protel PMS (by Planet) vs. ThinkReservations PMS:
Which Is Right for You?

The Decision

Choosing between Protel PMS by Planet and ThinkReservations PMS hinges on your hotel’s specific needs and operational priorities. Both systems aim to streamline hotel management, but they diverge significantly in features, user experience, and market focus.

Protel PMS is a mature, globally recognized platform with extensive integration options and a strong presence across various hotel types. ThinkReservations, on the other hand, is a newer, highly rated system with a focus on simplicity, automation, and direct OTA integration.

Which of these systems better aligns with your hotel’s size, complexity, and growth ambitions?

Is Protel PMS or ThinkReservations PMS Better for Hotels?

Protel PMS and ThinkReservations serve different hotel segments and operational styles, making their core strengths quite distinct. Protel’s robust, feature-rich platform is designed for hotels wanting deep customization, complex multi-property management, and extensive integration capabilities. ThinkReservations shines in small to mid-sized hotels and B&Bs, offering an intuitive interface, fast onboarding, and seamless OTA connectivity.

While Protel boasts over 105 reviews, most recent feedback is limited, with only 1 review in the last six months, indicating less current data. ThinkReservations, with 356 reviews and 4 recent reviews, provides a clearer picture of ongoing customer satisfaction. Notably, ThinkReservations’ NPS score of 9.68/10 and 97% likelihood to recommend underscore its strong market fit.

Do you prioritize a highly customizable system with extensive integrations or a straightforward, easy-to-use platform optimized for smaller operations?

ThinkReservations PMS vs Protel PMS: Which Should Your Hotel Choose?

If your hotel needs a system that simplifies daily operations while maximizing revenue through OTA integrations and upselling, ThinkReservations is the clear choice. Its focus on small hotels and B&Bs is reflected in features like automated guest messaging, mobile check-in, and a straightforward booking engine.

Conversely, if your hotel requires a comprehensive, scalable solution with multi-currency support, detailed guest profiles, and a vast ecosystem of over 1,200 integrations, Protel PMS is better suited. Its flexibility supports diverse property types, from resorts to city hotels, especially if you’re planning multi-property management or customization.

For hotels seeking rapid deployment and minimal complexity, ThinkReservations excels. For those with complex, multi-location needs and high customization, Protel offers more adaptability.

Is Protel PMS or ThinkReservations PMS Easier to Use?

ThinkReservations earns a stellar 4.82/5 in ease of use, with reviews emphasizing its intuitive interface, quick onboarding, and staff-friendly design. Many users describe it as “like adding another employee,” appreciating the straightforward setup and smooth reservation management.

Protel, rated at 4.12/5 for ease, is generally user-friendly but has a steeper learning curve due to its extensive features and customizable options. Some reviews mention slow response times and bugs, especially concerning support and updates, which can hamper staff adoption.

Edge: ThinkReservations.

Which Has Better Features: Protel PMS or ThinkReservations PMS?

Protel offers 15 exclusive features, including multi-lingual support, revenue management, integrated ID scanners, and full-stack payments—ideal for hotels requiring complex operations and detailed reporting. Its extensive integration ecosystem, with over 1,200 verified partners, is a standout advantage.

ThinkReservations has 8 unique features, such as channel management, online check-in, automated reminders, and a dedicated mobile app—all tailored for small hotels seeking operational automation. Its focus on guest messaging, upselling, and OTA connectivity makes it highly functional for its segment.

Edge: Protel PMS.

Which Has Better Customer Support: Protel PMS or ThinkReservations PMS?

ThinkReservations consistently receives praise for its support, with a 4.82/5 support rating and reviews highlighting quick, knowledgeable responses and excellent service. Users report that support staff are accessible, friendly, and helpful, often describing the experience as “like having another employee.”

Protel’s support scores a modest 3.95/5, with reviews pointing to longer response times and frustrations over slower support, especially post-acquisition. While some praise its technical expertise, many note that support can be less responsive during busy periods.

Edge: ThinkReservations.

Which Has More Integrations: Protel PMS or ThinkReservations PMS?

Protel’s ecosystem includes 195 verified partners, covering a broad spectrum from global OTAs to revenue management and CRM tools. Its extensive integration options are especially valuable for hotels seeking a connected, multi-system environment.

ThinkReservations offers 16 verified partners, including major OTAs like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Expedia, as well as channel management and guest messaging tools. While smaller, its focus on core integrations makes it effective for small to mid-sized hotels.

Edge: Protel PMS.

Which Do Hoteliers Rate Higher: Protel PMS or ThinkReservations PMS?

ThinkReservations outperforms in recent reviews, with a 4.88/5 rating and 97% likelihood to recommend, especially among small hotels and B&Bs. Reviewers praise its ease of use, support, and ability to increase revenue through upselling.

Protel, with a 4.11/5 score and only 1 recent review, is viewed favorably by larger hotels and those needing extensive customization. Independent hotels rate it 4.5/5, but overall, recent user sentiment favors ThinkReservations.

Edge: ThinkReservations.

How Much Do Protel PMS and ThinkReservations PMS Cost?

Both systems are priced at a base of $500 per month, with no trial or implementation fees reported. However, additional costs may arise from optional modules, integrations, or customizations, especially in Protel’s case.

What Type of Hotel Should Use Protel PMS?

• Hotels that operate multiple properties or require complex management.
• Hotels seeking extensive customization and deep integration with third-party systems.
• Resorts, city hotels, and properties with multilingual or multi-currency needs.
• Hotels that need flexible deployment options, including on-premise solutions.
• Teams that value detailed reporting, revenue management, and full-stack payments.

Not ideal if:

• Your hotel is small, with straightforward operations.
• You prefer quick setup and minimal configuration.
• Your team needs dedicated, fast customer support.

What Type of Hotel Should Use ThinkReservations?

• Small hotels, inns, B&Bs, and boutique properties.
• Hotels that prioritize ease of use and quick onboarding.
• Properties seeking seamless OTA integration and automated guest communications.
• Hotels aiming to increase revenue through upselling and online check-in.
• Teams that want a mobile-friendly system with automated reminders.

Not ideal if:

• Your hotel manages multiple locations or complex operations.
• You need deep customization or extensive integrations.
• Your focus is on large-scale enterprise management.

Protel PMS vs ThinkReservations PMS: The Bottom Line for Hotels

Protel PMS and ThinkReservations cater to very different market segments. Protel excels in large, complex, or multi-property environments that require extensive customization and integration. ThinkReservations is designed for small to medium hotels that want an easy-to-use, automated platform with strong OTA connections.

If your hotel values detailed customization, global reach, and integration ecosystem, Protel is the better choice despite support concerns. However, if you prioritize simplicity, rapid deployment, and high customer satisfaction, ThinkReservations offers a more reliable and user-friendly experience.

Ultimately, your decision should reflect your hotel’s size, operational complexity, and growth ambitions.