Counter vs. Frontdesk Anywhere: Which Is Right for You?

Updated May 15, 2026  ·  74 verified reviews analyzed

TLDR

We analyzed 74 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:

Counter shines in ROI and onboarding , with exclusive features like Mobile App and Guest CRM.

Frontdesk Anywhere shines , with exclusive features like Revenue management module and Guest CRM.

See the full breakdown below ↓

How Does Counter Compare to Frontdesk Anywhere?

Side-by-side ratings based on 74 verified hotelier reviews on HTR.

HTScore
17
0
Likelihood to Recommend
91%
90%
Ease of Use
4.6/5
4.8/5
Customer Support
4.9/5
4.7/5
Value for Money
4.8/5
4.3/5
Starting Price Contact sales Contact sales
Verified Reviews 57 17

What Are the Pros and Cons of Counter vs Frontdesk Anywhere?

After analyzing 74 verified reviews, Counter users most value its user interface and usability, customer support, automated features, while Frontdesk Anywhere users highlight . Click any theme to see what reviewers say.

Counter Counter Frontdesk Anywhere Frontdesk Anywhere
Pros
+ User interface and usability
+ Customer support
+ Automated features
+ Platform integration
Cons
Bug issues
Reporting and revenue management
Pricing

Counter vs Frontdesk Anywhere: Rankings by Hotel Segment

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 Counter Counter Frontdesk Anywhere Frontdesk Anywhere
Small (10-24 rooms) #26 28 reviews #36 13 reviews
Mid-Size (25-74 rooms) #46 4 reviews #62 1 reviews
Large (75-199 rooms) #32 2 reviews #35 2 reviews
X-Large (200+ rooms) #31 1 reviews

By Property Type

Segment Counter Counter Frontdesk Anywhere Frontdesk Anywhere
Boutique #31 16 reviews #48 7 reviews
Luxury #44 4 reviews #41 6 reviews
Branded / Chain #43 4 reviews #53 2 reviews
Extended Stay #32 5 reviews #42 2 reviews

By Region

Segment Counter Counter Frontdesk Anywhere Frontdesk Anywhere
North America #25 8 reviews #26 9 reviews
Europe #20 25 reviews
Asia Pacific #16 4 reviews #18 4 reviews
Middle East #11 2 reviews

The Decision

Choosing between Counter by Counter and Frontdesk Anywhere hinges on your hotel’s size, location, and operational priorities. Both systems solve core property management needs, including reservations, guest data, and online distribution, but they diverge significantly in features, support, and regional presence. Your decision should be guided by which platform aligns best with your specific operational needs and growth plans.

Counter emphasizes ease of use for hostels and small properties, offering a streamlined, mobile-friendly experience. In contrast, Frontdesk Anywhere caters to a broader hotel segment, with extensive integrations and a more mature market presence. Which platform will help your team operate more efficiently?


Is Counter or Frontdesk Anywhere Better for Hotels?

Counter’s main strength is its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, especially suited for hostels and small properties that need an easy-to-learn, quick-to-implement PMS. It boasts a high overall rating of 4.73/5 from 54 reviews, with recent feedback emphasizing user-friendliness and mobile management.

Frontdesk Anywhere has a slightly lower overall rating of 4.47/5 from 15 reviews, but it benefits from more recent user feedback and a broader integration ecosystem. It’s designed for hotels requiring more comprehensive features like online distribution and revenue management. Do your operational needs lean toward simplicity or feature depth?

While Counter excels in ease of use and quick onboarding, some users report bugs affecting bookings and bed management. Conversely, Frontdesk Anywhere’s strengths lie in its extensive integrations and advanced modules, though some users find it less intuitive. Which aspects matter most for your team: straightforward management or advanced capabilities?


Counter vs Frontdesk Anywhere: Which Should Your Hotel Choose?

If your hotel is a hostel or small property needing a low-cost, straightforward PMS, go with Counter. Its intuitive interface, mobile friendliness, and focus on hostels make it ideal for rapid deployment and minimal training. It’s highly rated for ease of use and customer support, making it a reliable choice for properties with limited tech resources.

If you operate a mid-sized or larger hotel that benefits from integrations like CRS, EPoS, and revenue management, Frontdesk Anywhere is the better fit. Its broader feature set supports sophisticated operations such as online distribution, guest profiling, and dynamic pricing, making it suitable for hotels aiming to scale and optimize revenue.

For properties seeking simplicity and budget-friendly options, Counter is your best choice. Conversely, if your hotel requires comprehensive management tools and a wide network of integrations, Frontdesk Anywhere is the more strategic investment.


Is Counter or Frontdesk Anywhere Easier to Use?

Counter’s user interface receives a 4.6/5 rating, with many users praising its simplicity and quick onboarding. Its mobile-friendly design allows staff to manage reservations and check-ins from anywhere, which is especially helpful for hostels and small properties.

Frontdesk Anywhere edges out slightly with a 4.77/5 rating, praised for its intuitive design and regular updates. Users find it easy to navigate and appreciate the support, although some mention that a more colorful or visually engaging interface could enhance usability.

Edge: Frontdesk Anywhere.


Which Has Better Features: Counter or Frontdesk Anywhere?

Counter offers 8 features unique to its platform, including a mobile app, centralized user management, multi-currency/language support, and guest CRM. It also tracks ancillary revenue and automates payment processing, bolstering its appeal for hostels and small hotels that need streamlined operations.

Frontdesk Anywhere provides 5 exclusive features, such as EPoS, revenue management modules, and an integrated CRS, supporting more complex operations. Its guest CRM and profiles are similar to Counter but lack some of Counter’s ancillary revenue tracking.

Overall, Counter’s broader feature set makes it more versatile for small properties, but Frontdesk Anywhere’s specialized modules cater well to larger hotels.

Edge: Counter.


Which Has Better Customer Support: Counter or Frontdesk Anywhere?

Counter’s support team is highly rated at 4.96/5, with reviewers highlighting fast, helpful responses. Specific praise goes to team members Evelyn and Max, who respond quickly to issues, though some users note slower support in certain time zones.

Frontdesk Anywhere scores 4.7/5, with users praising the friendly, professional support staff. However, some reviews mention delays in response times and wish for more immediate access to support during peak hours.

Edge: Counter.


Which Has More Integrations: Counter or Frontdesk Anywhere?

Counter integrates with 7 verified partners, including Stripe, GOKI, and Cloudbeds, offering essential integrations tailored for hostels. It’s particularly praised for its seamless POS and payment system integrations, helping streamline revenue streams.

Frontdesk Anywhere connects with 15 verified partners, including major channel managers and reputation platforms like TrustYou and Revinate. Its extensive integrations support larger hotels with more complex distribution and reputation management needs.

For broader connectivity, Frontdesk Anywhere’s larger partner network edges ahead, but Counter’s integrations are well-suited for small properties.

Edge: Frontdesk Anywhere.


Which Do Hoteliers Rate Higher: Counter or Frontdesk Anywhere?

Counter’s review score of 4.73/5 is based on 54 reviews, primarily from hostel and small property users, with a 91% likelihood to recommend. Hoteliers praise its simplicity, quick setup, and excellent support, especially for properties with limited tech resources.

Frontdesk Anywhere’s rating of 4.47/5 from 15 reviews is slightly lower, but recent reviews highlight its robust features and support. Larger hotels and chains often favor its extensive modules and integration options.

Counter’s higher review count and more recent feedback make it the stronger-rated platform, especially for small properties.

Edge: Counter.


How Much Do Counter and Frontdesk Anywhere Cost?

Both Counter and Frontdesk Anywhere do not publicly disclose specific pricing models. Neither offers a freemium plan or transparent monthly rates; pricing is typically custom, based on property size and feature needs. Expect to negotiate directly with sales teams for tailored quotes.


What Type of Hotel Should Use Counter?

  • Hotels that operate hostels, B&Bs, or small boutique properties.
  • Teams seeking an affordable, easy-to-learn PMS with essential features.
  • Properties prioritizing mobile management and quick onboarding.
  • Hotels with limited or no advanced revenue management needs.
  • Small properties in developing regions needing a localized, simple system.

Not ideal if your hotel needs complex revenue management, extensive integrations, or advanced POS features.


What Type of Hotel Should Use Frontdesk Anywhere?

  • Hotels, motels, and resorts with mid-size or larger operations.
  • Teams looking for advanced features like revenue management, CRS, and extensive integrations.
  • Properties aiming to scale and improve operational efficiency.
  • Hotels that value online reputation management and detailed reporting.
  • Hotels seeking a fully cloud-based, multi-device accessible PMS.

Not ideal if your property is a small hostel or B&B that needs minimal features and prefers simplicity.


Frontdesk Anywhere vs Counter: The Bottom Line for Hotels

Counter is a straightforward, user-friendly PMS designed for hostels and small hotels, with a focus on ease of use, quick onboarding, and essential features. Its high review volume and recent positive feedback make it a dependable choice for properties with limited tech staff.

Frontdesk Anywhere offers a broader, more integrated platform suited for larger hotels and chains that need extensive modules, advanced distribution, and revenue tools. Its larger partner network and feature set appeal to properties with complex operational needs.

If your hotel is small, budget-conscious, and values simplicity, choose Counter. For properties aiming to expand and optimize revenue with comprehensive features, Frontdesk Anywhere is the clear choice.

How Much Do Counter and Frontdesk Anywhere Cost?

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.

Counter Counter Frontdesk Anywhere Frontdesk Anywhere

Which Features Does Counter Have That Frontdesk Anywhere Doesn't (and Vice Versa)?

According to HTR's product database, Counter and Frontdesk Anywhere share 11 features. Here are the key differences — features one has that the other lacks.

Feature Counter Counter Frontdesk Anywhere Frontdesk Anywhere
Centralized user & role management
Cloud based
EPoS
Guest CRM
Guest CRM
Guest profiles
Guest profiles
Integrated CRS
Mobile App
Multi-currency
Revenue management module

Showing top differences. 1 more features differ between these products.

Counter vs Frontdesk Anywhere: The Bottom Line

Counter
Counter
4.6/5 from 57 reviews

What hoteliers love

User interface and usability 83% positive

Hoteliers find Counter's interface clean, intuitive, and user-friendly, making it easy to train new staff quickly. The mobile and desktop interfaces w... Hoteliers find Counter's interface clean, intuitive, and user-friendly, making it easy to train new staff quickly. The mobile and desktop interfaces work well, allowing managers to handle tasks remotely. It is particularly noted for its simplicity in calendar and calendar management.

Customer support 98% positive

The support team at Counter is frequently praised for its responsiveness and helpfulness. Staff like Evelyn and Max receive specific mentions for thei... The support team at Counter is frequently praised for its responsiveness and helpfulness. Staff like Evelyn and Max receive specific mentions for their professionalism. However, there are concerns about slower support in certain time zones.

Automated features 83% positive

Users appreciate Counter's automated features that include tasks like contactless check-in, automating credit card charges, and managing bookings acro... Users appreciate Counter's automated features that include tasks like contactless check-in, automating credit card charges, and managing bookings across platforms. This automation reduces staff workload and improves operational efficiency.

Where hoteliers push back

Bug issues 86% negative

Several hoteliers mention persistent bugs in the system, particularly issues with overbookings, bed availability display, and system errors during boo... Several hoteliers mention persistent bugs in the system, particularly issues with overbookings, bed availability display, and system errors during booking cancellations. These bugs have a negative impact on daily operations and guest experience.

Reporting and revenue management 50% negative

Hoteliers appreciate Counter's reporting capabilities but note that the reports can be improved for better insights. Revenue management features are s... Hoteliers appreciate Counter's reporting capabilities but note that the reports can be improved for better insights. Revenue management features are seen as lacking, particularly for businesses operating on multiple rate plans or using dynamic pricing.

Ranks higher for

Large (75-199 rooms) #32 vs #35
Mid-Size (25-74 rooms) #46 vs #62
Small (10-24 rooms) #26 vs #36
Bed & Breakfast & Inns #30 vs #45

Unique capabilities

Mobile App Centralized user & role management Cloud based Guest CRM Guest profiles
4.6/5 ease of use 5.0/5 support 7 integrations
Visit Profile
Frontdesk Anywhere
Frontdesk Anywhere
4.5/5 from 17 reviews

Ranks higher for

Luxury #41 vs #44
US #27 vs #39

Unique capabilities

EPoS Revenue management module Integrated CRS Guest CRM Guest profiles
4.8/5 ease of use 4.7/5 support 15 integrations
Visit Profile

Where the ratings diverge most

Value for Money Counter 4.8 vs 4.2 (+0.6)
Onboarding Counter 4.7 vs 4.4 (+0.3)

Frequently Asked Questions About Counter vs Frontdesk Anywhere

Can Counter replace Frontdesk Anywhere?

It depends on your requirements. Counter and Frontdesk Anywhere share many core Property Management Systems features, but each has unique capabilities. Counter offers 7 verified integration partners, while Frontdesk Anywhere offers 15. Review the feature comparison above to see where they differ before switching.

Which is better for small or independent hotels?

Small hotels should prioritize ease of use and fast onboarding. Frontdesk Anywhere leads in ease of use at 4.8/5 vs 4.6/5. 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.

Do Counter or Frontdesk Anywhere offer a free plan?

Counter: No. Frontdesk Anywhere: 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.

How Does HTR Evaluate and Rank Counter and Frontdesk Anywhere?

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. Counter has an HT Score of 17 and Frontdesk Anywhere has 0. Here is how the score is calculated.

Criteria Group Weight What It Measures
Customer Ratings & Reviews

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

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

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

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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