HotelRunner PMS vs. ThinkReservations PMS:
Which Is Right for You?

The Decision

Choosing between HotelRunner PMS and ThinkReservations PMS hinges on your specific operational needs and strategic goals. Both systems aim to streamline property management, but they diverge significantly in features, regional presence, and user experience. HotelRunner, with its broader global reach and more recent reviews, offers a more modern and versatile platform, while ThinkReservations excels in B&B and small hotel segments with a well-established reputation. Which aligns better with your hotel’s priorities?

Is HotelRunner or ThinkReservations Better for Hotels?

Both HotelRunner and ThinkReservations serve as comprehensive property management tools, but they approach hotel operations differently. HotelRunner emphasizes automation, revenue management, and integrations suited for diverse property types, including boutique hotels and vacation rentals. ThinkReservations, on the other hand, focuses heavily on simplifying guest interactions, upselling, and OTA management, especially for smaller properties like inns and bed & breakfasts. Do you need a system optimized for diverse revenue streams or one designed for seamless guest communication?

HotelRunner boasts a U.K.-based company with a presence in 11 countries, giving it a broader international scope. ThinkReservations, rooted in the United States, primarily targets North American markets and smaller properties. When choosing, consider whether your hotel benefits from global features or focuses on local, personalized service. Are you looking for a platform with extensive regional support or one with a proven track record in small hotel management?

HotelRunner vs ThinkReservations: Which Should Your Hotel Choose?

If your hotel needs a flexible, multi-region system with advanced revenue tools and integration options, HotelRunner is the better choice. It’s ideal for properties aiming to optimize revenue through dynamic pricing, CRM, and extensive OTA connections. Conversely, if your hotel prioritizes ease of use, guest communication, and revenue-enhancing features like upselling and online check-in, ThinkReservations fits perfectly for small to medium-sized inns and boutique hotels.

For hotels seeking a robust, multi-functional PMS with a global footprint, go with HotelRunner. If your focus is on straightforward management, automation, and excellent customer support tailored to the North American market, choose ThinkReservations.

Is HotelRunner or ThinkReservations Easier to Use?

Both platforms receive high usability ratings; HotelRunner at 4.81/5 and ThinkReservations at 4.82/5. HotelRunner’s interface is praised for its intuitive design and ongoing training, earning frequent compliments about reducing operational complexity. ThinkReservations’ interface is equally user-friendly, with a focus on simplicity, especially for small teams managing B&Bs and boutique hotels.

HotelRunner’s onboarding process scores a perfect 5/5, indicating an easy setup, but some users mention the need for more mobile app functionalities. ThinkReservations also impresses with its onboarding and support, making it accessible for non-technical staff.

Edge: ThinkReservations.

Which Has Better Features: HotelRunner or ThinkReservations?

HotelRunner offers six features exclusive to its platform: revenue management, integrated CRS, guest CRM, ID & passport scanner, on-premise management, and mobile notes & tasks—adding significant value for larger or international properties. ThinkReservations provides 16 unique features, including EPoS, online check-in, guest messaging, real-time reporting, shift planning, and GDPR compliance, all tailored for small to mid-sized hotels.

Both platforms share 23 core features like booking management, channel integration, and automated messaging. HotelRunner’s unique tools cater to revenue and guest data management, while ThinkReservations excels in operational automation and direct guest communication.

Edge: ThinkReservations.

Which Has Better Customer Support: HotelRunner or ThinkReservations?

HotelRunner scores a perfect 5/5 for support and onboarding, with reviews emphasizing ongoing training and responsive assistance. Users mention that HotelRunner’s support team is "very helpful" and "always available," which reduces downtime and enhances user confidence.

ThinkReservations also boasts high support ratings at 4.82/5, with users praising their quick responses and helpful staff. Some reviews note that support on weekends could improve, but overall, the support experience remains strong.

Edge: HotelRunner.

Which Has More Integrations: HotelRunner or ThinkReservations?

HotelRunner connects with 17 verified partners, including major OTAs like Agoda, Pitchup, and Hotelogix, plus industry-specific tools like IDeaS revenue management. ThinkReservations offers 16 verified integrations, sharing key partners like Airbnb, Expedia, and Stripe, with additional unique connections such as TrustYou and Triptease.

Both platforms support critical partnerships, but HotelRunner’s broader partner network and regional presence make it more adaptable for diverse markets. If extensive integrations across different regions are vital, HotelRunner holds an edge.

Edge: HotelRunner.

Which Do Hoteliers Rate Higher: HotelRunner or ThinkReservations?

ThinkReservations has a substantial review base—356 reviews with an average rating of 4.88/5, notably higher than HotelRunner’s 16 reviews at a perfect 5/5. ThinkReservations receives more recent reviews, strengthening its credibility and user trust, especially in North America.

HotelRunner’s reviews are consistently positive, but the limited sample size and lack of recent feedback mean less confidence in its current performance. For verified, recent ratings, ThinkReservations is the clear leader.

Edge: ThinkReservations.

How Much Do HotelRunner and ThinkReservations Cost?

HotelRunner’s pricing begins at $100 per month, with no free tier or trial, making it a straightforward, affordable choice for many hotels. ThinkReservations charges $500 monthly, also without a free trial, positioning itself as a premium option designed for smaller operations with a higher value proposition.

While HotelRunner’s lower price point appeals to budget-conscious hotels, ThinkReservations’ higher-cost model reflects its feature set and support. Consider your budget and the value you expect from the platform.

What Type of Hotel Should Use HotelRunner?

Hotels that benefit most from HotelRunner’s capabilities:

• Properties seeking dynamic revenue management and advanced CRM.
• Hotels with multiple regions or international presence.
• Larger properties or chains looking for integrated CRS solutions.
• Hotels wanting to automate routine tasks with mobile notes and ID scanning.
• Properties aiming to expand their online presence with extensive OTA integrations.

Not ideal if your hotel is small, local, or operates mainly in North America with a focus on guest communication rather than revenue management.

What Type of Hotel Should Use ThinkReservations?

ThinkReservations is best suited for:

• Small to medium-sized inns, bed & breakfasts, and boutique hotels.
• Hotels focused on guest communication, upselling, and online check-in.
• Properties that prioritize automation of operations like shift planning and real-time status updates.
• Hotels with a strong North American customer base.
• Teams aiming for an easy-to-use system that improves operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.

Not ideal if your hotel operates internationally or needs complex revenue management tools and extensive third-party integrations.

The Bottom Line for Hotels

HotelRunner and ThinkReservations address different hotel segments with varying priorities. HotelRunner’s strength lies in its global reach, revenue tools, and broad integrations, making it ideal for larger or internationally-oriented hotels. ThinkReservations excels in supporting small to mid-sized properties with its focus on guest communication, automation, and ease of use.

If your hotel values comprehensive revenue management and global scalability, HotelRunner is your choice. For smaller properties looking for a straightforward, effective PMS that boosts operational efficiency and guest engagement, ThinkReservations is the better fit.

In conclusion, choose HotelRunner if you need a feature-rich platform with international support and advanced tools. Opt for ThinkReservations if you want a proven, user-friendly system tailored for small, North American properties with a focus on guest experience and automation.