iCal Sync vs Direct Connection: What Is the Difference and Which Fits You?
When you list a unit on more than one platform, each platform has to know what the others know. There are two common ways: calendar sync through an iCal link, or a direct connection with the platforms. The difference in speed and capability is large.
What is iCal sync?
iCal is a calendar file format that can be shared through a link. One platform gives the link of your unit's calendar to another, which reads it every so often and blocks the booked dates. It is free and available on almost every platform.
What is a direct connection?
A direct connection is an approved programmatic link between your management system and the platform. The system sends availability and price changes and receives new bookings faster and in more depth than a file can.
Comparison
| Aspect | iCal | Direct connection |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | The platform refreshes at intervals that can reach hours | Usually within minutes |
| Prices | Not carried | Carries prices and stay rules |
| Information | Booked dates only | Booking and guest details |
| Direction | Needs a link for each direction | Organized two-way updates |
| Cost | Free | Usually part of the system subscription |
| Reliability | Prone to delays and silent errors | More accurate and its status can be monitored |
When is iCal enough?
- One unit on two platforms with few bookings.
- The starting stage before you decide to subscribe to a system.
- A platform that does not support a direct connection with your system and needs a stopgap.
When do you need a direct connection?
- Several units or many bookings, because lag means a chance of a double booking.
- You want to manage prices from one place, as in seasonal pricing.
- You want to see bookings and their details in your system, not just blocked dates.
Should I use both?
Some owners use iCal for platforms that do not support a direct connection and a direct connection for the rest. Just know that iCal is the slowest link, so watch that platform carefully. For a comparison of tools read channel manager vs PMS.
How Doorlyn helps
Doorlyn connects your units to Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo and Expedia, and shows each connection's status clearly so you can step in when needed. You can try it free.
Frequently asked questions
How long does iCal take to update?
It varies by platform and can reach several hours. Check each platform's help page.
Does iCal carry prices?
No, it carries booked dates only.
Is a direct connection more expensive?
It is usually part of the management system's subscription, so there is often no separate cost for the connection itself. Confirm with your provider.
