Exely HMS vs. HotelRunner HMS:
Which Is Right for You?

The Decision

When choosing a hotel management software, your goal is to find a solution that effectively manages operations, enhances revenue, and is user-friendly. Exely HMS by Exely and HotelRunner HMS both aim to streamline your daily tasks, but they differ significantly in review volume, feature depth, and market reach. While HotelRunner offers a lower price point and broad integration, Exely's extensive features and more recent feedback make it a stronger choice for most hoteliers. Which platform better aligns with your hotel’s needs?

Is Exely HMS or HotelRunner HMS Better for Hotels?

Both Exely HMS and HotelRunner HMS serve the core purpose of simplifying hotel management, but they do so with different emphases. Exely focuses heavily on revenue optimization, online reputation, and automation, boasting 23 exclusive features and a dedicated suite for direct bookings. Conversely, HotelRunner emphasizes operational simplicity, with a streamlined interface and broad integration options, but lacks the feature depth seen in Exely.

Exely's 48 reviews and recent user feedback—18 in the last six months—give it an edge in current market validation, while HotelRunner's 14 reviews are older and less recent. Both platforms have a high likelihood to recommend (98%), but Exely’s higher review count and recent activity make it a more reliable indicator of ongoing performance and customer satisfaction.

Are you seeking a platform that pushes revenue growth through automation and detailed management tools, or one that offers straightforward operation and broad channel integrations? Your choice depends on which of these priorities holds more weight for your hotel.

Exely HMS vs HotelRunner HMS: Which Should Your Hotel Choose?

If your hotel needs a comprehensive management tool with advanced features like automated night audits, guest messaging, and real-time status updates, go with Exely. It’s better suited for hotels aiming to maximize direct bookings, improve online reputation, and benefit from detailed analytics.

If your focus is on ease of use, quick onboarding, and broad yet less specialized integrations, HotelRunner is the better fit. Its lower price point ($100/month), simpler interface, and wide integration network make it ideal for boutique or independent hotels that prioritize operational efficiency over advanced analytics.

For hotels seeking a high-touch, feature-rich system with ongoing improvements, Exely’s higher review count and recent feedback provide confidence. Conversely, if your team values a quick-to-implement, affordable solution with reliable support, HotelRunner should be considered.

Is Exely HMS or HotelRunner HMS Easier to Use?

Exely’s interface scores 4.88 out of 5, with users praising its intuitive design and quick onboarding process (4.82/5). Its recent reviews highlight the ease of integrating with daily operations and the helpfulness of its support team, which is frequently praised for responsiveness. However, some users note performance issues during peak times, which could hinder staff adoption.

HotelRunner’s UI is rated slightly lower at 4.64/5, with reviewers emphasizing its simplicity and efficiency. It’s especially favored by boutique hotels for ease of initial setup and straightforward management. Nonetheless, some users mention the mobile app’s limited functionality, which could impact staff who rely on mobile access.

Edge: Exely.

Which Has Better Features: Exely or HotelRunner?

Exely offers 23 features exclusive to its platform, including transactional emails, automated night audits, guest messaging, native email marketing, online check-in/out, GDPR compliance, and real-time status updates. It also provides customizable rates, guest profiles, and task management that are absent in HotelRunner.

HotelRunner, while offering 15 shared features, does not include the advanced automation tools or guest communication features found in Exely. Its focus on basic reservation management and integrations makes it suitable for less complex operations.

Edge: Exely.

Which Has Better Customer Support: Exely or HotelRunner?

Exely’s customer support is highly rated at 4.9 out of 5, with reviews emphasizing the responsiveness and accessibility of its team. Users frequently mention quick resolutions and attentive service, which is critical during peak operational periods.

HotelRunner’s support, rated at 4.5, is described as communicative and helpful, but fewer recent reviews make it harder to assess current support quality. Some users suggest that training could be improved to enhance onboarding.

Edge: Exely.

Which Has More Integrations: Exely or HotelRunner?

HotelRunner boasts 17 verified integrations, including popular partners like Airbnb, Expedia, Booking.com, and Stripe, along with a broader array of third-party solutions. It offers more options for connecting with external platforms, supporting diverse operational needs.

Exely has 8 verified partners, including Oracle Hospitality and IDeaS, but fewer overall integrations. Its focus remains on automation and management features, making it more self-contained.

Edge: HotelRunner.

Which Do Hoteliers Rate Higher: Exely or HotelRunner?

Exely, with its recent review volume, reflects a 0/5 rating from 44 reviews in certain segments, notably in specific niche markets like hostels and boutique hotels, indicating room for improvement in those areas. Its overall rating is slightly lower due to some system performance concerns during busy periods.

HotelRunner, despite fewer reviews, is rated 5/5 by all 14 reviewers, mostly boutique hotels and independent properties. Its ease of use and support are highly praised, though it may lack the depth some larger hotels require.

Edge: HotelRunner.

How Much Do Exely and HotelRunner Cost?

Exely charges a base price of $400 per month, with no freemium or trial options, reflecting its targeted enterprise features. Its higher cost aligns with its broader feature set and automation capabilities.

HotelRunner is priced at $100 per month, with no trial or freemium options, making it more accessible for smaller hotels or those seeking basic management tools. Its lower price is balanced by fewer advanced features.

What Type of Hotel Should Use Exely?

• Hotels that prioritize revenue growth through automation and detailed analytics.
• Properties aiming to improve online reputation and manage direct bookings.
• Larger hotels or chains that need comprehensive guest communication and task management.
• Hotels looking for a scalable, feature-rich management platform.

Not ideal if your hotel is small, with minimal operational complexity or budget constraints.

What Type of Hotel Should Use HotelRunner?

• Boutique hotels and independent properties seeking a user-friendly, quick-to-implement platform.
• Hotels that want broad channel integrations without needing extensive automation.
• Hotels with limited staff resources that benefit from straightforward management.
• Hotels that operate in regions where HotelRunner’s regional presence is strong.

Not ideal if your property requires advanced automation, detailed analytics, or a highly customizable system.

The Bottom Line for Hotels

Exely offers a more comprehensive platform with advanced automation, guest communication, and revenue management features—making it suitable for larger or growth-focused hotels. Its higher review volume and recent feedback provide assurance of continuous support and improvement.

HotelRunner is a cost-effective, straightforward option ideal for boutique and independent hotels that prioritize ease of use and broad integrations over complex features. Its high customer satisfaction ratings reflect its value for smaller properties.

If your hotel needs a feature-rich, adaptable system with ongoing enhancements, Exely is the preferred choice. For simpler operations and lower upfront costs, HotelRunner remains a solid option. Your decision should hinge on your property’s size, complexity, and strategic goals.