STAY Guest App vs. The Digital Hotelier: Which Is Right for You?

Updated May 15, 2026  ·  217 verified reviews analyzed

TLDR

We analyzed 217 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:

STAY shines in customer support and ROI — especially for brand properties (0.0/5) , with exclusive features like Mobile App and Mobile Checkout.

The Digital Hotelier shines .

See the full breakdown below ↓

How Does STAY Guest App Compare to The Digital Hotelier?

Side-by-side ratings based on 217 verified hotelier reviews on HTR.

HTScore
47
0
Likelihood to Recommend
96%
55%
Ease of Use
4.8/5
4.5/5
Customer Support
4.8/5
3.5/5
Value for Money
4.6/5
2.0/5
Starting Price From $300/mo From $100/mo
Verified Reviews 215 2

What Are the Pros and Cons of STAY Guest App vs The Digital Hotelier?

After analyzing 217 verified reviews, STAY users most value its guest experience optimization, mobile and user experience, operational efficiency, while The Digital Hotelier users highlight . Click any theme to see what reviewers say.

STAY STAY The Digital Hotelier The Digital Hotelier
Pros
+ Guest Experience Optimization
+ Mobile and User Experience
+ Operational Efficiency
+ Support and Service
Cons
CMS and Customization
Integration Capabilities
Analytics and Reporting

STAY vs The Digital Hotelier: Rankings by Hotel Segment

How each product ranks among Hotel Guest Apps vendors for different property sizes, types, and regions — based on verified reviews from hoteliers in each segment.

By Hotel Size

Segment STAY STAY The Digital Hotelier The Digital Hotelier
Small (10-24 rooms) #9 10 reviews
Mid-Size (25-74 rooms) #4 83 reviews #33 1 reviews
Large (75-199 rooms) #2 89 reviews
X-Large (200+ rooms) #2 24 reviews #18 1 reviews

By Property Type

Segment STAY STAY The Digital Hotelier The Digital Hotelier
Boutique #2 77 reviews
Luxury #2 88 reviews
Branded / Chain #3 91 reviews #28 1 reviews
Extended Stay #6 7 reviews

By Region

Segment STAY STAY The Digital Hotelier The Digital Hotelier
North America #5 27 reviews
Europe #3 112 reviews #27 1 reviews
Asia Pacific #6 3 reviews
Middle East #7 2 reviews #10 1 reviews

The Decision

Choosing between STAY Guest App by STAY and The Digital Hotelier hinges on your hotel’s specific needs for guest engagement and operational integration. Both platforms aim to enhance guest experience via digital solutions, but they diverge significantly in scope, user interface, and market focus. Your decision should prioritize which product aligns best with your hotel’s size, target market, and existing systems.

While STAY boasts a larger user base, more recent reviews, and a broader regional presence, The Digital Hotelier offers a web-based platform with a strong focus on external service monetization and multilingual support. Which one will truly serve your hotel’s long-term goals?

Is STAY Guest App or The Digital Hotelier Better for Hotels?

Both products are designed to digitize guest interactions, but STAY Guest App has a more established reputation, with 206 reviews and a high 4.83/5 customer support rating. It offers a comprehensive guest experience OS that covers in-room services, real-time updates, and integrations with major hotel systems, making it a robust solution for large or chain hotels.

The Digital Hotelier, with only 2 reviews and a support rating of 3.5/5, is newer and less proven at scale. Its web-first approach simplifies guest access through QR codes and offers multilingual support, but its limited review data makes it less reliable for large or complex properties. Are you comfortable with a more nascent platform, or do you prefer a proven leader?

STAY Guest App vs The Digital Hotelier: Which Should Your Hotel Choose?

If your hotel needs a highly rated, feature-rich guest app with extensive integrations—especially if you operate in multiple regions or property types—STAY is the clear choice. It’s trusted by over 1,000 hotels worldwide, including major chains like NH Hotels, RIU, and Meliá, and supports a variety of hotel segments, from luxury to resorts.

Conversely, if your hotel is a smaller, independent property seeking a simple, web-based QR solution for contactless ordering and requests, The Digital Hotelier’s lower price point and multilingual support could suffice. It’s better suited for hotels prioritizing quick implementation over extensive feature sets. Which profile fits your property?

Is STAY Guest App or The Digital Hotelier Easier to Use?

STAY’s user experience is highly rated at 4.78/5, with reviews noting its intuitive interface and straightforward onboarding process. Hotels find the system simple for staff and guests alike, with a well-designed CMS that offers customization but could improve in flexibility.

The Digital Hotelier scores 4.5/5, with positive comments on its web-based access and straightforward QR code scanning. However, reviews mention that its implementation and management need further refinement, especially in process workflows and support responsiveness.

Edge: STAY.

Which Has Better Features: STAY Guest App or The Digital Hotelier?

STAY offers 7 unique features that are absent from The Digital Hotelier, including a mobile app, chatbot, automated responses, message routing, mobile checkout, guest profiles, and app downloads. These features allow for deeper engagement, personalization, and operational control.

The Digital Hotelier primarily provides a web-based platform with basic ordering and request functions via QR codes, lacking the advanced interactive features of STAY. Its core strengths are simplicity and multilingual accessibility rather than feature depth.

Edge: STAY.

Which Has Better Customer Support: STAY or The Digital Hotelier?

STAY’s customer support scores 4.83/5, with reviews praising prompt, helpful assistance and efficient onboarding. Users frequently mention the support team’s responsiveness and clarity, though some wish for more phone support options.

The Digital Hotelier, with a 3.5/5 support rating, receives mixed reviews. Users report frustrations with management and reporting delays, and fewer comments highlight support responsiveness or helpfulness.

Edge: STAY.

Which Has More Integrations: STAY or The Digital Hotelier?

STAY integrates with 20 verified partners, including major hotel systems like Oracle Hospitality, SiteMinder, and Mews, providing extensive connectivity for large, complex operations. This broad integration ecosystem supports data flow, automation, and operational efficiencies.

The Digital Hotelier has only 3 verified partners, with Shiji Group being the most notable. Its limited integrations could restrict scalability or customization for larger properties.

Edge: STAY.

Which Do Hoteliers Rate Higher: STAY or The Digital Hotelier?

Based on review volume and recency, hoteliers rate STAY significantly higher, with a 3/5 overall rating and a 96% likelihood to recommend. In contrast, The Digital Hotelier’s reviews are sparse, with only 2 reviews and a 55% likelihood to recommend, making it less reliable for decision-making.

Segment ratings also favor STAY across luxury, resort, and boutique hotels, reflecting its proven performance in diverse property types. The Digital Hotelier’s user base is smaller and more concentrated in vacation rentals and city hotels.

Edge: STAY.

How Much Do STAY and The Digital Hotelier Cost?

STAY’s pricing is $300 per month with no free tier or trial offers, reflecting its broader feature set and regional reach.

The Digital Hotelier charges $100 per month, offering a more budget-friendly option but with fewer features and integrations. Both lack free trials, so your choice depends on whether your hotel values features and support over initial cost savings.

What Type of Hotel Should Use STAY Guest App?

  • Hotels that want a proven, feature-rich guest engagement platform.
  • Properties seeking extensive integrations with PMS and other hotel systems.
  • Hotels looking to reduce queue times and streamline operations.
  • Large resorts, chains, or boutique hotels aiming for a customizable experience.
  • Hotels operating across multiple regions needing localized support.

Not ideal if your hotel:

  • Is a small, independent property with minimal tech infrastructure.
  • Prioritizes a simple, web-based QR solution over app-based engagement.
  • Has limited budget for ongoing platform costs.

What Type of Hotel Should Use The Digital Hotelier?

  • Hotels seeking a quick-to-deploy, web-first contactless ordering platform.
  • Independent properties or small chains focusing on basic guest requests.
  • Hotels desiring multilingual support in seven languages.
  • Properties emphasizing external service monetization and upselling.
  • Hotels operating in regions where a simple QR-based system is sufficient.

Not ideal if your hotel:

  • Requires deep integrations with PMS or POS systems.
  • Seeks advanced features like chatbots, guest profiles, or app downloads.
  • Needs a mature, extensively supported platform with a global presence.

The Bottom Line for Hotels

Core Difference:
STAY is a comprehensive, feature-rich guest experience platform with extensive integrations, proven scalability, and a large user base. The Digital Hotelier is a newer, web-based, QR-driven solution optimized for simplicity, multilingual support, and quick deployment.

When to Choose STAY:
Select STAY if your hotel needs a proven, customizable system capable of supporting complex operations across multiple regions. Its diverse features and integrations make it ideal for larger properties, chains, or those focused on operational efficiency and guest personalization.

When to Choose The Digital Hotelier:
Opt for The Digital Hotelier if your hotel is small, independent, and primarily seeking a straightforward contactless ordering and request platform. Its lower cost, quick setup, and multilingual interface suit properties with limited technical infrastructure or those experimenting with digital guest services.

Final Verdict:
For hotels prioritizing stability, depth of features, and proven success, STAY is the stronger choice, backed by more reviews, higher ratings, and greater regional coverage. If your hotel’s needs are basic, budget-conscious, and centered around web-based QR solutions, The Digital Hotelier offers a simpler alternative—though with less proven reliability and fewer integrations.

How Much Do STAY Guest App and The Digital Hotelier Cost?

Hotel Guest Apps 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.

STAY STAY The Digital Hotelier The Digital Hotelier
Starting Price From $300/mo From $100/mo

Which Features Does STAY Guest App Have That The Digital Hotelier Doesn't (and Vice Versa)?

According to HTR's product database, STAY Guest App and The Digital Hotelier share 7 features. Here are the key differences — features one has that the other lacks.

Feature STAY STAY The Digital Hotelier The Digital Hotelier
App download
Automated Replies
Chatbot
Message Routing
Mobile App
Mobile Checkout

Real-World Results: STAY vs The Digital Hotelier by Business Goal

We analyzed 8 verified case studies to compare what hotels actually achieve with each platform across four key business objectives.

Increase Operational Efficiency
STAY Barceló Hoteles Large
+ Room Service is faster. It's more comfortable. For the guests. And for the staff too
+ Barceló can make better decisions in real time
+ Through live surveys, Barceló can detect pain points more easily and streamline processes

"Thanks to STAY, we offer our guests an interaction tool with our staff. We can make real-time decisions with it. This simplifies our staff's duties at the same time. The guest expe..."

Álvaro Montalvo
Álvaro Montalvo
Project Manager Innovation
The Digital Hotelier The Digital Hotelier

No published case study for this goal yet.

Improve Guest Experience
STAY AMR Collection Mid-Size
+ The app pays for itself according to AMR's Product Manager. "Spa services, gourmet dinners, wine sales, and other premium services have seen significant increases since we implemented the app.
+ The implementation of STAY skyrocketed the number of users of AMR's app. Increasing them by 50% was their goal. However, they "far exceeded that goal.
+ AMR's users rate the app 4.7 out of 5 on average. The app has been downloaded tens of thousands of times in 50 AMR hotels.

"Implementing STAY contributed to a significant increase in our revenue and customer satisfaction. The app pays for itself. We have seen significant increases in consumption for all..."

Yudy Mora
Yudy Mora
Product Owner Manager
The Digital Hotelier The Digital Hotelier

No published case study for this goal yet.

STAY vs The Digital Hotelier: The Bottom Line

STAY
STAY
4.8/5 from 215 reviews

What hoteliers love

Guest Experience Optimization 97% positive

Multiple reviews highlight how STAY dramatically enhances guest experience by providing digital and sustainable ways for guests to access information... Multiple reviews highlight how STAY dramatically enhances guest experience by providing digital and sustainable ways for guests to access information and services. Features like real-time updates, mobile service ordering, and the ability to make restaurant reservations reduce wait times and provide convenience.

Mobile and User Experience 90% positive

The app's user interface and mobile experience are lauded for being intuitive and easy to navigate. Users find it simple to update information and man... The app's user interface and mobile experience are lauded for being intuitive and easy to navigate. Users find it simple to update information and manage content, whether they are hotel staff or guests.

Operational Efficiency 96% positive

STAY aids in improving hotel operational efficiency by allowing quicker handling of guest requests, optimized internal processes, and reduced front de... STAY aids in improving hotel operational efficiency by allowing quicker handling of guest requests, optimized internal processes, and reduced front desk lines. The tool facilitates sustainable practices by digitizing traditional paper-based services, aiding hotels in their sustainability goals.

Where hoteliers push back

CMS and Customization 41% negative

The CMS is highlighted for its ease of use and customization capabilities, though users have indicated some areas for improvement, particularly more f... The CMS is highlighted for its ease of use and customization capabilities, though users have indicated some areas for improvement, particularly more flexibility in design and functionality.

Integration Capabilities 50% negative

Users appreciate STAY's robust integration capabilities with various internal applications and systems, including PMS and CRM systems. These integrati... Users appreciate STAY's robust integration capabilities with various internal applications and systems, including PMS and CRM systems. These integrations streamline data management and help provide a seamless experience for both staff and guests.

Ranks higher for

Mid-Size (25-74 rooms) #4 vs #33
X-Large (200+ rooms) #2 vs #18
Branded / Chain #3 vs #28
City Center Hotels #2 vs #30

Unique capabilities

Mobile App Chatbot Automated Replies Message Routing App download
4.8/5 ease of use 4.8/5 support 20 integrations
Visit Profile
The Digital Hotelier
The Digital Hotelier
2.8/5 from 2 reviews
4.5/5 ease of use 3.5/5 support 3 integrations
Visit Profile

Where the ratings diverge most

Overall Rating STAY 3.0 vs 0.0 (+3)
Customer Support STAY 4.8 vs 3.5 (+1.3)
Value for Money STAY 4.6 vs 2.0 (+2.6)
Onboarding STAY 4.6 vs 2.0 (+2.6)

Frequently Asked Questions About STAY Guest App vs The Digital Hotelier

Can STAY Guest App replace The Digital Hotelier?

It depends on your requirements. STAY Guest App and The Digital Hotelier share many core Hotel Guest Apps features, but each has unique capabilities. STAY Guest App offers 20 verified integration partners, while The Digital Hotelier offers 3. Review the feature comparison above to see where they differ before switching.

Which is better for small or independent hotels?

Small hotels should prioritize ease of use and fast onboarding. STAY Guest App 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.

Do STAY Guest App or The Digital Hotelier offer a free plan?

STAY Guest App: No. The Digital Hotelier: No. Neither product currently offers a free tier. Most Hotel Guest Apps vendors offer demos or trials — request one from each to evaluate before committing.

How Does HTR Evaluate and Rank STAY Guest App and The Digital Hotelier?

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. STAY has an HT Score of 47 and The Digital Hotelier has 0. Here is how the score is calculated.

Criteria Group Weight What It Measures
Customer Ratings & Reviews

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

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

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

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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