- Overview of Leading Hotel Channel Manager Software
- 1. Cloudbeds Channel Manager (Best for Comprehensive Integration)
- 2. Cubilis (Best for User-Friendliness)
- 3. Hostaway (Best for Customization)
- 4. STAAH MAX (Best for Budget-Conscious Hotels)
- 5. Hotelogix (Best for Advanced Features)
- Key Features to Look for in Hotel Channel Manager Software
- How to Choose the Right Hotel Channel Manager for Your Needs
- Understanding the Costs Involved
- Future Trends in Hotel Channel Management
- Optimize Your Hotel's Online Distribution with Top Channel Management Solutions
- Frequently Asked Questions
As a hotelier looking to optimize room occupancy and streamline reservation processes, finding robust hotel channel manager software is crucial.
This in-depth analysis looked at various hotel channel manager software options and reviewed them for functionality, user interface, integration capabilities, and overall performance. We understand the complexities of managing multiple booking channels and have curated this list to help you find the software that best fits your specific needs, ensuring your hotel’s visibility and booking potential are optimized.
Here’s how it looks.
Overview of Leading Hotel Channel Manager Software
- Best for Comprehensive Integration: Cloudbeds Channel Manager
- Best for User-Friendliness: Cubilis
- Best for Customization: Hostaway
- Best for Budget-Conscious Hotels: STAAH MAX
- Best for Advanced Features: Hotelogix
It is time to examine the trailblazers revolutionizing hotel channel management.
1. Cloudbeds Channel Manager (Best for Comprehensive Integration)

Cloudbeds offers a comprehensive channel manager that integrates with over 300 distribution channels, making it ideal for hotels looking to maximize their online reach. Think of Cloudbeds as the MacGyver of hotel management – a tool for every situation, seamlessly handling OTAs, GDSs, and direct bookings.
Key Features:
- Real-time, two-way integration with major OTAs and GDSs
- Automated inventory and rate updates across all channels
- Advanced reporting and analytics to optimize distribution strategy
Unique Features and Benefits:
- All-in-one hospitality management suite
- Global and local channel connectivity
- Major OTA partnerships
Cloudbeds’ global and local channel connectivity integrates with worldwide OTAs like Booking.com and Expedia and regional platforms like CVC (Brazil) and MakeMyTrip (India). This approach maximizes visibility and booking potential, attracting international tourists and local guests and helping fill rooms year-round.
However, if you need to see the expected booking boost after implementing global and local connectivity, don’t panic. First, ensure your property details and pricing are optimized for each market. If issues persist, consider consulting with Cloudbeds’ support team to review your distribution strategy or explore additional marketing efforts to complement your channel management approach.
Pros:
- Extensive integration options (over 300 global, regional, and niche OTAs)
- User-friendly interface
- Responsive customer support
Cons:
- Higher pricing compared to some competitors
- It may be overwhelming for smaller properties
- Some users report occasional syncing issues
Pricing:
Cloudbeds pricing plans are tiered, so you can select a plan tailored to your business.
Click here to get a pricing quote.
Click the “Request a Demo” link in the header to complete and submit your details to schedule a demo.
Customer Service:
Generally well-regarded, with 24/7 support available.
Suitability:
Ideal for hotels looking for a comprehensive solution that integrates channel management with other aspects of hotel operations.
Comparison:
Cloudbeds offers the most comprehensive integration with other hotel management tools and distribution channels compared to others on this list.
Ratings:
- Integration: 5/5
- Ease of use: 4/5
- Support: 4.5/5
- Value for money: 4/5
2. Cubilis (Best for User-Friendliness)

Cubilis is known for its intuitive, user-friendly interface that makes channel management simple even for less tech-savvy hoteliers. Unlike Michael Scott struggling with the new copier in ‘The Office’, Cubilis ensures even the most tech-challenged can easily navigate channel management.
Key Features:
- Easy-to-use drag-and-drop calendar for managing availability
- Automated inventory synchronization across channels
- Effective error management
Unique Features and Benefits:
- Designed specifically for small to medium-sized properties
- Intuitive system layout
This intuitive system layout means even less tech-savvy staff can quickly learn and efficiently use the system.
Pros:
- Very user-friendly interface
- Excellent customer support
- Effective error management, minimizing booking errors and overbookings
Cons:
- Fewer integration options compared to some competitors
- Some advanced features are missing
- Limited to certain regions
Pricing:
Fees are based on the size of your accommodation.
There are three pricing plans:
- Cubilis €40 per month per room
- Cubilis Premium €60 per month per room
- Cubilis Premium + Website €135 per month per room.
Unlimited support at €15 per month for each plan.
There is a free 14-day trial with no credit card required.
Customer Service:
They are known for their responsive and excellent customer service.
Suitability:
Best for small to medium-sized properties that prioritize ease of use over advanced features.
Comparison:
Cubilis stands out for its user-friendliness compared to more complex solutions like Cloudbeds or Hotelogix.
Ratings:
- User Interface: 5/5
- Features: 3.5/5
- Customer Support: 5/5
- Value for money: 4.5/5
3. Hostaway (Best for Customization)

Hostaway offers a highly customizable channel manager solution, allowing hotels to tailor the software to their specific needs, which is particularly well-suited for vacation rentals.
Key Features:
- Customizable dashboard and reports
- Flexible API for custom integrations
- Advanced rule-based pricing automation
Unique Features and Benefits:
- Continuous user feedback incorporation
- Multi-unit management capabilities
- Large integrated app marketplace (over 100 integrated apps)
This large integrated app marketplace means hoteliers can tailor their management system to their specific needs without juggling multiple separate tools. In practice, having access to over 100 integrated apps leads to streamlined operations, reduced software costs, and the ability to quickly adapt to changing business needs without overhauling your entire system.
Pros:
- Highly flexible and customizable
- Powerful automation capabilities
- Extensive customization options
Cons:
- Higher learning curve due to advanced features
- Premium pricing
- It may require time for full utilization of features
Pricing:
Hostaway has custom pricing based on hotel size and needs. They do not publicly provide specific pricing numbers or tiers
For pricing details, contact Hostaway’s sales team.
There are no hidden fees, and no free trial is available.
Customer Service:
Reviews are generally positive, with an emphasis on personalized support.
Suitability:
Ideal for hotels and vacation rentals with unique needs requiring extensive customization or those looking for advanced automation capabilities.
Comparison:
Hostaway offers more customization options than others on this list but may be more complex for standard hotel operations.
Ratings:
- Customization: 5/5
- Integration: 4.5/5
- User Experience: 4/5
- Support: 4/5
4. STAAH MAX (Best for Budget-Conscious Hotels)

STAAH MAX provides an affordable yet feature-rich channel manager, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious hotels.
Key Features:
- Connects to 250+ online channels
- Bulk updates for efficient rate management
- Integrated booking engine for direct bookings
Unique Features and Benefits:
- Budget-friendly pricing
- Real-time updates and synchronization
Pros:
- Good range of connectivity options
- Responsive customer support
- Essential channel management features
- Cost-effective solution for essential features
STAAH MAX’s affordable pricing means smaller hotels and properties with tighter budgets can access professional-grade channel management without breaking the bank.
In real terms, STAAH MAX’s budget-friendly cost allows these properties to compete more effectively with larger establishments, potentially increasing bookings and revenue without a significant upfront investment.
Cons:
- Lacks some advanced reporting features
- Occasional syncing delays reported
- Limited third-party integrations
Pricing:
Hostaway does not publish its prices or whether there is a free trial. Click the “Demo” link in the header to complete and submit your details to schedule a demo.
Customer Service:
Generally good, with responsive customer support. Suitability: Best for budget-conscious hotels that need essential channel management features without advanced functionalities.
Comparison:
It is more affordable than comprehensive solutions like Cloudbeds but may need more advanced features.
Ratings:
- Affordability: 5/5
- Features: 3.5/5
- Ease of use: 4/5
- Support: 4/5
5. Hotelogix (Best for Advanced Features)

Hotelogix offers an advanced channel manager with powerful features for optimizing online distribution.
Key Features:
- Dynamic pricing and advanced rate management
- Demand-based distribution to maximize revenue
- In-depth business intelligence and analytics
Unique Features and Benefits:
- Sophisticated revenue management tools
- Comprehensive reporting capabilities
- Detailed analytics dashboard
Pros:
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics capabilities
- Responsive 24/7 customer support
- Advanced revenue management tools
These advanced revenue management tools mean hoteliers can make data-driven decisions about pricing and distribution in real time.
In practice, Hotelogix’s sophisticated analytics and pricing capabilities can lead to optimized room rates, improved occupancy rates, and ultimately, increased revenue per available room (RevPAR) without requiring constant manual adjustments.
For instance, Hotelogix might automatically increase rates by 20% for the event during a local festival, then gradually decrease them as the festival ends. It could also suggest overbooking certain room types based on historical no-show data, maximizing occupancy without risking guest satisfaction.
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features
- Higher price point
- It may be cost-prohibitive for smaller properties
Pricing:
Three-tiered plans are available, with costs determined by room count:
- Premium– $7.99 per room per month with a minimum billing of 5 rooms @ $65 per month
- Premium Plus – $11.99 per room per month with a minimum billing of 5 rooms @ $90 per month
- Platinum – $17.99 per room per month with a minimum billing of 5 rooms @ $135 per month.
Click the “Schedule Demo” link in the header to complete and submit your details to request a personalized demo.
Customer Service:
Known for responsive 24/7 customer support.
Suitability:
It is ideal for hotels looking for advanced features and are willing to invest in a more comprehensive solution with sophisticated revenue management tools.
Comparison:
This platform offers more advanced features than budget options like STAAH MAX. It is comparable to Cloudbeds in its comprehensive functionality. However, it distinguishes itself with a stronger focus on advanced analytics and revenue management tools.
Ratings:
- Advanced Features: 5/5
- Analytics: 5/5
- Price: 3.5/5
- Ease of Use: 4/5
Key Features to Look for in Hotel Channel Manager Software
In hotel operations, a property management system must perform accurately and efficiently. A good hotel channel manager coordinates all booking channels seamlessly, like a conductor leading an orchestra.
The platform’s main strengths are its multichannel synchronization and real-time updates. These features prevent double bookings and improve the guest experience.
Automated rate management and cloud accessibility offer the following benefits:
- Flexibility to manage multiple distribution channels with ease and efficiency
- One-click rate changes
- Access to your property management software from anywhere in the world.
Cloud accessibility offers numerous advantages beyond remote access. It eliminates the need for on-site servers, reducing IT costs and maintenance.
Cloud-based systems
- automatically update, ensuring you always have the latest features and security patches.
- offer greater scalability, allowing your system to grow with your business without significant hardware investments
- typically provides better data backup and disaster recovery options, protecting critical business information.
These features are not just conveniences but necessities for staying competitive in today’s fast-paced travel industry.
Channel Manager software is a crucial tool that helps hotels improve operational efficiency and increase online revenue by effectively managing distribution channels.
Integrating a revenue management system into the channel management system can further enhance this journey, offering a beacon for yield management and rate parity across as many channels as possible.
How to Choose the Right Hotel Channel Manager for Your Needs
Selecting the right Channel Manager software is crucial for your hotel’s success.
Consider your establishment’s size and budget carefully, as these factors will determine the complexity and capabilities you need.
The ideal Channel Manager software should align with your financial constraints while providing all essential features.
Customer support can often be the deciding factor, offering a safety net when technical challenges arise. Look for transparency and dedicated support that ensures the Channel Manager software is a tool and a partner in your hotel management.
Consider the flexibility and compatibility with your business needs; the software should adapt to your operations, not the other way around.
To find the perfect Channel Manager software, follow these detailed steps:
- Conduct thorough research by:
- Making a list of your specific needs (e.g., number of channels, integration requirements)
- Reading at least 5-10 recent user reviews for each potential software, focusing on properties similar to yours, and paying attention to comments about the ease of use, customer support quality, and impact on the bottom line
- Requesting demos from your top 3-5 choices
- Preparing a list of specific questions to ask during demos (e.g., about support response times, training resources, upgrade policies)
- Ensure the software can manage bookings by asking for specific features like:
- Real-time inventory updates across all channels
- Automated rate management
- Overbooking prevention mechanisms
- For streamlining operations, look for:
- Integration with your existing PMS
- Mobile Accessibility
- Bulk update capabilities for rates and availability
- To enhance the guest experience, prioritize software that offers:
- A user-friendly booking interface
- Customizable confirmation emails
- The ability to easily manage guest preferences and special requests
What if, after following these steps, you still can’t find a perfect fit?
Refrain from settling for a suboptimal solution.
Contact industry peers for recommendations or consult a hospitality technology advisor.
Sometimes, a combination of tools or a custom solution might be necessary to meet your unique needs. Remember, the goal is to find a simple solution for your operations.
Let the Channel Manager software guide your hotel’s future success. By following these steps and considering these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the software that meets your current needs and positions your hotel for future growth and success in the competitive hospitality industry.
Understanding the Costs Involved
Don’t take the financial investment in Channel Manager software lightly.
An annual or monthly fee is commonly part of the equation, with many vendors offering a flat monthly payment based on the number of rooms your hotel boasts. Transparency in pricing plans is crucial to avoid the unpleasant surprise of hidden charges.
Costs vary widely based on hotel size. Small properties may find options starting at just $10 monthly, while mid-size hotels typically pay between $80 and $500. Larger establishments should anticipate higher expenses, often including additional licensing fees.
It’s best to contact vendors directly or consult with industry professionals for accurate, up-to-date pricing information, as prices can vary widely based on specific features, hotel size, and market conditions.
Additional charges, such as currency exchange or payment processing, are factors to consider, especially for properties dealing with international guests and multiple currencies.
These fees are significant in channel management because they directly impact your net revenue from bookings made through various channels. Different OTAs and booking platforms may have varying policies on currency conversion and payment processing.
The right Channel Manager software helps you track and manage these fees across multiple platforms, giving you a clear picture of your earnings from each booking source. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about the most profitable channels for your property.
When considering costs, don’t just look at the monthly fee.
Calculate the total cost of ownership by factoring in:
- Setup and training fees
- Any necessary hardware upgrades
- Potential savings in staff time and reduced overbookings
- The impact on your average daily rate (ADR) and RevPAR
For instance, if a channel manager costs $200 per month (an example figure) but helps you increase your ADR by $10 and saves 10 hours of staff time per week, it could result in a net positive ROI.
Create a spreadsheet to compare different options based on these factors over a 1-year and 3-year period to make a more informed decision.
But what if your initial calculations show a negative ROI?
Don’t immediately dismiss the software.
Consider factors like potential long-term benefits, improved guest satisfaction, or competitive advantages that might not be easily quantifiable. If the ROI still doesn’t look promising, explore whether there are less expensive options with fewer features that still meet your core needs or if you can negotiate better terms with the vendor.
Understanding these costs is critical for effective inventory management and operational efficiency.
Channel Manager software should save time and streamline processes. Still, it must also fit within the financial framework of your business, contributing to a balanced approach to rate management and yield management.
Future Trends in Hotel Channel Management
The future of hotel channel management looks bright, with promising emerging technologies on the horizon.
AI-powered dynamic pricing tools are revolutionizing how we approach room inventory and rate management, bringing a level of sophistication and time-saving automation that was once the stuff of science fiction.
AI-powered dynamic pricing tools act like personal assistants, constantly analyzing data to optimize pricing strategies. These tools help hoteliers navigate complex pricing and demand fluctuations with unprecedented precision.
AI-powered dynamic pricing tools analyze vast real-time data, including competitor rates, local events, historical booking patterns, and weather forecasts. This allows for more nuanced and responsive pricing strategies than traditional manual methods.
For instance, these tools can automatically adjust rates during unexpected surges in demand or lulls in bookings, maximizing revenue opportunities that human managers might miss. They can also predict future demand more accurately, allowing hotels to optimize their inventory allocation across different channels.
However, what if the AI-powered pricing seems too aggressive or not aggressive enough for your market?
Monitoring the AI’s decisions is crucial, especially in the beginning.
If you notice unexpected patterns or results that don’t align with your business goals, don’t hesitate to adjust the AI’s parameters or consult the software provider. Remember, AI is a tool to aid your decision-making, not replace it entirely.
Blockchain technology, once the realm of cryptocurrencies, is making inroads into the hotel industry, promising secure transactions and a streamlined reservation management system. The blockchain’s ability to reduce delays and errors in bookings between hotels and connected booking sites is particularly noteworthy, offering a glimpse into a future where online distribution channels operate with unprecedented efficiency.
These advancements suggest a tomorrow where managing multiple online travel agencies, global distribution systems, and direct bookings through a booking engine will be more streamlined.
Channel managers who can harness these technologies will ensure room availability and occupancy rates are optimized and provide hoteliers with powerful tools to enhance online revenue and the overall guest experience.
Optimize Your Hotel’s Online Distribution with Top Channel Management Solutions
This review has highlighted the top Hotel Channel Manager software options for 2024, each offering unique strengths to optimize your hotel’s online distribution and streamline operations.
From the comprehensive integration of Cloudbeds to the user-friendly interface of Cubilis, the customization of Hostaway, the affordability of STAAH MAX, and the advanced features of Hotelogix, there’s a solution tailored to optimize every hotel’s online presence and revenue.
As we look ahead, remember that the proper channel management technology
- simplifies your current distribution challenges
- and paves the way for a future where guest satisfaction and operational excellence go hand in hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the importance of real-time updates in hotel channel management software?
Real-time updates are essential in hotel channel management software because they prevent overbookings, maintain rate parity, and enhance guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.
How do AI-powered dynamic pricing tools benefit hotels?
AI-powered dynamic pricing tools benefit hotels by automating pricing decisions based on demand, competition, and local events, helping to maximize revenue, improve occupancy rates, and save time.
Can small hotels afford a good hotel channel manager?
Yes, small hotels can afford a good hotel channel manager, with options available for as low as $9.99 per month, providing essential features for efficient channel management without a significant financial burden.
What should I consider when choosing a hotel channel manager?
Consider your hotel’s size, budget, business requirements, and the need for additional features like customer support and flexibility to find the perfect hotel channel manager for your operations.
How will blockchain technology change Hotel Channel Management?
Blockchain technology will improve hotel channel management by providing secure transactions and streamlining booking processes, reducing reservation delays and errors, and ensuring transparency and efficiency in online distribution channels.