Hostfully vs. Guesty: How Do They Compare?

Last Updated: November 2025‍

When it comes to vacation rental management software, there are plenty of options out there, and choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Two popular platforms that often come up in the conversation are Hostfully and Guesty. But how do they really stack up against one another?

In this post, we’ll break down the key features, benefits, and differences between these platforms to help you decide which one might be the best fit for your business.

Who is it for?

Hostfully

Typically, Hostfully works best for those who are operating a minimum of 20 properties or more. This is because its pricing structure and more complicated user interface tend to better pair with those who own a portfolio of properties, rather than a host who might just be getting started.

Guesty

Guesty caters toward smaller hosting portfolios. It offers three plans that cover everything from 1-4 listings, 5-199 listings, and 200+ listings. That said, their introductory plans are more limited in scope. For example, hosts on the Lite plan only have options to sync their calendars across three booking channels.

Alternative: Lodgify

If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, Lodgify is for you. Lodgify offers packages for every type of host. Whether you’re offering one property or more than 30, the user-friendly interface, three pricing package options, and overall intuitive design make hosting easy as pie.

How much does it cost?

Hostfully

Prices begin at $99/month for 1-4 listings on Hostfully. To utilize either of the other two options, you’ll need to contact Hostfully directly to book a demo. The lack of transparency in pricing can be a turn-off for some users.

Guesty

Guesty’s most basic annual plan begins at $9/month plus a 1% reservation fee. While this price is lower, the features are quite limited. For example, hosts can only link their calendars with Booking.com, Airbnb, and Vrbo. Other listing channels are unavailable. Like Hostfully, to access their two more comprehensive plans, you’ll need to speak to a representative to get a customized quote.

Alternative: Lodgify

Lodgify offers three straightforward plans with no hidden fees. Hosts can choose from a $16/month starter plan, $40/month professional plan, or a $59/month ultimate plan on a yearly subscription. No matter how you slice it, Lodgify offers the most bang for your buck.

What are the main differences between Hostfully and Guesty?

Onboarding

Hostfully

The onboarding experience at Hostfully can feel a bit more “corporate” than other platforms. For example, their onboarding support is limited to certain hours, which can prove challenging based on your time zone. Additionally, they may charge a one-time implementation fee. However, some users have reported that the fee can be waived if you purchase an annual subscription.

Guesty

Guided onboarding isn’t included in Guesty’s plans unless you select their Enterprise package. Instead, hosts will have to rely on the interface and the Guesty Help Center.

Alternative: Lodgify

No matter which plan you choose, all hosts are provided with a free and personalized onboarding training session. Your Lodgify specialist will work directly with you to assist you in setting up your account, linking your listings, and answering any questions you may have.

Website builder

Hostfully

Users can create their own direct booking website and booking widget for their business through Hostfully. However, customization options are quite limited, and the direct booking site must be integrated within Hostfully.If you want a more customizable website, it may be better to build one through a different platform. Hostfully offers helpful guidance on creating a domain name, but managing DNS and other third-party setups must be done independently of Hostfully. This process can be complex and may require hiring a professional.

Guesty

All Guesty users can use Guesty’s booking engine, but if you’re on a Pro or Enterprise plan, you also get access to a booking website and an open booking engine API (these aren’t included in the Lite plan). Just a heads-up, the basic website doesn't allow for a whole lot of customization.

Alternative: Lodgify

Once again, Lodgify is the best of both worlds. With an intuitive interface and highly customizable templates, it's easy to set up your website. You'll have a bookable website and your own domain name in under five minutes. One of the most popular features is its strong emphasis on SEO. This focus has resulted in about 40% of bookings being made directly by customers.Additionally, for those who already manage a website through platforms like WordPress, Squarespace, Wix, or other content management systems (CMS), Lodgify will easily integrate. With the simple addition of the Lodgify booking widget, guests can easily make reservations directly through their website.

Channel manager

Hostfully

Hostfully offers a centralized calendar for managing your bookings. However, depending on your plan and the specific channel you’re connecting to, there may be additional fees for API connections. This means you're limited to which platforms you can connect your listing to Hostfully.

Guesty

Guesty also offers unlimited channel distribution with its Pro and Enterprise plans. However, the Lite plan is limited to just Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo.

Alternative: Lodgify

Lodgify's channel manager provides a robust two-way API connection with leading platforms such as Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, and Expedia. This means that you'll see real-time synchronization of your calendars, bookings, rates, property details, and more. Additionally, it supports connections to local or alternative distribution channels through an iCal integration.

Mobile app

Hostfully

Hostfully offers a basic mobile app for both iOS and Android that allows hosts to manage their vacation rentals on the go. Hostfully's mobile app is rated 2.5 stars on Google Play and 3.8 stars on the App Store.

‍Average rating: 3.1

Guesty

Guesty offers a mobile app with many of the same features as its desktop version. Guesty’s mobile app is rated 3.6 stars on Google Play and 4.1 stars on the App Store.

‍Average rating: 3.8

Alternative: Lodgify

Lodgify’s mobile app boasts a 3.9-star rating on Google Play and a 4.1-star rating on the App Store. If you're using the Ultimate plan, you'll also gain access to the Lodgify PM app to coordinate with cleaners, check-in agents, and rental managers. Plus, guests can download the Lodgify Guest app, which provides convenient access to host resources like guidebooks, Wi-Fi passwords, check-in information, and more.

‍Average rating: 4.0

Can I try them before I buy?

Hostfully

Hostfully doesn’t offer a free trial option. However, they do offer a free 30-minute demo.

Guesty

The Guesty Lite plan offers a 14-day free trial. The other plans do not. However, you can request a free demo of their services.

Alternative: Lodgify

Enjoy a seven-day free trial with Lodgify. If you need additional time, you can easily request an extension. Additionally, you can schedule a personalized demo call with one of Lodgify’s experienced product experts to receive an in-depth overview of the features and a tailored plan recommendation.

Hostfully vs. Guesty ratings

When investing in a tool to support your business, it’s important that you have full trust in its services. According to Trustpilot, Lodgify is once again the clear winner.

• Hostfully rating: 193 reviews | 4.6 stars
• Guesty rating: 1,060 reviews | 4.5 stars
• Lodgify rating: 2,733 reviews | 4.8 stars

Guesty vs Hostfully vs. Lodgify: Which should I choose?

When it comes to choosing the right vacation rental management software, Lodgify stands out as the clear winner. With the highest rating on Trustpilot, more reviews than its competitors, and a comprehensive set of features tailored to meet your needs, Lodgify consistently delivers exceptional value to its users. Whether you’re looking for automation tools or a reliable booking system, Lodgify checks all the boxes.Whichever of these PMS options seems like the best fit for you, we always recommend trying before you buy to make an informed decision. To try Lodgify, you can start a free seven-day trial here.