Quick Overview
- 1#1: Carta - Comprehensive equity management platform that tracks employee stock options, RSUs, vesting schedules, and cap tables.
- 2#2: Pulley - Modern cap table and equity management software designed for startups to track stock options and valuations effortlessly.
- 3#3: Ledgy - Employee-centric equity management tool that simplifies tracking stock options, vesting, and tax implications globally.
- 4#4: Shareworks - Enterprise-grade equity plan administration platform for tracking and managing stock options and employee equity.
- 5#5: Cake Equity - User-friendly equity management solution that handles cap tables, stock options, and vesting schedules intuitively.
- 6#6: Capboard - Automated cap table software with real-time tracking of stock options, valuations, and equity dilution.
- 7#7: Global Shares - Global equity administration platform for managing stock options, grants, and international employee equity plans.
- 8#8: EquityList - Simple, free cap table tool that tracks stock options, issuances, and vesting for early-stage companies.
- 9#9: Notice - Equity management platform with cap table modeling and stock option tracking for growing businesses.
- 10#10: Vestd - UK-focused equity management software for tracking EMI stock options, SEIS/EIS, and company shares.
Tools were ranked based on comprehensive feature sets (covering equity tracking, tax implications, and cap table management), intuitive design for broad adoption, and overall utility—ensuring they meet the demands of both early-stage and established organizations.
Comparison Table
Stock option tracking software is essential for managing equity plans, and this comparison table—featuring tools like Carta, Pulley, Ledgy, Shareworks, Cake Equity, and more—helps users navigate options. Readers will learn about key features, usability, and integration capabilities, enabling them to identify the best fit for their business needs, whether scaling a startup, managing enterprise equity, or streamlining operations.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carta Comprehensive equity management platform that tracks employee stock options, RSUs, vesting schedules, and cap tables. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Pulley Modern cap table and equity management software designed for startups to track stock options and valuations effortlessly. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | Ledgy Employee-centric equity management tool that simplifies tracking stock options, vesting, and tax implications globally. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Shareworks Enterprise-grade equity plan administration platform for tracking and managing stock options and employee equity. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 5 | Cake Equity User-friendly equity management solution that handles cap tables, stock options, and vesting schedules intuitively. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | Capboard Automated cap table software with real-time tracking of stock options, valuations, and equity dilution. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Global Shares Global equity administration platform for managing stock options, grants, and international employee equity plans. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | EquityList Simple, free cap table tool that tracks stock options, issuances, and vesting for early-stage companies. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 9 | Notice Equity management platform with cap table modeling and stock option tracking for growing businesses. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 10 | Vestd UK-focused equity management software for tracking EMI stock options, SEIS/EIS, and company shares. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
Comprehensive equity management platform that tracks employee stock options, RSUs, vesting schedules, and cap tables.
Modern cap table and equity management software designed for startups to track stock options and valuations effortlessly.
Employee-centric equity management tool that simplifies tracking stock options, vesting, and tax implications globally.
Enterprise-grade equity plan administration platform for tracking and managing stock options and employee equity.
User-friendly equity management solution that handles cap tables, stock options, and vesting schedules intuitively.
Automated cap table software with real-time tracking of stock options, valuations, and equity dilution.
Global equity administration platform for managing stock options, grants, and international employee equity plans.
Simple, free cap table tool that tracks stock options, issuances, and vesting for early-stage companies.
Equity management platform with cap table modeling and stock option tracking for growing businesses.
UK-focused equity management software for tracking EMI stock options, SEIS/EIS, and company shares.
Carta
enterpriseComprehensive equity management platform that tracks employee stock options, RSUs, vesting schedules, and cap tables.
Fully integrated 409A valuation engine with automated cap table modeling and scenario simulations
Carta is a comprehensive equity management platform designed for startups and private companies to track, manage, and administer stock options, cap tables, and ownership structures. It automates option grants, exercises, 409A valuations, and compliance reporting, providing real-time insights into equity distribution. Carta also serves as a transfer agent for secondary share transactions, streamlining the entire equity lifecycle from issuance to liquidity.
Pros
- Unmatched depth in cap table management and automated 409A valuations
- Seamless integration with payroll, HRIS, and brokerage systems
- Robust compliance tools and transfer agency services for secondary markets
Cons
- High cost may deter very early-stage startups
- Initial setup and learning curve for complex equity structures
- Some advanced features require higher-tier plans
Best For
Scaling startups and mid-stage private companies with complex equity needs requiring compliance and secondary liquidity options.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at around $7,200/year for essentials, scaling with company size and features.
Pulley
enterpriseModern cap table and equity management software designed for startups to track stock options and valuations effortlessly.
Dynamic scenario modeling engine that simulates funding rounds, exits, and dilutions instantly on the live cap table
Pulley is a comprehensive equity management platform tailored for startups and growing companies, specializing in cap table management, stock option tracking, and automated equity administration. It enables users to model fundraising scenarios, issue options, track exercises, and maintain compliance with 409A valuations in real-time. The software streamlines investor relations through secure portals and integrates seamlessly with payroll and HR systems for efficient 83(b) filings and tax reporting.
Pros
- Powerful real-time scenario modeling for dilutions and fundraising
- Automated workflows for option grants, exercises, and compliance
- Robust integrations with tools like Carta, QuickBooks, and payroll providers
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for larger companies or high-volume transactions
- Steeper learning curve for advanced modeling features
- Limited free tier capabilities for complex cap tables
Best For
Mid-stage startups and scale-ups needing sophisticated stock option administration and cap table visibility without dedicated finance teams.
Pricing
Free for seed-stage companies under 25 stakeholders; paid plans start at $120/month, scaling to custom enterprise pricing based on shares and users.
Ledgy
enterpriseEmployee-centric equity management tool that simplifies tracking stock options, vesting, and tax implications globally.
Dynamic cap table scenario modeling for forecasting dilution, exits, and fundraising impacts
Ledgy is a robust equity management platform designed for startups and scale-ups to track and manage stock options, RSUs, and cap tables in real-time. It automates vesting schedules, exercise processing, valuations, and scenario modeling to ensure accurate equity tracking for employees and investors. With strong compliance features and integrations, it simplifies complex equity administration while providing transparency across stakeholders.
Pros
- Comprehensive tracking of options, vesting, exercises, and secondary transfers
- Real-time cap table updates and scenario modeling for informed decisions
- Integrations with HRIS, payroll, and brokerage systems for seamless workflows
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with company size, less ideal for bootstrapped startups
- Advanced features like custom waterfalls locked behind enterprise plans
- Steeper learning curve for non-finance users on complex modeling
Best For
Mid-stage startups and scale-ups with growing equity plans needing precise stock option administration and investor reporting.
Pricing
Free for up to 25 stakeholders; paid plans start at €720/year (Growth), with custom Enterprise pricing from €5,000+/year based on company size and features.
Shareworks
enterpriseEnterprise-grade equity plan administration platform for tracking and managing stock options and employee equity.
Direct integration with Morgan Stanley brokerage for frictionless option exercises, sales, and post-IPO liquidity events
Shareworks, powered by Morgan Stanley, is an enterprise-grade equity management platform that enables companies to administer stock plans and empowers employees to track stock options, RSUs, and other equity awards. It provides tools for monitoring vesting schedules, real-time portfolio valuations, exercise planning, and tax implications. The platform also facilitates transactions like option exercises and share sales through integrated brokerage services.
Pros
- Comprehensive vesting and portfolio tracking with real-time data
- Integrated brokerage for seamless option exercises and sales
- Robust reporting tools including tax documents and projections
Cons
- Interface can feel dated and overwhelming for casual users
- Availability limited to employees of participating companies
- Mobile app lacks full desktop functionality
Best For
Employees at mid-to-large enterprises with complex equity compensation plans needing professional tracking and transaction support.
Pricing
Free for employees via employer sponsorship; customized enterprise pricing for companies based on plan size and features.
Cake Equity
enterpriseUser-friendly equity management solution that handles cap tables, stock options, and vesting schedules intuitively.
Interactive scenario modeling engine for dilution forecasting and round simulations
Cake Equity is a comprehensive equity management platform tailored for startups, offering cap table management, stock option tracking, and fundraising tools. It enables users to manage option grants, vesting schedules, exercises, and transfers with real-time updates and compliance features. The software also provides scenario modeling for dilution forecasts and investor portals for transparency.
Pros
- Highly intuitive interface suitable for non-finance teams
- Accurate real-time cap table and option tracking
- Strong scenario modeling for fundraising planning
Cons
- Pricing escalates quickly for growing companies
- Limited integrations with HR/payroll systems
- Less emphasis on advanced tax reporting compared to US-focused competitors
Best For
Early-stage startups and VCs needing simple yet powerful equity tracking with fundraising support.
Pricing
Free for pre-seed teams; Starter €99/mo; Growth €299/mo; Enterprise custom pricing.
Capboard
specializedAutomated cap table software with real-time tracking of stock options, valuations, and equity dilution.
Automated dilution modeling from real-world funding round data and personalized exit proceeds calculator
Capboard (capboard.io) is an employee-focused equity tracking platform designed for startups, allowing users to monitor stock options, vesting schedules, and ownership stakes. It automates calculations for dilution from funding rounds, simulates exit scenarios like acquisitions or IPOs, and visualizes cap table data in an accessible dashboard. Users upload grant agreements for personalized tracking without needing finance team access.
Pros
- Intuitive visualizations of vesting and dilution
- Powerful exit scenario simulators for what-if analysis
- Free tier suitable for individual employees
Cons
- Limited integrations with HR or payroll systems
- Advanced team features require paid plans
- Less suited for complex enterprise cap table management
Best For
Startup employees and early founders seeking simple, personal stock option tracking and exit projections.
Pricing
Free plan for basic individual tracking; Pro at $12/user/month (billed annually); Enterprise custom pricing.
Global Shares
enterpriseGlobal equity administration platform for managing stock options, grants, and international employee equity plans.
Advanced global tax withholding and regulatory compliance automation for cross-border stock plans
Global Shares, powered by JPMorgan, is an enterprise-grade equity management platform specializing in stock plan administration, cap table management, and employee stock option tracking. It offers a secure employee portal where users can view grants, vesting schedules, current values, and execute exercises or sales. The software excels in handling complex, global equity programs with automated compliance, reporting, and integrations for large-scale deployments.
Pros
- Robust global compliance and multi-currency support for international teams
- Secure, real-time employee portal for tracking options, RSUs, and transactions
- Enterprise-level integrations with HRIS, payroll, and brokerage systems
Cons
- High cost suited mainly for mid-to-large enterprises, not startups
- Complex setup and steeper learning curve for admins
- Pricing lacks transparency; custom quotes only
Best For
Mid-to-large companies with complex, international equity compensation programs needing scalable stock option administration.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $10,000+ annually based on participant count and features; contact for quote.
EquityList
specializedSimple, free cap table tool that tracks stock options, issuances, and vesting for early-stage companies.
Real-time waterfall analysis and scenario modeling for instant equity dilution forecasts
EquityList is an equity management platform tailored for startups, focusing on cap table tracking, stock option administration, and financial scenario modeling. It enables users to manage option grants, vesting schedules, exercise tracking, and 409A valuations in a centralized dashboard. The tool automates equity calculations and provides investor-ready reports, making it suitable for early-to-mid stage companies handling complex equity structures.
Pros
- User-friendly interface ideal for non-finance founders
- Robust scenario modeling for fundraising and exits
- Affordable entry-level pricing with strong cap table automation
Cons
- Fewer HR and payroll integrations than top competitors like Carta
- Stock option tracking lacks some advanced compliance tools for public companies
- Limited customization for very large equity plans
Best For
Early-stage startups and founders needing simple, cost-effective stock option and cap table management without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Starter plan at $99/month (basic cap table), Growth at $299/month (options and modeling), custom enterprise pricing.
Notice
enterpriseEquity management platform with cap table modeling and stock option tracking for growing businesses.
Live equity pricing powered by aggregated 409A valuations and secondary market comps
Notice (notice.co) is a free platform that empowers employees at private companies to track and manage their stock options, RSUs, and other equity compensation. It provides real-time valuations drawn from 409A reports, secondary market data, and cap table insights, along with tools to simulate liquidity events and calculate tax implications. The software simplifies equity portfolio monitoring without requiring manual input from employers.
Pros
- Completely free for individual users
- Real-time valuations from reliable sources like 409A data
- Intuitive mobile and web interface for quick tracking
Cons
- Limited to companies with available cap table data
- Lacks advanced customization for complex grant structures
- No support for public stock or diversified portfolios
Best For
Startup employees seeking a simple, cost-free tool to monitor private company equity.
Pricing
Free for individuals; company-facing plans start at custom enterprise pricing.
Vestd
specializedUK-focused equity management software for tracking EMI stock options, SEIS/EIS, and company shares.
Automated EMI scheme administration with HMRC-compliant reporting
Vestd is an equity management platform tailored for startups and scale-ups, specializing in cap table management and stock option tracking. It enables companies to issue, track, and manage employee stock options, including vesting schedules, exercise tracking, and scenario modeling for dilutions and exits. The software provides real-time ownership insights and automates compliance reporting, particularly strong for UK-based EMI schemes.
Pros
- Intuitive interface for issuing and tracking options with vesting visualizations
- Strong UK EMI compliance and automated cap table calculations
- Scenario modeling tools for fundraising and exit planning
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams or advanced needs
- Limited integrations with US-focused payroll/HR systems
- Less emphasis on global tax compliance outside UK/EU
Best For
UK-based startups and scale-ups needing integrated cap table and EMI stock option management.
Pricing
Freemium for early-stage (up to 10 shareholders); paid plans start at £99/month, with custom enterprise pricing.
Conclusion
This review highlights the top tools for stock option tracking, with Carta emerging as the clear leader—offering comprehensive equity management for diverse needs. Close behind, Pulley stands out for its intuitive approach, perfect for simplifying cap tables at early stages, and Ledgy excels in global, tax-aware tracking, making it a strong choice for growing businesses. Together, these three set the standard for efficiency and clarity.
Begin your journey with Carta to unlock seamless equity management, or explore Pulley or Ledgy if your focus lies with startups or international operations—each offers a tailored solution to track and grow your stock options effectively.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
Referenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.