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Toptal connects businesses with top freelancers, but it may not be the ideal choice for everyone. Due to high vetting costs, limited talent in specific fields, and a rigid pricing structure, many agencies and startups look for Toptal alternatives for marketing, design, and development roles.
This guide outlines various platforms for talent recruitment, emphasizing quick hiring, cost-effectiveness, and offshore talent from Latin America.
Why Look for Toptal Alternatives?
Marketing agencies face various challenges with Toptal, including high rates that cut into profits, a limited pool of specialized marketers, and a slow vetting process. Competitors, on the other hand, offer faster hires, local talent, and more transparent pricing, resulting in agencies seeking scalable hiring options that balance expertise, cost, and speed.
When to Consider Competitor Platforms
You can consider new alternatives if Toptal's pricing exceeds your budget, if they lack the specific skills you need, or if time zone compatibility is a priority. Generally, nearshore platforms from LATAM provide similar quality at 40–60% lower costs.
At the same time, Toptal is well-suited for high-stakes technical projects; other options may be more ideal for ongoing marketing, content creation, or design tasks that require frequent communication.
Best Toptal Alternatives for Marketing and Design Talent
Marketing agencies require platforms that swiftly provide quality specialized talent. The alternatives to Toptal for marketing in this list prioritize creative professionals, growth marketers, and hire marketing talent adept at campaign execution and maintaining brand consistency.
1. Floowi
Floowi connects U.S. marketing agencies with full-time, vetted professionals from Latin America, offering dedicated team members, social media managers, content creators, paid media experts, and hire designers in LATAM fluent in English and with a deep understanding of the U.S. market.
Pros:
- Pre-screened LATAM talent with 1–3 hour time zone overlap.
- Hiring can be completed in 9–15 days.
- Cost savings of 40–60% compared to U.S. prices.
- Full-time dedicated team members.
- They manage the entire payroll, compliance, and onboarding assistance.
Cons:
- They exclusively focus on the LATAM region.
- Ideal for ongoing requirements rather than one-off projects.
- Smaller talent pool compared to global platforms.
Floowi is the most effective option for agencies looking to establish firm remote teams without the additional costs associated with traditional hiring.
2. MarketerHire
MarketerHire connects companies with experienced marketing freelancers who specialize in growth marketing, demand generation, and paid acquisition. They usually conduct interviews by assessing candidates' portfolio assessments and skill tests.
Pros:
- They only focus on marketing positions
- Quick matching process (48–72 hours)
- Flexible engagement options (part-time or full-time)
- Robust network of marketers based in the U.S.
- Trial periods are offered before committing to a long-term commitment.
Cons:
- Higher fees compared to nearshore alternatives ($100–$200/hour)
- Limited options for junior or mid-level positions
- The U.S.-centric talent pool may not align with all financial plans
MarketerHire is ideal for agencies seeking strategic marketing expertise for targeted campaigns or product launches.
3. Growtal
Growtal provides on-demand marketing teams that only focus on SaaS companies and startups. The platform typically assembles small teams of content creators, SEO specialists, and designers to collaborate on developing growth strategies, rather than working independently.
Pros:
- A team-oriented strategy for cohesive campaigns.
- Proficiency in SaaS and B2B marketing.
- A monthly subscription structure with set costs.
- Personalized account management.
- Rapid onboarding period (1–2 weeks).
Cons:
- They only focus on growth marketing.
- Not suited for agencies prioritizing brand or creative elements.
- Requires a higher minimum monthly investment than freelance platforms.
Growtal is ideal for agencies that manage SaaS clients needing unified growth teams. Their subscription model works well when marketing demands are consistent from month to month.
4. 99designs
99designs is a platform for design contests where multiple designers submit ideas based on a provided brief, leading to clients reviewing the submissions and then selecting winners.
Pros:
- A variety of design alternatives from a single brief.
- Fixed pricing for projects with transparent budgets.
- Quick initial concept turnaround time (3 to 7 days).
- An extensive network of designers from around the globe.
- A money-back guarantee is provided if clients are not satisfied.
Cons:
- The contest format is not ideal for ongoing design requirements.
- The quality of submissions can differ significantly.
- Limited cooperation during the design process.
- Not suitable for intricate projects requiring multiple revisions.
99designs is suitable for agencies seeking quick visual concepts or client presentations; however, the platform doesn't work well with projects that require a deep understanding of the brand or multiple rounds of revisions.
5. Designhill
Designhill offers contest-based design options and the option to hire freelance designers directly. The platform specializes in logo design, website creation, and marketing materials, catering to small businesses and startups.
Pros:
- Two options available: contests or direct hiring of freelancers
- Affordable pricing for basic design services
- A rapid turnaround on standard projects
- AI-assisted design tools for straightforward tasks
- Worldwide network of designers
Cons:
- Quality may vary among designers
- More suitable for simple tasks rather than intricate branding
- Limited assistance for strategic design projects
- Communication with international freelancers can be slow
Designhill is helpful for agencies managing clients on tight budgets that require practical design solutions instead of high-end creative ones.
6. Crowdspring
Crowdspring combines design contests driven by the community with professionally managed creative services. This platform handles branding tasks, product development, and marketing materials through community contests or networks of vetted designers.
Pros:
- A combination of contest and managed service choices
- Particularly strong for naming, branding, and identity projects
- Clear deliverables with fixed-price packages
- Knowledgeable project managers facilitate the process
- Varied creative styles from talent around the world
Cons:
- The contest approach restricts ongoing collaboration
- Pricing is higher compared to purely freelance platforms
- Not suitable for agencies that require in-house team integration
- Longer timelines for managed services
Crowdspring is ideal for agencies involved in rebranding or launching new products, where exploring various creative options is advantageous.
Best Toptal Alternatives for Developers
Tech agencies and startups are constantly looking for alternatives to Toptal when they need to expand their development capabilities or reduce costs quickly.
These competing platforms focus on offering qualified engineers, flexible contracts, and faster onboarding processes, all while maintaining high-quality standards.
7. Arc.dev
Arc.dev connects businesses with pre-screened software developers and remote engineers from around the world. This platform is known for its comprehensive vetting process and a transparent hiring experience.
Pros:
- Their intensive screening guarantees access to the top 2.3% of talent worldwide.
- Some developers are available for both short-term projects and full-time positions.
- Quick matching is typically completed within 72 hours.
- Focus on remote teamwork and compatibility across time zones.
Cons:
- Pricing is similar to Toptal's premium rates.
- Options for specialized programming languages are limited.
- The primary focus is on developers, with no offerings for marketing or design experts.
Arc.dev is the best option for teams seeking exceptional engineers, offering a similar vetting process and faster onboarding compared to Toptal.
8. Gun.io
Gun.io specializes in connecting experienced developers located in the U.S. with growing startups and enterprise clients. The platform prioritizes reliability and cultivating long-term relationships over short-term freelance gigs.
Pros:
- All developers are U.S.-based and thoroughly pre-screened.
- Dedicated account managers oversee projects.
- They offer flexible contracts, either hourly or full-time.
- Both transparent pricing and prompt communication are provided.
Cons:
- Higher costs compared to offshore alternatives.
- Smaller candidate pool than global competitors.
- Not ideal for agencies looking for nearshore LATAM teams.
Gun.io is ideal for companies that value close collaboration and alignment with U.S. time zones over cost efficiency.
9. Lemon.io
Lemon.io connects startups and small businesses with vetted developers from Eastern Europe. The platform focuses on matching clients with developers in under 48 hours while maintaining affordable prices and high-quality standards.
Pros:
- Rapid matching within 24–48 hours.
- Developers primarily hailing from Eastern Europe.
- More cost-effective than Toptal (30–50% less expensive).
- Transparent hourly pricing and easy onboarding process.
Cons:
- A smaller talent pool compared to Toptal or Arc.dev.
- Limited expertise outside of web and app development.
- Not ideal for agencies seeking integrated creative or marketing roles.
Lemon.io is highly effective for startups seeking affordable offshore development teams while maintaining quality and speed.
10. Turing
Turing connects companies with remote developers working full-time worldwide, using AI to match applicants based on their skills, availability, and time zone overlap.
Pros:
- AI-powered matching guarantees relevance in skills.
- A vast international pool of developers is available.
- There is a strong emphasis on full-time remote positions.
- The rate structure is transparent, along with performance monitoring.
Cons:
- A minimum commitment period is necessary.
- Onboarding may take longer for specialized skill sets.
- There is limited flexibility for short-term or project-specific tasks.
Turing is an excellent option for agencies aiming to build long-term offshore development teams that require consistent collaboration and reliable processes.
11. X-Team
X-Team connects businesses with dedicated, long-term developers who work as part of global, full-time teams. The platform emphasizes community, productivity, and ongoing engagement.
Pros:
- Developers engage in long-term contracts.
- Emphasis on productivity and lifelong learning.
- A strong team culture and community support.
- Options that accommodate time zones for both the U.S. and Europe.
Cons:
- More costly than freelance marketplaces.
- Reduced flexibility for one-off or short-term assignments.
- Limited selection for non-development positions.
X-Team is ideal for companies looking for alternatives to Toptal that prioritize building stable, dedicated engineering teams over relying on one-time freelancers.
Best Platforms for Finance and All-in-One Freelance Talent
Some agencies and startups are exploring Toptal alternatives that provide finance experts and a broader selection of freelance opportunities beyond technology and marketing.
These platforms offer hiring for positions in accounting, operations, and administration while still allowing for flexibility and effective budget management.
12. Paro
Paro connects businesses with vetted finance professionals like accountants, CFOs, and financial analysts. It is recognized as a leading alternative to Toptal for finance expertise in the U.S.
Pros:
- Financial experts are pre-screened with verified credentials.
- Offers flexible options for project-based or ongoing engagements.
- Provides support for bookkeeping, financial planning, analysis, and CFO services.
- Professionals based in the U.S. demonstrate strong communication abilities.
Cons:
- Rates are higher compared to offshore talent.
- The network is smaller outside of the finance and accounting fields.
- Onboarding for senior positions can take longer.
Paro is ideal for agencies or startups that need specialized financial advice without hiring a full-time executive.
13. 1840 & Company
1840 & Company offers comprehensive outsourcing solutions in sales, finance, customer service, and marketing. The platform connects clients with offshore and nearshore teams in over 150 countries, including those in Latin America.
Pros:
- Extensive service range: covering finance, marketing, and operations.
- Availability of nearshore LATAM teams with overlapping working hours.
- Managed service framework with dedicated account management.
- Flexible hiring options from individual freelancers to complete teams.
Cons:
- Less ideal for one-off freelance assignments.
- A minimum monthly expenditure is required for managed services.
- Limited options for self-service hiring.
1840 & Company is most effective for agencies looking to build remote teams with reliable oversight and predictable costs.
Bonus: Upwork
Upwork is the largest global platform for freelancers, offering professionals from various industries and skill levels. It is recognized as one of the most adaptable competitors to Toptal, particularly in terms of quickly hiring freelancers.
Pros:
- Numerous freelancers are available across a wide range of categories.
- Flexible pricing suitable for any budget.
- Simple process for posting jobs and hiring.
- Integrated tools for payment and time tracking.
Cons:
- The quality of work can vary significantly among freelancers.
- A significant amount of time may be required to evaluate candidates.
- The vetting process is less thorough compared to Toptal or Paro.
Upwork helps companies assess various freelancers and build diverse offshore teams under tight deadlines.
Bonus: Fiverr
Fiverr allows clients to hire freelancers for fixed-price projects through "gigs." It offers quick turnaround and transparent pricing for small creative, marketing, and development tasks.
Pros:
- Definite, fixed rates that eliminate the need for negotiation.
- Rapid completion of small assignments.
- A vast international pool of freelancers.
- Beneficial for straightforward, repetitive activities.
Cons:
- Limited communication before placing an order.
- Quality and dependability can fluctuate significantly.
- Not suitable for intricate or extended projects.
Fiverr is perfect for small agencies or startups seeking fast, budget-friendly options to Toptal for specific design or content needs.
Bonus: Guru
Guru emphasizes the importance of fostering long-term professional relationships between freelancers and clients, providing a more structured hiring process compared to broader marketplaces.
Pros:
- Clear work agreements and milestone tracking.
- Reduced service fees compared to Upwork.
- A wide-ranging pool of global talent.
- Ideal for ongoing collaboration.
Cons:
- A smaller user base than Upwork or Fiverr.
- Limited support for thorough vetting processes.
- Less exposure for specialized experts.
Guru is ideal for agencies seeking ongoing partnerships with reliable freelancers while keeping costs predictable.
Bonus: PeoplePerHour
PeoplePerHour connects small businesses with freelancers specializing in design, development, and marketing. It provides both hourly and fixed-price solutions with fast matching.
Pros:
- Rapid posting of projects and swift responses from freelancers.
- A good balance between cost-effectiveness and quality.
- Resources for tracking hours and deliverables.
- Open client reviews and profiles.
Cons:
- It has a more limited global reach compared to larger platforms.
- Reduced customer support for lower-tier plans.
- Quality can differ by region and the scope of the project.
PeoplePerHour is a versatile alternative to Toptal for short-term creative and technical tasks, making it ideal for smaller agencies and startups.
Feature Comparison: Toptal vs Its Competitors
When considering alternatives to Toptal, prioritize factors such as budget, time zone alignment, and specialized skills. The table below compares key platforms, highlighting their strengths, vetting processes, and pricing structures.
How to Choose the Right Toptal Alternative
Choosing the right Toptal alternative depends on the specifics of your project, your budget, and how much control you want over the hiring process. Each platform offers unique advantages, including access to creative marketing professionals, technical developers, and finance specialists.
If your focus is on marketing or design, Floowi and MarketerHire stand out as the best choices. Their managed approach and bilingual creative professionals allow agencies to operate efficiently, ensuring cultural alignment and clear communication.
Here are several essential points to consider when making your selection:
- Prioritize talent by selecting a platform tailored to your industry, such as marketing, design, development, or finance, to ensure better hires.
- Cost structure: Contemplate hourly or monthly fees and explore nearshore options in LATAM for better value and time zone alignment.
- Hiring speed is essential: For quick access to talent, choose platforms that provide fast matching and have pre-screened candidates.
Taking these elements into account will help you harmonize quality, cost, and communication as you build a trustworthy remote team.
Looking to build a marketing or design team in LATAM? Floowi makes it easy to hire vetted, bilingual professionals who align with your brand’s goals and time zone.
FAQs About Sites Like Toptal
Which Toptal Alternatives Specialize in Marketing and Design?
Floowi and MarketerHire specialize in marketing and design talent. Both companies offer pre-screened creatives skilled in managing branding, content, and digital marketing campaigns.
What Is the Best Toptal Alternative for Startups or Agencies?
Floowi is ideal for startups and agencies seeking nearshore teams in LATAM. MarketerHire is also well-suited for temporary marketing projects.
What Is the Alternative to Toptal?
Options include Floowi, Lemon.io, Arc.dev, and 1840 & Company, all offering qualified experts across various industries.
Is Toptal Legit or Fake?
Toptal is a reputable platform known for its strict selection process and premium pricing. It primarily serves large corporations and enterprise clients.
How Much Do You Make on Toptal?
Income levels vary based on position and skill set. Most freelancers charge above-average rates, although competition and vetting processes can be stringent.
What Are the Main Differences Between Toptal and Its Alternatives?
Toptal has a rigorous screening process, charges higher fees, and focuses on enterprise clients. In contrast, alternatives typically offer faster hiring processes, more flexible pricing, and a broader range of specialized talent.
Which Toptal Alternative Is the Most Affordable?
Nearshore LATAM platforms like Floowi often offer the lowest rates without sacrificing quality. Additionally, freelance marketplaces can be cost-effective alternatives for short-term projects.
Which Toptal Alternatives Focus On Latin American Talent?
Floowi, Growtal, and various freelance platforms that focus on Latin America aim to highlight Latin American talent, facilitate nearshore collaboration, and offer cost benefits.
