10 Best Toptal Alternatives to Hire Tech Talent in 2025

Toptal Alternatives
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Last Updated
Sep 16, 2025
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20 minutes

Whether you're a startup sprinting toward your MVP or an enterprise expanding at scale, one truth cuts across the board: top tech talent is hard to find and even harder to retain. 

 

In a market where speed and quality define success, your developers can be a breakthrough and a breakdown for your project.

 

That’s why platforms like Toptal have become so popular, known for their strict vetting process and access to highly skilled professionals.

 

Toptal is often the first name that comes to mind when companies need top talent fast. But what are some good alternatives to Toptal worth considering in 2025?

In this guide, we will break down the best Toptal alternatives for developers, and you’ll find actionable insights to help you choose the platform for all your IT staff augmentation needs.

 

Let’s Start With Toptal and Its Pricing

 

Toptal is a talent platform that specializes in connecting companies with the top 3% of freelance developers, designers, finance experts, and more. 

It is often favored by businesses seeking Toptal alternatives, as it supports both short-term freelance projects and longer-term, dedicated engagements, thereby minimizing hiring risk.

The platform’s pricing is premium, ranging from $80 to $ 200 per hour. However, for startups or small businesses, that level of investment is not always feasible. 

 

A Quick Glance at Toptal Alternatives to Hire Developers 

 

Platform

Approx. Pricing 

Vetting Level

Engagement Models

Suitability

Crewmate

$30 to $100/hr 

High

Staff augmentation, dedicated teams, hourly and project-based

Businesses wanting a tailored, pre-vetted team with flexible scaling and engagement models 

Upwork

$5–$150+/hr

Low to Moderate

Hourly, project-based, long-term

Cost-conscious clients, varied project sizes

Fiverr

$5–$1000+ per gig

Low to Moderate

Fixed-price gigs

Quick, well-defined tasks, budget-friendly options

Guru

$10 - 100 per hour

Low to Moderate

Freelancers

Suitable for projects, the scope of which is fully defined 

Gun.io

$75 to $150/hr

High

Freelance contracts

US-based companies needing highly vetted senior developers

Turing

$50 to $100 per hr

High

Long-term contracts

Startups and enterprises scaling remote engineering teams

Freelancer

$5 to $100+/hr

Low to Moderate

Hourly, milestone, project-based

Startups and small businesses with flexible budget needs

Flexiple

$30 to $100/hr

High

Freelance, contract

Startups wanting hand-picked, vetted freelance developers

Arc.dev

$60 to $150/hr

High

Freelance, contract

Startups and agencies looking for pre-vetted technical experts

PeoplePerHour

$10 to $100+/hr

Low to Moderate

Hourly, project-based

Small businesses needing affordable, self-service freelancer hiring

 

1. Crewmate 

 

Crewmate

 

Crewmate is an IT staff augmentation company that focuses on helping global enterprises and startups scale their development teams with highly vetted, experienced talent, including developers, graphic designers, UI/UX experts, and more.

 

Unlike open freelance marketplaces, Crewmate emphasizes providing curated developers who follow the best software development practices, making it one of the strong alternatives to Toptal for companies that want quality without compromise.

 

Pricing

 

Crewmate offers transparent and flexible pricing across all the engagement models it offers:

  • Hourly Basis: The hourly pricing range is from $30 to $100 depending on the seniority and experience of software developers.
  • Monthly Basis: Crewmate provides you complete flexibility in terms of pricing. 

     

How to Hire Dedicated Developers from Crewmate?

 

Crewmate follows a easy, 3-step process to hire dedicated developers in India:

 

Developer Profile Review

 

You receive curated profiles of pre-vetted developers that match your project's needs.

 

Interview with Developers

 

Once you have shortlisted the developers, you can assess their technical and problem-solving skills. 

 

Onboarding 

 

The selected developers are now ready to onboard iand ntegrate with your team using your tools and workflow. 

 

Quick Decision Matrix for Business Leaders

 

When Crewmate is the Right Fit

When Crewmate Might Not Be the Best Fit

  • You require highly vetted software engineers 
  • You value flexibility in pricing and team scaling
  • You want easy replacement of developers, if not satisfied 
  • If looking to hire dedicated software developers in the shortest possible time
  • You’re looking for one-off gigs
  • When your project doesn’t demand highly qualified software engineers 
  • If you want developers to work on your payroll

 

 

2. Upwork

 

Upwork

 

Upwork is one of the largest global freelance marketplaces, connecting businesses with millions of independent professionals.

 

As one of the best-known Toptal alternatives for developers, Upwork offers sheer scale and flexibility. 

 

The platform’s marketplace model is ideal for companies that want control, cost variety, and access to a broad pool of developers from different experience levels and price ranges.

 

Pricing

 

Pricing on Upwork is highly variable, which can be a major draw for businesses watching their budgets. Typical rates for developer

  • Entry-level developers: $10–$25/hr
  • Mid-level developers: $25–$50/hr
  • Senior/Expert developers: $50–$150+/hr

     

How to Hire Developers from Upwork

 

Upwork emphasizes self-service hiring but also offers premium options. Here’s a step-by-step guide for the hiring process:

 

Post a Job

 

Define the project scope, required skills, timeline, and budget. On the job posting, freelancers can apply directly with proposals.

 

Browse and Invite Talent

 

Search for freelancers using filters such as skills, hourly rate, location, and reviews.

 

Evaluate Proposals

 

Review based on their profiles, portfolios, client feedback, and interviews with top developers.

 

Is Upwork the Right Choice for Your Business?

 

Why Upwork Can Be the Best Choice

Why Upwork Might Not Be the Right Choice

  • Massive talent pool across all skill levels
  • Flexible pricing for all budgets
  • Ideal for both short-term tasks and long-term projects
  • Self-service model for direct hiring control
  • Premium Talent Scout service for curated matching
  • Quality control varies widely and requires manual vetting
  • Risk of lower-quality or inconsistent deliverables
  • Time-consuming to screen and manage candidates
  • Less suited for companies wanting pre-vetted, curated talent
  • Service fees can add to overall costs

 

3. Fiverr

 

Fiverr

 

Fiverr is a global freelance marketplace known for its gig-based model. Unlike high-end networks like Toptal, Fiverr is also one of the Toptal alternatives for developers as anyone can find a developer quickly and at a fixed, transparent price.

 

Key highlights of Fiverr:

  • A massive pool of developers across all skill levels
  • Transparent pricing upfront for each gig
  • Tiered packages such as Basic, Standard, Premium
  • Fiverr Pro for pre-vetted, high-end professionals
  • Strong ratings and reviews system

     

Pricing

 

Fiverr’s pricing is one of its biggest differentiators, making it one of the preferred Toptal alternatives for developers:  

  • Entry-level: $10–$50 per small task
  • Mid-level: $50–$300 for more complex work
  • Expert/Pro services: $300–$1,500+ per project

 

Key points about Fiverr pricing:

  • Prices are set by freelancers in clear, upfront packages
  • No hourly rates are applicable unless explicitly defined in custom offers
  • Buyers can choose precisely what they need within a budget that suits them

     

Quick Decision Table for Hiring Developers 

 

Why Fiverr Can Be the Right Choice

Why Fiverr Might Not Be the Right Choice

  • Huge global pool with every skill level
  • Extremely transparent, upfront pricing
  • Ideal for small and well-defined tasks
  • Tiered packages make the scope and cost clear
  • Fiverr Pro for curated, high-quality professionals
  • Quality varies, hence buyers must vet carefully
  • Work of some gigs may not be up to the mark
  • Complex, long-term projects can be harder to manage
  • Communication can be transactional and limited which is suited for highly strategic, consultative engagements

 

4. Gun.io 

 

Gun.io

 

Gun.io is positioned as one of the top Toptal alternatives for developers. The platform focuses exclusively on software development talent. 

 

Gun.io is especially popular among startups, mid-sized companies, and even enterprise teams looking to hire freelance developers quickly while maintaining quality and reducing hiring risk.

 

Pricing

 

Gun.io’s pricing model is transparent but premium:

  • Hourly Basis: Pricing ranges from $75 to $ 150 per hour.
  • Full-time Rates: It may vary from $6,000 to $12,000+ per month for long-term contracts.

     

Comparison Table Before Finalising the Decision of Hiring Developers 

 

Why Gun.io Can Be the Best Choice

Why Gun.io Might Not Be the Right Choice

  • Thorough vetting ensures that only experienced developers
  • Dedicated support to ensure a smooth hiring experience
  • Not ideal for extremely budget-constrained projects
  • Focuses only on developers, not broader talent categories

 

5. Turing 

 

Turing

 

Turing is a remote developer hiring platform that connects companies with pre-vetted software engineers worldwide. The platform’s USP is bridging the gap with rigorous vetted software engineer screening, unlike open freelance marketplaces where anyone can list services.

 

The platform has built its reputation on its AI-powered matching system, vast global talent pool, and ability to support long-term, full-time hiring needs.

 

What really sets Turing apart? Its focus on remote engineering teams makes it an attractive option for both startups and enterprises.

 

Pricing

 

Although the platform doesn’t specify pricing, however, it offers a range of $30–$100 per hour, depending on the developer's seniority, tech stack, and location.

 

How to Hire Developers from Turing

 

Here’s a clear step-by-step look at the process:

 

Define Your Requirements

 

Share your project’s requirements, and Turing’s team will help clarify your needs to ensure the right fit.

 

Matching and Vetting

 

Turing uses its AI-powered Talent Cloud to surface candidates that meet your criteria.

 

Interview Selected Candidates

 

You can directly interview shortlisted developers to assess communication and problem-solving.

 

Onboarding and Management

 

Once hired, developers work full-time with you, integrated into your workflows.

 

Decision Table for Making the Right Call

 

Why Turing Can Be the Best Choice

Why Turing Might Not Be the Right Choice

  • Access to a large, highly vetted global talent pool
  • AI-powered matching for precise, relevant candidate recommendations
  • Less flexibility in pricing than open marketplaces
  • Not ideal for companies that want to browse massive freelancer catalogs

 

6. Freelancer 

 

Freelancer

 

Freelancer.com is one of the oldest and largest freelance marketplaces in the world, boasting over 50 million users across hundreds of categories, including software development, design, writing, and more.

 

It’s often named among the leading Toptal alternatives because of its vast, truly global talent pool. 

 

Key features:

  • Global reach with millions of registered developers
  • Options for hourly, fixed-price, and contest-based projects
  • Escrow payments and milestone tracking
  • Verified freelancer badges for higher-trust hiring

     

Pricing

 

One of the biggest appeals of Freelancer as an alternative to Toptal is its broad range of pricing options:

  • Entry-level developers: $5–$20/hr
  • Mid-level developers: $20–$50/hr
  • Senior or highly specialized developers: $50–$100+/hr

     

Freelancer itself doesn’t set these rates, but the market does. Clients post jobs, and freelancers on the platform bid on them.

 

Platform fees:

  • Employers pay a 3% fee on fixed-price or hourly projects
  • Escrow ensures that payments are secure

     

Quick Decision Table

 

Why Freelancer Can Be the Best Choice

Why Freelancer Might Not Be the Right Choice

  • Huge global pool of developers at all experience levels
  • Very competitive pricing options
  • Suitable for all project sizes and types
  • Flexible hiring models: hourly, fixed-price, contests
  • Secure escrow payments and milestone tracking
  • Quality can vary widely; heavy screening is needed
  • High risk of mismatched expectations without thorough vetting
  • The platform can be overwhelming for first-time users
  • Less ideal for companies wanting pre-vetted, long-term hires
  • Requires active management and clear project definition

 

7. Flexiple

 

Flexiple

 

Founded in 2016, Flexiple has positioned itself as a premium Toptal alternative, focusing on providing highly vetted independent developers and designers.

 

What sets Flexiple apart? It has a rigorous screening process, accepting only the top 1% of applicants. 

 

Pricing

 

Flexiple’s pricing is premium, reflecting the platform’s emphasis on quality:

  • Hourly Rates: Range between $30 and $100 per hour, depending on seniority and specialization.
  • Monthly Rates: Around $3,000–$8,000/month for full-time engagement (approx. 40 hours/week).
  • There are no upfront recruiting fees or subscriptions.
    You pay only for actual hours billed after the engagement begins.

     

Comparison Table for Informed Decisions 

 

Why Flexiple Can Be the Best Choice

Why Flexiple Might Not Be the Right Choice

  • Stringent vetting process ensures top-quality talent
  • Flexible hiring for part-time or full-time engagements
  • Less suitable for very low-budget or short-term projects
  • No access to non-technical freelancers (e.g., writers)
  • Limited focus primarily on startups and SMBs

 

8. Guru 

 

Guru

 

Guru is a global freelance marketplace that connects businesses with professionals across development, design, writing, and more. 

 

Key features:

  • Over 2 million freelancers worldwide
  • Secure payment via SafePay escrow system
  • Profiles with detailed work histories, reviews, and portfolios
  • Multiple hiring models: hourly, fixed-price, recurring, or task-based.

     

Pricing

 

Here is the complete breakdown of Guru’s pricing: 

  • Developers typically list hourly rates from $10/hr to $100+/hr, depending on skill and location.
  • Fixed-price projects can start at $50–$500 for small tasks, but complex work may range $2000+.
  • Guru charges a service fee to freelancers (5%–9%), but employers see pricing transparently in each proposal.

     

How to Hire Developers from Guru

 

Guru uses a straightforward, self-service hiring model, the process of which is:

 

Post a Job

 

Define your project, timeline, budget, and required skills, and post it on the platform where freelancers can submit proposals.

 

Receive and Review Proposals

 

Freelancers apply with custom pitches, rates, and timelines, and employers can compare profiles based on work samples.

 

Interview and Selection

 

Use Guru’s messaging system, and you can schedule an interview and choose the best-fit freelancer.

 

Manage Work

 

Set milestones, deadlines, and collaborate using Guru’s built-in tools.

 

Payment via SafePay

 

Funds are held in escrow until the work is approved, ensuring payment protection for both parties.

 

Comparison Table

 

Why Guru Can Be the Best Choice

Why Guru Might Not Be the Right Choice

  • Large, diverse pool of global software developers
  • Highly flexible pricing models such as hourly, fixed-price, and recurring
  • Transparent, competitive bidding for cost savings
  • SafePay escrow system ensures secure payments
  • Suitable for short-term, ad hoc, and long-term engagements
  • Quality control depends entirely on employer vetting
  • No platform-managed vetting process for developers
  • It can be time-consuming to evaluate and negotiate with freelancers
  • Less structured project management than curated services
  • Not ideal for companies needing fully managed teams

 

9. Arc.dev 

 

Arc.dev

 

The team behind Codementor founds Arc.dev. The platform has earned a reputation as a trusted alternative to Toptal by focusing on delivering pre-vetted, experienced developers who are ready to integrate seamlessly into remote teams.

 

Arc.dev stands out with its “Silicon Valley-caliber” promise. 

 

Pricing

 

The platform doesn’t publish rigid pricing tables but instead offers transparent and competitive pricing, depending on the engagement type and developer experience level.

  • Hourly Rates: The price range is from $60 to $150 per hour, based on developer seniority and skill set.
  • Monthly Rates: Often between $5,000–$12,000/month for full-time placements.
  • No upfront recruitment fees, as the payment starts once work begins.

     

Comparison Table for Better Decisions 

 

Why Arc.dev Can Be the Best Choice

Why Arc.dev Might Not Be the Right Choice

  • Silicon Valley-level vetting ensures top talent
  • Curated matching reduces time-to-hire
  • Flexible engagement models (hourly, full-time)
  • Risk-free trial lowers hiring risk
  • Strong support from Arc.dev’s matching team
  • Higher hourly and monthly rates compared to some rivals
  • Less suitable for very low-budget projects
  • Smaller talent pool than massive gig marketplaces
  • Primarily focused on developers; limited non-tech talent
  • Fewer customizable pricing tiers than open marketplaces

 

10. PeoplePerHour

 

 

PeoplePerHour is a global freelance marketplace that is positioned as one of the best Toptal alternatives. 

 

The platform offers access to a much broader pool of freelance developers, ranging from entry-level to senior talent.

 

It is beneficial for small businesses, startups, and even agencies looking for on-demand tech talent without committing to full-time hires. 

 

Pricing

 

PeoplePerHour is known for transparent pricing, catering to businesses of all sizes:

  • Hourly Rates: Freelance developers typically charge $15 to $100+ per hour.
  • Fixed-Price Offers: Start from as low as $10 for micro-tasks, scaling to $1000+ for complex projects.
  • Platform Fees:

    1. Employers pay a service fee of 0%–10%, depending on usage and tier.

    2. Freelancers pay commission (usually 20% on initial billings, dropping to 5% with volume).

     

Comparison Table

 

Why PeoplePerHour Can Be the Best Choice

Why PeoplePerHour Might Not Be the Right Choice

  • A large, diverse pool of freelance developers
  • Flexible pricing for all budget levels
  • Easy to hire for one-off or small tasks
  • Secure payments with escrow protection
  • Ability to buy pre-defined “Offers” for speed
  • Quality can be inconsistent without thorough vetting
  • Less curation compared to Toptal or premium alternatives
  • Can require more time to evaluate proposals and talent
  • Platform fees can add up for larger projects
  • Limited project management support compared to premium models

 

Final Thoughts

 

Choosing the right platform to hire tech talent can define the success of your projects. When you’re exploring Toptal alternatives for developers, the key is aligning the platform’s strengths with your budget, timeline, and specific technical needs.

 

From curated marketplaces to open freelancer hubs, these alternatives to Toptal give businesses more options than ever to find the right developer fit. 

 

By evaluating criteria such as pricing, vetting processes, and ease of hiring, you can make an informed choice that delivers quality results without unnecessary overhead or risk.

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

 

How do you choose the best Toptal alternatives for developers?

 

Choosing the right alternative depends on your project’s complexity, budget, and need for vetting. Platforms like Crewmate, Gun.io, and Flexiple focus on highly vetted developers, while marketplaces like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer offer broader talent pools and pricing flexibility but require more manual screening.

 

Which Toptal alternatives are best for small businesses?

 

Small businesses often prefer cost-effective options like Upwork, Crewmate, Fiverr, and Freelancer. These platforms offer flexible pricing, self-service hiring, and access to a wide range of skill levels, making them accessible even for tight budgets.

 

What are some good alternatives to Toptal for urgent hiring needs?

 

If speed is a top priority, Upwork and Fiverr are great for rapid, self-service hiring. For pre-vetted talent, you can deploy quickly, consider Crewmate, Gun.io, or Turing, which are designed to streamline onboarding while maintaining quality.

 

Toptal Alternatives
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Gaurav has 19+ years of experience building and managing scalable web and mobile apps end-to-end, including product design, frontend/backend development, deployment, server management, uptime, performance, and reliability.

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