The project dashboard is a free tool that is only available to verified hoteliers to make adopting new technology easier by streamlining their research and simplifying their communication workflow.
TLDR
We analyzed 88 verified hotelier reviews, compared feature sets, pricing, and real-world case studies to break down where each platform delivers. The right choice depends on your property type and priorities:
apaleo GmbH shines when it comes to frequent updates and community engagement , with exclusive features like Transactional Emails (booking, folios, etc) and Payment Requests.
OpenHotel shines when it comes to customer support , with exclusive features like Revenue management module and Native Email Marketing.
Side-by-side ratings based on 88 verified hotelier reviews on HTR.
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| Starting Price | From $900/mo | Contact sales |
| Verified Reviews | 30 | 58 |
After analyzing 88 verified reviews, apaleo GmbH users most value its frequent updates and community engagement, customization and flexibility, open api and integration, while OpenHotel users highlight customer support, user-friendly pms, continuous updates and improvements. Click any theme to see what reviewers say.
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OpenHotel
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Frequent Updates and Community Engagement
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Customer Support
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Customization and Flexibility
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User-friendly PMS
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Open API and Integration
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Continuous Updates and Improvements
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App Store and Third-Party Integrations
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Direct OTA Connections
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Group and Booking Management
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Financial Processing
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Group Booking Tools
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Yield Management System
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How each product ranks among Property Management Systems vendors for different property sizes, types, and regions — based on verified reviews from hoteliers in each segment.
By Hotel Size
| Segment |
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OpenHotel
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| Small (10-24 rooms) ▾ | #42 7 reviews | #25 36 reviews |
| Mid-Size (25-74 rooms) ▾ | #27 19 reviews | #39 11 reviews |
| Large (75-199 rooms) | #41 1 reviews | #50 0 reviews |
| X-Large (200+ rooms) | #14 3 reviews | #21 2 reviews |
By Property Type
| Segment |
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OpenHotel
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| Boutique ▾ | #34 14 reviews | #37 16 reviews |
| Luxury | #43 4 reviews | #45 4 reviews |
| Branded / Chain ▾ | #40 4 reviews | #28 9 reviews |
| Extended Stay ▾ | #19 9 reviews | #43 2 reviews |
By Region
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OpenHotel
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| North America ▾ | #38 2 reviews | #14 54 reviews |
| Europe ▾ | #18 26 reviews | — |
Choosing the right PMS can significantly impact your hotel's operational efficiency and guest satisfaction. Both Apaleo Open PMS and OpenHotel PMS promise to streamline your management tasks, but they target different hotel profiles and have distinct strengths. Your decision hinges on understanding how each system aligns with your hotel's size, complexity, and tech needs.
Apaleo is an open, API-first platform favored by larger hospitality groups and those seeking custom integrations. OpenHotel, meanwhile, offers an all-in-one, user-friendly solution mainly suited for small to medium properties. Which of these systems truly fits your hotel’s unique requirements?
Both Apaleo and OpenHotel aim to simplify hotel management, but their core philosophies differ. Apaleo prioritizes flexibility and integration, making it ideal for hotels that want to build a tailored tech stack and have capacity to manage multiple integrations. OpenHotel emphasizes ease of use and comprehensive features, appealing to properties seeking a straightforward, all-in-one system.
Recent reviews favor Apaleo for its extensive integrations and open API, with a high HTScore of 77.5 and 29 reviews mostly in the last six months, indicating active user engagement. OpenHotel has a significantly lower HTScore but a higher review count (57), with reviews dating back further, suggesting a stable presence but less recent feedback. Do you prefer a flexible platform or an easy-to-use, all-in-one solution?
If your hotel needs to customize workflows, connect with a broad range of third-party systems, or operate across multiple regions, Apaleo is the better fit. Its open API and extensive partner network (120 verified integrations) support complex, scalable operations suited for large groups or tech-savvy properties.
If you prioritize straightforward property management, revenue optimization, and minimal setup hassle, OpenHotel is the way to go. Its intuitive interface, integrated booking engine, and strong focus on small to medium hotels make it ideal for properties that want an all-in-one platform without extensive customization.
Apaleo’s UI scores a 4.9/5, praised for its friendly interface and quick onboarding, rated at 4.85/5 for onboarding experience. Reviews highlight its ease of use, even for complex functionalities, with users appreciating its modern look and straightforward navigation.
OpenHotel’s UI rates slightly lower at 4.71/5 but is still regarded as highly user-friendly, especially for small properties. Reviewers mention that their staff finds it intuitive, and onboarding is smooth, though the interface can look a bit dated on smaller screens.
Edge: Apaleo.
Apaleo offers 19 unique features, including an integrated CRS, automated space optimization, transaction emails, task management, real-time status updates, online check-in/out, PCI and GDPR compliance, and mobile apps—plus a drag-and-drop tapechart. These cater to large, complex operations seeking detailed control.
OpenHotel provides five core features, notably its yield management, booking engine, OTA integrations, guest communication, and EPoS system. While fewer in number, these features are tailored for small to medium properties focusing on ease and revenue growth.
Edge: Apaleo.
Apaleo’s support scores 4.83/5, with recent reviews highlighting responsive, friendly service and active community engagement. Customers appreciate the quick resolution of issues and support during system setup.
OpenHotel’s support scores 4.82/5, with reviews emphasizing the personal, readily available service. Users praise their support team for understanding their needs and helping during emergencies.
Both are highly rated, but Apaleo’s recent review activity and community involvement suggest slightly more robust ongoing support.
Edge: Apaleo.
Apaleo boasts 120 verified integrations, including common partners like SiteMinder, SHR Group, and RevControl, plus specialized apps in revenue, payments, and analytics. This extensive network enables hotels to craft highly customized operations.
OpenHotel has only 12 verified partners, with key connections to OTAs like Expedia and Booking.com, but limited third-party integrations overall. Its focus is more on core property management and booking features.
Edge: Apaleo.
Apaleo’s reviews, though fewer (29), are overwhelmingly positive, with a 97% likelihood to recommend and recent feedback emphasizing its stability and customization. The system is most appreciated by larger or multi-property hotels.
OpenHotel has 57 reviews, with a 95% recommendation rate, mainly from small to midsize hotels. Its user base values its ease of use and strong support, but some critique its dated look and limited advanced features.
Edge: Apaleo.
Apaleo charges a $900 monthly base fee, with no freemium, implementation, or per-room charges, making it predictable for larger operations. Pricing is transparent but geared toward properties with significant operational needs.
OpenHotel’s pricing details are not publicly disclosed, but it is often marketed as competitively priced for small to medium hotels. Its value lies more in its all-in-one package than in customizable pricing.
Not ideal if:
Not ideal if:
Apaleo is a flexible, feature-rich platform that appeals to larger, tech-savvy hotels seeking customization and integration. Its open API and extensive partner network make it suitable for properties that want to build a personalized tech ecosystem.
OpenHotel offers a user-friendly, all-in-one PMS designed for small to midsize properties aiming for simplicity and efficiency. Its integrated booking engine, yield management, and strong support make it ideal for hotels that prioritize ease and immediate revenue results.
If your hotel needs deep customization, extensive integrations, and regional scalability, choose Apaleo for its unmatched flexibility. For straightforward property management with a focus on ease and cost-effectiveness, OpenHotel is the better option.
In conclusion, your choice depends on your hotel’s size, operational complexity, and desire for customization. While Apaleo’s recent reviews and higher score make it the stronger contender, your specific needs will determine the best fit.
Property Management Systems pricing is rarely straightforward. Here is what we know from each vendor's public pricing data. Always request a custom quote for your property size.
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OpenHotel
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| Starting Price | From $900/mo | — |
According to HTR's product database, Apaleo Open PMS and OpenHotel PMS share 18 features. Here are the key differences — features one has that the other lacks.
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OpenHotel
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| Automated Space Optimization | ||
| Booking Engine | ||
| EPoS | ||
| Guest Communication (SMS Messaging) | ||
| Integrated CRS | ||
| Native Email Marketing | ||
| Payment Requests | ||
| Real-Time Status Updates | ||
| Revenue management module | ||
| Task Management | ||
| Transactional Emails (booking, folios, etc) |
Showing top differences. 12 more features differ between these products.
We analyzed 4 verified case studies to compare what hotels actually achieve with each platform across four key business objectives.
"One of the biggest impacts for us has been the vast array of implementation options available on Apaleo. We’re now able to think outside the box and customise solutions in ways we..."
OpenHotel
No published case study for this goal yet.
What hoteliers love
The platform's commitment to regular updates and community engagement is well-received, with users valuing the attention to feedback and ongoing impro... The platform's commitment to regular updates and community engagement is well-received, with users valuing the attention to feedback and ongoing improvements. The active community provides a support network that enhances the user experience.
Users highlight Apaleo's strength in customization, allowing tailored workflows and process automation. This flexibility helps hotels create systems t... Users highlight Apaleo's strength in customization, allowing tailored workflows and process automation. This flexibility helps hotels create systems that align perfectly with their operational needs, enhancing efficiency and improving guest services.
Apaleo's open API is uniquely praised for enabling custom tech stacks and seamless integration with various systems, greatly enhancing efficiency and... Apaleo's open API is uniquely praised for enabling custom tech stacks and seamless integration with various systems, greatly enhancing efficiency and flexibility in operations. Reviewers appreciate the ability to create their own applications and tech ecosystems, significantly setting Apaleo apart from its competitors.
Where hoteliers push back
While users value the basic reporting functionalities, there is a noticeable demand for advanced reporting features within Apaleo. Many find current o... While users value the basic reporting functionalities, there is a noticeable demand for advanced reporting features within Apaleo. Many find current options limited, leading to reliance on additional tools for deeper analytics.
Apaleo's group management features receive praise for user-friendliness, but some reviews note areas for improvement, particularly concerning comprehe... Apaleo's group management features receive praise for user-friendliness, but some reviews note areas for improvement, particularly concerning comprehensive functionality and intuitiveness.
Ranks higher for
Unique capabilities
What hoteliers love
The open availability and responsiveness of customer support teams are highly appreciated among users. Many specifically mentioned the helpfulness of... The open availability and responsiveness of customer support teams are highly appreciated among users. Many specifically mentioned the helpfulness of the team during emergencies and the seamless transition to OpenHotel PMS. This support aids in smooth operations, especially during peak seasons or system transitions.
Many users appreciate how easy it is to navigate and use OpenHotel's PMS. The system is intuitive, even for first-time hotel clerks, and it offers sea... Many users appreciate how easy it is to navigate and use OpenHotel's PMS. The system is intuitive, even for first-time hotel clerks, and it offers seamless transitions from other systems. Users note it is particularly effective for small to medium-sized properties because of its flexible booking grid and comprehensive layout.
Users appreciate that OpenHotel is consistently improving and adding features based on user feedback. This dedication ensures the system stays up-to-d... Users appreciate that OpenHotel is consistently improving and adding features based on user feedback. This dedication ensures the system stays up-to-date with industry standards and evolving hotel needs. Notifications about these updates are shared through inbox notifications, making it convenient for users to stay informed.
Where hoteliers push back
While many appreciate the detailed and comprehensive reporting options available in OpenHotel, there is a recurring request for customizable reports a... While many appreciate the detailed and comprehensive reporting options available in OpenHotel, there is a recurring request for customizable reports and improved metrics suited to specific properties. Some users find current reports cluttered with unnecessary information and have suggested enhancements to better meet their needs.
Users noted that OpenHotel has efficient financial processing modules, including organized views of financials, customizable financial reports, and in... Users noted that OpenHotel has efficient financial processing modules, including organized views of financials, customizable financial reports, and integration with external fiscal systems. However, enhancements are suggested, particularly around real-time tax reporting and card payment interventions.
Ranks higher for
Unique capabilities
Where the ratings diverge most
It depends on your requirements. Apaleo Open PMS and OpenHotel PMS share many core Property Management Systems features, but each has unique capabilities. Apaleo Open PMS offers 120 verified integration partners, while OpenHotel PMS offers 12. Review the feature comparison above to see where they differ before switching.
Small hotels should prioritize ease of use and fast onboarding. Apaleo Open PMS leads in ease of use at 4.9/5 vs 4.7/5. Look for transparent pricing and a trial or demo option. Filter reviews on each product page by property size to hear from hotels like yours.
Apaleo Open PMS: No. OpenHotel PMS: No. Neither product currently offers a free tier. Most Property Management Systems vendors offer demos or trials — request one from each to evaluate before committing.
The HT Score is a composite ranking that considers 4 criteria groups and over a dozen variables to help hoteliers objectively compare hotel technology products. apaleo GmbH has an HT Score of 78 and OpenHotel has 16. Here is how the score is calculated.
| Criteria Group | Weight | What It Measures |
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| Customer Ratings & Reviews |
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How highly do users recommend this product? Ratings Score, Review Volume, Share of Voice, Review Depth, Review Recency, Success Stories ▾ The most heavily weighted factor. Analyzes average satisfaction ratings (likelihood to recommend, ease of use, support, ROI), total review count relative to category peers, review recency (at least 20 reviews in the trailing 6 months), and share of voice across unique hotel clients to detect selection bias. |
| Partner Ecosystem |
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How highly do tech partners recommend this company? Partner Recommendations, Integration Quantity, Integration Quality ▾ Evaluates partner recommendations as expert votes of confidence, the number of verified integrations, and ecosystem quality — the average HT Scores of integration partners. Products with higher-quality integration ecosystems are more likely to deliver a connected tech stack. |
| Customer Centricity |
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How customer-centric is this organization? Certified Support, Review Consistency, Profile Completeness ▾ Assesses whether the company has earned HTR Customer Support Certification, maintains consistent review collection over time (an indicator of feedback-driven culture), and keeps product profiles complete with capabilities, screenshots, pricing, and features. |
| Reach, Staying Power & Resources |
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How extensive is this company's reach and resourcing? Geographic Reach, Staying Power, Company Resources, Trending Score ▾ Measures global presence (countries and regions served), years in business as a stability proxy, team headcount as a resource proxy, and a trending score based on trailing-twelve-month buyer inquiries, reviews, partner recommendations, and press activity. |
Customer ratings and reviews are by far the most important factor in the HT Score algorithm. HTR does not accept payment for higher rankings. All reviews are verified — only hotel industry practitioners with confirmed affiliations can submit ratings. View full HT Score methodology →
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