We’ve already taken a closer look at Airbnb’s Guest Favourite badge in a recent article – unpacking what it means, how to earn it, and why it matters. But that’s only half the story and with so much talk about badges and recognition on the platform, it’s natural to wonder how Guest Favourite stacks up against the long-standing Superhost badge.

At first glance, they might seem like they’re sending the same message – “Great host, fantastic stay” – but in reality, they each shine a light on different aspects of the hosting experience.

Curious about what sets them apart? Let’s break it down!

Who Gets the Recognition?

The first thing to know is that these two badges recognise different things—one celebrates the host’s track record, while the other highlights a single listing’s performance. Here’s the scoop:

• Superhost is all about the host’s overall success. If you’re a Superhost, this badge applies to your entire hosting profile. So, whether you manage one property or 10, the badge shows up across all your listings.
• Guest Favourite, on the other hand, is all about the individual property. This badge highlights guest satisfaction at a specific home, so it’s possible to have one listing with a Guest Favourite badge while another might not. It’s about the experience at that one particular property—not the host’s entire portfolio.

Example:
Imagine you’re a Superhost with three listings. If one property drops in performance and causes you to lose Superhost status, all three of your listings will lose the badge. But with Guest Favourite, each property is judged on its own merit. So, if one property underperforms, only that one loses the badge—the others are unaffected.

How Are They Evaluated?

Both badges are rooted in guest satisfaction, but their evaluation methods and criteria differ. Here’s the breakdown:

• Superhost status is earned based on your overall performance across all your listings. To qualify, you need to maintain an impressive rating (typically above 4.8), keep cancellations to a minimum, and hit a certain number of bookings or nights over the past year.
• Guest Favourite, however, focuses on recent guest experiences at a specific property. It generally requires a higher rating (around 4.9 or above) and glowing reviews, but there’s no specific booking volume required.

In a nutshell: Superhost is a long-term achievement that rewards consistency across all your listings, while Guest Favourite is more about recent guest delight at a particular property.

How Often Are They Reviewed?

Here’s where things get a bit more dynamic:

• Superhost status is reviewed quarterly. Once you’ve earned it, you keep it until the next review cycle, meaning it’s a recognition of sustained quality over time.
• Guest Favourite is far more fluid. The badge is assessed daily based on guest feedback and algorithmic data. A single stellar review (or a not-so-great one) can instantly impact whether a property holds onto its badge. This real-time evaluation keeps hosts on their toes and ensures only the freshest, most up-to-date listings shine.

Visibility in Search Results

Let’s talk about visibility. Both badges signal quality to potential guests, but Guest Favourite tends to steal the spotlight:

• Properties with a Guest Favourite badge often rank higher in search results, particularly in competitive markets. It’s a visual cue that catches attention, drawing guests in.
• The badge itself is bold and stands out, usually displayed in a contrasting colour scheme that’s hard to miss.
• On the flip side, Superhost is typically displayed more subtly, often in smaller, lighter font that doesn’t quite demand the same visual attention.

In short: If you want to catch a guest’s eye in search, Guest Favourite gets the visual pop.

Search Filters and Top-Tier Categories

Airbnb has recently shifted the focus toward individual listing performance, and here’s where it gets interesting:

• Superhost listings are no longer featured in the exclusive “top-tier” filters, such as Luxe or Guest Favourite categories.
• Guest Favourite listings, however, continue to be highlighted as standout properties. This reflects Airbnb’s shift towards spotlighting the exceptional guest experiences at specific homes rather than just the overall host reputation.

What Guests See on the Listing Page

Click into a listing, and you’ll notice how the badges are presented:

• Guest Favourite is typically displayed front and center, often under the property title with a phrase like “Loved by guests” or “One of the most highly rated stays.” It’s a badge of honour that’s impossible to miss.
• Superhost mentions are still there, but they’re usually tucked away in smaller text, often requiring a bit of scrolling or a closer look to find. It’s a recognition that’s a bit more understated but still important.

Final Thoughts: Which Badge is Right for You?

In the end, both badges serve important roles in building trust with guests—but they cater to different aspects of the Airbnb experience. Superhost is about long-term host reliability and consistent performance across all your listings. Guest Favourite is more about showcasing individual property excellence and guest satisfaction at a specific home.

If you’re a host, understanding the difference can help you tailor your strategy: aim for Superhost status if you want a solid, long-term reputation, or focus on creating standout experiences at individual properties to earn Guest Favourite badges. Either way, these badges can work together to boost your credibility and attract more guests.For guests, knowing what each badge represents helps when choosing the perfect place for their next getaway.

Want to make your listing truly stand out?

At Kahuana, we know that standing out goes beyond beautiful photos—it’s about creating a space and experience that guests remember long after their stay. From expert styling and photography that capture your home at its best, to thoughtful guest services that spark five-star reviews, we’re here to help your property shine. With a track record of Superhost recognition and rare golden Guest Favourite badges awarded to the top 10% of most-loved homes, we bring a level of care and consistency that makes a real difference. Partner with us and let’s work together to create a guest experience that earns these coveted badges and leaves a lasting impression.