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 447 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:
RoomKey PMS shines when it comes to customer support , with exclusive features like Guest CRM and Guest profiles.
ThinkReservations shines in ease of use — especially for brand properties (0.0/5) , with exclusive features like Guest Communication (SMS Messaging) and Transactional Emails (booking, folios, etc).
Side-by-side ratings based on 447 verified hotelier reviews on HTR.
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| Starting Price | Contact sales | From $500/mo |
| Verified Reviews | 52 | 395 |
After analyzing 447 verified reviews, RoomKey PMS users most value its ease of use, training & documentation, integrations, while ThinkReservations users highlight operational efficiency, data and reporting, integration with otas. Click any theme to see what reviewers say.
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Ease of Use
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Data and Reporting
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Integrations
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Integration with OTAs
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Automated Upselling
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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
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| Small (10-24 rooms) ▾ | #34 15 reviews | #4 145 reviews |
| Mid-Size (25-74 rooms) ▾ | #21 27 reviews | #9 25 reviews |
| Large (75-199 rooms) | #23 4 reviews | #6 3 reviews |
| X-Large (200+ rooms) | #33 1 reviews | #5 1 reviews |
By Property Type
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| Boutique ▾ | #24 28 reviews | #7 100 reviews |
| Luxury ▾ | #32 8 reviews | #7 70 reviews |
| Branded / Chain ▾ | #27 11 reviews | #7 24 reviews |
| Extended Stay ▾ | #24 7 reviews | #11 8 reviews |
By Region
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| North America ▾ | #13 51 reviews | #1 386 reviews |
| Europe | — | #57 0 reviews |
| Asia Pacific | #30 0 reviews | #32 0 reviews |
| Middle East | — | #32 0 reviews |
Choosing the right property management system (PMS) can define your hotel's operational efficiency, guest satisfaction, and revenue growth. Both RoomKey PMS and ThinkReservations aim to streamline hotel operations, but they differ significantly in user base, features, and market presence. Your decision hinges on your hotel’s size, complexity, and regional focus—are you looking for a system with more recent reviews and broader integration, or one tailored for smaller properties with a simpler interface?
RoomKey PMS boasts a longer industry presence, a larger user base, and more recent reviews, making it a more proven choice for independent hotels seeking reliable support. ThinkReservations, with its higher review count and recent positive feedback, appeals to small-to-mid-sized hotels that prioritize ease of use and OTA integrations. Which of these qualities is more critical for your team’s success?
Both systems address core hotel management needs, including reservations, guest profiles, and reporting, but they diverge in scope and specialization. RoomKey PMS is designed primarily for independent hotels and resorts, providing modules like guest CRM, revenue management, and integrated CRS, which cater to hotels with more complex operational needs. ThinkReservations, meanwhile, is tailored for smaller properties like B&Bs, inns, and boutique hotels, emphasizing simplicity, automation, and direct OTA connectivity.
RoomKey PMS has approximately 50 reviews, with no recent reviews in the last six months, which diminishes the strength of its current data. Conversely, ThinkReservations has over 350 reviews, with four recent ones, providing a more accurate reflection of its ongoing performance. Given the recency and volume of reviews, ThinkReservations currently holds a stronger reputation among hoteliers.
Are you prioritizing a system with a long track record of support and stability or one with more recent validation from active users? Your choice should reflect your hotel's operational complexity and regional focus.
If your hotel needs a robust, feature-rich PMS capable of handling multiple properties, advanced revenue management, and guest CRM, go with RoomKey PMS. Its modules and integrations suit larger, independent hotels or resorts aiming for detailed reporting and operational control.
If your hotel is a small to mid-sized inn, B&B, or boutique property seeking a straightforward, easy-to-learn system with strong OTA integration and automation, ThinkReservations is the better fit. Its highly-rated interface and recent reviews make it ideal for hotels prioritizing simplicity and guest engagement.
For hotels that require extensive customization, complex revenue tools, and support for multiple regions, RoomKey PMS’s broader feature set and larger integration network are advantageous. Conversely, for hotels focused on quick onboarding, automated guest communication, and cost-effective scalability, ThinkReservations delivers more immediate value.
RoomKey PMS has a user-friendly interface rated 4.44 out of 5, with many users citing minimal training and quick adoption. Reviews highlight that its onboarding process is straightforward, and staff can perform daily tasks efficiently once trained. However, some users find certain tasks require multiple steps, and the system could benefit from a visual refresh and more intuitive navigation.
ThinkReservations scores higher on ease of use, rated 4.82 out of 5, with recent reviews praising its intuitive design and simple workflows. Users appreciate the quick learning curve, especially for small teams, and report faster onboarding experiences. Support staff mention that the system feels natural for staff with minimal training.
Edge: ThinkReservations.
RoomKey PMS offers six features exclusive to its platform, including guest CRM, integrated CRS, revenue management, and ID/passport scanning—features that cater to larger or more complex operations. Its total of 20 core features covers reservations, reporting, and integrations, making it suitable for hotels needing detailed control.
ThinkReservations provides 19 unique features, such as EPoS, gift vouchers, SMS messaging, transactional emails, and online check-in, emphasizing automation and guest communication. Its 20 shared features with RoomKey PMS include booking management, reporting, and OTA connections.
Given the higher feature count and newer modules, ThinkReservations currently has a slight edge for small hotels seeking automation and guest engagement tools without extensive customization.
Edge: ThinkReservations.
RoomKey PMS excels in support, with a 4.91-star rating and frequent praise for its local, hotelier-led support team. Reviewers consistently mention quick responses, personalized assistance, and satisfaction ratings averaging 9.38 out of 10. Users highlight Adam and other support staff as especially helpful, often solving issues promptly.
ThinkReservations maintains a 4.82-star rating, with many users noting the accessible, knowledgeable support team. Recent reviews describe the support as responsive, with some minor dissatisfaction about weekend availability, but overall high praise.
Edge: RoomKey PMS.
RoomKey PMS offers 56 verified integration partners, including major platforms like Expedia, Triptease, OpenKey, and Nonius. It supports a wide variety of third-party tools, from revenue management to keyless entry, providing extensive flexibility for larger hotels or resorts with diverse operational needs.
ThinkReservations has 16 verified integrations, including Expedia, Booking.com, Airbnb, and Stripe. While fewer, these integrations cover essential OTA connectivity, online check-in, and payment processing, suitable for small hotels prioritizing straightforward connectivity.
RoomKey PMS's broader network of integrations offers more options for expanding your hotel's capabilities, but ThinkReservations's core integrations are reliable and sufficient for smaller properties.
Edge: RoomKey PMS.
ThinkReservations receives a higher overall rating of 4.88/5 from 356 reviews, with recent feedback confirming continued satisfaction. Small hotels and inns especially praise its ease of use, automation, and excellent support, giving it an edge in user sentiment.
RoomKey PMS, with a 4.62/5 rating from 50 reviews, has solid support but fewer recent reviews. Its users commend its stability and features, but some mention needing more intuitive workflows and a visual redesign.
Considering the volume and recency of reviews, ThinkReservations is currently rated higher by hoteliers, particularly in small property segments.
Edge: ThinkReservations.
RoomKey PMS does not publicly list pricing; it typically offers custom quotes based on property size and needs. It is generally positioned as a mid-to-high-end solution, reflecting its extensive features and support.
ThinkReservations charges a flat $500 monthly fee, with no implementation or setup fees. Its transparent pricing and straightforward model make it accessible for small to medium-sized hotels.
If budget transparency is critical, ThinkReservations offers clearer upfront costs. For larger hotels willing to invest, RoomKey PMS’s custom quotes may accommodate more comprehensive requirements.
Not ideal if your hotel values quick setup, minimal training, or has a tight budget, as the system may require more onboarding and customization.
Not ideal if your hotel needs advanced revenue management, multi-property oversight, or extensive customization options.
RoomKey PMS offers a comprehensive, established solution suited for larger, independent hotels and resorts. Its broad feature set, extensive integrations, and support network make it an excellent choice for properties with complex needs and regional operations.
ThinkReservations, with its higher recent review count, better user ratings, and focus on automation, is ideal for small-to-mid-sized hotels that prioritize simplicity, quick onboarding, and guest engagement. Its lower cost and modern interface provide an immediate advantage for smaller properties.
Ultimately, if your hotel values an extensive feature set and regional presence, RoomKey PMS is the stronger option. For streamlined operations and rapid deployment, ThinkReservations currently leads the market segment.
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.
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| Starting Price | — | From $500/mo |
According to HTR's product database, RoomKey PMS and ThinkReservations PMS share 20 features. Here are the key differences — features one has that the other lacks.
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| Automated reminders | ||
| EPoS | ||
| Gift Vouchers | ||
| Guest CRM | ||
| Guest CRM | ||
| Guest Communication (SMS Messaging) | ||
| Guest profiles | ||
| Integrated CRS | ||
| Integrated ID & Passport Scanner | ||
| Revenue management module | ||
| Task Management | ||
| Transactional Emails (booking, folios, etc) |
Showing top differences. 13 more features differ between these products.
We analyzed 8 verified case studies to compare what hotels actually achieve with each platform across four key business objectives.
No published case study for this goal yet.
"I became aware of ThinkReservations at a trade show in the US, and I could see right away that it would help Blue Tang Inn streamline our operations, increase our booking and upsel..."
No published case study for this goal yet.
"ThinkReservations Digital Registration has streamlined our check in process, making my job so much easier. Being able to ask guests for their ID and credit card ahead of time, agre..."
No published case study for this goal yet.
"We try to take care of all the needs of our guests so that they have an experience rather than just a stay"
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
What hoteliers love
Though already noted as excellent by many, a few reviews express the desire for additional support on weekends to better handle urgent inquiries.
ThinkReservations aids in streamlining operations through digital registration, night audits, and easy management of booking and check-in processes, a... ThinkReservations aids in streamlining operations through digital registration, night audits, and easy management of booking and check-in processes, allowing staff to focus more on guest interactions.
The system offers comprehensive data and reporting features, enabling hoteliers to make informed decisions on pricing, guest satisfaction, and strateg... The system offers comprehensive data and reporting features, enabling hoteliers to make informed decisions on pricing, guest satisfaction, and strategy planning.
Where hoteliers push back
Some reviews highlight issues with the pricing structure, including dissatisfaction with channel manager fees and the high price of features like Thin... Some reviews highlight issues with the pricing structure, including dissatisfaction with channel manager fees and the high price of features like ThinkMessenger.
Mandatory two-step authentication is a point of frustration for some users, who find it burdensome and wish for lower security settings.
Ranks higher for
Unique capabilities
Where the ratings diverge most
It depends on your requirements. RoomKey PMS and ThinkReservations PMS share many core Property Management Systems features, but each has unique capabilities. RoomKey PMS offers 56 verified integration partners, while ThinkReservations PMS offers 16. Review the feature comparison above to see where they differ before switching.
Small hotels should prioritize ease of use and fast onboarding. ThinkReservations PMS leads in ease of use at 4.8/5 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.
RoomKey PMS: No. ThinkReservations 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. RoomKey PMS has an HT Score of 18 and ThinkReservations has 89. 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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