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 345 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:
Simplotel shines when it comes to service and support — especially for brand properties (5.0/5) , with exclusive features like Urgency messaging and Referral Reporting.
STAAH shines , with exclusive features like Price comparison widget and Flexible dates.
Side-by-side ratings based on 345 verified hotelier reviews on HTR.
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| Starting Price | From $500/mo | Contact sales |
| Verified Reviews | 332 | 13 |
After analyzing 345 verified reviews, Simplotel users most value its service and support, user-friendly interface and design, customer experience enhancement, while STAAH users highlight . Click any theme to see what reviewers say.
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Service and Support
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User-friendly interface and design
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Customer experience enhancement
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Integration and Optimization
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Customization and Flexibility
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Analytics and Reporting
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How each product ranks among Booking Engine 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) ▾ | #5 127 reviews | #35 4 reviews |
| Mid-Size (25-74 rooms) ▾ | #6 163 reviews | #36 5 reviews |
| Large (75-199 rooms) ▾ | #9 20 reviews | #37 1 reviews |
| X-Large (200+ rooms) | #14 3 reviews | — |
By Property Type
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| Boutique ▾ | #6 139 reviews | #36 8 reviews |
| Luxury ▾ | #4 187 reviews | #33 9 reviews |
| Branded / Chain ▾ | #4 101 reviews | #34 4 reviews |
| Extended Stay ▾ | #9 15 reviews | — |
By Region
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| North America ▾ | #13 11 reviews | — |
| Europe | #35 2 reviews | — |
| Asia Pacific ▾ | #2 307 reviews | #14 11 reviews |
| Middle East | #15 3 reviews | — |
Choosing the right booking engine is crucial for your hotel’s direct booking strategy and overall revenue. Both Simplotel Booking Engine and STAAH Booking Engine aim to boost your direct reservations, but they diverge in features, support, and market presence. Simplotel, with its broader review base and recent, positive feedback, offers a more proven track record. Do you want a platform with extensive marketing integrations and customization? Or a solution emphasizing simplicity and efficiency?
Simplotel and STAAH both address the core problem of converting website visitors into guests while reducing OTA commissions. Simplotel’s focus lies in providing a highly customizable, e-commerce-like booking experience with advanced analytics, suited for mid to large hotels looking to scale. Conversely, STAAH emphasizes ease of use, inventory management, and direct booking promotion, making it attractive for smaller properties and chains seeking straightforward implementation. Do you prioritize deep customization or streamlined operations?
Simplotel's more comprehensive feature set (16 features unique to it) includes loyalty integrations, social media bookings, and A/B testing — ideal for hotels seeking sophisticated marketing tools. STAAH, with only 4 exclusive features, concentrates on essential booking functions like group bookings and dynamic discounts. Which features align with your current needs—advanced marketing or operational simplicity?
Simplotel’s larger review count (297 reviews, mostly recent) and higher overall ratings (4.75/5) reflect consistent user satisfaction. STAAH’s fewer reviews (13) and a slightly higher, but less recent, overall rating (4.81/5) suggest a smaller but stable user base. Are you comfortable choosing a platform with proven scale and ongoing positive feedback?
Edge: Simplotel.
If your hotel needs a highly customizable booking engine that integrates seamlessly with your website, supports marketing automation, and offers detailed analytics, Simplotel is the better choice. Its proven ability to increase direct bookings and reduce reliance on OTAs makes it ideal for hotels aiming to scale their web presence.
On the other hand, if you prioritize ease of setup, straightforward inventory management, and a focus on core booking functions without extensive customization, STAAH suits smaller hotels or chains seeking quick deployment and reliable support. Its mobile-friendly interface and ongoing upgrades make it a solid, if less feature-rich, option.
For hotels that value advanced marketing tools, deep customization, and detailed performance insights, Simplotel clearly leads. If you prefer a simple, effective booking engine with excellent support and fewer complexities, STAAH may be your choice.
Edge: Simplotel.
Simplotel’s user interface is rated 4.65/5, praised for its intuitive navigation, but some reviews note that initial setup can be complex for small properties. Its onboarding process, rated 4.58/5, involves more customization, which might require more time and training. Support responsiveness is good, but some users call for more proactive engagement.
STAAH scores slightly higher for ease of use at 4.69/5, with reviews highlighting its straightforward setup and user-friendly dashboard. Support is rated even higher at 4.88/5, and many users appreciate the helpfulness and responsiveness of the team, especially during onboarding.
Edge: STAAH.
Simplotel offers 16 features exclusive to its platform, including loyalty program integration, social media booking, GDPR compliance, and advanced testing tools. These features support sophisticated marketing campaigns, personalized guest experiences, and detailed analytics.
STAAH provides 4 unique features such as a price comparison widget, flexible dates, meal plans, and availability blocks, primarily focusing on operational efficiency and dynamic pricing. While effective, STAAH’s feature set is less extensive, emphasizing core booking functions.
Simplotel’s 21 shared features with STAAH include basic availability management, multi-channel support, and secure payments, but Simplotel’s additional features give it a competitive edge for hotels seeking more control and marketing depth.
Edge: Simplotel.
Simplotel’s support rating is 4.69/5, with reviews citing timely assistance and friendly service, though some mention variability in staff support. Support is generally responsive, but proactive communication could improve.
STAAH ranks higher with a 4.88/5 support score, with reviews emphasizing helpful, knowledgeable, and prompt assistance. Users frequently praise the dedicated support team, especially during onboarding, and appreciate the ongoing upgrade communication.
Considering recent review data and support ratings, STAAH’s support team is more consistently praised, which is valuable for hotels requiring reliable, ongoing assistance.
Edge: STAAH.
Simplotel currently integrates with 22 verified partners, including major property management systems like Cloudbeds and SiteMinder. Its integrations cover essential booking channels, payment gateways, and analytics tools, facilitating smooth operations.
STAAH offers a broader array of 54 verified partners, including niche and regional OTAs, PMS, and marketing tools. Shared integrations include well-known brands like Stripe, Hotelogix, and Cendyn, while STAAH’s extensive partner list provides more options for connectivity.
For properties needing diverse integrations with multiple PMS and OTA channels, STAAH’s larger network is advantageous. Simplotel’s focused integrations are sufficient for properties prioritizing core channels and systems.
Edge: STAAH.
Simplotel’s reviews are more numerous and recent, with a 4.75/5 rating based on 297 reviews, mostly praising its ability to boost direct bookings and support customization. Hotels in segments like resorts and boutique hotels particularly favor its marketing flexibility.
STAAH’s 13 reviews yield a slightly higher rating of 4.81/5, with a strong emphasis on support quality and ease of use. Its users, mainly from resorts and city center hotels, appreciate its straightforward operation and helpful staff.
Given the more extensive and current review base, Simplotel’s ratings are more representative of ongoing hotel satisfaction.
Edge: Simplotel.
Simplotel charges a flat monthly fee of $500, with no freemium or trial options available. Its pricing reflects its feature-rich platform, suitable for hotels willing to invest in customization and marketing.
STAAH’s pricing details are not publicly listed, but it is positioned as a flexible solution with no setup fees or subscription costs. Additional add-ons and advanced features may incur extra charges, depending on your needs.
If budget transparency is essential, Simplotel’s clear pricing makes it easier to evaluate ROI. STAAH’s flexible model may suit hotels with varying budgets and feature requirements.
Not ideal if your hotel is small, with limited IT support, or prefers a quick, simple setup. Smaller properties with minimal online marketing needs might find Simplotel’s extensive features overwhelming.
Not ideal if your hotel requires advanced marketing tools, deep customization, or detailed analytics. Larger hotels looking for extensive website integration might find STAAH’s features limiting.
Simplotel is a comprehensive booking engine designed to enhance direct bookings through deep customization, marketing automation, and data-driven insights. Its extensive reviews and recent positive feedback underscore its effectiveness for hotels seeking to grow their online presence.
STAAH offers a more straightforward, easy-to-use platform with strong support and broad integrations, ideal for properties that want reliable booking management without complexity. Its focus on core operations makes it a suitable choice for smaller hotels or chains aiming for quick results.
If your hotel needs a feature-rich solution with proven scale and recent high review scores, go with Simplotel. If simplicity, support, and integration breadth are more critical, STAAH is the better fit.
In conclusion, for most hotels currently evaluating these two options, Simplotel’s larger, more recent review base and feature set position it as the stronger candidate.
According to HTR's product database, Simplotel Booking Engine and STAAH Booking Engine share 21 features. Here are the key differences — features one has that the other lacks.
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| ADA Compliant | ||
| Availability block | ||
| Booking abandonment recapture | ||
| Flat, floating and discounted rates | ||
| Flexible dates | ||
| Loyalty program integration | ||
| Meal plans | ||
| Price comparison widget | ||
| Tariffs | ||
| Urgency messaging |
Showing top differences. 8 more features differ between these products.
What hoteliers love
Although customer support is generally rated as responsive and helpful, there are calls for more proactive communication. Monthly check-ins and traini... Although customer support is generally rated as responsive and helpful, there are calls for more proactive communication. Monthly check-ins and training materials are suggested for enhanced service.
Simplotel's booking engine stands out for its intuitive and user-friendly design, simplifying navigation for guests and hoteliers. Reviews consistentl... Simplotel's booking engine stands out for its intuitive and user-friendly design, simplifying navigation for guests and hoteliers. Reviews consistently mention improved booking experience and engagement, translating to increased bookings and customer satisfaction.
The platform enhances guest experiences by streamlining booking processes and supporting upselling and cross-selling services. This feature is cited f... The platform enhances guest experiences by streamlining booking processes and supporting upselling and cross-selling services. This feature is cited for adding value and contributing to increased revenue.
Where hoteliers push back
Many users appreciate the potential for customizing brand-specific templates and designs but express a demand for more flexibility. There is feedback... Many users appreciate the potential for customizing brand-specific templates and designs but express a demand for more flexibility. There is feedback on limited options for personalizing website layouts and dynamic content.
Simplotel provides robust analytics and reporting features aiding in data-driven decision-making and marketing strategies. Users find these insights b... Simplotel provides robust analytics and reporting features aiding in data-driven decision-making and marketing strategies. Users find these insights beneficial for optimizing bookings, although some suggest further advancements in analytics tools.
Ranks higher for
Unique capabilities
Unique capabilities
It depends on your requirements. Simplotel Booking Engine and STAAH Booking Engine share many core Booking Engine features, but each has unique capabilities. Simplotel Booking Engine offers 22 verified integration partners, while STAAH Booking Engine offers 54. Review the feature comparison above to see where they differ before switching.
Small hotels should prioritize ease of use and fast onboarding. Simplotel Booking Engine leads in ease of use at 4.7/5 vs 4.7/5. 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.
Simplotel Booking Engine: No. STAAH Booking Engine: No. Neither product currently offers a free tier. Most Booking Engine 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. Simplotel has an HT Score of 90 and STAAH has 0. 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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