Carta vs Runway: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Carta and Runway comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Carta
Equity management and cap table software
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 7.7/10)
- • You need financial planning features specifically
- • Carta is a platform for managing equity, cap tables, and valuations for startups
- • It handles 409A valuations, equity grants, and liquidity events
Runway
Modern FP&A platform for financial planning and scenario modeling
Best for you if:
- • You need business intelligence features specifically
- • Collaborative FP&A platform for planning, forecasting, and reporting.
- • Simulate business decisions with flexible models and AI-powered analysis.
| At a Glance |  Carta |  Runway |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Financial Planning | Business Intelligence |
Rating | 88/100 | 77/100 |
| Feature | Carta | Runway |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 77 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Financial PlanningCompliance Management | Business IntelligenceData Visualization |
How Carta and Runway Compare
Carta
Equity management and cap table software
Paid · 88/100 score
Runway
Modern FP&A platform for financial planning and scenario modeling
Paid · 77/100 score
Carta is a financial planning tool. Runway is in business intelligence.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Carta
Want the highest-rated option?
Carta: 88/100. Runway: 77/100.
Go with: Carta
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Carta
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Carta is a financial planning tool. Runway is in business intelligence. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Carta scores higher: 88/100 vs 77/100.
Key Takeaways
Carta
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 77
- Our pick for this comparison
Runway
- Better fit for business intelligence
The Bottom Line
Carta (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carta or Runway better?
Carta scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Carta and Runway used for?
Carta: Equity management and cap table software. Runway: Modern FP&A platform for financial planning and scenario modeling.
What does Carta cost vs Runway?
Carta is a paid tool. Runway is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.