Exely Channel Manager vs. freetobook Channel Manager:
Which Is Right for You?

The Decision

Choosing between Exely Channel Manager and freetobook Channel Manager comes down to your hotel’s specific needs and the scale of your operation. Both products aim to simplify channel management and boost online revenue but differ significantly in complexity, features, and user base. Exely is a more comprehensive solution with a focus on larger properties and multiple markets, while freetobook caters primarily to small accommodations and bed & breakfasts. Which aligns better with your hotel’s profile and growth plans?

Is Exely or freetobook Better for Hotels?

Both products are designed to optimize online distribution, but they serve different hotel segments. Exely emphasizes multi-language support, multi-currency capabilities, and integrations with major global hotel systems, making it suitable for hotels with diverse markets or multiple properties. freetobook, however, prioritizes simplicity, budget-friendly pricing, and a focus on small-scale properties like B&Bs and hostels.

Exely boasts a higher overall rating (85.1 vs 83.7) and more recent reviews, indicating a more active and satisfied user base. Its extensive feature set, including 13 unique features (such as multi-lingual support), outpaces freetobook’s 12 features, which are mostly core channel management tools. The choice hinges on whether your hotel needs a robust, multi-market system or a straightforward, easy-to-manage platform.

Are you looking for a scalable solution with international support or a lightweight system tailored for small properties?

Exely vs freetobook: Which Should Your Hotel Choose?

If your hotel operates in multiple regions, targets international guests, or has complex distribution needs, Exely is the clear choice. Its multi-lingual and multi-currency features, along with integrations like Oracle Hospitality and Mews, support larger, multi-market hotels. Conversely, if you run a small property, such as a bed & breakfast or hostel, and prioritize simplicity, affordability, and ease of use, freetobook is more suitable.

For hotels seeking advanced analytics, customizable reports, and multi-channel synchronization across numerous OTAs, Exely’s feature set and review volume make it the more reliable option. If your focus is on direct bookings, guest engagement, or minimal operational complexity, freetobook excels with its intuitive interface and targeted features.

In summary, choose Exely for extensive international reach and complex distribution, and freetobook for ease, affordability, and small-scale management.

Is Exely or freetobook Easier to Use?

Exely scores a near-perfect 4.95/5 for ease of use, favored for its intuitive dashboard and straightforward update process, which reduces manual errors. Its onboarding process is rated 4.86/5, with users praising its helpful support and clear instructions. However, some note that its extensive features may require a learning curve for new staff.

freetobook also scores highly, with a 4.88/5 rating, emphasizing its simple, user-friendly interface. Its onboarding experience matches Exely’s at 4.86/5, and users consistently mention how easy it is to manage bookings and rates, even for non-technical staff.

Edge: Exely.

Which Has Better Features: Exely or freetobook?

Exely offers 13 features, including multi-lingual support, multi-currency support, and advanced reporting capabilities—features exclusive to this platform. Its tools are designed for larger hotels and chains that need detailed customization and international distribution.

freetobook provides 12 core features, primarily focusing on reliable channel management, direct booking promotion, and guest communication tools like Messenger and GuestAppy. Its unique offering of PMS connectivity enhances property control, but it lacks multi-lingual and multi-currency support.

Edge: Exely.

Which Has Better Customer Support: Exely or freetobook?

Both products are highly rated for support, with Exely earning a 4.95/5 and freetobook 4.92/5. Exely’s reviews highlight its quick, professional responses and ongoing platform updates based on user feedback. Some users wish for more extensive training resources but generally report satisfaction with responsiveness.

freetobook’s support team is praised for friendly, reliable assistance, with users stating they feel like part of a family. Its support is noted for being available when needed and resolving issues promptly, which is crucial for small properties relying on straightforward help.

Edge: Slight edge to freetobook for personal touch.

Which Has More Integrations: Exely or freetobook?

Exely boasts 8 verified partners, including Hotellab, Oracle Hospitality, and IDeaS, supporting complex integrations suited for larger operations. freetobook has 5 verified partners, with integrations including Stripe, Pitchup.com, and its own platform, focusing on essential OTA and payment connections.

Shared integrations are limited, but Exely’s broader partner network offers more options for scaling and connecting with enterprise systems. freetobook’s integrations are more straightforward, suitable for smaller operations that don’t require extensive third-party connections.

Edge: Exely.

Which Do Hoteliers Rate Higher: Exely or freetobook?

Exely has 102 reviews, with 34 in the last six months, indicating recent, active user feedback. Its average rating remains high, especially among larger hotels and chains, where users praise its efficiency and reliability.

freetobook has 145 reviews, with 32 recent reviews, and a slightly higher likelihood to recommend (99% vs 98%). It is favored by small accommodations for ease of use and value, with many praising its role in reducing double bookings and simplifying management.

While both are highly rated, Exely’s recent review volume and score (85.1) make it the more reliable source for ongoing performance.

Edge: Exely.

How Much Do Exely and freetobook Cost?

Both products are priced at a base rate of $100.00, with no mention of additional implementation fees, monthly flat rates, or free trials. This parity simplifies budgeting decisions, but it’s essential to consider what each offers beyond the price.

Exely’s pricing reflects its broader feature set and international capabilities, making it a better investment for larger or multi-market hotels. freetobook’s straightforward pricing is attractive for small properties prioritizing affordability.

What Type of Hotel Should Use Exely?

• Hotels that operate across multiple countries or regions, requiring multi-language and multi-currency support.
• Chains or properties with complex distribution needs, managing numerous OTAs and direct bookings.
• Hotels seeking detailed analytics and customizable reporting.
• Larger hotels or boutique properties with higher revenue targets.
• Properties that prioritize automation and integration with other enterprise systems.

Not ideal if your hotel is small, localized, or prefers a simple, plug-and-play solution.

What Type of Hotel Should Use freetobook?

• Small accommodations like B&Bs, hostels, motels, or vacation rentals.
• Properties with a limited distribution strategy focused on OTA presence and direct bookings.
• Hotels seeking an easy-to-use platform with minimal setup and training.
• Businesses that value affordability and straightforward management over extensive features.
• Small teams that prefer a personal, responsive support experience.

Not suitable if your property needs multi-language support, multi-currency features, or complex integrations.

Exely vs freetobook: The Bottom Line for Hotels

Exely offers a comprehensive channel management system with extensive international support, making it ideal for larger hotels, chains, or those with multi-market distribution. Its advanced features, integrations, and recent review volume give it a clear edge in reliability and scalability.

freetobook is a solid choice for small properties and independent accommodations prioritizing simplicity, direct booking emphasis, and affordability. Its ease of use and support responsiveness make it attractive for properties that do not require complex global features.

If your hotel is growing or already operates across borders, Exely’s capabilities and recent reviews make it the preferred choice. For small properties looking to manage OTA connections efficiently without extra complexity, freetobook remains a strong, budget-friendly option.