The project dashboard is a free tool that is only available to verified hoteliers to make adopting new technology easier by streamlining their research and simplifying their communication workflow.
TLDR
We analyzed 110 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:
OpenHotel shines when it comes to customer support , with exclusive features like Guest Communication (SMS Messaging) and Integrated Payment Terminal & Card Reader.
RoomKey PMS shines when it comes to customer support , with exclusive features like Guest CRM and Guest profiles.
Side-by-side ratings based on 110 verified hotelier reviews on HTR.
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| Starting Price | Contact sales | Contact sales |
| Verified Reviews | 58 | 52 |
After analyzing 110 verified reviews, OpenHotel users most value its user-friendly pms, continuous updates and improvements, direct ota connections, while RoomKey PMS users highlight ease of use, training & documentation, integrations. Click any theme to see what reviewers say.
OpenHotel
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User-friendly PMS
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Ease of Use
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Continuous Updates and Improvements
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Training & Documentation
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Direct OTA Connections
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Integrations
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Authentication Process
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Visual Design & User Interface
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Reporting Capabilities
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Room for Improvement
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Financial Processing
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Complexity of Certain Tasks
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Group Booking Tools
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How each product ranks among Property Management Systems vendors for different property sizes, types, and regions — based on verified reviews from hoteliers in each segment.
By Hotel Size
| Segment |
OpenHotel
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| Small (10-24 rooms) ▾ | #25 36 reviews | #34 15 reviews |
| Mid-Size (25-74 rooms) ▾ | #39 11 reviews | #21 27 reviews |
| Large (75-199 rooms) | #50 0 reviews | #23 4 reviews |
| X-Large (200+ rooms) | #21 2 reviews | #33 1 reviews |
By Property Type
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OpenHotel
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| Boutique ▾ | #37 16 reviews | #24 28 reviews |
| Luxury ▾ | #45 4 reviews | #32 8 reviews |
| Branded / Chain ▾ | #28 9 reviews | #27 11 reviews |
| Extended Stay ▾ | #43 2 reviews | #24 7 reviews |
By Region
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OpenHotel
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| North America ▾ | #14 54 reviews | #13 51 reviews |
| Asia Pacific | — | #30 0 reviews |
Choosing the right property management system (PMS) is crucial for your hotel’s efficiency, guest experience, and revenue growth. Both OpenHotel PMS and RoomKey PMS aim to streamline operations, but they differ significantly in their strengths and market presence. OpenHotel boasts more recent reviews and a higher overall rating, making it the more reliable choice based on current user feedback. But which one truly aligns with your hotel’s specific needs?
OpenHotel PMS and RoomKey PMS are designed to address core hotel management challenges—reservation handling, rate management, guest communication, and integrations. Both platforms integrate with multiple partners and offer automation tools, but OpenHotel emphasizes ease of use coupled with a broad suite of features, including a built-in website and channel manager, all in one platform. RoomKey PMS, meanwhile, focuses on providing a straightforward, user-friendly experience with robust reporting and strong support, especially for independent hotels.
The divergence lies in their market presence and recent review data. OpenHotel has a slightly higher overall rating (4.81/5 vs. 4.62/5) and more recent reviews, indicating more active user engagement. Its niche leans toward smaller to mid-sized properties, especially motels, resorts, and inns, with a focus on North America and Europe. RoomKey PMS, with over 70,000 rooms managed, caters more broadly to independent hotels and boutique properties worldwide, including Asia Pacific and South America, but has slightly fewer recent reviews. Which factors matter most: a modern, integrated platform or proven support and simplicity?
If your hotel prefers an all-in-one solution that combines PMS, booking engine, website, and channel management, OpenHotel is the better fit. Its comprehensive platform simplifies management for properties that need a unified system with an intuitive interface, especially if your team values ongoing updates and personalized customer support. Conversely, if your hotel prioritizes seamless integrations with other systems, strong reporting, and dedicated support from former hoteliers, RoomKey PMS might suit you better, especially for independent properties seeking a reliable, well-connected PMS.
For boutique hotels or motels seeking a straightforward yet capable system, OpenHotel’s high user satisfaction rate (4.8/5) and positive reviews about ease of use make it a compelling choice. Large or multi-property hotels that need extensive integrations and a flexible platform may lean toward RoomKey PMS, which offers a broad integration network and dedicated support staff with industry experience.
OpenHotel PMS scores higher on ease of use, with a rating of 4.71/5 compared to RoomKey’s 4.44/5. Users praise OpenHotel for its intuitive navigation, flexible booking grid, and straightforward management tools, making onboarding quicker and staff adoption smoother. Reviews mention that OpenHotel’s interface feels modern, even if some users find its reporting and rate adjustment features could be more streamlined.
RoomKey PMS’s user experience is simple, with a focus on clear workflows and accessible training. Many users highlight the exceptional support from former hoteliers, which helps in understanding the system quickly. However, some find the interface a bit outdated and note that tasks can involve multiple steps, reducing efficiency during busy periods.
Edge: OpenHotel.
OpenHotel offers 23 exclusive features, including EPoS, guest communication via SMS, and integrated payment terminals—features that are missing from RoomKey PMS. Its capabilities are tailored toward small to medium properties seeking an all-in-one platform that manages bookings, channels, and website creation from a single interface.
RoomKey PMS, on the other hand, boasts 16 unique features like guest CRM, integrated CRS, mobile app, and passport scanner—more than OpenHotel’s exclusive features—making it ideal for complex operational needs. Both systems share 9 core features such as reservation management and reporting, but RoomKey’s additional integrations and tools support larger or more digitally advanced hotels.
Edge: OpenHotel (more total features).
OpenHotel garners a slightly lower rating (4.82/5 vs. 4.91/5) but still maintains a stellar reputation for customer support. Reviews cite responsive, personal service, with users appreciating proactive communication and reliable assistance, especially during system transitions or outages.
RoomKey PMS leads slightly in support ratings, with many reviews emphasizing their team of former hoteliers providing quick, knowledgeable help. Guests consistently mention Adam’s exceptional support, often describing their experience as “smooth” and “professional.”
Edge: RoomKey PMS.
RoomKey PMS significantly outpaces OpenHotel in integrations, with 56 verified partners versus OpenHotel’s 12. Both systems share nine common partners, including RateGain, SiteMinder, and OpenKey. RoomKey’s broader network includes integrations with Revinate, Guestfolio, and other specialized tools, offering more flexibility for hotels with complex tech stacks.
OpenHotel’s integrations are more limited but include essential partners like LaaSie.ai and Sojern, suitable for smaller properties. If extensive third-party integration is a priority, RoomKey is the clear winner.
Edge: RoomKey PMS.
OpenHotel has a higher overall rating (4.81/5) and more recent user reviews, indicating stronger current satisfaction. Users across boutique and resort segments rate OpenHotel at 4.8/5, highlighting its user-friendly interface and effective management tools.
RoomKey PMS, with a slightly lower rating of 4.62/5, is favored in the independent hotel segment, where users appreciate its support and reporting features. However, many recent reviews suggest that OpenHotel’s system is more modern and easier to adopt quickly.
Edge: OpenHotel.
Both products do not publicly disclose specific pricing models. They typically offer custom quotes based on property size, features needed, and support requirements. You’ll need to contact sales for detailed pricing, but given the lack of published rates, your decision should focus on value and fit rather than cost alone.
Not ideal if your hotel requires extensive third-party integrations or highly customized workflows.
Not ideal if your hotel needs a modernized UI or advanced automation features for large-scale operations.
OpenHotel PMS offers a comprehensive, user-friendly platform with a high satisfaction rate, making it suitable for most small to mid-sized properties looking for an all-in-one solution. Its strengths lie in ease of use, ongoing updates, and built-in website and channel management, making it an excellent choice for properties prioritizing simplicity and support.
RoomKey PMS, with its extensive integrations and dedicated support team, is better suited for independent hotels that require a flexible, reliable PMS with strong reporting and revenue tools. Its larger network of partners and long market presence make it a trusted choice for hotels with complex operational needs.
If your hotel values recent reviews, high user ratings, and a more modern interface, OpenHotel is the clear pick. Conversely, if seamless integrations and support from industry veterans matter more, RoomKey PMS stands out.
In conclusion, for most hotels seeking a highly-rated, easy-to-operate system with ongoing enhancements, OpenHotel is the recommended choice. For properties that need extensive third-party connections and dedicated support, RoomKey PMS should be your focus.
Property Management Systems 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.
OpenHotel
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According to HTR's product database, OpenHotel PMS and RoomKey PMS share 20 features. Here are the key differences — features one has that the other lacks.
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OpenHotel
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| EPoS | ||
| Guest CRM | ||
| Guest CRM | ||
| Guest Communication (SMS Messaging) | ||
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| Integrated CRS | ||
| Integrated ID & Passport Scanner | ||
| Integrated Payment Terminal & Card Reader | ||
| Mobile App |
What hoteliers love
The open availability and responsiveness of customer support teams are highly appreciated among users. Many specifically mentioned the helpfulness of... The open availability and responsiveness of customer support teams are highly appreciated among users. Many specifically mentioned the helpfulness of the team during emergencies and the seamless transition to OpenHotel PMS. This support aids in smooth operations, especially during peak seasons or system transitions.
Many users appreciate how easy it is to navigate and use OpenHotel's PMS. The system is intuitive, even for first-time hotel clerks, and it offers sea... Many users appreciate how easy it is to navigate and use OpenHotel's PMS. The system is intuitive, even for first-time hotel clerks, and it offers seamless transitions from other systems. Users note it is particularly effective for small to medium-sized properties because of its flexible booking grid and comprehensive layout.
Users appreciate that OpenHotel is consistently improving and adding features based on user feedback. This dedication ensures the system stays up-to-d... Users appreciate that OpenHotel is consistently improving and adding features based on user feedback. This dedication ensures the system stays up-to-date with industry standards and evolving hotel needs. Notifications about these updates are shared through inbox notifications, making it convenient for users to stay informed.
Where hoteliers push back
While many appreciate the detailed and comprehensive reporting options available in OpenHotel, there is a recurring request for customizable reports a... While many appreciate the detailed and comprehensive reporting options available in OpenHotel, there is a recurring request for customizable reports and improved metrics suited to specific properties. Some users find current reports cluttered with unnecessary information and have suggested enhancements to better meet their needs.
Users noted that OpenHotel has efficient financial processing modules, including organized views of financials, customizable financial reports, and in... Users noted that OpenHotel has efficient financial processing modules, including organized views of financials, customizable financial reports, and integration with external fiscal systems. However, enhancements are suggested, particularly around real-time tax reporting and card payment interventions.
Ranks higher for
Unique capabilities
What hoteliers love
RoomKey PMS receives high praise for its customer support, with frequent commendations for Adam's exceptional service. Users appreciate the quick resp... RoomKey PMS receives high praise for its customer support, with frequent commendations for Adam's exceptional service. Users appreciate the quick response times, the detailed assistance provided, and the patience and professionalism of the support team. This excellent support helps hotels resolve issues swiftly, ensuring smooth operational flow.
Users find RoomKey PMS easy to learn and navigate. The system's user-friendly design helps reduce training time and enables staff to perform tasks eff... Users find RoomKey PMS easy to learn and navigate. The system's user-friendly design helps reduce training time and enables staff to perform tasks efficiently. This ease of use is considered a significant advantage over other property management systems.
RoomKey PMS provides comprehensive training and useful online guides, which are highly appreciated by users. This training ensures that hotel staff ca... RoomKey PMS provides comprehensive training and useful online guides, which are highly appreciated by users. This training ensures that hotel staff can effectively use the system, helping hotels to maximize the utility of the PMS and improve operational efficiency.
Where hoteliers push back
Users see potential for various improvements, such as better user role management, enhanced credit card authorization processes, fewer steps for speci... Users see potential for various improvements, such as better user role management, enhanced credit card authorization processes, fewer steps for specific tasks, and more robust mobile applications. Addressing these areas would make the system even more efficient and user-friendly.
Some users mention the complexity involved in completing specific tasks within the system. They note issues with too many steps required for certain f... Some users mention the complexity involved in completing specific tasks within the system. They note issues with too many steps required for certain functions, which can be time-consuming and cumbersome.
Ranks higher for
Unique capabilities
It depends on your requirements. OpenHotel PMS and RoomKey PMS share many core Property Management Systems features, but each has unique capabilities. OpenHotel PMS offers 12 verified integration partners, while RoomKey PMS offers 56. Review the feature comparison above to see where they differ before switching.
Small hotels should prioritize ease of use and fast onboarding. OpenHotel PMS leads in ease of use at 4.7/5 vs 4.5/5. 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.
OpenHotel PMS: No. RoomKey PMS: No. Neither product currently offers a free tier. Most Property Management Systems vendors offer demos or trials — request one from each to evaluate before committing.
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. OpenHotel has an HT Score of 16 and RoomKey PMS has 18. Here is how the score is calculated.
| Criteria Group | Weight | What It Measures |
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| Customer Ratings & Reviews |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 →
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