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 59 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:
ChargeAutomation shines when it comes to payment processing , with exclusive features like GlobalPayments (Credit Card Processing).
DOWHAT shines .
Side-by-side ratings based on 59 verified hotelier reviews on HTR.
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| Starting Price | From $200/mo | From $400/mo |
| Verified Reviews | 44 | 15 |
After analyzing 59 verified reviews, ChargeAutomation users most value its payment processing, contactless check-in, customer support, while DOWHAT users highlight . Click any theme to see what reviewers say.
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Payment Processing
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Contactless Check-in
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Customer Support
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Upselling Features
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Customization Limitations
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PMS Integration
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Customer Reviews
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How each product ranks among Contactless Check-in vendors for different property sizes, types, and regions — based on verified reviews from hoteliers in each segment.
By Hotel Size
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| Small (10-24 rooms) ▾ | #6 13 reviews | #17 1 reviews |
| Mid-Size (25-74 rooms) ▾ | #5 16 reviews | #25 0 reviews |
| Large (75-199 rooms) ▾ | #6 5 reviews | #14 1 reviews |
| X-Large (200+ rooms) ▾ | #13 1 reviews | #3 13 reviews |
By Property Type
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| Boutique ▾ | #6 9 reviews | #8 10 reviews |
| Luxury ▾ | #10 6 reviews | #3 14 reviews |
| Branded / Chain | #9 4 reviews | #11 4 reviews |
| Extended Stay ▾ | #3 18 reviews | #8 4 reviews |
By Region
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| North America ▾ | #4 19 reviews | #18 0 reviews |
| Europe ▾ | #6 20 reviews | — |
| Asia Pacific ▾ | #5 2 reviews | #10 15 reviews |
Choosing between ChargeAutomation Online Check-in by ChargeAutomation and E-Reg. Card by DOWHAT hinges on your hotel’s specific needs for contactless check-in. Both solutions aim to streamline onboarding and reduce manual workload, but they diverge significantly in scope, functionality, and market presence. ChargeAutomation offers a comprehensive, feature-rich platform with a broad hotel segment focus, while DOWHAT provides a simple, eco-friendly check-in alternative. Which aligns better with your operational goals?
ChargeAutomation’s deeper integration capabilities and extensive feature set make it more suitable for hotels seeking a full contactless experience. Conversely, if your primary goal is reducing paper waste with a straightforward digital registration, DOWHAT might suffice. Do you need a full-service platform or a sustainability-focused tool?
If your hotel needs a robust, all-in-one digital check-in system that automates ID verification, payments, upselling, and integrates with existing PMS, ChargeAutomation is the clear choice. It’s rated significantly higher in user support, onboarding, and overall satisfaction, with 42 reviews and more recent feedback. This makes its solution more reliable for medium to large hotels and vacation rentals.
If your hotel prioritizes eco-friendly operations, reducing paper registration, and simple electronic check-in, DOWHAT offers a straightforward, cost-effective option. With just 14 reviews and a narrower regional footprint, it caters mainly to boutique hotels, hostels, and properties seeking a basic digital registration tool. For hotels with minimal automation needs, DOWHAT’s lower price point might appeal. Which operational priorities matter most to you?
ChargeAutomation scores a 4.71/5 for ease of use, backed by detailed onboarding and support, while DOWHAT edges slightly ahead at 4.79/5, supported by its minimalist design and straightforward functionality. ChargeAutomation’s interface and onboarding process are praised for their clarity, but some users mention room for interface customization improvements. DOWHAT’s simpler setup makes it easier for smaller teams or properties new to digital check-in.
Reviewers frequently highlight ChargeAutomation’s intuitive guest portal, but some mention it can be overwhelming for small staff. DOWHAT’s streamlined process reduces learning curves, especially for properties with limited technical resources. Overall, DOWHAT’s simplicity gives it a slight edge here.
Edge: DOWHAT.
ChargeAutomation offers 11 features exclusive to its platform, including PCI compliance, multiple credit card processors, PMS integration, security deposits, upselling, and activity logs. It covers everything from guest verification to financial security, making it a comprehensive solution.
DOWHAT, in contrast, provides a single core feature: digital registration, with no additional functionalities listed. While this makes DOWHAT easier to implement, it lacks the broader capabilities ChargeAutomation offers. For properties seeking more control and automation, ChargeAutomation’s richer feature set is a clear advantage.
Edge: ChargeAutomation.
ChargeAutomation’s support is highly rated at 4.9/5, with reviewers praising its quick, friendly responses and willingness to implement small changes at no extra cost. Customers appreciate the proactive support that minimizes downtime, crucial for operational reliability.
DOWHAT’s support scores 4.71/5, with reviewers noting good service but less detailed feedback and fewer recent reviews. For hotels where support quality impacts daily operations, ChargeAutomation’s higher rating and more active user base suggest a more dependable support experience.
Edge: ChargeAutomation.
ChargeAutomation boasts 18 verified integration partners, including major PMS providers like Oracle Hospitality, RoomRaccoon, Mews, and Guesty. This extensive network allows for smoother data flow and operational cohesion.
DOWHAT only has 2 verified integrations, notably with its own platform and Oracle Hospitality. Its limited partner ecosystem may restrict flexibility, especially if your hotel relies on multiple systems for revenue management, PMS, or channel distribution.
Edge: ChargeAutomation.
ChargeAutomation’s 42 reviews reflect a diverse user base, predominantly vacation rentals and extended stays, with an overall satisfaction rating backed by recent positive feedback. Users consistently praise its automation, revenue potential, and customer service, with a 98% likelihood to recommend.
DOWHAT’s 14 reviews are mainly from boutique hotels and hostels, with generally positive feedback on simplicity and eco-focus. However, the limited review count and regional scope reduce confidence in its broader application.
Edge: ChargeAutomation.
ChargeAutomation is priced at a flat $200 per month, with no implementation or trial fees, providing transparent, predictable costs suitable for mid-sized properties. Its all-in-one features justify the investment for hotels seeking comprehensive automation.
DOWHAT costs $400 upfront, with no ongoing fees for its basic service. Its higher initial price for a single feature may be less attractive unless a simple, paperless registration is your sole priority.
Not ideal if your hotel is small with minimal staff; a simple, low-cost solution might suffice.
Not ideal if your hotel needs advanced features like payments, upselling, or PMS integration.
ChargeAutomation offers a comprehensive, well-supported contactless check-in platform with a broad feature set, extensive integrations, and a well-rated customer support team. It excels in automating multiple guest onboarding processes, making it suitable for medium to large hotels seeking operational efficiency and revenue growth.
DOWHAT provides a simple, eco-friendly alternative focused solely on digital registration, ideal for small properties prioritizing sustainability and ease of use. Its minimal setup and lower cost make it appealing for properties with basic needs.
If your goal is a scalable, feature-rich contactless solution that integrates deeply with your existing systems, ChargeAutomation is the clear choice. For hotels aiming for a straightforward, paperless registration with minimal complexity, DOWHAT is worth considering. Which aligns better with your hotel’s strategic priorities?
Contactless Check-in 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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| Starting Price | From $200/mo | From $400/mo |
According to HTR's product database, ChargeAutomation Online Check-in and E-Reg. Card by DOWHAT share 19 features. Here are the key differences — features one has that the other lacks.
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| Chase (Credit Card Processing) | ||
| First Data (Credit Card Processing) | ||
| Heartland (Credit Card Processing) | ||
| Multi-Processor Gateway | ||
| PCI Compliance | ||
| Vantiv (Credit Card Processing) |
What hoteliers love
The software's automated payment processing feature is praised for handling payments, security deposits, and chargebacks. Users appreciate how it mini... The software's automated payment processing feature is praised for handling payments, security deposits, and chargebacks. Users appreciate how it minimizes fraud and error, saving time and reducing labor costs. Payment automation facilitates smoother operations and enhances financial security for both hotels and guests.
ChargeAutomation simplifies the check-in process with its robust contactless solution. Reviews frequently highlight how the system allows guests to co... ChargeAutomation simplifies the check-in process with its robust contactless solution. Reviews frequently highlight how the system allows guests to complete check-in remotely, reducing front desk traffic and wait times. This feature is especially beneficial in minimizing manual work, improving operational efficiency, and creating a better guest experience.
While support is generally praised for being responsive and helpful, a few reviews noted the need for improvements in response time and additional sup... While support is generally praised for being responsive and helpful, a few reviews noted the need for improvements in response time and additional support personnel. Good support is crucial for resolving issues quickly, thereby affecting the overall experience.
Where hoteliers push back
A critical point raised by some users is the need for more customization options. Reviews mention limitations in the ability to customize the guest po... A critical point raised by some users is the need for more customization options. Reviews mention limitations in the ability to customize the guest portal, email formats, and other interfaces. This lack of flexibility can impact how well the software meets specific needs of different properties.
Although several reviews highlight how ChargeAutomation seamlessly integrates with Property Management Systems (PMS), there are also some criticisms a... Although several reviews highlight how ChargeAutomation seamlessly integrates with Property Management Systems (PMS), there are also some criticisms about its PMS connectivity. Users report issues like synchrony problems and the need for more flexible information transfer capabilities.
Ranks higher for
Unique capabilities
Ranks higher for
It depends on your requirements. ChargeAutomation Online Check-in and E-Reg. Card by DOWHAT share many core Contactless Check-in features, but each has unique capabilities. ChargeAutomation Online Check-in offers 18 verified integration partners, while E-Reg. Card by DOWHAT offers 2. Review the feature comparison above to see where they differ before switching.
Small hotels should prioritize ease of use and fast onboarding. E-Reg. Card by DOWHAT leads in ease of use at 4.8/5 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.
ChargeAutomation Online Check-in: No. E-Reg. Card by DOWHAT: No. Neither product currently offers a free tier. Most Contactless Check-in 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. ChargeAutomation has an HT Score of 24 and DOWHAT has 0. 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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