22 Best Hotel Channel Manager Software List for 2024
10 Best Hotel Channel Manager Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 22 tools reviewed.
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Running a hotel is no small feat. You're juggling room bookings, managing your staff, and ensuring your guests have a memorable stay. A hotel channel manager software can be your best ally in handling these challenges by simplifying the way you manage your online distribution channels.
In this article, I'll share my insights on the top channel manager software solutions available today. You'll learn how these tools can help you boost occupancy rates, reduce overbookings, and free up time for you and your team. Whether you're a seasoned hotelier or new to the industry, this list will guide you in choosing the right software for your hotel's needs.
How to Choose Hotel Channel Management Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Choose software that grows with your business, accommodating more rooms and bookings. |
| Integrations | Ensure compatibility with your existing systems, like booking engines and PMS. |
| Customizability | Look for options that let you tailor the software to fit your specific needs. |
| Ease of Use | Opt for user-friendly interfaces to minimize training time for your staff. |
| Budget | Balance cost with functionality to avoid overspending while meeting your needs. |
| Security Safeguards | Verify robust data protection measures to keep guest information secure. |
Best Hotel Channel Manager Software Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| innQuest | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Hostaway | From $95/user/month | Website |
| Little Hotelier | Pricing upon request | Website |
| innRoad | From $150/user/month | Website |
| Cubilis | From $50/user/month, (billed annually). | Website |
| eZee Absolute | From $45/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Sirvoy | From $9/user/month. | Website |
| RoomRaccoon | From $95/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| RateTiger | Pricing upon request. | Website |
| Hotelogix | From $3.99/room/month (billed annually) | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareBest Channel Manager Software List For Hotels Reviews
roomMaster HMS by InnQuest is a cloud-based hotel management software designed to support operations for independent hotels, management companies, and resorts. It offers a user-friendly interface that facilitates managing reservations, rates, and customer interactions.
Why I Picked roomMaster HMS: It allows you to manage your property’s listing on multiple OTAs, making sure you don’t overbook or miss out on potential reservations. You can update your room inventory in real-time, which helps avoid pricing errors and ensures you’re always offering the right room availability. Plus, the software’s channel management feature integrates directly into the HMS, so there’s no need for third-party tools.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include other helpful features like a fully integrated booking engine that lets guests book directly from your hotel’s website. It also has a mobile-friendly interface, so your team can manage operations from anywhere. Additionally, the built-in property management system offers features like housekeeping management and real-time reporting.
Integrations include AdriaScan, Amadeus, H&L, Sage, Triptease, Windcave, Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, QuickBooks, Alpharooms, Bookeasy, and Hotwire.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Prevents overbooking through channel management
- Easy integration with OTAs and direct website booking
- Multi-property management capabilities
Cons:
- Limited customization
- Setup can be complex
Hostaway
Best for its robust API, facilitating ease in customizations and integrations
Hostaway is a channel manager software that prides itself on providing a comprehensive solution for managing multiple booking channels. Its unique value proposition revolves around a robust API that supports extensive customizations and integrations, catering to the specific needs of various hoteliers.
Why I Picked Hostaway: I picked Hostaway for its powerful API and the flexibility it affords hoteliers in tailoring the platform to their unique needs. Among the many options, it stood out for its adaptability, allowing users to customize and integrate with multiple platforms seamlessly. That's why it makes the cut as the best for its robust API, facilitating ease in customizations and integrations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time synchronization, reservation and revenue management, and a powerful API for customization.
Integrations include a wide range of booking sites including Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, and VRBO among others, ensuring your hotel's visibility is maximized across popular online channels.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of integrations with popular booking platforms
- Comprehensive management features including reservation and revenue management
- Robust API for extensive customization and integration
Cons:
- The platform may be complex for non-tech savvy users
- Lack of a permanent free tier
- Pricing may be prohibitive for small-scale operations
Best for small hotels and B&Bs aiming to simplify operations and boost bookings
Little Hotelier is a property management software tailored to meet the unique needs of small properties such as, bed and breakfasts, inns, motels, guest houses, and other small lodging establishments. It provides tools for managing reservations, boosting occupancy rates, and simplifying operational tasks. Considering its specialized features for small-scale operations, it's an excellent choice for smaller hotels and B&Bs seeking to streamline their operations and increase their bookings.
Why I Picked Little Hotelier: I chose Little Hotelier because it's precisely designed for small lodging businesses. The customization and simplified workflow it offers, specifically for smaller operations, sets it apart from others. In my judgment, it's the best option for small hotels and B&Bs aiming for streamlined operations and improved booking numbers due to its easy handling of these specific requirements.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include an all-in-one reservation system, front desk operations, a booking engine, and reporting tools.
Integrations include popular travel agencies, review platforms, and various payment gateways for integrations, further streamlining operations and marketing for smaller businesses.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Connects with popular travel agencies and review platforms for increased visibility
- Free trial allows users to test the system before making a commitment
- Tailored for small-scale operations, ensuring appropriate and usable features
Cons:
- Exchange rates may affect the actual cost for users paying in other currencies
- Pricing can be slightly higher than some competitors, particularly for very small establishments
- The lack of a free tier may be a barrier for some small businesses
innRoad
Best for its all-in-one management system, streamlining hotel operations end-to-end
InnRoad is a comprehensive hotel management software designed to facilitate seamless operations from start to finish. It bundles booking, billing, inventory management, and other essential tasks into one convenient system. Given its all-encompassing nature, it's ideal for businesses seeking a single solution to streamline various facets of hotel operations.
Why I Picked InnRoad: InnRoad became my choice due to its robust, all-in-one management system. Unlike other tools, it does not compartmentalize tasks but offers an integrated platform for handling multiple operations. This quality makes it a standout among competitors and justifies its position as the best choice for businesses that want to manage all operations in a unified, streamlined way.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time property management, global distribution strategy, and a booking engine.
Integrations include integration with a range of third-party applications, such as social media platforms, review sites, and online travel agencies, facilitating a broad market reach and customer engagement.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Personalized demo allows users to understand the software before purchase
- Integration with a wide range of third-party applications enhances outreach and customer engagement
- All-in-one management system streamlines various hotel operations
Cons:
- The all-inclusive nature might be overwhelming for smaller businesses or those with simpler needs
- Pricing is not transparent, requiring users to contact the company for a quote
- Lack of a free version or trial may deter potential users
Cubilis is a cutting-edge channel manager software that facilitates smooth management of hotel rooms across various OTAs from a single platform. Its strength lies in seamless integration with major OTAs, and advanced analytics that give hoteliers the ability to make data-driven decisions.
Why I Picked Cubilis: I chose Cubilis for its seamless integration capabilities and the depth of its analytics tools. It stands out for its ability to synchronize real-time inventory and pricing across a multitude of sales channels without hiccups. Its comprehensive analytical feature presents valuable insights to optimize strategy and increase profits, justifying why it's the best for seamless integration with major OTAs and advanced analytics.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time synchronization of room rates and inventory, and advanced analytics that provide actionable insights for hoteliers.
Integrations include global Online Travel Agents (OTAs) like Booking.com and Expedia, and other critical systems such as Property Management Systems (PMS) and Revenue Management System (RMS), make it a robust solution for hotels.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface that simplifies management tasks
- Offers advanced analytics for data-driven decision making
- Provides seamless integration with various OTAs
Cons:
- It requires some time to get used to, particularly for non-tech-savvy users
- The pricing could be expensive for small hotels
- No free plan, only a free trial
Best for unified operations and enhancing guest experience with mobile hotel app
eZee Absolute offers a comprehensive hotel management solution that unifies all operations, from check-in to check-out. Its special appeal lies in its mobile hotel app, designed to enhance the guest experience and provide added convenience for both guests and hoteliers.
Why I Picked eZee Absolute: I chose eZee Absolute because it not only serves as an efficient channel manager but also prioritizes guest experience with its mobile app. What sets it apart is this emphasis on customer engagement, providing personalized services for guests through their smartphones. With its mobile app feature, I think eZee Absolute stands out as best for improving guest experience while maintaining operational efficiency.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include online booking management, multi-property management, and a unified front and back office system.
Integrations include major OTAs, GDSs, and metasearch engines, along with various payment gateways.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Seamless integrations with major OTAs and payment gateways
- Focus on enhancing guest experience with a mobile app
- Comprehensive hotel management solution
Cons:
- User interface can be challenging for non-tech savvy users
- Pricing can get high for large hotels
- No free tier available
Sirvoy
Best for ease of use, with a user-friendly interface and excellent customer support
Sirvoy is a hotel management software designed to streamline daily operations while improving guest service. Its standout features include an easy-to-navigate interface and a responsive customer support team, making it an ideal choice for users who value simplicity and reliable assistance.
Why I Picked Sirvoy: I chose Sirvoy for its emphasis on user-friendliness and excellent customer support. This tool stands apart from many competitors in its commitment to ease of use, making it an accessible choice for users of all tech skill levels. The customer support is responsive and helpful, further ensuring that users can smoothly navigate the system. That's why I believe it's the best option for those prioritizing ease of use and solid customer service.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a booking system, guest management, invoicing, and the ability to handle multi-properties.
Integrations include Booking.com, Airbnb, and Expedia is a major plus, enabling users to manage multiple distribution channels from one centralized location.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrations with major distribution channels aid in efficiently managing bookings
- Excellent customer support ensures users can resolve issues promptly
- User-friendly interface simplifies the process of managing a hotel
Cons:
- User interface, while simple, might not be as visually appealing as some competitors
- Advanced features are only available on higher-priced plans
- Does not offer a free tier beyond the initial 14-day trial
Best for small and medium-sized hotels seeking automation and revenue growth
RoomRaccoon is an all-in-one hotel management software that brings automation to the fingertips of small and medium-sized hotels. It offers a set of comprehensive tools including a Property Management System (PMS), Booking Engine, and Channel Manager, all tailored to facilitate operational efficiency and stimulate online sales growth.
Why I Picked RoomRaccoon: I picked RoomRaccoon primarily due to its comprehensive and user-friendly approach to hotel management. With a special focus on small and medium-sized hotels, it fills a niche where personalized solutions are often lacking. I deem RoomRaccoon the best in this category due to its ability to automate multiple tasks, which can significantly reduce the operational burden and open avenues for revenue growth for these establishments.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include an intuitive booking channel, an automated invoice system, and extensive reporting tools.
Integrations include popular online travel agencies and global distribution systems, leading to broadened visibility.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive integration capabilities with external applications
- Ease of use that allows for quick adaptation
- Comprehensive feature set suitable for small to medium hotels
Cons:
- Some users may find the customization options limited
- Pricing can be variable and may not be budget-friendly for very small hotels
- No free plan available
Best for its revenue management capabilities and wide network of channel partnerships
RateTiger provides a comprehensive channel management solution with robust revenue management capabilities. It boasts an impressive network of channel partnerships that facilitate wider visibility and better rate parity.
Why I Picked RateTiger: In selecting RateTiger, the tool's ability to boost revenue with strategic rate management caught my attention. It stands out with its wide network of over 450 channel partnerships, which provides hotels with an unprecedented reach. Thus, I believe RateTiger is best suited for establishments seeking both revenue growth and expansive distribution.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time ARI updates, pooled inventory management, and reservation delivery.
Integrations include Property Management Systems (PMS), Central Reservation Systems (CRS), and Revenue Management Systems (RMS), thereby ensuring a holistic operational environment.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Seamless integration with various hotel management systems
- Extensive network of over 450 channel partners
- Revenue management capabilities to optimize rate strategy
Cons:
- Interface might be complex for beginners
- Pricing is not transparent and is provided on request
- No free tier available
Hotelogix
Best for its two-way distribution system that optimizes inventory management
Hotelogix is a channel management system designed to streamline and optimize hotel inventory management. Its two-way distribution system ensures that your hotel inventory (rooms, room types) is updated in real-time, across all platforms, reducing double bookings and overbookings and improving efficiency.
Why I Picked Hotelogix: I chose Hotelogix because of its powerful two-way distribution system. This innovative feature allows hotel managers to have real-time inventory control across all channels, which is critical in the fast-paced hospitality industry. I believe Hotelogix is best for optimizing inventory management because of its ability to manage complex inventory systems with ease and precision.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include centralized control of rates, real-time inventory distribution, and detailed analytics.
Integrations include popular OTAs like Booking.com, Expedia, TripAdvisor, and Agoda, providing an extensive reach to potential customers.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integration with popular OTAs
- Real-time inventory updates across all channels
- Two-way distribution system for efficient inventory management
Cons:
- User interface could be more intuitive
- Pricing can be a bit steep for small hotels
- No permanent free tier
Other Channel Manager Software For Hotels
Below is a list of additional channel manager software for hotels that we shortlisted but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.
- SiteMinder
For its global reach and superior connectivity, with over 400 channels
- STAAH MAX
For maximizing revenue with real-time dynamic pricing and extensive channel connectivity
- Cloudbeds
For a flexible, intuitive interface that suits all types of accommodation providers
- Aiosell
Good for automated dynamic pricing and revenue optimization
- DJUBO
Good for comprehensive operational management beyond channel management
- Nobeds
Good for budget-conscious properties with its free basic plan
- Avirato
Good for users seeking a free channel manager with unlimited channels
- HotelRunner
Good for digital marketing and sales management features
- Apaleo
Good for flexible API integration and customization
- AvaiBook
Good for secure and efficient online reservations
- Mini Hotel
Good for small-scale accommodations seeking a simple and intuitive solution
- Reservit
Good for boosting direct bookings with a reservation system
Popular Hotel Software
Here are some other lists of popular hotel software for you to check out.
Hotel Channel Manager Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best hotel channel manager software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like integration capabilities with existing property management systems and the ease of managing booking across various online travel agencies. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
- Manage room inventory across multiple channels
- Update pricing and availability in real-time
- Synchronize bookings to prevent overbooking
- Integrate with property management systems
- Generate sales and performance reports
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
- Provide customizable dashboard views
- Offer automated pricing optimization tools
- Include AI-driven demand forecasting
- Support multi-currency and multi-language interfaces
- Allow seamless integration with third-party apps
Usability (10% of total score)
- Ensure intuitive navigation and layout
- Provide a user-friendly interface design
- Keen integration and scalability options
- Balance functionality with simplicity
- Minimize the number of clicks for common tasks
- Ensure quick responsiveness and smooth performance
Onboarding (10% of total score)
- Offer comprehensive training videos and webinars
- Provide interactive product tours
- Include detailed onboarding templates
- Utilize chatbots for real-time assistance
- Ensure easy data migration from previous systems
Customer Support (10% of total score)
- Offer 24/7 customer service availability
- Provide multilingual support options
- Ensure quick response times for inquiries
- Offer a variety of support channels
- Provide access to a comprehensive knowledge base
Value For Money (10% of total score)
- Offer competitive pricing plans
- Provide flexible subscription options
- Include free trial or demo versions
- Ensure transparent pricing structures
- Offer additional features at no extra cost
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
- Highlight positive feedback on ease of use
- Note satisfaction with customer support
- Mention reliability and uptime of the software
- Evaluate user experience with feature set
- Consider feedback on overall value for money
What Is Hotel Channel Manager Software?
Hotel channel manager software is a tool that helps hotels manage their room availability, rates, and inventory across multiple online booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb. Hotel managers and revenue managers typically use these tools to increase bookings, optimize pricing strategies for various vacation rentals, and reduce the chances of overbooking.
Features like real-time updates, integration with property management systems, and automated inventory management help with maintaining consistent availability and pricing across all channels. Channel managers ensure seamless inventory distribution across booking platforms and rate parity.
Features of Hotel Channel Manager Software
When selecting hotel channel management tools, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Real-time updates: Automatically update room availability and pricing across all connected booking platforms to reduce the risk of overbooking.
- Two-way synchronization: Ensure bookings and cancellations are instantly reflected across all connected channels and platforms, maintaining accurate inventory levels.
- Pooled inventory model: Aggregate inventory to prevent overbookings by ensuring rooms are available from a single source.
- Integration with PMS: Connect directly to the Property Management System (PMS) for streamlined operations and real-time updates on rates and availability.
- Market insights: Utilize advanced tools to predict future demand of potential guests and track competitor pricing, helping optimize revenue strategies.
- Performance analytics: Provide comprehensive reporting tools to analyze channel performance and make data-driven decisions.
- Automated rate management: Adjust room rates automatically based on market trends and demand, ensuring competitive pricing.
- User-friendly interface: Offer an intuitive platform for managing booking channels efficiently, even for users with limited technical expertise.
- Robust support: Ensure 24/7 customer support and extensive onboarding resources to assist with setup and troubleshooting.
- Security compliance: Adhere to data security standards like PCI DSS and GDPR to protect guest information and ensure compliance.
- Distribution Strategy Optimization: Enable dynamic distribution strategies by allowing customization of pricing, room allocation, and promotions for specific channels.
- Integration and Scalability with PMS and RMS: Ensure seamless integration with Property Management Systems (PMS) and Revenue Management Systems (RMS) to streamline workflows.
- User Experience and Support: Provide an intuitive dashboard and streamlined processes; include robust customer support, with options for live chat, email, and phone.
Benefits of Hotel Channel Manager Software
Implementing hotel channel manager software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Increased efficiency: Automate rate and inventory updates across all booking channels, saving time and reducing manual errors.
- Real-time data: Get instant updates on bookings and cancellations, helping you make quick decisions to maximize revenue.
- Broader reach: Connect with multiple online travel agencies and global distribution systems, increasing your property's visibility and booking potential.
- Centralized management: Manage all your distribution channels from one platform, simplifying operations and reducing the need for multiple logins.
- Improved pricing strategies: Use data analytics tools to adjust pricing dynamically, optimizing your rates based on demand and competition.
- Enhanced revenue management: Track performance metrics with reporting features, allowing for better forecasting and strategic planning.
- Reduced overbookings: Synchronize inventory across platforms to minimize the risk of overbookings and improve guest satisfaction.
Costs and Pricing of Hotel Channel Manager Software
Selecting hotel channel manager software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in hotel channel manager software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Hotel Channel Manager Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0/user/month | Basic channel management, limited integrations, and support through community forums. |
| Personal Plan | $10-$30/user/month | Advanced channel management, email support, and basic reporting features. |
| Business Plan | $50-$100/user/month | Comprehensive channel management, phone and email support, detailed reporting, and multi-property management. |
| Enterprise Plan | $150-$300/user/month | Full-featured channel management, dedicated account manager, custom integrations, advanced reporting, and priority support. |
Hotel Channel Manager Software FAQ
Here are some answers to common questions about hotel channel manager software:
What are the distribution channels of hotels?
Hotels use various distribution channels to sell their rooms and services. These include:
- Direct Channels:
- Hotel’s own website
- Direct phone bookings
- Walk-ins
- Online Travel Agencies (OTAs):
- Platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, and Agoda
- Global Distribution Systems (GDS):
- Used by travel agents to book rooms for clients
- Travel Agents and Tour Operators:
- Offline and online agents
- Social Media Platforms:
- Direct bookings or traffic driven to the hotel’s website
- Corporate Booking Tools:
- For business travelers through company agreements
- Metasearch Engines:
- Sites like Google Hotels or Trivago, which compare prices across multiple channels
Each channel contributes to a hotel’s distribution strategy optimization by helping it reach a broader audience and maximize revenue.
What is the difference between a channel manager and a CRS?
A channel manager and a Central Reservation System (CRS) are both tools used in hospitality management, but they serve different purposes and work in complementary ways. Here’s the distinction:
Channel Manager
- Purpose: A channel manager distributes your property’s inventory and rates across multiple online booking platforms (e.g., OTAs like Booking.com, Expedia, and Agoda).
- Core Functionality:
- Synchronizes room availability and prices across all connected channels.
- Updates bookings in real-time to prevent overbookings.
- Streamlines inventory management for properties listed on multiple platforms.
- Users: Small to large hotels, vacation rentals, and any property that uses multiple distribution channels.
Central Reservation System (CRS)
- Purpose: A CRS serves as a central hub for managing reservations and availability across all sales channels, including direct bookings, call centers, GDSs (Global Distribution Systems), and even channel managers.
- Core Functionality:
- Acts as the primary system for managing bookings and availability.
- Interfaces with the PMS (Property Management System) to handle reservations and inventory.
- Often supports direct booking tools like widgets for hotel websites.
- Users: Primarily larger hotels, hotel chains, and organizations needing centralized control of reservations across multiple properties.
Key Differences
| Feature | Channel Manager | CRS |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Distributes inventory across online channels. | Manages reservations centrally. |
| Scope | Focuses on OTAs and distribution platforms. | Handles reservations across all channels. |
| Integration | Connects with OTAs, metasearch engines, etc. | Interfaces with PMS, channel managers, etc. |
| Complexity | Simpler; task-specific. | Broader; integrates various systems. |
What is the difference between a channel manager and an API?
A channel manager acts as the conduit between your reservation software and online travel agencies (OTAs) or other resellers. It uses an API (Application Programming Interface) to facilitate two-way communication between your hotel management systems and the reseller’s platforms. While the channel manager coordinates updates across distribution channels, the API enables these systems to communicate effectively.
What is the difference between a channel manager and a booking engine?
A channel manager connects your property management system (PMS) to various online platforms, allowing you to update room rates and availability across multiple sites simultaneously. In contrast, a booking engine is a software application on your hotel’s website that processes direct bookings. While the channel manager handles distribution across third-party platforms, the booking engine manages bookings directly from your website.
Will the channel manager integrate with the property's booking engine?
When choosing the right channel manager, it’s crucial to ensure that it integrates seamlessly with your booking engine. This integration allows for real-time updates of room availability and pricing, reducing the risk of overbookings or discrepancies. Your team should verify compatibility with current systems before committing to a channel manager.
How many booking channels can the software connect to?
The number of booking channels a channel manager can connect to varies by software. You’ll want to choose a solution that aligns with your distribution strategy, ensuring it covers all the platforms where you want to list your property. Discuss your specific needs with the vendor to confirm that the software can accommodate your preferred channels.
Can the channel manager update rates in real-time?
Real-time rate updates are essential for maintaining competitive pricing across all distribution channels. A channel manager that supports real-time updates helps prevent discrepancies and ensures your rates are consistent, no matter where guests book. Confirm that the software offers this feature to avoid potential revenue losses.
What is the role of channel manager in the hotel industry?
A channel manager in the hotel industry plays a key role in distribution strategy optimization by keeping room availability and pricing updated across all online booking platforms. It helps hotels maximize bookings, avoid overbooking, save time through automation, and improve visibility on channels like OTAs (Online Travel Agencies). This tool ensures efficient room sales and supports better revenue management.
Other Reservation Management Software
Here are some other useful tools for reservation and booking.
What Next?
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