Papaya Global vs Carta: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Papaya Global and Carta 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:
Papaya Global
Global payroll platform
Best for you if:
- • You need payroll features specifically
- • Global payroll and HR platform
- • Hire and pay in 160+ countries
Carta
Equity management and cap table software
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • 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
| At a Glance |  Papaya Global |  Carta |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Payroll | Financial Planning |
Rating | 80/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Papaya Global | Carta |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | PayrollHRIS | Financial PlanningCompliance Management |
How Papaya Global and Carta Compare
Papaya Global
Global payroll platform
Paid · 80/100 score
Carta
Equity management and cap table software
Paid · 88/100 score
Papaya Global is a payroll tool. Carta is in financial planning.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Carta
Want the highest-rated option?
Papaya Global: 80/100. Carta: 88/100.
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?
Papaya Global is a payroll tool. Carta is in financial planning. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Carta scores higher: 88/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Carta
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 80
- Our pick for this comparison
Papaya Global
- Better fit for payroll
The Bottom Line
Carta (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Papaya Global or Carta better?
Carta scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Papaya Global and Carta used for?
Papaya Global: Global payroll platform. Carta: Equity management and cap table software.
What does Papaya Global cost vs Carta?
Papaya Global is a paid tool. Carta is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.