VS
15Five vs Oyster — Which One Wins?
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of 15Five and Oyster to help you pick the right tool for your workflow.
TLDR
Quick Verdict
15Five takes the lead with a 4.2 rating and is best for companies wanting continuous feedback over annual reviews. Oyster (4.1) is the better pick if you need distributed-first companies hiring globally.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | 15Five | Oyster |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★★★★ 4.2(93) | ★★★★ 4.1(67) |
| Pricing Model | subscription | subscription |
| Starter Price | $4/person/mo | $29/contractor/mo |
| Free Tier | No | Yes |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android | Web |
| Learning Curve | Easy | Easy |
| API Available | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Companies wanting continuous feedback over annual reviews | Distributed-first companies hiring globally |
| Verdict | Best Continuous Feedback | Best UX for Global HR |
Feature Checklist
| Feature | 15Five | Oyster |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly Check-ins | — | |
| Performance Reviews | — | |
| Engagement Surveys | — | |
| OKRs | — | |
| Manager Coaching | — | |
| Global Hiring | — | |
| EOR | — | |
| Benefits | — | |
| Equity Management | — | |
| Time-Off Tracking | — |
15Five
Pros
- ✓Excellent weekly check-in workflow
- ✓Strong coaching tools for managers
- ✓Very affordable starter plan
Cons
- ✕Not a full HRIS
- ✕Less robust than Lattice for complex orgs
- ✕Reporting could be deeper
Oyster
Pros
- ✓Beautiful user experience
- ✓Great equity management
- ✓Strong total rewards visibility
Cons
- ✕Newer player with less track record
- ✕Fewer countries than Deel
- ✕Benefits options vary by country
The Bottom Line
Both 15Five and Oyster are solid tools in the HR & Recruiting space. 15Five edges ahead with a stronger overall rating (4.2 vs 4.1) and is the better choice for companies wanting continuous feedback over annual reviews. However, if you prioritize distributed-first companies hiring globally, Oyster is worth serious consideration. We recommend trying the free tier or trial of each before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 15Five better than Oyster?▼
15Five scores higher overall with a 4.2 rating vs 4.1. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs. 15Five is best for Companies wanting continuous feedback over annual reviews, while Oyster is best for Distributed-first companies hiring globally.
Can I switch from 15Five to Oyster?▼
Yes, most users can migrate between the two. Oyster offers a free tier to test before committing.
Which is more affordable, 15Five or Oyster?▼
15Five starts at $4/person/mo, while Oyster starts at $29/contractor/mo. Oyster offers a free tier.