Toptal is recognized for its high-quality pool of freelancers and efficient hiring process. However, it’s an expensive, premium freelancer platform, which brings two major problems: cultural fitness and cost-effectiveness. Exploring Toptal alternatives will provide more choices in terms of cost, talent variety, and project suitability.
Evaluate what your specific project requires. Factors such as project complexity, time constraints, and expertise are critical in determining the right platform.
For instance, if you’re looking for a short-term independent contractor, other platforms might offer more tailored solutions. On the other hand, if cost is a major concern, explore other platforms that offer more competitive rates.
That being said, platforms like Toptal or Upwork tend to foster transactional relationships, focusing on independent contracts. However, if you work on a long-term project, freelancers aren’t your best choice. Instead, you would benefit more from hiring the best passive candidates.
In the next section, we’ll introduce the top alternatives to Toptal in 2026, highlighting their key features and how they compare in terms of cost, flexibility, and the range of talent available.
The Best Toptal Alternatives in 2026
What hiring methods are better than Toptal? The truth is that it depends on your needs. Let’s explore the best Toptal alternatives and how these can benefit your company.
1. Arc
Arc.dev is an AI-powered remote jobs marketplace that connects companies with remote developers. It utilizes HireAI, an engine that matches developers with their clients. They offer pre-vetted freelancers or full-time developers from anywhere in the world, including the U.S.
Hiring process: The hiring process varies depending on whether you want to hire full-time or freelance developers. To find freelance developers, Arc will present you with a list of pre-vetted candidates to hire within 24 to 72 hours. For full-time developers, Arc will consult you to determine your needs. You’ll then interview the matched candidates and select the one to hire.
Key features:
- Arc is suitable for different hiring needs, offering both freelance developers and fully remote developers.
- The platform offers trial periods. For full-time developers, Arc offers a three-month trial period. For freelancers, a two-week trial period.
- Arc.dev employs a data-driven approach to quickly and efficiently match companies with suitable developers.
Pricing: You are required to make a $300 security deposit to initiate the process. Developers set their own hourly rates based on their experience, stack, and local cost of living. This is why you’ll see such a wide range, from $60/hr to $110/hr.
💡Interesting read: Upwork vs Arc.Dev vs. DistantJob: Where to Hire Remote Developers?
2. BairesDev
BairesDev is a software outsourcing company that provides nearshore development (Latin America) to align with North American time zones. They are built for scale and often provide entire outsourcing teams rather than just one-off freelancers.
Generally, BairesDev is more affordable than Toptal because they leverage Latin American market rates, which are lower than the premium global rates that Toptal’s elite freelancers often demand.
Hiring process: They filter around 2 million+ applications from active candidates they receive annually to find the best through AI Screening. Candidates take 8–12 tests covering IQ, English proficiency, and technical fundamentals (e.g., a Java dev will be tested on SQL, Algorithms, and OOP). Then their HR team focuses on soft skills, cultural fit, and communication style. Next step, their candidates go to a 60-to-90-minute deep dive with a Subject Matter Expert, including live coding or architectural problem-solving. Only candidates who score in the top percentile across all stages are added to the “ready-to-deploy” talent pool.
Key features:
- Companies can choose the model that suits their needs best, whether it’s staff augmentation, dedicated teams, or outsourcing.
- BairesDev creates custom solutions for businesses across different sectors, including cloud computing and machine learning.
- Hire bilingual remote developers from Latin America.
Pricing: BairesDev developers cost around $56 to $79 per hour.
3. CloudDevs
CloudDevs is a specialized talent platform connecting US-based companies with senior-level, pre-vetted developers specifically from Latin America (LatAm). Their core value proposition lies in time zone alignment (typically EST to PST), allowing for real-time collaboration, immediate communication, and faster, more agile workflows.
Hiring process: CloudDevs only accepts Senior talent, typically requiring 5+ years of experience. Toptal also focuses on seniors but has a broader range of roles, including finance experts, project managers, and designers.
Key features:
- CloudDev’s vetting process includes a coding exam followed by a live exam and technical interview with a senior software engineer.
- You can hire Latin American developers in less than 24 hours.
- CloudDevs offer a 7-day risk-free guarantee.
Pricing: CloudDevs developers’ rates start at $45 per hour. Their most expensive hourly rate is $75 per hour. After choosing a candidate, you’ll need to pay a $500 deposit that will serve as credit for the first invoice.
4. Gigster
Gigster isn’t a traditional freelance marketplace. They provide managed teams of developers, designers, and project managers for custom software development, rather than acting as a traditional open marketplace for individual freelancers. Gigster hands your project to one of its cloud-based teams of freelancers.
Hiring process: Gigster is built for companies that want to outsource the entire outcome. Instead of hiring one developer, you “hire” a project. Gigster uses AI to assemble a full squad (PM, designer, and developers) and manages them for you. Unlike many platforms that start with a generic quiz, Gigster starts with a candidate’s pedigree and proof of work. They prioritize candidates who have shipped successful products at major tech hubs (Google, Meta, etc.) or won prestigious awards. They specifically look for “builders”, people who code or design because they love it.
Key features:
- Suitable if you are looking for different types of experts, like software engineers, project managers, and designers.
- You can find talent for specific requirements with the flexibility to scale your team up or down as your project requirements evolve.
- Gigster offers supervisor-level reporting that monitors the progress and health of your project based on milestones achieved, bugs, blockers, and more.
Pricing: If you are looking for a low-cost entry point to hire one person for a week, Gigster is the wrong choice. Their “fee” is effectively the high minimum project price (around $50,000). However, if you are looking for price certainty, Gigster is better because its quote is fixed, whereas Toptal’s total cost can balloon if a freelancer takes longer than expected.
5. Lemon.io
Lemon.io is a freelance platform useful for startups looking to hire software developers on-demand. Their focus is on Eastern European talent, which is highly sought after for its strong mathematical and engineering foundations, critical for AI development. The platform looks to simplify the hiring process for short-term or project-based work with a wide database of developers ready to start working.
Hiring process: Lemon.io’s hiring process involves 3 steps. First, they’ll ask you project questions. Next, they’ll source potential candidates until they have a shortlist for you to choose from. The last step is to fund your account so the project can start after arrangements are finalized.
Key features:
- This Toptal alternative matches developers with your startup in 48 hours.
- Lemon.io offers weekly reports that include detailed project updates and time-tracking.
- The platform has a quality guarantee where if a developer doesn’t match your expectations, they’ll match you with a new developer, without shifting your project schedule or costs.
Pricing: Lemon.io does not charge a search fee or subscription. They are generally cheaper than Toptal for similar seniority because they focus on regions with lower costs of living (like Ukraine or Brazil) while maintaining technical standards. Lemon.io developers charge rates that range from $55 per hour to $100 per hour (depending on the skills and level of expertise).
6. Unicorn.dev
While Toptal is the gold standard for elite freelance networks, Unicorn.dev (a subsidiary of CloudDevs) has carved out a niche as a high-speed, more affordable alternative for startups. The company focuses on providing globally sourced tech talent that matches companies’ requirements in less than 48 hours.
Hiring process: Unicorn.dev focuses on seniority. They require all talent to have at least 5 years of experience. They are less about prestige and more about proven reliability.
Key features:
- Unicorn Dev offers a 7-day no-risk trial for each hire.
- They make a thorough vetting process, evaluating not only the candidate’s technical skills but also their background checks.
- Unicorn Dev provides continuous monitoring & assessments.
Pricing: Unicorn.dev’s developers have a flat rate of $40-$55 per hour.
7. X-Team
X-Team is a freelancer platform famous for its developer community. They provide “X-Outposts” (hacker houses), gaming tournaments, and growth funding for their devs. It results in lower turnover and team bonding; X-Team freelancers stay with a client for years. They assemble teams to provide team augmentation for their clients.
Hiring process: You share your tech stack, team rituals, and project goals with an account manager. X-Team uses an AI-assisted matching system to present a handpicked selection of developers (usually within 1–3 weeks). As a client, you get the final say. You interview the shortlisted candidates to ensure they fit your specific team dynamic.
Key features:
- You can hire developers with X-Team for the amount of time you need. This means for short-term projects as well as for years.
- They source software engineers from all over the world, so you can get the talent you need that adapts to your time zone seamlessly.
- X-Team offers a guarantee that consists of replacing a developer if they are underperforming or not adapting to your needs without cost.
Pricing: Generally 20–40% more affordable than Toptal, typically ranging from $55–$95/hour. However, they usually require a 3-month minimum commitment.
8. Turing
Turing is a tech talent marketplace that connects companies with remote software developers. They are Toptal’s primary peer-level competitor for enterprise-grade AI and ML talent. The platform uses artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithms to match companies with developers who have specific skills.
Hiring process: To hire remote developers with Turing, you’ll first need to schedule a call with them. Then, Turing leverages its Intelligent Talent Cloud: candidates undergo 5+ hours of automated technical assessments. After selecting the candidates you’re most interested in, you’ll schedule interviews with them. Finally, you hire the best technical candidate.
Key features:
- Turing offers a no-risk 2-week trial.
- The platform ensures that developers match your time zone and overlap a minimum of 4 hours with your workday.
- Turing’s workspace tracks your remote developer’s time and facilitates virtual daily stand-ups, providing increased visibility into their work.
Pricing: Turing does not charge upfront costs. However, when it comes to their pricing, they don’t specify on their website. It’s safe to assume a large range of prices, probably more competitive than Toptal.
9. Upwork
Upwork is a popular online platform that connects businesses and individuals with freelancers and remote professionals. The platform allows companies to post job listings or projects, and freelancers can bid on those opportunities. It covers a wide range of categories, including programming, graphic design, writing, and more.
Hiring process: Hiring developers on Upwork uses a bidding system. You start by creating a job post with all the detailed descriptions of the type of developer you’re looking for. Upwork then notifies potential candidates, and if they are interested, they’ll reach out to you and provide samples of their work. You’ll then negotiate the contract and rate. Notice that there is no vetting process. You will have to do it all by yourself. Since there is no technical vetting, you will likely be flooded with dozens of generic, low-quality proposals.
Key features:
- You can post job offers on Upwork for free.
- Upon contract activation, Upwork provides project management tools, including a to-do list, activities tracker, work diary, and time tracker.
- The platform includes a payment system that allows clients to pay freelancers for their work, with Upwork serving as an intermediary for secure transactions.
Pricing: There are 3 memberships you can choose from. The Basic plan is free and allows you to send unlimited proposals and check the freelancer’s work history. The Plus plan costs $49.99 a month and includes tailored search results and other tools (including project tracking tools). The Enterprise plan includes features of the first two plans and also has onboarding tools. This one has to be negotiated with the platform first.
10. Gun.io
Gun.io is a platform that focuses on connecting businesses with onshore freelance software developers. They focus primarily on US-based senior engineers and their quality and expertise for project-based work.
Gun.io feels more like a talent agency. You’ll work with a dedicated Talent Advocate who hand-picks a shortlist. It’s a very high-touch service, but because the community is small and invite-only, it can sometimes take a few extra days to find the perfect match.
Hiring process: The process starts when you sign up on their platform and start building your ideal candidate, being specific about your project’s needs. Next, book a call with the Gun.io team to discuss your main goals and timeline. Most of their talent consists of senior engineers (often 10+ years of experience) based in the United States. Their vetting is heavily peer-led, involving code reviews by other senior engineers on the platform. Within 3-5 business days, you’ll receive potential candidates that match your requirements. And finally, hire the right candidate.
Key features:
- You won’t pay anything until you and your contractor get to work.
- Gun.io offers flexible engagements. From 20 hours a month to 40 hours a week, you can scale up or down as your business changes.
- Gun.io conducts algorithm screening, work history and background checks, and a live technical interview with a senior engineer.
Pricing: There are no standard prices on Gun.io. The platform offers flexible retainers based on your needs, the project, and the developer’s salary expectations. These retainers start at $5,000 (including Gun.io’s fee). You are essentially pre-paying for a block of time or a dedicated percentage of a developer’s capacity. For full-time placements, Gun.io charges a fee of 20% of their negotiated first-year salary at your company.
11.DistantJob: Your Best Toptal Alternative
DistantJob is a remote recruitment and staffing agency that specializes in IT talent. Their goal is to help companies find the right talent that, besides fitting their technical requirements, also matches their company’s core values and culture.
All the aforementioned companies use AI to vet candidates. DistantJob focuses on a human-centric vetting process, with actual senior developers leading the hiring process end-to-end. AI has poor algorithm matches; our recruiters are true battleworn professionals in both recruiting and programming.
We headhunt the best passive candidates, who are also veterans in their home countries’ industry.
Hiring process: DistantJob has a 3-tier vetting process. First, their headhunting team analyzes candidates seeking the exact profiles you need. Then, the evaluation process begins with the recruitment team conducting technical tests (as well as evaluating soft skills, culture fit, and background checks). Finally, candidates are validated by an account manager who will send you the best talents (80% of clients hire from this first batch).
Key features:
- DistantJob’s employment model is centered around assisting businesses in hiring full-time developers and fostering long-term commitments.
- Beyond the initial hiring process, DistantJob goes the extra mile by offering ongoing HR services. This includes support and assistance after the developer is hired.
- DistantJob offers a unique guarantee instead of a traditional trial period, allowing clients to terminate contracts at any time. If a replacement isn’t found, the platform ensures financial fairness by refunding for unworked time.
Pricing: DistantJob uses a transparent recruitment fee that covers all headhunting and vetting. This approach also offers you the flexibility to engage in direct salary negotiations with the chosen developer. Since we aim for global tech talent, we can easily cut your costs in half, as other countries have a lower cost of living. You pay less, they receive more!
Which Toptal Alternatives Are Best For You?
Alternatives to Toptal are great for hiring remote developers at a lower cost without compromising quality. From recruitment agencies that focus on long-term commitments like DistantJob to platforms that are suitable for short-term projects like Upwork, many potential options are perfect for your business needs. Here’s a short recap of all the alternatives:
| Alternative | Best For | Pricing |
| DistantJob | Full-time remote developers and specialized roles. | Companies directly negotiate salaries with candidates. |
| Arc | Freelance software developers. | Rates vary between $60-100+ per hour. |
| BairesDev | Staff augmentation and project outsourcing. | Project-based. |
| CloudDevs | Freelance developers from Europe and Latin America. | Rates vary between $40 to $70 per hour. |
| Gigster | On-demand, cloud-assembled teams. | Custom quotes based on project details. |
| Lemon.io | Freelance developers. | Rates vary from $45 to $80 per hour. |
| Unicorn.dev | Tech talent sourcing platform. | $40 per hour. |
| X-Team | On-demand teams of engineers. | Custom pricing based on the project’s requirements. |
| Turing | AI-driven algorithm for tech roles. | Developers set their own rates. |
| Upwork | Freelancing platform. | Variable, project-based or hourly rates. |
| Gun.io | Freelance network of remote developers. | Rates vary from $75 to $150 per hour. |
What is the main problem with most of these former alternatives? They bring you mercenaries, not missionaries. Your top-tier freelancers will likely have many clients, and if you are not the highest player, your project won’t be their highest priority. This is why it’s better to hire remote workers who cost far less than average and belong in the top 1% of their expertise.
If you’re looking for the top 1% specialized remote developers, partner with us. Our recruitment model focuses on covering all your requirements, from vetting and sourcing to onboarding and helping you with all the HR hassle (including taxes, morale reports, and more).
Our expertise lies in finding remote, highly specialized collaborators who can manage your project and fulfill each of your specific requirements. Ready to elevate your team with the right talent? Let’s talk today!
