Carta vs Spot by NetApp: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Carta and Spot by NetApp 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.
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 8.6/10)
- • You need entity management features specifically
- • Carta is a platform for managing equity, cap tables, and valuations for startups
- • It handles 409A valuations, equity grants, and liquidity events
Spot by NetApp
Optimize hybrid IT spend and risk across ITAM, SaaS, FinOps, and more with a unified platform.
Best for you if:
- • You need business intelligence features specifically
- • Unified platform for ITAM, SaaS, and FinOps to optimize hybrid IT spend.
- • Provides comprehensive visibility and control over software, hardware, and cloud assets.
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Entity Management | Business Intelligence |
Rating | 88/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Carta | Spot by NetApp |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Entity ManagementFinancial Planning | Business IntelligenceExpense Management |
Understanding the Differences
Both Carta and Spot by NetApp solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Carta positions itself as "equity management and cap table software" while Spot by NetAppfocuses on "optimize hybrid it spend and risk across itam, saas, finops, and more with a unified platform.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Carta
Carta makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution. With a score of 88/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Spot by NetApp
Spot by NetApp is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Neither is free, but both have their value. Test them both and see which clicks.
We'd pick: Spot by NetApp
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Carta handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Carta
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Carta is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: Carta
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Both are paid tools. If money isn't the issue, go with Carta—it scored higher.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Carta higher (88/100). But the community has upvoted Spot by NetApp more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Carta Does Better
- Higher overall score (88/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Spot by NetApp If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Carta (88/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Carta scores higher in our analysis, but Spot by NetApp might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carta or Spot by NetApp better?
Based on our analysis, Carta scores higher with 88/100. Carta ispaid while Spot by NetApp is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Carta to Spot by NetApp easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Carta and Spot by NetApp offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Carta is paid with potential trial.Spot by NetApp is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.