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

Updated May 21, 2026  ·  249 verified reviews analyzed

TLDR

We analyzed 249 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:

Exely shines when it comes to channel manager integration and synchronization — especially for brand properties (0.0/5) , with exclusive features like Multi-Currency Support.

HotelRunner shines when it comes to multi-channel management , with exclusive features like Email Marketing and Data Analysis & Reporting.

See the full breakdown below ↓

How Does Exely Channel Manager Compare to HotelRunner Channel Manager?

Side-by-side ratings based on 249 verified hotelier reviews on HTR.

HTScore
85
76
Likelihood to Recommend
98%
96%
Ease of Use
5.0/5
4.7/5
Customer Support
5.0/5
4.7/5
Value for Money
4.9/5
4.7/5
Starting Price From $100/mo From $100/mo
Verified Reviews 134 115

What Are the Pros and Cons of Exely Channel Manager vs HotelRunner Channel Manager?

After analyzing 249 verified reviews, Exely users most value its channel manager integration and synchronization, user interface and usability, support and responsiveness, while HotelRunner users highlight multi-channel management, support and reliability, ease of use. Click any theme to see what reviewers say.

Exely Exely HotelRunner HotelRunner
Pros
+ Channel Manager Integration and Synchronization
+ Multi-channel Management
+ User Interface and Usability
+ Support and Reliability
+ Support and Responsiveness
+ Ease of Use
+ Direct Booking Enhancement
+ Real-time Updates
Cons
Analytics and Reporting
Interface Improvements
Customization and Control
System Speed
Integration Flexibility

Exely vs HotelRunner: Rankings by Hotel Segment

How each product ranks among Channel Managers vendors for different property sizes, types, and regions — based on verified reviews from hoteliers in each segment.

By Hotel Size

Segment Exely Exely HotelRunner HotelRunner
Small (10-24 rooms) #15 26 reviews #12 40 reviews
Mid-Size (25-74 rooms) #9 51 reviews #13 22 reviews
Large (75-199 rooms) #14 5 reviews #10 9 reviews
X-Large (200+ rooms) #7 5 reviews #15 2 reviews

By Property Type

Segment Exely Exely HotelRunner HotelRunner
Boutique #15 29 reviews #7 51 reviews
Luxury #13 27 reviews #10 31 reviews
Branded / Chain #15 14 reviews #14 17 reviews
Extended Stay #14 6 reviews #12 6 reviews

By Region

Segment Exely Exely HotelRunner HotelRunner
North America #18 2 reviews #19 1 reviews
Europe #19 10 reviews #14 16 reviews
Asia Pacific #5 67 reviews #13 8 reviews
Middle East #7 13 reviews #2 63 reviews

The Decision

Choosing the right channel management software can significantly impact your hotel's revenue and operational efficiency. Both Exely Channel Manager and HotelRunner Channel Manager aim to streamline your distribution channels, reduce errors, and maximize bookings. However, they diverge in their approach, features, and market presence, making it essential to compare their capabilities thoroughly.

Exely excels in providing a user-friendly, highly-rated platform with recent positive reviews and a strong customer support reputation. HotelRunner offers a broader feature set, more integrations, and a larger global reach but has slightly fewer recent reviews. Which product aligns better with your hotel’s needs?

Is Exely or HotelRunner Better for Hotels?

Both products aim to optimize your online distribution, but they differ in their core focus and customer feedback. Exely is praised for its intuitive interface, stability, and real-time synchronization, with recent reviews highlighting its ease of use and reliable performance. HotelRunner emphasizes multi-channel management, offering extensive integrations and additional features like web design and email marketing.

While Exely’s reviews are more numerous and recent, indicating higher confidence in its current performance, HotelRunner shows a broader set of functionalities that cater to hotels seeking a comprehensive management solution. Are you prioritizing ease of use and recent support quality, or do you need a wide feature set with extensive integrations?

Exely vs HotelRunner: Which Should Your Hotel Choose?

If your hotel needs a streamlined channel manager focusing on stable, real-time synchronization with minimal manual effort, go with Exely. Its high ratings—85.1 HTR Score, 4.78/5 overall, over 100 reviews with recent feedback—demonstrate strong satisfaction among users, especially in operational efficiency.

If your hotel requires a more feature-rich platform with marketing tools, PMS connectivity, and a larger network of integrations, HotelRunner is the better fit. With a slightly lower recent review count but a higher total, it suits hotels aiming for growth and broader digital presence. For hotels prioritizing simplicity and stability, Exely is the safer choice; for those seeking expansion tools, HotelRunner may be preferable.

Is Exely or HotelRunner Easier to Use?

Exely enjoys a near-perfect ease of use rating at 4.95/5, supported by its intuitive interface and straightforward onboarding process, as reflected in recent reviews praising its simplicity and minimal learning curve. Users mention that Exely’s platform feels very stable and user-friendly, with quick setup and efficient daily operations.

HotelRunner also scores highly at 4.7/5, with reviews highlighting its ease of controlling rates and inventory, especially during busy periods. However, some users note that interface speed could improve, and initial setup can be challenging for less tech-savvy staff.

Edge: Exely.

Which Has Better Features: Exely or HotelRunner?

Exely offers 12 shared features with other channel managers but stands out with its unique Multi-Currency Support. Users appreciate its stability and synchronization speed, which directly impact operational efficiency.

HotelRunner boasts a broader feature set—adding 12 unique functionalities like email marketing, web design, PMS connectivity, and social media management—making it a more versatile platform. It also provides unlimited channels without extra costs, a critical advantage for hotels with diverse distribution needs.

Edge: HotelRunner.

Which Has Better Customer Support: Exely or HotelRunner?

Both products are praised for strong support, but Exely’s recent reviews and high NPS score (9.8/10) reflect a slightly better reputation. Users mention responsive, helpful support that resolves issues quickly, with some noting Exely’s proactive updates and partnership attitude.

HotelRunner also receives positive feedback, especially for quick responses and dedicated support. However, reviews indicate occasional frustrations with support responsiveness during system failures, suggesting room for improvement in consistency.

Edge: Exely.

Which Has More Integrations: Exely or HotelRunner?

HotelRunner significantly surpasses Exely in integrations, with 17 verified partners versus Exely’s 8. Both share Oracle Hospitality and IDeaS but HotelRunner’s list includes major industry players like Airbnb, Expedia, and Stripe, along with specialized PMS and channel partners.

This extensive network makes HotelRunner more adaptable for hotels with complex distribution needs or multiple PMS systems. For simpler operations, Exely’s smaller but solid set of integrations may suffice.

Edge: HotelRunner.

Which Do Hoteliers Rate Higher: Exely or HotelRunner?

Recent reviews show Exely with a higher overall rating (4.78/5) and a stronger recommendation rate (98%) based on over 100 reviews, predominantly from independent and boutique hotels. Larger hotels and resorts seem more satisfied with its stability and simplicity.

HotelRunner’s ratings are slightly lower at 4.7/5, with reviews emphasizing ease of control and support but noting interface speed issues. Its customer base includes a wider variety of hotel types, especially B&Bs and independent properties.

Edge: Exely.

How Much Do Exely and HotelRunner Cost?

Both products are priced at a base rate of $100 per month, with no freemium, setup fees, or additional costs listed. This straightforward pricing makes comparison easy, though neither provides detailed tier options or discounts, which might be available upon request.

What Type of Hotel Should Use Exely?

  • Hotels that prioritize stability, ease of use, and real-time synchronization.
  • Hotels that want to reduce manual work and overbooking risks.
  • Independent hotels or boutique properties seeking a straightforward channel manager.
  • Hotels with a focus on operational efficiency and revenue growth through reliable system performance.

Not ideal if you need extensive marketing tools, web design, or PMS integration beyond core features.

What Type of Hotel Should Use HotelRunner?

  • Hotels seeking a comprehensive management platform including marketing, web development, and reporting.
  • Properties with multiple distribution channels requiring extensive integrations.
  • Hotels that want to leverage additional features like social media management and yield rules.
  • Hotels in markets where broad international presence and multi-region support are advantageous.

Not ideal if your focus is solely on simple channel management without the need for extra marketing or development tools.

Exely vs HotelRunner: The Bottom Line for Hotels

Exely offers a highly-rated, easy-to-use channel management platform that excels in operational stability, synchronization speed, and customer support. Its recent reviews and high satisfaction scores make it ideal for hotels that need reliable, straightforward distribution management.

HotelRunner provides a broader range of features, including extensive integrations, marketing capabilities, and web tools. It’s best suited for hotels looking to grow their online presence and utilize a full suite of management solutions.

If your hotel values simplicity, recent positive feedback, and high support quality, Exely is the better choice. If you need a versatile platform with many added functionalities to support expansion, HotelRunner is the way to go.

How Much Do Exely Channel Manager and HotelRunner Channel Manager Cost?

Channel Managers 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.

Exely Exely HotelRunner HotelRunner
Starting Price From $100/mo From $100/mo

Which Features Does Exely Channel Manager Have That HotelRunner Channel Manager Doesn't (and Vice Versa)?

According to HTR's product database, Exely Channel Manager and HotelRunner Channel Manager share 14 features. Here are the key differences — features one has that the other lacks.

Feature Exely Exely HotelRunner HotelRunner
Conversion Rate Optimization
Data Analysis & Reporting
Email Marketing
Meta search marketing
Multi-Currency Support
Web Design
Web Development

Real-World Results: Exely vs HotelRunner by Business Goal

We analyzed 1 verified case studies to compare what hotels actually achieve with each platform across four key business objectives.

Increase Operational Efficiency
Exely Boulevard Batumi Hotel & Bellevue Residence Mid-Size
+ 15% of total online bookings now come from the hotel
+ �s own website.
+ Availability and pricing are now consistently synced across all OTA channels.

"Once we switched to Exely, we immediately noticed a significant increase in reservations from online travel agencies. We discovered that our previous system had blocked some availa..."

N
Nino Motskobili
Head of Data Operations
HotelRunner HotelRunner

No published case study for this goal yet.

Exely vs HotelRunner: The Bottom Line

Exely
Exely
4.9/5 from 134 reviews

What hoteliers love

Channel Manager Integration and Synchronization 85% positive

The robust integration and synchronization abilities of Exely facilitate smooth channel management with minimal errors. Users commend how effectively... The robust integration and synchronization abilities of Exely facilitate smooth channel management with minimal errors. Users commend how effectively it connects with PMS and OTAs, though some desire improvements in certain PMS integrations.

User Interface and Usability 95% positive

Exely's user-friendly interface is highlighted as a strength, making it easy for hotel staff to manage daily operations. However, some users suggest f... Exely's user-friendly interface is highlighted as a strength, making it easy for hotel staff to manage daily operations. However, some users suggest further customization and modernization to enhance the user experience.

Support and Responsiveness 87% positive

Exely's support team is praised for its responsiveness and willingness to assist, contributing to reliable service. However, some suggest quicker resp... Exely's support team is praised for its responsiveness and willingness to assist, contributing to reliable service. However, some suggest quicker response times during peak hours.

Where hoteliers push back

Analytics and Reporting 77% negative

While Exely provides vital performance insights, users express a need for more detailed and customizable reporting options to better analyze channel e... While Exely provides vital performance insights, users express a need for more detailed and customizable reporting options to better analyze channel effectiveness and drive strategic decisions.

Customization and Control 73% negative

Despite Exely's advanced customization options for booking rules and promotions, some users wish for even more flexible design options for website tem... Despite Exely's advanced customization options for booking rules and promotions, some users wish for even more flexible design options for website templates and report formats.

Ranks higher for

Mid-Size (25-74 rooms) #9 vs #13
X-Large (200+ rooms) #7 vs #15
City Center Hotels #8 vs #11
GE #1 vs #5

Unique capabilities

Multi-Currency Support
5.0/5 ease of use 5.0/5 support 8 integrations
Visit Profile
HotelRunner
HotelRunner
4.8/5 from 115 reviews

What hoteliers love

Multi-channel Management 100% positive

Users praise HotelRunner for its ability to manage multiple booking channels seamlessly from a single platform. This feature is specifically highlight... Users praise HotelRunner for its ability to manage multiple booking channels seamlessly from a single platform. This feature is specifically highlighted as beneficial during peak seasons, reducing workload and human error while ensuring all channels are up-to-date.

Support and Reliability 100% positive

Quick access to support and reliable operation are often underlined in reviews. Users experience prompt responses when assistance is needed, ensuring... Quick access to support and reliable operation are often underlined in reviews. Users experience prompt responses when assistance is needed, ensuring smooth operations without major disruptions.

Ease of Use 100% positive

Customers frequently mention the user-friendly nature of the system, particularly noting the convenience of controlling and sending prices across mult... Customers frequently mention the user-friendly nature of the system, particularly noting the convenience of controlling and sending prices across multiple channels. This ease of use is a significant advantage for hotel staff dealing with daily operations.

Where hoteliers push back

Interface Improvements 100% negative

Some reviews suggest minor improvements to the interface could be beneficial. While the system generally meets expectations, enhancing the interface c... Some reviews suggest minor improvements to the interface could be beneficial. While the system generally meets expectations, enhancing the interface could further streamline operations.

System Speed 100% negative

A common point of criticism is the speed of the updating process. Even though it is working smoothly, some users feel it could be faster to enhance ef... A common point of criticism is the speed of the updating process. Even though it is working smoothly, some users feel it could be faster to enhance efficiency during operations.

Ranks higher for

Large (75-199 rooms) #10 vs #14
Small (10-24 rooms) #12 vs #15
X-Small (< 10 rooms) #6 vs #21
Bed & Breakfast & Inns #11 vs #13

Unique capabilities

Email Marketing Web Design Web Development Data Analysis & Reporting Meta search marketing
4.7/5 ease of use 4.7/5 support 17 integrations
Visit Profile

Where the ratings diverge most

Overall Rating HotelRunner 4.8 vs 0.0 (+4.8)

Frequently Asked Questions About Exely Channel Manager vs HotelRunner Channel Manager

Can Exely Channel Manager replace HotelRunner Channel Manager?

It depends on your requirements. Exely Channel Manager and HotelRunner Channel Manager share many core Channel Managers features, but each has unique capabilities. Exely Channel Manager offers 8 verified integration partners, while HotelRunner Channel Manager offers 17. 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. Exely Channel Manager leads in ease of use at 5.0/5 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.

Do Exely Channel Manager or HotelRunner Channel Manager offer a free plan?

Exely Channel Manager: No. HotelRunner Channel Manager: No. Neither product currently offers a free tier. Most Channel Managers vendors offer demos or trials — request one from each to evaluate before committing.

How Does HTR Evaluate and Rank Exely Channel Manager and HotelRunner Channel Manager?

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. Exely has an HT Score of 85 and HotelRunner has 76. 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 →

Get personalized product recommendations

Product recommendations advisor

Ghostel icon

Let´s lookup your hotel information