Alternatives to Upwork

Upwork ranks #2 on the Top 11 The 11 Best Freelance Platforms for Hiring Talent. Below: the higher-ranked alternatives we’d steer you to instead, by use case.

Verified June 17, 2026. No paid placement — see methodology.

1. #1Toptal

   9.3 / 9.4

   The best for pre-vetted, high-caliber developers, designers, and finance experts.

   Best for: Hiring elite, vetted talent · Pricing: $$$$ (from $80/hr) · www.toptal.com

See the full ranked list: The 11 Best Freelance Platforms for Hiring Talent. Or compare any two: side-by-side.