How does OpenKeyStays provide keyless entry for vacation rentals?

OpenKeyStays uses a mobile app combined with NFC/WiFi-enabled smart locks to provide digital keyless entry. Access keys are auto-generated at check-in through PMS integrations, and guests unlock doors directly from their phone. Hosts can manage remote access and monitor entry in real-time.

How much does OpenKeyStays cost per lock?

OpenKeyStays charges $5–$15 per lock per month depending on volume and plan tier. Hardware (compatible smart locks) is purchased separately. Volume discounts are available for property managers with larger portfolios.

Which PMS platforms does OpenKeyStays work with?

OpenKeyStays integrates with over 50 PMS platforms including StayNTouch, OpenHotel, and Guesty. This allows automatic key generation when bookings are confirmed, eliminating manual access code management for each guest.

Do guests need to download an app to use OpenKeyStays?

Yes, guests typically download the OpenKey app to receive and use their digital key. The app sends a push notification when the key is available and works via NFC or WiFi proximity to unlock the door. Some lock models also support backup PIN codes.

Is OpenKeyStays suitable for small hosts or mainly for hotels and large PMs?

OpenKeyStays was originally designed for hotels and large property management companies. While it works for smaller operators, the per-lock monthly fees and hardware requirements mean it is most cost-effective for portfolios with 10+ doors where the operational savings justify the cost.

OpenKeyStays Review: Digital Keyless Entry (2026)

Item: OpenKeyStays
Rating: 88
Author: STR Specialist

1 min readUpdated 2026-02-18Reviewed by STR Specialist

Overview

OpenKeyStays (OpenKey Property Management) provides digital keyless entry for STRs/hotels via mobile app, NFC/WiFi locks, PMS integrations. Auto-generate keys on check-in, remote access, guest self-check-in.

Pricing $5-$15/lock/month (volume discounts); hardware separate. 50+ PMS (StayNTouch, OpenHotel, Guesty); contactless, secure. Ideal for keyless ops, reduces turnover time.

OpenKeyStays

Smart Locks

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Professional rating

4.4/5

Rubric score

88/100

4.4/5

Verdict: OpenKeyStays is a top-tier choice for property managers and teams. Highly recommended.

At a glance

What it does

Mobile/NFC keys auto-generated via PMS check-in; self-check-in.
50+ PMS integrations (StayNTouch, OpenHotel, Guesty, Hostaway).
$5-$15/lock/month; scalable for portfolios.

Best for

Property managers and teams
Hosts who want a clean UI
Automation-first workflows

Not ideal for

Hardware costs upfront; lock compatibility required.
Custom pricing for enterprise.

Pros & Cons

Highlights and considerations for OpenKeyStays.

Pros

Mobile/NFC keys auto-generated via PMS check-in; self-check-in.
50+ PMS integrations (StayNTouch, OpenHotel, Guesty, Hostaway).
$5-$15/lock/month; scalable for portfolios.
Contactless access, remote revoke, audit trails.
Works with major locks (Schlage, Yale).

Cons

Hardware costs upfront; lock compatibility required.
Custom pricing for enterprise.
Setup per lock/property.
Limited STR-specific reviews.
Subscription per lock.

Scores

88/100

We test against our smart-lock rubric (PMS sync, code automation, hardware reliability, access methods, etc.). Scores use a 100-point scale.

Strong in access methods and code automation; weaker in data export.

Setup

8/10

PMS / OTA sync

10/10

Code automation

10/10

Access methods

10/10

Ease of use

9/10

Team & scale

10/10

Support

8/10

Data export

5/5

Value for money

9/10

Reliability

9/10

Hands-on Review Notes

Pricing

Best value: Standard — $5-$15/lock.

Pricing at a glance
Plan	Monthly	Base includes
Standard	$5-$15/lock.	Digital keys, PMS sync.
Enterprise	Custom.	Custom, multi-property.

Pricing at a glance
Plan	Base includes	Monthly	Per-additional	Notes
Standard	Digital keys, PMS sync.	$5-$15/lock.	Per lock/property.	Volume discounts.
Enterprise	Custom, multi-property.	Custom.	Scaled.	Contact sales.

Integrations

Common integrations supported by OpenKeyStays.

Integrations

PMS platforms

—

Smart-home ecosystem

Schlage, Yale, etc.

Access methods

—

Other integrations

50+ PMS (StayNTouch, OpenHotel, Guesty).

Trial Guide: What to Test

During your trial or demo, focus on data export and confirm daily workflows.

What to test in the trial

Connect your PMS and verify auto-generated codes match reservation dates
Test guest code delivery timing (check-in and check-out)
Verify remote lock/unlock works reliably over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
Check battery life indicators and low-battery alert notifications

Alternatives

If you need stronger data export, consider these alternatives to OpenKeyStays.

RemoteLock

RemoteLock provides universal access control for short-term rentals, managing locks from multiple brands in one dashboard. With 800+ integrations and enterprise-grade reliability, it is the leading choice for professional property managers.

Read review

Igloohome

Igloohome offers keyless smart locks and keyboxes optimized for Airbnb and short‑term rentals, featuring patented algoPIN™ technology that generates time‑sensitive PIN codes offline without WiFi. Models like Deadbolt Go, Padlock 2, Retrofit Lock and Smart Keybox 3 work with Airbnb direct sync and PMS partners for automatic guest codes, making them ideal for hands‑off check‑in. Hardware costs €135–€370 plus optional €80 Bridge for remote control, and they’re popular for their reliability and no‑app guest access.

Read review

SALTO

Quick alternative – click to read more.

Read review

FAQ

Answers to common questions about setup, pricing, and deployment.

Community experiences

Real-world notes from hosts who have used OpenKeyStays.

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Sources

Documentation and references used in this review.

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