Quick Overview
- 1#1: Carta - Comprehensive equity management platform for cap table tracking, share issuances, and investor reporting.
- 2#2: Pulley - Affordable cap table software with scenario modeling and automated compliance for startups.
- 3#3: Ledgy - Cap table management and employee equity plan administration with global tax compliance.
- 4#4: Captable.io - Simple, fast cap table builder for early-stage startups with Excel import and export.
- 5#5: Capboard - User-friendly cap table tool for startups with valuation simulations and stakeholder portals.
- 6#6: Capdesk - European-focused cap table platform for equity management and fundraising automation.
- 7#7: Shareworks - Enterprise-grade equity compensation and cap table management for public and private companies.
- 8#8: Global Shares - Global equity plan administration with real-time cap table visibility and reporting.
- 9#9: Eqvista - Cap table and 409A valuation software with portfolio tracking for investors.
- 10#10: Vestd - UK-centric cap table management for EIS/SEIS compliance and investor updates.
These tools were evaluated based on core functionality (equity management, compliance, scenario modeling), user experience (intuitive design, accessibility), performance (real-time data, accuracy), and value (pricing, scalability). We prioritized versatility—catering to startups, enterprises, and regional operations—to ensure relevance across diverse business landscapes.
Comparison Table
Cap table management is essential for businesses tracking ownership and equity, making choosing the right software key. This comparison table evaluates tools like Carta, Pulley, Ledgy, Captable.io, Capboard, and more, helping readers understand features, pricing, and use cases to find their fit.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carta Comprehensive equity management platform for cap table tracking, share issuances, and investor reporting. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Pulley Affordable cap table software with scenario modeling and automated compliance for startups. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Ledgy Cap table management and employee equity plan administration with global tax compliance. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Captable.io Simple, fast cap table builder for early-stage startups with Excel import and export. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Capboard User-friendly cap table tool for startups with valuation simulations and stakeholder portals. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Capdesk European-focused cap table platform for equity management and fundraising automation. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Shareworks Enterprise-grade equity compensation and cap table management for public and private companies. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Global Shares Global equity plan administration with real-time cap table visibility and reporting. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | Eqvista Cap table and 409A valuation software with portfolio tracking for investors. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Vestd UK-centric cap table management for EIS/SEIS compliance and investor updates. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.0/10 |
Comprehensive equity management platform for cap table tracking, share issuances, and investor reporting.
Affordable cap table software with scenario modeling and automated compliance for startups.
Cap table management and employee equity plan administration with global tax compliance.
Simple, fast cap table builder for early-stage startups with Excel import and export.
User-friendly cap table tool for startups with valuation simulations and stakeholder portals.
European-focused cap table platform for equity management and fundraising automation.
Enterprise-grade equity compensation and cap table management for public and private companies.
Global equity plan administration with real-time cap table visibility and reporting.
Cap table and 409A valuation software with portfolio tracking for investors.
UK-centric cap table management for EIS/SEIS compliance and investor updates.
Carta
enterpriseComprehensive equity management platform for cap table tracking, share issuances, and investor reporting.
End-to-end transfer agency and 409A valuation automation, allowing seamless issuance, transfers, and compliance without external vendors
Carta is a comprehensive equity management platform specializing in cap table software, enabling startups and private companies to track ownership, manage equity issuances, and handle compliance effortlessly. It automates cap table updates, employee stock option plans (ESOPs), 409A valuations, and investor reporting with real-time data accuracy. Beyond basic tracking, Carta offers tools for secondary transactions, fund administration, and portfolio management, making it a full-suite solution for scaling companies.
Pros
- Unmatched depth in equity management, including automated 409A valuations and transfer agency services
- Real-time collaboration for stakeholders with secure, audit-ready reporting
- Scalable integrations with HR, payroll, and legal tools like CartaX for secondaries
Cons
- Premium pricing can be steep for bootstrapped startups or very early-stage teams
- Initial setup and learning curve for complex features despite intuitive interface
- Some advanced compliance tools require higher-tier plans or add-ons
Best For
Venture-backed startups, scale-ups, and VCs needing enterprise-grade cap table accuracy and compliance at scale.
Pricing
Free for basic cap tables (up to 100 stakeholders and $10M raised); Carta Total starts at $279/month; enterprise plans custom-priced with add-ons for valuations and transfer services.
Pulley
specializedAffordable cap table software with scenario modeling and automated compliance for startups.
Seamless, always-on 409A valuation automation that updates in real-time with cap table changes
Pulley is a cloud-based cap table management platform tailored for startups and scale-ups, automating the tracking of equity ownership, share issuances, and vesting schedules. It simplifies complex transactions like funding rounds, option grants, and dilutions while providing real-time scenario modeling and reporting. The platform also integrates 409A valuations and stakeholder portals for seamless investor communication and compliance.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with no spreadsheet hassle
- Automated 409A valuations and scenario modeling
- Excellent customer support and onboarding
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams
- Limited advanced features for enterprise-scale companies
- Fewer third-party integrations compared to Carta
Best For
Early- to mid-stage startups seeking a user-friendly, automated cap table solution without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $199/month (billed annually) for up to 50 stakeholders; higher tiers from $499/month with custom enterprise pricing.
Ledgy
specializedCap table management and employee equity plan administration with global tax compliance.
Real-time fundraising simulator with dilution modeling across multiple scenarios and jurisdictions
Ledgy is an equity management platform that centralizes cap table tracking, employee stock option plans (ESOPs), and shareholder management for startups and growing companies. It automates updates for funding rounds, vesting schedules, and transfers while providing scenario modeling for fundraising and exits. The tool emphasizes global compliance, supporting multiple currencies, tax regimes, and jurisdictions, making it suitable for international teams.
Pros
- Robust scenario modeling for dilution and exit forecasts
- Strong global compliance and multi-jurisdiction support
- Automated workflows for ESOPs, grants, and investor reporting
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced features
- Steeper learning curve for complex international setups
- Limited free plan capabilities for scaling companies
Best For
Mid-stage startups and scale-ups with international teams managing complex equity structures and frequent fundraising.
Pricing
Free plan for early-stage (up to 25 stakeholders); Professional from €299/month; Enterprise custom pricing.
Captable.io
specializedSimple, fast cap table builder for early-stage startups with Excel import and export.
Interactive scenario modeling for fundraising simulations with drag-and-drop adjustments
Captable.io is a cloud-based cap table management platform designed for startups and mid-stage companies to track equity ownership, shares, options, and convertible instruments in real-time. It offers automated calculations, scenario modeling for fundraising rounds, and customizable reports for investors and board members. The tool emphasizes compliance with features like 409A valuation support and audit trails, making it suitable for simplifying complex equity structures.
Pros
- Intuitive interface for quick setup and navigation
- Robust scenario planning and waterfall analysis tools
- Strong compliance features with audit-ready exports
Cons
- Limited third-party integrations compared to top competitors
- Higher pricing tiers can be costly for very early-stage teams
- Advanced features require some learning for non-finance users
Best For
Startups and scale-ups needing reliable cap table automation without enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Starter plan at $99/month (up to 10 stakeholders), Growth at $299/month, Enterprise custom pricing.
Capboard
specializedUser-friendly cap table tool for startups with valuation simulations and stakeholder portals.
Visual drag-and-drop cap table builder with AI-assisted validation
Capboard (capboard.io) is a cloud-based cap table management platform designed for startups to automate equity tracking, funding round modeling, and shareholder management. It provides real-time updates, scenario simulations, and compliant reporting to keep cap tables accurate without spreadsheets. Ideal for founders and CFOs, it supports multiple share classes, ESOPs, and international jurisdictions with a focus on European compliance.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for quick setup
- Powerful scenario modeling for funding forecasts
- Real-time collaboration and automated compliance reports
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for early-stage startups
- Limited integrations with accounting tools
- Advanced features require some onboarding
Best For
European startups and scale-ups needing user-friendly, visual cap table management with strong modeling tools.
Pricing
Freemium starter plan available; paid plans start at €99/month, with Pro at €299/month and custom Enterprise pricing.
Capdesk
specializedEuropean-focused cap table platform for equity management and fundraising automation.
Advanced investor portal with granular permissions and real-time cap table sharing
Capdesk is a robust cap table management platform tailored for startups and scale-ups, automating equity tracking, share issuances, and vesting schedules. It excels in scenario modeling for fundraising rounds, investor reporting, and compliance with EU regulations like GDPR and ESG standards. The software also features secure data rooms and portals for streamlined stakeholder communication.
Pros
- Automated real-time cap table updates and scenario modeling
- Comprehensive investor portals and reporting tools
- Strong focus on EU compliance and data security
Cons
- Premium pricing may deter early-stage startups
- Learning curve for advanced equity structures
- Fewer integrations compared to US-centric competitors
Best For
Mid-stage European startups and scale-ups needing robust equity management and investor relations tools.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically €5,000–€15,000 annually based on company size and features.
Shareworks
enterpriseEnterprise-grade equity compensation and cap table management for public and private companies.
Morgan Stanley-backed global compliance and valuation tools for seamless IPO readiness
Shareworks by Morgan Stanley is a comprehensive equity management platform focused on cap table management, employee stock plan administration, and ownership tracking for private and public companies. It provides real-time cap table visibility, supports complex equity transactions like issuances and transfers, and ensures regulatory compliance across global markets. With robust reporting and scenario modeling, it's designed for scalability as companies grow toward IPO or beyond.
Pros
- Enterprise-grade compliance and security backed by Morgan Stanley
- Advanced scenario modeling and real-time cap table updates
- Integrated employee portal for self-service stock plan management
Cons
- High cost unsuitable for startups or small teams
- Steep learning curve and lengthy onboarding process
- Less intuitive UI compared to modern SaaS alternatives
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with complex equity structures, international operations, or IPO ambitions.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically starts at $20,000+ annually based on company size, users, and modules.
Global Shares
enterpriseGlobal equity plan administration with real-time cap table visibility and reporting.
Full-service global transfer agency capabilities for seamless equity plan administration and compliance across jurisdictions
Global Shares, powered by Morgan Stanley, is an enterprise-grade equity management platform that specializes in cap table management, employee stock plan administration, and ownership tracking for private and public companies. It enables accurate maintenance of capitalization tables, handles complex equity issuances like RSUs and options, and provides compliance tools for global regulations. The platform also offers secure portals for investors and employees to view holdings and exercise options.
Pros
- Robust handling of complex, multi-class cap tables and global equity plans
- Enterprise security and compliance with SOC 2 and regulatory standards
- Integrated investor and employee self-service portals
Cons
- Steep learning curve and interface not as intuitive for small teams
- Custom pricing makes it expensive for startups or early-stage companies
- Limited flexibility for ad-hoc modeling compared to startup-focused tools
Best For
Mid-to-large private companies or enterprises with complex equity structures, international employees, and high compliance needs.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually based on company size and equity volume; no public tiers.
Eqvista
specializedCap table and 409A valuation software with portfolio tracking for investors.
Seamless integration of automated 409A valuations directly within the cap table workflow
Eqvista is a cap table management platform tailored for startups and private companies, enabling accurate tracking of equity ownership, share issuances, and dilutions across funding rounds. It integrates 409A valuation tools, scenario modeling, and electronic securities issuance to streamline equity administration. The software also offers investor portals and reporting features to enhance transparency and compliance.
Pros
- Precise cap table modeling with scenario simulations
- Built-in 409A valuations and compliance tools
- Investor management and electronic document issuance
Cons
- Fewer third-party integrations than top competitors
- Interface feels dated in some areas
- Advanced features locked behind higher tiers
Best For
Early-stage startups and mid-sized companies needing integrated cap table and valuation management without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $499/year (Starter), $999/year (Pro), with custom Enterprise plans; free trial available.
Vestd
specializedUK-centric cap table management for EIS/SEIS compliance and investor updates.
Automated HMRC-compliant valuations and EMI option management with direct tax authority integrations
Vestd is an equity management platform tailored for UK startups and scale-ups, specializing in cap table tracking, employee share option plans (ESOPs), and automated valuations. It automates ownership calculations, scenario modeling, and compliance with HMRC regulations like EMI schemes, SEIS, and EIS. The software integrates with payroll and accounting tools to streamline equity administration from issuance to exit.
Pros
- Robust UK-specific compliance for EMI, SEIS/EIS, and HMRC filings
- Automated real-time cap table updates and valuation tools
- Strong integrations with UK payroll and accounting systems
Cons
- Limited support for non-UK jurisdictions and complex international structures
- Pricing can be expensive for very early-stage startups
- Scenario modeling lacks depth compared to US-focused competitors like Carta
Best For
UK-based startups and mid-stage companies managing employee equity schemes and cap tables with local regulatory compliance needs.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; starts around £500/month for growth-stage companies, with enterprise plans higher based on shares and users.
Conclusion
After evaluating the top cap table tools, Carta emerges as the clear leader, offering comprehensive equity management that streamlines tracking, issuances, and reporting. Pulley shines for its affordability and scenario modeling, ideal for startups, while Ledgy sets itself apart with global tax compliance and employee equity tools, catering to diverse operational needs. Each solution addresses unique challenges, ensuring businesses of all stages can manage cap tables effectively.
Don’t miss out on optimizing your cap table—start with Carta to access robust features that simplify equity management and empower growth, backed by its reputation as a top-tier platform.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison