If you’re exploring property management software (PMS) options, Smoobu may have come up in your search. While Smoobu offers basic functionality for small-scale hosts, it lacks the advanced features and scalability required for growing vacation rental businesses. If you’re looking for a PMS that can streamline operations, maximize revenue, and support long-term growth, there are better alternatives available.
Below, we’ll explore five top alternatives to Smoobu, including why Guesty stands out as the best choice.
Who is Smoobu for?
Smoobu is designed for individual hosts and small-scale operators, typically managing up to 20 properties. It provides essential tools for managing reservations, syncing calendars, and handling guest communication. However, as businesses grow, Smoobu’s limited automation, basic list of features, and reliance on third-party integrations can become restrictive.
What should you look for in a Smoobu alternative?
When evaluating alternatives to Smoobu, consider the following factors:
- Scalability: Can the platform support your business as it grows beyond 20 properties?
- Automation: Does it offer advanced automation for tasks, messaging, and pricing?
- Revenue optimization: Are there built-in tools to maximize bookings and rates?
- Comprehensive guest management: Does it include CRM functionality to track guest interactions and drive repeat bookings?
- Native integrations: Does the platform provide essential features in-house, or does it require external tools for core functionality?
5 best Smoobu alternatives
1. Guesty: Best for professional short-term rental managers and scaling your business
Guesty is the leading property management software designed specifically for short-term and vacation rental businesses of all sizes. With an industry-leading R&D team of 250+ professionals and continuous platform enhancements, Guesty empowers property managers to automate operations, attract more property owners, and increase revenue.
Why choose Guesty over Smoobu?
- Advanced automation: Guesty streamlines operations with automated workflows, task management, and AI-powered messaging, while Smoobu offers only basic checklists
- Comprehensive guest experience management: Built-in CRM enables detailed guest profiling, automated communications, and targeted marketing, compared to Smoobu’s minimal guest tracking
- Smart lock management: Integrated Locks Manager provides real-time access control across multiple properties, whereas Smoobu relies on external solutions
- Automated review management: Guesty’s system triggers review requests and centralizes feedback tracking, while Smoobu lacks automated reputation management tools
- Robust scalability: Designed for businesses of all sizes, Guesty supports everything from individual hosts to enterprise-level property management companies
Explore our detailed analysis of Guesty vs Smoobu
Cons:
- Higher price point may not be suitable for very small operations
- Feature-rich platform requires some onboarding time to maximize benefits
If you’re looking for a powerful solution that evolves with your business, Guesty is the clear choice — whether you have 1-3 listings, or hundreds.
2. Hostaway: A mid-range PMS with basic automation
Hostaway is a PMS that offers some automation tools and integrations for vacation rental managers looking to scale.
Pros:
- Basic channel management with multi-platform sync
- Some automation options
- Includes owner reporting tools
Cons:
- Requires third-party integrations for key features like smart locks
- Pricing can be expensive for smaller portfolios
- Mobile app lacks full functionality for on-the-go management
3. Lodgify: Best for direct bookings
Lodgify provides a website builder with an integrated PMS, mainly targeting hosts who prioritize direct bookings.
Pros:
- Website builder with customizable templates
- Built-in booking engine for direct reservations
- Simple interface for beginners
Cons:
- Limited automation compared to more advanced PMS solutions
- No native CRM for guest relationship management
- Lacks enterprise-level features for larger portfolios
4. Tokeet: Best for budget-conscious hosts
Tokeet offers a basic PMS solution for hosts looking for low-cost property management tools.
Pros:
- Lower-cost option for small-scale hosts
- Basic channel management
- Some automation features for messaging and pricing
Cons:
- Limited scalability for growing businesses
- Feature set lacks advanced automation and reporting
- Customer support response times can be slow
5. iGMS: Best for multi-channel management
iGMS provides multi-channel distribution and some automation tools for small-to-medium-sized vacation rental businesses.
Pros:
- Basic guest messaging and task management
- Direct API connection with Airbnb
- Some team management tools
Cons:
- Limited reporting and analytics
- No built-in website builder
- Fewer direct booking tools compared to competitors
Making the right choice for your short-term and vacation rental business
While Smoobu offers a simple solution for small-scale hosts, its limitations become apparent as businesses grow. The right PMS should not only meet your current needs but also support your long-term success.
Guesty emerges as the top alternative, delivering robust automation, complete guest management, and expandable features that support property managers of all sizes. When you’re prepared to elevate your vacation rental operation, Guesty offers the solutions and technology needed for success
Ready to see how Guesty can help you grow? Schedule a demo today.