Deel vs. Remote: Complete global payroll comparison for 2025

For any business with a global workforce or plans to expand across borders, choosing the right global payroll solution and employer of record (EOR)  is essential. The right tools can help you manage payroll, comply with local laws, and provide a great employee experience. However, with an abundance of options, it can be tricky finding the right fit. 

Two choices for global HR management and payroll software are Deel and Remote. Though both platforms can simplify the complexities of global payroll and compliance, their features and focus areas vary. 

In this article, we provide a detailed comparison of Deel and Remote to help HR managers and executives make an informed decision. By exploring their core features, integrations, user experience, and customer support, you can get a clearer understanding of how these platforms might fit your company’s needs. And if neither feels like a perfect match, we show you why Rippling could be the smarter choice for unified global payroll and HR solutions.

What is Deel?

Deel is a global payroll and employer of record (EOR) platform that aims to help businesses manage their international workforce. It focuses on simplifying complex tasks like global payroll, compliance with local laws, and employee benefits management.

Deel’s core offerings include payroll software that allows businesses to pay employees and contractors in over 100 countries, EOR services for hiring in countries without a legal entity, and benefits management for employees. By acting as a legal entity on behalf of companies, Deel helps businesses with compliance and hiring processes for remote and international workers.

What is Remote.com?

Remote.com is a platform that aims to simplify global hiring and payroll for businesses with international teams. As an employer of record (EOR) and payroll provider, Remote can help companies hire employees and contractors in over 75 countries without needing to set up a legal entity in each location.

Key services include global hiring to onboard employees, remote payroll that ensures accurate salary payments across borders, and tools for managing international compliance. Additionally, Remote supports employee benefits management and legal compliance.

Deel vs Remote: Features

Below is a comparison of some of the key features of Deel and Remote to help you understand how they might align with your business needs:

International payroll and HR

Deel payroll and HR

Deel payroll software supports payroll processing for employees and contractors in over 100 countries. The platform automates tasks like tax filings, compliance checks, and multi-currency payments. Deel also offers features like the Deel Card, which allows contractors to access funds in a stable currency.

On the HR side, Deel provides tools for onboarding, including workflows and localized employment contracts that comply with country-specific regulations. 

Remote payroll and HR

Remote payroll software enables payroll for employees across 75+ countries, focusing on compliance with local tax systems. The platform offers tools to simplify payroll processes, such as automating recurring payments and generating detailed payroll reports. Remote also allows businesses to provide localized benefits packages, such as healthcare, retirement plans, and leave policies tailored to different regions.

For HR, Remote includes features for generating compliant employment agreements and managing employee offboarding, aiming to cover the full employee lifecycle.

EOR (employer of record)

Deel employer of record

Deel's Employer of Record (EOR) services allow businesses to hire employees in countries where they don’t have a physical presence or legal entity. Deel manages tasks like local payroll, tax compliance, employee benefits, and adherence to local labor laws. Companies using Deel’s EOR services also have access to a compliance team that assists in navigating complex regulations.

Remote employer of record

Remote EOR services allow businesses to hire employees in 75+ countries while remaining compliant with local employment laws. The platform manages payroll, tax filings, and benefits administration, helping businesses meet regional requirements. Remote also includes tools that allow businesses to create localized, legally compliant employment agreements reviewed by legal experts.

Contractor hiring and management

Deel contractor hiring and management

Deel offers a contractor management system with features like 15 payment options. For US contractors, Deel enables one-click generation of W-9s and filing of 1099s. Businesses upgrading to Deel Shield or Deel Premium can also access additional protections against contractor misclassification.

Remote contractor hiring and management

Remote offers a global contractor plan. Remote automates onboarding, payment approvals, and recurring invoice. The software also generates legally compliant, localized contracts vetted by legal experts.

Deel vs Remote: Integrations

Here’s a closer look at the key integrations Deel and Remote offer:

Deel

Deel offers integrations with various software solutions, focusing on accounting, project management, and HR tools. It also provides an API, allowing businesses to build custom integrations. Below are some of the integrations Deel supports:

• Intuit QuickBooks: Deel’s integration with QuickBooks simplifies payroll accounting by syncing payment data directly into the platform for streamlined financial tracking.
• Xero: Businesses using Xero benefit from automated reconciliation of payroll and contractor payments.
• NetSuite: Deel connects with NetSuite for payroll and expense tracking.
• Asana: Deel’s integration with Asana offers project management support for tracking tasks and deadlines while managing payroll and HR workflows.
• BambooHR, Greenhouse, HiBob, Workday, Lever, and Workable: Deel integrates with leading HR and applicant tracking systems, helping businesses transition seamlessly from recruitment to payroll and onboarding.
• Slack and Zapier: These integrations keep businesses connected by automating notifications and workflows across teams, which can be particularly helpful for businesses with a remote workforce. 

Remote

Remote also integrates with several top HR and workforce management tools, with a focus on hiring and employee data management. Below are some of the integrations Remote offers:

• Greenhouse: This integration connects Remote with a leading applicant tracking system, enabling businesses to onboard new hires after recruitment.
• BambooHR: Syncs employee data between BambooHR and Remote for record keeping.
• Slack and Zapier: Remote’s integration with these tools automates workflows and keeps teams updated on key HR processes in real-time.

Deel vs Remote: User experience

Both platforms deliver accessible user experiences tailored to different business priorities, as reflected in real user feedback.

Deel provides an interface designed to streamline payroll and contractor management. Its dashboard enables HR teams to onboard employees and handle multi-currency payments with relative ease, offering straightforward navigation for these tasks. However, some users have noted that Deel’s lack of a dedicated mobile app can be inconvenient for those who need flexibility on the go.

Remote helps with global payroll and HR management with localized compliance features and contract generation tools that reduce the complexities of international hiring. Users highlight its straightforward navigation and integration with tools like BambooHR and Greenhouse. However, reviews indicate that some features feel limited in functionality compared to other platforms, particularly for complex workflows.

Deel vs Remote: Customer support

The quality and availability of customer support can make or break a platform’s effectiveness for businesses. Deel and Remote take different approaches:

Deel

Deel provides good customer support options that aim to ensure businesses receive timely assistance:

• 24/7 support chat: Deel offers round-the-clock chat support.
• Email support: Businesses can reach out to the Deel team via email for more complex inquiries or documentation-related concerns.
• Knowledge base: The platform includes a library of resources and guides, helping users troubleshoot and learn independently.
• FAQs: A dedicated FAQ section addresses common questions related to payroll, compliance, and onboarding processes.

Remote

Remote focuses on providing a range of support options that aim to address user concerns and improve platform usability:

• Email support: Remote’s team is available through email to assist with platform-related questions or issues.
• Knowledge base: The platform provides a library of articles, guides, and tutorials to help users navigate features and troubleshoot independently.
• FAQs and forums: Remote includes a FAQ section and access to community forums, where users can discuss common challenges and solutions.
• Call center support: The platform also offers phone support for more immediate or in-depth assistance.

Deel vs Remote: Pros and cons

When evaluating Deel and Remote for global HR and payroll software solutions, it's important to consider their respective advantages and limitations, which you explore below:

Deel

Pros

• Global reach: Deel currently operates in over 150 countries. 
• Free HR tools for startups: Deel HR offers a no-cost option for small businesses and startups, allowing them to manage essential HR tasks like onboarding and employee data management. This free plan can be a good starting point for companies that may not yet have the budget for comprehensive HR software.
• Intuitive user interface: Deel’s platform features a clean layout that supports tasks like contract generation and compliance management. HR managers find the interface straightforward, which helps simplify operations and reduces the time needed to get started.

Cons

• Lack of mobile application: Deel doesn't currently offer a dedicated mobile app, which can limit accessibility for users who prefer managing payroll and HR tasks on the go. While the platform performs well on browsers, this gap could be a disadvantage for teams needing mobile-first functionality.
• Premium pricing for contractor management: Deel’s contractor management services come at a higher cost compared to some competitors, particularly for companies managing many freelancers. While it includes advanced features like multi-currency payments and compliance tools, the pricing may deter cost-conscious businesses.
• Additional fees for misclassification protection: Deel Shield, which protects businesses against contractor misclassification risks, requires an additional fee. This can add to overall costs for businesses that want more legal protection for their contractor workforce.

Remote

Pros

• No hidden fees: Remote offers straightforward pricing with no hidden fees or unexpected costs. 
• Efficient onboarding process: Remote helps with the onboarding process by providing localized employment contracts and automated workflows. This approach can save time for HR teams and help new hires start work without unnecessary delays.
• Cost-effective contractor fees: Remote provides competitive rates for contractor management. The platform also automates tasks like recurring payments and compliance checks, helpful for managing global contractors.

Cons

• Limited EOR coverage: Remote limits EOR services to just over 75 countries. This restriction may reduce hiring opportunities for businesses expanding into unsupported regions.
• Delays in customer support responses: Remote responds slowly to some support inquiries, especially for urgent issues, according to user reports. This can create challenges for businesses needing immediate help with compliance or payroll concerns.
• Lack of advanced HR tools: Remote focuses primarily on payroll and compliance but lacks some advanced HR features like headcount planning, performance management, or robust analytics. Businesses looking for a more comprehensive HR solution may find these limitations restrictive.

Rippling: The best way to hire and pay a global workforce

Rippling offers an all-in-one global workforce platform that combines HR, Payroll, IT, and Spend into a single system. Built on a single source of truth, Rippling enables businesses to hire, pay, and manage employees and contractors across the globe, automate compliance with local labor laws, and streamline administrative tasks, all from one centralized dashboard. Some key features include: 

• Unified global payroll: Run payroll for employees and contractors in their local currency, in minutes, across 150 countries (with more on the way)—all from one automated system.
• Employer of record (EOR) services: Hire employees in many countries without setting up a legal entity. Rippling manages compliance, taxes, benefits, and local laws so you can hire quickly and confidently.
• Global contractor management: Simplify hiring and paying international contractors. Automate payments, manage compliance with localized contracts, and ensure seamless onboarding for contractors worldwide.
• All-in-one platform: Rippling connects global payroll, benefits management, time tracking, and device management, creating a fully integrated system for managing your workforce.

Beyond just simplifying workforce management, Rippling transforms how businesses operate globally. With everything you need in one place, it’s time to leave behind outdated systems and experience a faster, smarter way to manage your global team.

Deel vs. Remote FAQs

How does Deel HR differ from its paid plans?

Deel HR offers a free plan for startups and small businesses, allowing them to manage employee data, onboarding, and document storage without paying for payroll or EOR services. Businesses requiring payroll, contractor management, or compliance features will need to upgrade to Deel's paid plans.

Can both Deel and Remote manage compliance for contractors?

Yes, both platforms manage contractor compliance by providing localized contracts, tax document generation, and payment automation. Deel offers additional protections through its Deel Shield and premium plans.

What should I look for when choosing software to manage global payroll?

When selecting global payroll software, prioritize platforms that offer comprehensive compliance tools, support for multiple countries, and automation features to simplify recurring tasks like payments and tax filings. Look for integrations with existing HR and finance systems, ease of use, and scalability to grow with your business needs. Additionally, ensure the software provides robust support for both employees and contractors, with localized solutions for benefits and tax compliance.

What's the best payroll software for a global workforce?

Rippling stands out as the best global payroll software for businesses seeking a unified solution. With Rippling, you can run payroll in minutes across 50+ countries, automate compliance with local laws, and manage employees and contractors from a single platform. Its all-in-one design, scalability, and ease of use make Rippling the ultimate choice for businesses managing a global workforce.

This blog is based on information available to Rippling as of February 18, 2025.

Disclaimer: Rippling and its affiliates do not provide tax, accounting, or legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide or be relied on for tax, accounting, or legal advice. You should consult your own tax, accounting, and legal advisors before engaging in any related activities or transactions.