manage multiple departments like F&B, housekeeping, maintenance, and front desk.
• Properties seeking automation features like space optimization, automated reminders, and real-time reporting.
• Hotels with the resources to handle a complex, feature-rich system and invest in staff training.

Not ideal if your property is small, with limited staff or simple operations, as the system’s complexity may be unnecessary.

What Type of Hotel Should Use NewBook?

• Boutique hotels, B&Bs, RV parks, campgrounds, and short-term rentals wanting a straightforward management platform.
• Teams prioritizing ease of onboarding, quick staff training, and responsive support.
• Hotels seeking to boost direct bookings and manage reservations efficiently.
• Properties that prefer cloud-based systems with minimal technical setup.

Not ideal if you need extensive operational tools, detailed reporting, or integrations with large enterprise systems.

The Bottom Line for Hotels

Agilysys PMS offers a broad, feature-rich platform necessary for larger or more complex hotels that demand detailed operational control. Its strengths lie in deep integrations, automation tools, and the ability to handle multi-department workflows, making it suitable for resorts, casinos, and branded properties.

NewBook excels in user-friendliness, support quality, and quick onboarding, making it perfect for boutique hotels, small resorts, and properties that value simplicity and customer service. Its limited but targeted set of features simplifies daily management and enhances guest experience.

When choosing, consider your property size, operational complexity, staff expertise, and growth plans. For large, multi-faceted properties, Agilysys is the robust choice. For smaller, service-focused hotels, NewBook’s ease of use and support makes it the smarter option.

In conclusion, if your hotel needs a detailed, scalable PMS with extensive features, Agilysys is the better fit. But if your priority is simplicity, support, and quick setup, NewBook offers a compelling, more recent user approval.