CiHMS vs. ThinkReservations PMS:
Which Is Right for You?

The Decision

Choosing between CiHMS by CiHMS and ThinkReservations PMS hinges on your hotel’s unique needs and priorities. Both systems aim to streamline operations, improve revenue, and enhance guest experiences, but they diverge significantly in features, user base, and regional reach. With more recent reviews and a higher review count, ThinkReservations is currently the more trusted platform in the market.

Your team must evaluate which product aligns best with your property size, segment focus, and operational complexity. Are you looking for a robust, multi-channel system with global reach, or a straightforward, B&B-focused platform? Let’s compare the two.

Is CiHMS or ThinkReservations Better for Hotels?

Both CiHMS and ThinkReservations are designed to handle core property management tasks—reservations, billing, and guest communication—but they differ in scope and specialization. CiHMS offers a broad suite of modules like revenue management, spa & wellness, and integrated CRS, making it suitable for larger, complex hotels or resorts. ThinkReservations, on the other hand, focuses on ease of use, OTA integration, and booking automation, ideal for small to mid-sized properties.

The ratings reveal an interesting contrast: CiHMS scores lower overall (0/5) on public reviews, but it maintains high support ratings and niche capabilities. ThinkReservations boasts a 4.88/5 rating, with recent reviews emphasizing its reliability and user-friendliness. With 356 reviews and recent positive feedback, ThinkReservations is more proven and trusted.

Do you need an all-in-one management system with advanced modules, or a simple, effective PMS that integrates well with online channels? The choice depends on your operational complexity and regional focus.

ThinkReservations PMS vs CiHMS: Which Should Your Hotel Choose?

If your hotel primarily operates in North America, with a focus on inns, B&Bs, or boutique hotels, ThinkReservations is the clear choice. Its extensive OTA integrations, ease of use, and proven track record—especially with 356 reviews and a 4.88/5 rating—make it suitable for small to mid-sized properties seeking efficiency and revenue growth. Its features like automated messaging, online check-in, and native email marketing are highly valued by users.

Conversely, if your hotel is larger, part of a chain, or based in regions like Asia Pacific or the Middle East, CiHMS may better address your needs with modules for revenue management, advanced room allocation, and multi-channel distribution. Its focus on chain management and complex configurations makes it more appropriate for resorts or branded hotels willing to invest in a comprehensive platform.

In summary: for North American small hotels, go with ThinkReservations; for larger or regional properties with complex needs, CiHMS is the preferred pick.

Is CiHMS or ThinkReservations Easier to Use?

ThinkReservations is praised for its intuitive interface, earning a 4.82/5 user rating and frequent praise for simplifying booking management and guest communication. Many reviews mention that onboarding was seamless and that staff adopted it quickly, with users describing it as “like adding another employee” to their team.

CiHMS also scores highly for ease of use, with a 4.9/5 rating, and reviews highlight its stability and straightforward navigation. However, some users point out that onboarding can be complex due to its broad feature set, suggesting the need for more extensive training resources.

Edge: ThinkReservations.

Which Has Better Features: CiHMS or ThinkReservations?

CiHMS offers 7 exclusive features, including spa & wellness modules, revenue management, integrated CRS, ID & passport scanners, automated space optimization, a housekeeping mobile app, and automated assignments—features that support larger, multi-faceted operations. Its 26 shared features cover core PMS functionalities.

ThinkReservations has 13 unique features, notably payment processing, guest messaging, automated reminders, drag-and-drop tapechart, online check-in, native email marketing, and GDPR compliance. These features are tailored for daily booking efficiency and guest engagement.

In terms of total feature count, CiHMS’s specialized modules suit complex properties, while ThinkReservations’ targeted features excel for small to mid-sized hotels focused on online distribution and guest communication.

Edge: CiHMS (for its extensive, specialized modules).

Which Has Better Customer Support: CiHMS or ThinkReservations?

CiHMS scores a near-perfect 4.92/5 for support, with reviews emphasizing professional, timely assistance. Users cite support as a major advantage, especially during implementation and troubleshooting, describing it as “exceptional” and “responsive.”

ThinkReservations also provides excellent support, with a 4.82/5 rating. Customers appreciate its accessibility and patience, often praising the team as “very helpful” and “easy to reach,” which is especially critical for smaller properties lacking in-house IT expertise.

Edge: CiHMS.

Which Has More Integrations: CiHMS or ThinkReservations?

ThinkReservations offers 16 verified integrations, including major OTAs like Booking.com, Expedia, TripAdvisor, and Airbnb. It also partners with tools such as TrustYou, Triptease, OpenKey, and INTELITY, providing a broad ecosystem for operations and guest experience.

CiHMS has only 3 verified partners—SiteMinder, DerbySoft, and Easyway—limiting its integration options but focusing on specific regions like Asia Pacific and the Middle East. Its integrations tend to serve larger distribution networks rather than a broad spectrum.

Edge: ThinkReservations.

Which Do Hoteliers Rate Higher: CiHMS or ThinkReservations?

ThinkReservations enjoys a higher overall rating—4.88/5 based on 343 recent reviews—especially among small and boutique hotels. Its reviews highlight ease of use, excellent support, and revenue boosting features.

CiHMS, with a 0/5 rating, has mostly negative reviews, indicating dissatisfaction or unavailability of public feedback. However, its support ratings are high, and its niche modules receive praise from specific segments like resorts.

In terms of recent ratings and overall reputation, ThinkReservations clearly leads.

Edge: ThinkReservations.

How Much Do CiHMS and ThinkReservations Cost?

CiHMS is priced at a $900 base fee, with no free tier or trial, reflecting its focus on larger properties and added modules. Its higher price point aligns with its extensive feature set but may be prohibitive for small hotels.

ThinkReservations costs $500 as a base price, with no mention of ongoing fees or trials. Its more affordable price for a rich feature set makes it attractive to small and mid-sized hotels seeking value.

Overall, ThinkReservations offers a lower entry point, making it a more accessible option for smaller properties.

What Type of Hotel Should Use CiHMS?

• Hotels that operate multiple properties or large resorts seeking centralized management.
• Properties with complex revenue strategies requiring dynamic rate and package configurations.
• Hotels needing integration with regional distribution channels in Asia or the Middle East.
• Chains or branded hotels managing extensive staff and operational structures.

Not ideal if you are a small B&B or boutique hotel with simple booking needs, as CiHMS’s broader modules can be overwhelming.

What Type of Hotel Should Use ThinkReservations?

• Small to mid-sized hotels, inns, and B&Bs looking for an easy-to-use system.
• Properties prioritizing online distribution through OTAs like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Expedia.
• Hotels interested in automation features such as guest messaging and online check-in.
• Properties aiming to increase revenue through upselling and targeted marketing.

Not ideal if your hotel requires complex revenue management, spa modules, or multi-property centralization.

The Bottom Line for Hotels

In essence, CiHMS is a comprehensive, modular PMS best suited for larger hotels, resorts, or chains with regional needs. Its wide array of modules and robust reporting support complex operations but come with a higher price and a steeper learning curve.

ThinkReservations excels in simplicity, integration, and support, making it ideal for small and boutique properties focused on online channels and guest experience. Its recent reviews and higher ratings demonstrate its strong reputation among hoteliers seeking efficiency and quick ROI.

Choose CiHMS if your hotel needs a large-scale, feature-rich management system that supports complex operations and regional distribution. Opt for ThinkReservations if you want an intuitive, well-supported PMS with excellent OTA integrations and proven success in smaller hotel markets.

Ultimately, your decision should reflect your property size, regional focus, and operational complexity. Both systems are capable, but ThinkReservations currently holds the edge for overall satisfaction and recent performance.