Deferred compensation plans tend to offer better investment options than most 401(k) plans, but are at a disadvantage regarding liquidity. 457(b) plans and 401(k) plans are very similar.Both offer you the opportunity to make tax-deferred contributions to a retirement account. A deferred compensation plan looks like a 401k plan. You make deferrals, select investments and pay taxes upon distribution. Deferred compensation refers to money received in one year for work performed in a previous year often many years earlier. One major difference is that currently 457 plans are designed for public sector employees, and 401(k) plans are designed for private sector employees.