Is a stalemate in chess a tie?

Answer 1

Yes. If either player has no legal move, regardless of the difference in number of pieces, the game is a draw. This is a last resort for many players, as is perpetual check, to save a tie when behind in pieces or position.

Answer 2

Technically - yes. A stalemate means that either there are no legal moves, or only the same moved can be repeated. That being the case - the game is a draw.