Quick Overview
- 1#1: Canary Technologies - Provides contactless digital check-in, upsells, and keyless entry to streamline hotel guest arrivals.
- 2#2: Operto Guest - Automates self-service guest check-in for vacation rentals with smart lock integration and messaging.
- 3#3: Guesty - Manages short-term rental guest check-ins through automated messaging, digital waivers, and lock integrations.
- 4#4: Cloudbeds - Offers online check-in and mobile keys within its comprehensive property management system for hotels.
- 5#5: Mews - Delivers mobile-first check-in experiences with digital contracts and keyless access for modern hotels.
- 6#6: Hostaway - Facilitates seamless self-check-in for vacation rentals via unified channel manager and smart lock support.
- 7#7: Lodgify - Enables digital guest check-in portals and automated communications for vacation rental hosts.
- 8#8: RoomRaccoon - Includes online check-in modules and kiosk options in its all-in-one hotel management platform.
- 9#9: Stayntouch - Supports mobile check-in and checkout with real-time updates in its cloud-based hotel PMS.
- 10#10: OwnerRez - Provides customizable online check-in forms and smart lock automation for vacation rental properties.
These tools were chosen based on feature strength (contactless capabilities, keyless entry, automation), integration flexibility (with locks, channel managers, and PMS systems), user experience (intuitive design, ease of setup), and overall value (pricing, scalability), ensuring a balanced ranking that serves both small and enterprise operations.
Comparison Table
Explore a comparison table of leading guest check-in software tools, featuring Canary Technologies, Operto Guest, Guesty, Cloudbeds, Mews, and more, to streamline the evaluation of solutions for diverse property management needs. This table outlines key features, usability, integration options, and performance insights, empowering readers to identify the most suitable tool for their operations.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canary Technologies Provides contactless digital check-in, upsells, and keyless entry to streamline hotel guest arrivals. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Operto Guest Automates self-service guest check-in for vacation rentals with smart lock integration and messaging. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Guesty Manages short-term rental guest check-ins through automated messaging, digital waivers, and lock integrations. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | Cloudbeds Offers online check-in and mobile keys within its comprehensive property management system for hotels. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Mews Delivers mobile-first check-in experiences with digital contracts and keyless access for modern hotels. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Hostaway Facilitates seamless self-check-in for vacation rentals via unified channel manager and smart lock support. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Lodgify Enables digital guest check-in portals and automated communications for vacation rental hosts. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 8 | RoomRaccoon Includes online check-in modules and kiosk options in its all-in-one hotel management platform. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 9 | Stayntouch Supports mobile check-in and checkout with real-time updates in its cloud-based hotel PMS. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | OwnerRez Provides customizable online check-in forms and smart lock automation for vacation rental properties. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
Provides contactless digital check-in, upsells, and keyless entry to streamline hotel guest arrivals.
Automates self-service guest check-in for vacation rentals with smart lock integration and messaging.
Manages short-term rental guest check-ins through automated messaging, digital waivers, and lock integrations.
Offers online check-in and mobile keys within its comprehensive property management system for hotels.
Delivers mobile-first check-in experiences with digital contracts and keyless access for modern hotels.
Facilitates seamless self-check-in for vacation rentals via unified channel manager and smart lock support.
Enables digital guest check-in portals and automated communications for vacation rental hosts.
Includes online check-in modules and kiosk options in its all-in-one hotel management platform.
Supports mobile check-in and checkout with real-time updates in its cloud-based hotel PMS.
Provides customizable online check-in forms and smart lock automation for vacation rental properties.
Canary Technologies
specializedProvides contactless digital check-in, upsells, and keyless entry to streamline hotel guest arrivals.
AI Upsell Engine that dynamically personalizes offers based on guest data to drive 20-30% revenue uplift
Canary Technologies provides a leading guest management platform for hotels, enabling fully contactless check-in via guest smartphones. It handles ID verification, digital payments, key delivery, and upsells while integrating with major PMS like Opera, Mews, and Cloudbeds. The solution streamlines front desk operations, boosts revenue through personalized offers, and ensures compliance with security standards like PCI DSS.
Pros
- Seamless PMS integrations reduce operational workload
- AI-driven upsells and digital tipping increase revenue significantly
- Robust security with ID scanning and fraud prevention
Cons
- Custom pricing can be steep for small independents
- Relies on guest tech adoption for full effectiveness
- Initial configuration may require IT support
Best For
Mid-to-large hotels and resorts seeking to automate check-ins and maximize ancillary revenue.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting around $500/month for small properties, scaling by room count and features.
Operto Guest
specializedAutomates self-service guest check-in for vacation rentals with smart lock integration and messaging.
GuestOS automation engine that unifies messaging, check-in flows, and IoT device control into a single intelligent workflow
Operto Guest is a robust guest management platform tailored for short-term rental property managers, enabling seamless contactless check-ins, automated guest communications, and smart lock integrations. It automates the entire guest journey from booking confirmation to checkout, including identity verification, compliance checks, and personalized messaging via its GuestOS system. The software integrates with major PMS like AI rbnb, Vrbo, and smart devices from August, Schlage, and Yale for keyless entry and remote access control.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with PMS, smart locks, and cleaning services for end-to-end automation
- Advanced guest verification and compliance tools reduce risks like unauthorized stays
- AI-powered messaging and noise monitoring enhance operational efficiency and guest satisfaction
Cons
- Pricing can become costly for portfolios with many properties
- Initial setup requires technical configuration for integrations
- Limited customization for very small-scale single-property users
Best For
Mid-to-large vacation rental managers with multiple properties seeking comprehensive automation and smart device integration.
Pricing
Starts at $10 per property per month for basic plans, scaling to $25+ for advanced features; custom enterprise pricing available.
Guesty
enterpriseManages short-term rental guest check-ins through automated messaging, digital waivers, and lock integrations.
Advanced guest verification with ID upload, facial recognition compatibility, and automated approval workflows
Guesty is a robust property management software (PMS) platform designed for short-term rental hosts and property managers, with strong guest check-in capabilities including automated digital check-ins, guest verification, and smart lock integrations. It enables contactless self-check-in via personalized guest apps, digital guidebooks, and secure access code distribution. The platform unifies guest communications, payments, and operations in one dashboard, making it ideal for scaling check-in processes across multiple properties.
Pros
- Seamless integration with smart locks for true contactless check-in
- Automated guest verification and personalized digital guidebooks
- Unified inbox and multi-channel communication for efficient check-in coordination
Cons
- Higher pricing makes it less ideal for single-property hosts
- Steeper learning curve due to extensive PMS features beyond check-in
- Customization can overwhelm users focused solely on check-in
Best For
Mid-sized to large property managers handling multiple short-term rentals who need integrated check-in with full operations management.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month for Pro plan (plus per-reservation fees), with tiers up to Enterprise; free trial available.
Cloudbeds
enterpriseOffers online check-in and mobile keys within its comprehensive property management system for hotels.
End-to-end contactless check-in with native smart lock integrations for instant digital key delivery
Cloudbeds is a comprehensive property management system (PMS) designed for hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals, with robust guest check-in features via its myCloudbeds Guest Portal and app. It enables contactless check-in where guests can upload IDs, e-sign documents, process payments, and access digital keys remotely before arrival. The platform integrates seamlessly with smart locks and provides real-time updates to staff for efficient operations.
Pros
- Contactless online check-in with ID upload, e-signatures, and payment collection
- Seamless integration with smart locks like Nuki, Salto, and Igloohome for keyless entry
- Real-time guest communication and notifications via messaging tools
Cons
- Full PMS suite can be overkill and complex for properties needing only check-in tools
- Custom pricing scales quickly for larger properties or high volumes
- Some users report occasional sync delays with third-party integrations
Best For
Mid-sized hotels, resorts, and vacation rental managers seeking an integrated PMS with advanced contactless check-in capabilities.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on property size and rooms, typically starting at $100-$300/month with per-room or per-booking fees around $2.99 occupied room night.
Mews
enterpriseDelivers mobile-first check-in experiences with digital contracts and keyless access for modern hotels.
Mews Kiosk for fully automated, branded self-service check-ins with ID scanning and digital key issuance
Mews is a cloud-based property management system (PMS) that excels in guest check-in through contactless kiosks, mobile apps, and automated workflows, integrating seamlessly with reservations and payments. It supports self-service check-ins, digital key delivery, and ID verification to streamline operations for hotels and accommodations. While primarily a full PMS, its check-in module handles high-volume properties efficiently with real-time updates and customization options.
Pros
- Comprehensive contactless check-in with kiosks and mobile options
- Strong integrations with payment gateways and digital locks
- Scalable for multi-property management with real-time data syncing
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller properties using only check-in features
- Full suite may overwhelm users not needing complete PMS
- Setup requires initial configuration for optimal check-in automation
Best For
Mid-sized to large hotels seeking an integrated PMS with advanced, scalable guest check-in capabilities.
Pricing
Quote-based, typically €5-€15 per room/month depending on plan (Starter, Pro, Enterprise) and property size.
Hostaway
enterpriseFacilitates seamless self-check-in for vacation rentals via unified channel manager and smart lock support.
Automated smart lock synchronization that provisions and revokes guest access precisely aligned with booking dates across multiple properties.
Hostaway is a comprehensive property management system (PMS) for vacation rentals and short-term stays, featuring robust guest check-in tools like automated messaging, self-check-in instructions, and smart lock integrations. It enables hosts to send personalized check-in details, digital guidebooks, and access codes via a unified guest portal and mobile messaging. While primarily a full-suite PMS, its check-in capabilities streamline keyless entry and communication, reducing manual effort for property managers.
Pros
- Extensive smart lock integrations (e.g., RemoteLock, August) for seamless keyless check-in
- Automated workflows for check-in instructions, WiFi codes, and guest updates
- Unified messaging inbox combining channels like SMS, email, and WhatsApp
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for multi-property users, less ideal for single-property hosts
- Full PMS features can create a steeper learning curve for check-in-only needs
- Limited standalone guest app compared to dedicated check-in specialists
Best For
Mid-sized vacation rental managers seeking an all-in-one PMS with strong automated guest check-in as part of broader operations.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month for the first property (Starter plan), scales to $200+/month for larger portfolios; custom Enterprise pricing available with 14-day free trial.
Lodgify
enterpriseEnables digital guest check-in portals and automated communications for vacation rental hosts.
Integrated smart lock management for effortless keyless guest access
Lodgify is a comprehensive vacation rental management platform with robust guest check-in capabilities, including automated digital check-in forms, personalized instruction emails/SMS, and integrations with smart locks like RemoteLock and August for keyless entry. It provides a self-service guest portal where travelers can complete check-in details, sign agreements, and access property info contactlessly. While primarily a PMS, its check-in tools streamline the arrival process for short-term rental hosts.
Pros
- Strong smart lock integrations for true keyless check-ins
- Automated messaging and guest portal for seamless self-service
- Tight integration with booking and channel management
Cons
- Overkill and pricey for users needing only check-in tools
- Learning curve for non-PMS users
- Limited advanced verification features like ID scanning
Best For
Short-term rental managers with multiple properties seeking integrated check-in within a full PMS.
Pricing
Starts at $17/month per property (Starter plan, annual billing) up to $79+/month (Professional); scales with features and properties; 7-day free trial.
RoomRaccoon
enterpriseIncludes online check-in modules and kiosk options in its all-in-one hotel management platform.
Unified 'One-Dashboard' that combines check-in, payments, and operations for effortless guest management.
RoomRaccoon is an all-in-one cloud-based property management system (PMS) designed for small to medium-sized hotels, offering integrated guest check-in capabilities alongside booking engine, channel management, and payment processing. It supports both front-desk and digital check-in options, including QR code-based self-service for guests to complete registrations, upload IDs, and make payments pre-arrival. This makes it a versatile solution for streamlining check-in processes within a full hotel operations suite.
Pros
- Intuitive interface praised for quick setup and daily use
- Seamless integration of check-in with reservations, payments, and housekeeping
- Contactless check-in via QR codes and guest portal reduces front-desk workload
Cons
- Limited advanced customization for complex check-in workflows
- Better suited for smaller properties; scales less efficiently for large hotels
- No standalone mobile app for guests, relying on web-based portal
Best For
Independent small to medium hotels needing an affordable, integrated PMS with reliable guest check-in features.
Pricing
Starts at €109/month for up to 10 rooms, scaling to €309+/month for 51+ rooms; includes all core features with no hidden fees.
Stayntouch
enterpriseSupports mobile check-in and checkout with real-time updates in its cloud-based hotel PMS.
Guest mobile app enabling fully self-service check-in, digital keys, and in-app upsells without front desk intervention
Stayntouch is a cloud-based property management system (PMS) designed specifically for hotels, emphasizing mobile-first guest check-in and engagement. It enables contactless check-ins through a guest-facing app, digital keys, and personalized upsells, streamlining front desk operations. The platform integrates with door locks, payment processors, and housekeeping tools to automate workflows and enhance guest satisfaction.
Pros
- Robust mobile check-in and digital key delivery for contactless guest experience
- Strong integrations with hardware like locks and POS systems
- Scalable cloud platform with real-time reporting and guest engagement tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller properties
- Some advanced customizations require developer support
- Reporting depth lags behind larger enterprise PMS competitors
Best For
Mid-sized independent hotels and boutique properties seeking to modernize guest check-in with mobile technology.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $5-12 per room/month depending on features and property size.
OwnerRez
enterpriseProvides customizable online check-in forms and smart lock automation for vacation rental properties.
Highly customizable automated messaging sequences for guest verification and check-in instructions
OwnerRez is a comprehensive vacation rental property management system (PMS) that includes guest check-in features such as automated messaging, digital guidebooks, and integrations with smart locks for keyless entry. It enables hosts to verify guests via ID uploads, send customized check-in instructions, and facilitate self-check-ins remotely. While effective within its broader PMS ecosystem, it lacks the hyper-specialization of dedicated check-in tools.
Pros
- Strong smart lock integrations for keyless check-in
- Automated messaging and digital guidebooks streamline guest onboarding
- Part of a full PMS reducing need for multiple tools
Cons
- Not a standalone check-in solution, better as part of full rental management
- Setup can be complex for check-in automations
- Pricing scales with booking volume, less ideal for low-turnover properties
Best For
Small to mid-sized vacation rental owners seeking integrated check-in within overall property management.
Pricing
Free for properties under $10k/month revenue; tiers from 0.79% of bookings + $1.19 fee, up to custom enterprise plans.
Conclusion
The reviewed guest check-in software options span a range of features, from contactless digital check-in to smart lock integration, catering to diverse property needs. Canary Technologies emerges as the top choice, excelling at streamlining hotel arrivals with these capabilities, while Operto Guest and Guesty stand out as strong alternatives, each tailored to specific requirements like vacation rental management or automated messaging. Ultimately, the best tool depends on individual needs, but Canary Technologies leads as the most versatile option.
Don't wait—explore Canary Technologies to transform your guest check-in process and create seamless arrivals.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison