Key by PrepBnB vs Hospitable smart locks
Just need door codes?
Hospitable's smart-lock module is bundled into their full PMS — great if you also use them for messaging and pricing. Worse if you only want door-code automation. Key by PrepBnB is the focused alternative: $10/device, no PMS purchase required, cleaning ops included.
Run alongside Hospitable · No card needed · US-based properties
When does each make sense?
Pick Hospitable if you
- • Want a full PMS with messaging, pricing, direct booking
- • Already pay them and just want to add lock features
- • Run a multi-channel host setup beyond Airbnb
- • Need automated guest messaging (their core strength)
Pick Key by PrepBnB if you
- • Only need the door-code automation piece
- • Want cleaning ops (turnover schedule, cleaner pool, photo proof) too
- • Don't need a full PMS yet
- • Want to pay for what you use ($10/device, not a tier)
Feature-by-feature
Just the smart-lock-relevant comparison.
| Feature | Key by PrepBnB | Hospitable |
|---|---|---|
| Door-code automation pricing | $10/device/mo | bundled in $30+/listing/mo |
| Sold standalone (no PMS purchase) | ||
| Auto-rotate codes from Airbnb iCal | ||
| Multi-channel guest messaging | ||
| Dynamic pricing | ||
| Direct-booking website | ||
| Cleaning ops (turnover schedule, cleaner pool, photo proof) | partial (basic only) | |
| Per-listing code-format picker | ||
| Setup time | 5 min | 1–3 days |
The “run both” play
You don't have to choose. The two integrate cleanly: Hospitable handles guest comms + pricing + your direct site; Key handles door codes via the Airbnb iCal you already export. The iCal is the shared source of truth — both products read it. Many hosts run Hospitable for everything exceptthe lock layer (since Hospitable's lock features sit behind a higher-tier plan), and use Key for the codes specifically. Total spend stays under $50/listing/month even with both.
FAQ
Should I use Hospitable or Key for door codes?+
Depends what else you need. If Hospitable is already running your messaging, pricing, and team — adding their lock automation is a sensible bolt-on. If you ONLY need door codes (and don't want to pay for a full PMS), Key is half the price for that piece. PrepBnB stays free, so you can run Hospitable for everything else and Key just for the lock layer.
Can I use Key alongside Hospitable?+
Yes — they don't conflict. Hospitable handles guest messaging and your direct-booking site; Key handles door codes via your Airbnb iCal. The iCal is your shared source of truth. Hosts often run both.
What does Hospitable charge for smart locks?+
Hospitable's smart-lock features are bundled into their Pro / Premium plans, which start around $30/property/month. The lock module itself isn't sold a la carte. Key is $10/device/month — a separate add-on you can pick or skip without affecting other tools.
Does Key support all the locks Hospitable does?+
Yes — both products integrate with the same set of Seam-supported brands (Yale, Schlage, August, Salto, Kwikset, igloohome, Wyze, etc.). Key isn't restricted to a smaller subset.
What if I already pay Hospitable for everything?+
Then sticking with Hospitable's lock automation is fine — you're already paying for it. Key makes more sense if you're a host who isn't ready for a full PMS but wants the door-code piece, or if you want PrepBnB's cleaning ops (which Hospitable doesn't have an answer for) and adding Key on top is cheaper than upgrading Hospitable's tier.
Add Key, keep Hospitable
Both products read your Airbnb iCal — they coexist cleanly. Cancel Hospitable's lock feature later if you don't need it.
Get early access
We'll send setup notes specifically for Hospitable users.
See also