Lynx vs. Openkey.co:
Which Is Right for You?

The Decision

Choosing a hotel keyless entry system can significantly impact guest satisfaction and operational efficiency. Both Lynx Automation and OpenKey.co aim to streamline access, but they serve different needs and hotel profiles. While Lynx offers a comprehensive property automation platform, OpenKey specializes solely in mobile key technology. Your decision hinges on whether you need a multi-function automation system or a dedicated mobile key solution.

Both products are well-regarded, but OpenKey has a larger review base with more recent feedback. This suggests a more active user community and up-to-date insights, giving it a slight edge in trustworthiness. But which system best aligns with your hotel’s goals?

Is Lynx Automation or OpenKey.co Better for Hotels?

Lynx Automation and OpenKey serve the core purpose of keyless entry, but their scope extends differently. Lynx provides a broad automation ecosystem that includes smart locks, thermostats, noise monitoring, and guest portals, aiming to turn your property into a fully connected smart environment. OpenKey, on the other hand, focuses exclusively on mobile key delivery, check-in, and guest communication, making it a lighter, specialized solution.

Lynx’s platform is designed for properties looking to automate multiple aspects of operations—from guest experience to energy management—while OpenKey excels in providing quick, contactless access with minimal hardware fuss. Are you seeking a comprehensive automation suite or a plug-and-play mobile key system? That choice defines your best fit.

Lynx Automation vs OpenKey.co: Which Should Your Hotel Choose?

If your hotel needs an all-in-one property automation system that integrates locks, thermostats, noise sensors, and guest portals, go with Lynx Automation. Its ability to connect over 300 smart device brands and manage workflows makes it ideal for larger properties or those aiming to build a tech-forward experience.

If your primary goal is to implement a reliable mobile key solution that reduces front desk congestion and enhances guest convenience, OpenKey is the way to go. Its seamless PMS integrations, quick deployment, and focus on mobile access make it perfect for hotels prioritizing check-in efficiency and contactless guest experiences—especially in boutique, luxury, or resort segments.

Is Lynx Automation or OpenKey.co Easier to Use?

Lynx Automation scores 4.43/5 for ease of use, with many users praising its intuitive management dashboard and straightforward device control. However, some reviews note a learning curve for new staff and initial setup requiring tech support, which can complicate onboarding.

OpenKey, on the other hand, scores slightly higher at 4.45/5 and is praised for its user-friendly app interface and quick setup. Users highlight that both staff and guests find it easy to operate, with minimal training needed.

Edge: OpenKey.

Which Has Better Features: Lynx Automation or OpenKey.co?

Lynx Automation offers a broader feature set, including an access management solution, workflow automation, real-time notifications, and the ability to integrate over 300 smart devices. It also provides a branded guest portal, revenue opportunities via upselling, and off-line access during power outages.

OpenKey’s strengths lie in keyless entry, mobile check-in, guest communication, and multi-property management. It has 11 shared features with Lynx but only 5 exclusive features, primarily focused on mobile keys and app-based functionalities.

Edge: Lynx Automation.

Which Has Better Customer Support: Lynx Automation or OpenKey.co?

Lynx Automation’s support scores 4.36/5, with many reviewers mentioning responsive chat support and a positive onboarding experience. Some have flagged issues with customer service availability, but overall, feedback remains favorable with a 93% likelihood to recommend.

OpenKey scores 4.25/5, with users citing quick responses and helpful staff, but some mention delays and occasional technical challenges. Given the larger review count for OpenKey and more recent feedback, Lynx’s support appears slightly more reliable.

Edge: Lynx Automation.

Which Has More Integrations: Lynx Automation or OpenKey.co?

OpenKey boasts 34 verified integration partners, including major PMS systems like Opera, RoomRaccoon, and Winhotel, along with numerous lock providers. Lynx offers 10 verified partners, including popular systems like Guesty, Hostaway, and Mews.

While OpenKey’s extensive network supports broader compatibility, Lynx’s integrations are more concentrated within property management and smart device categories. If extensive PMS integration is critical, OpenKey holds an advantage.

Edge: OpenKey.

Which Do Hoteliers Rate Higher: Lynx Automation or OpenKey.co?

Lynx, with 14 recent reviews, boasts an overall rating of 4.43/5, with vacation rentals and small hotels often praising its automation and ease of management. Its user base seems to value its comprehensive approach and support, despite some concerns about customer service.

OpenKey, with 69 reviews, has a slightly lower overall rating of 4.26/5, but it’s particularly favored by luxury hotels and resorts for its mobile key reliability and guest experience enhancements. Its recent reviews affirm high usability and operational impact.

Given the higher review count and recent feedback, OpenKey’s rating offers a more current snapshot of user sentiment.

Edge: OpenKey.

How Much Do Lynx Automation and OpenKey.co Cost?

Lynx Automation does not publicly disclose its pricing, but it is positioned as a premium, all-in-one platform likely involving custom quotes based on property size and feature set. It is probably more costly due to its extensive automation features.

OpenKey charges a base fee of $500, with no ongoing monthly costs indicated. Its simplicity and focused feature set make it a more predictable investment, suitable for hotels seeking straightforward mobile key solutions.

What Type of Hotel Should Use Lynx Automation?

• Hotels seeking a comprehensive property automation system that integrates locks, thermostats, noise sensors, and guest portals.
• Properties aiming to automate energy management, guest services, and operational workflows.
• Hotels with multiple property types, including vacation rentals, boutique hotels, and resorts, looking to unify their smart device controls.
• Teams that want to reduce front desk costs through automation and offer a branded guest portal.
• Not ideal if your hotel only needs simple access control or has limited budget for extensive hardware.

What Type of Hotel Should Use OpenKey.co?

• Hotels prioritizing contactless, mobile check-in to reduce front desk congestion and enhance guest experience.
• Luxury properties, boutique hotels, and resorts aiming to offer seamless, app-based access.
• Hotels with PMS systems like Opera, Stayntouch, or Cloudbeds, seeking easy integration.
• Properties with a focus on fast deployment and minimal hardware requirements.
• Not ideal if your hotel needs broad automation capabilities beyond mobile keys or has complex multi-guest communication needs.

OpenKey.co vs Lynx Automation: The Bottom Line for Hotels

Lynx Automation and OpenKey serve different hotel needs. Lynx’s strength lies in its broad automation and device management ecosystem, making it ideal for properties seeking full control over smart hotel features. OpenKey excels in providing reliable, fast mobile key access with extensive PMS compatibility, suited for hotels prioritizing guest convenience and operational speed.

If your hotel wants a unified smart property management system with automation capabilities, Lynx is your choice. For quick-to-deploy, guest-focused mobile key solutions, OpenKey offers a more streamlined approach.

Lynx is best when you need a full smart property system that automates multiple aspects of guest experience and operations. OpenKey is the go-to for contactless check-in, mobile access, and guest satisfaction through app-based convenience.

In conclusion, choose Lynx if your hotel needs a broad automation platform, and opt for OpenKey if your priority is mobile key functionality and guest experience. The more recent and numerous reviews for OpenKey suggest it’s a more actively supported and trusted solution right now.

This comparison offers a detailed look at both products, helping you make an informed choice aligned with your hotel’s goals and operational needs.