Is it better to book a hotel online or at the front desk?

If you are sure you want to stay, you'd better book online. Online is generally cheaper than counters, and if you book in advance, you don't have to worry about not having a room after you arrive at the store, or the store has no time to maliciously raise prices. It is best to choose to pay in advance. The room can stay for one night, and it doesn't matter when you check in.