If you’ve been looking for top-tier freelancers to help scale your business or tackle complex projects, Toptal might have come up in your search.

You’ve probably seen the claims that it only accepts the top 3% of freelance talent. But does that really make it the best platform to find exceptional professionals, or is it just a lot of marketing hype?

In this Toptal review, we'll take a closer look at what makes this platform stand out from the crowd and whether it's worth considering for your next project.

What is Toptal?

Toptal is an exclusive online platform that connects businesses with top freelancers worldwide. What sets Toptal apart from other freelancing platforms is its rigorous screening process. They claim only to accept the top 3% of applicants, ensuring that clients get access to highly skilled professionals.

Unlike other platforms with a more open marketplace, Toptal's rigorous screening process ensures that only the best of the best are accepted into their network.

This screening process involves several stages, including:

• Language and Communication Tests: Toptal freelancers must have excellent English communication skills to work effectively with clients worldwide.
• In-depth Skill Review: Toptal assesses each freelancer's technical skills and expertise in their respective fields through various tests and evaluations.
• Live Screening: Freelancers undergo live video interviews with Toptal's team to evaluate their problem-solving abilities, professionalism, and communication skills.
• Test Projects: In some cases, freelancers may be required to complete test projects to demonstrate their abilities and showcase their work quality.

Toptal offers freelancers in various fields, including software development, design, finance, project management, and more.

The platform caters to companies looking for top talent to work on complex projects, whether short-term or long-term. 

Examples of Toptal's Talent Pool

Toptal’s talent pool includes highly skilled professionals from various fields, all of whom have passed a rigorous screening process.

Here are some examples of the types of experts you can find on the platform:

• Software Developers and Engineers: Toptal has a large pool of skilled software developers and engineers specializing in various programming languages, frameworks, and technologies.
• UI/UX Designers: If you're looking to create a stunning website, mobile app, or digital product, Toptal's UI/UX designers can help bring your vision to life. These designers are skilled in creating user-centered, visually appealing, and intuitive designs that enhance the user experience.
• Finance Experts: Toptal also has a network of finance professionals, including financial analysts, CFOs, and consultants. These experts can help with financial modeling, forecasting, budgeting, and other financial tasks to support your business's growth and success.
• Project Managers: If you need help managing a complex project or coordinating a remote team, Toptal's project managers can step in to ensure smooth communication, timely delivery, and successful outcomes. These professionals are skilled in various project management methodologies and tools.
• Product Managers: Toptal's product managers can help you define your product strategy, prioritize features, and manage the product lifecycle from concept to launch. They have experience working with cross-functional teams and ensuring that products meet both business goals and user needs.

These professionals have been vetted for their technical abilities and soft skills, like communication, problem-solving, and adaptability, making them well-suited for high-stakes projects and fast-paced environments.

Pricing and Fees

When it comes to pricing, Toptal is generally more expensive than other freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.

However, the higher rates reflect the quality of talent you can access through Toptal.

Toptal's pricing model is straightforward:

For businesses (clients), Toptal requires you to make an initial deposit of $500 when starting the hiring process. This deposit is credited towards the first invoice or refunded if the client decides not to proceed with a project.

But unlike some other freelance platforms, Toptal does not charge additional processing fees to clients or take a cut from freelancers' earnings. Instead, Toptal's fee is incorporated into the rate presented to clients.

For the freelancers, Toptal's hourly rates range from $60 to $200+ per hour. For developers specifically, the range is often cited as $60 to $150 per hour. These rates can vary based on factors such as:

• The freelancer's skill level and expertise
• Project requirements
• The geographic location of the talent

For part-time engagements, Toptal's rates generally fall between $1,000 to $2,400+ per week. Full-time remote developer hiring services through Toptal can cost around $2,000 to $4,800+ per week.

However, it's worth noting that Toptal's lack of transparency regarding its exact fee structure has been criticized. Some sources suggest that Toptal may keep a substantial percentage of the client's payment, potentially up to 50% or more.

While Toptal's pricing may be higher than other platforms, many clients find that the quality of talent and the time saved in recruiting and vetting freelancers more than justifies the cost. 

Plus, with Toptal's no-risk trial period, you can work with a freelancer for up to two weeks to ensure they're the right fit before committing to a longer engagement.

Is Toptal Right for You?

Now that you better understand what Toptal offers and how it works, you might be wondering if it's the right choice for your business.

Here are some scenarios where Toptal can be a great fit:

• You Need Top-Tier Talent: If you're working on a complex project that requires specialized skills or expertise, Toptal can connect you with the best freelancers in their respective fields.
• You Want to Save Time on Recruiting: Toptal's rigorous screening process and personalized matching can save you countless hours of sifting through resumes and conducting interviews.
• You Value Quality Over Cost: While Toptal may be more expensive than other platforms, the quality of talent and the level of support you receive can make it a worthwhile investment for your business.
• You Need Flexibility: With Toptal, you can hire freelancers on a project basis or for ongoing work, depending on your needs. This flexibility can be especially valuable for businesses with fluctuating workloads or short-term projects.

However, Toptal may not be the best choice if you're working with a tight budget or need to hire many freelancers quickly. In those cases, platforms like Upwork or Fiverr might be more suitable.

My Personal Experience with Toptal

As a freelancer, I've had the opportunity to work with Toptal and experience firsthand what it's like to be part of their network.

Here's what I've found:

• Smooth Onboarding Process: When I first joined Toptal, their team provided comprehensive guidance on navigating the platform effectively. They walked me through setting up my profile, showcasing my skills and experience, and understanding the best practices for working with clients. This support made it easy for me to get started and feel confident in my ability to succeed on the platform.
• High-Quality Clients: One of the standout features of Toptal is the caliber of clients you can work with. I've collaborated with companies ranging from innovative startups to established Fortune 500 corporations. These clients come to Toptal with exciting, challenging projects that allow me to stretch my skills and grow professionally. Plus, the competitive rates offered through Toptal ensure I'm fairly compensated for my expertise.
• Reliable Payments: As a freelancer, one of the most important aspects of any platform is the reliability of payments. With Toptal, I never worry about chasing down invoices or following up on late payments. The platform handles all the invoicing and billing on my behalf, ensuring I receive timely work payments. This allows me to focus on delivering high-quality results to my clients.
• Supportive Community: Beyond the direct work with clients, Toptal has cultivated a global community of top-tier freelancers across various fields. This network provides an invaluable resource for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and professional growth. 

Pros and Cons of Toptal

While Toptal offers a range of benefits for businesses seeking top-tier freelance talent, it's important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding if it's the right platform for your needs.

Pros of Toptal

• Access to a Highly Skilled, Pre-Vetted Talent Pool: Toptal's rigorous screening process ensures you have access to the top 3% of freelancers in their respective fields. This can save you significant time and effort finding the right talent for your project.
• Risk-Free Trial: Toptal offers a risk-free trial period for clients. If you’re not satisfied with the freelancer’s performance during the initial days of the project, you can request a replacement or receive a refund for the time spent.
• Wide Range of Expertise: Toptal covers a variety of fields, including software development, design, finance, project management, and business consulting. This makes it a versatile platform for businesses with diverse needs.
• Long-Term Projects: Toptal is ideal for businesses looking for long-term, high-impact collaborations. Many of the freelancers on Toptal are open to extended projects, making it easier to build ongoing working relationships.

Cons of Toptal

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:

• Higher Rates Compared to Other Freelance Platforms: Due to the high caliber of talent on Toptal, hourly rates tend to be higher than on other platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. While the quality of work and time saved in recruiting may justify the cost, it's important to ensure that Toptal's pricing aligns with your budget and project needs.
• Limited Access to Lower-Priced Talent: If you’re looking for freelancers to work on less specialized or more routine tasks, Toptal might not be the best fit. The platform focuses on high-end talent, so you may not find affordable options for smaller or simpler projects.
• Initial Deposit Required: To start working with a freelancer on Toptal, you'll need to make an initial deposit of $500. While this deposit is refundable if you're unsatisfied with the freelancer's work, it may be a barrier for some businesses, particularly those with smaller budgets or shorter-term projects.
• Focus on High-Level Roles: Toptal’s focus is on experienced, highly skilled professionals, so if you’re looking for junior-level freelancers or those with basic skills, you won’t find many options on the platform.

How Does Toptal Work?

Toptal's process is designed to make hiring top-tier freelancers as seamless as possible.

When you're ready to start a project, this is how Toptal works:

1. Client Engagement

Businesses begin by submitting a detailed job description to Toptal, specifying the skills and expertise required for their project.

Toptal's team of industry experts reviews the project details and may contact the client to gain a deeper understanding of the project's objectives and requirements.

2. Talent Matching

Based on the client's needs, Toptal's matching team identifies suitable candidates from their network of vetted professionals. Clients are typically presented with a shortlist of candidates within 24 to 48 hours.

Clients will then be able to interview the selected candidates to assess their fit for the project.

You can review their profiles, portfolios, and client feedback to understand their capabilities and experience. This allows you to assess their communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and overall compatibility with your team and project needs.

3. Trial Period

Once you select a candidate is selected, Toptal facilitates a trial period, allowing the client to evaluate the freelancer's performance and compatibility with the team.

If the client is unsatisfied during this period, they can request a replacement or discontinue the engagement without incurring additional fees.

4. Project Execution

Upon successful trial completion, the freelancer integrates into the client's team, working remotely or on-site as required.

Toptal provides ongoing support throughout the engagement, ensuring smooth communication, timely deliverables, and reliable payments. You'll be able to track your freelancer's progress, provide feedback, and collaborate closely to ensure the project stays on track and meets your expectations.

Is Toptal Good for Freelancers?

Toptal can be a great platform for freelancers, but whether it's a good fit depends on your skills, goals, and preferences.

Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons of using Toptal from a freelancer's perspective:

Pros of Toptal for Freelancers

1. Access to High-Quality Projects: Toptal connects freelancers with top-tier companies that need highly skilled professionals. If you’re an expert in your field, you’ll have the chance to work on exciting, high-impact projects for big brands and startups. These opportunities are more complex and rewarding than what you might find on other freelance platforms.
2. Competitive Pay: Since Toptal focuses on the top 3% of freelancers, the pay rates tend to be higher than those on many other freelancing platforms. Toptal freelancers typically command premium rates, which can be significantly higher than what you'd earn on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
3. Selective Platform, Less Competition: Toptal’s rigorous screening process means that only the top 3% of applicants are accepted, which leads to less competition for projects. If you pass the screening process, you’re entering a space where you're competing with fewer, highly qualified freelancers, increasing your chances of landing great projects.
4. Long-Term and High-Quality Client Relationships: Toptal often connects freelancers with long-term projects and ongoing relationships with clients. This can provide job stability and the opportunity to build lasting business connections, which is more difficult to achieve on platforms where freelancers are constantly bidding for new short-term work.
5. Global Network: Toptal's network spans over 100 countries, giving you the opportunity to work with clients and teams from diverse industries and locations. This can help broaden your experience and give you the chance to work on projects that you may not otherwise encounter.
6. Support and Resources: Toptal provides strong administrative support, including handling payments, invoicing, and contracts. This allows freelancers to focus more on their work rather than worrying about business operations.

Cons of Toptal for Freelancers:

1. Strict and Competitive Application Process: One of the biggest challenges for freelancers is the application process itself. Toptal's vetting is extremely thorough, including skill assessments, technical tests, live interviews, and test projects. Only the top 3% of applicants are accepted, which means that not everyone will make it through.
2. High Service Fees: Toptal takes a commission on the freelancer’s earnings, typically between 10% and 20%. While this is a standard fee across many freelance platforms, it can still feel steep for those who are used to platforms with lower or no fees.
3. Focus on High-Level Expertise: Toptal is designed for freelancers with advanced, specialized skills. If you’re just starting out in your career or don’t have expertise in a highly sought-after field (like software development or high-level design), you might find it harder to qualify or succeed on the platform.
4. Time Commitment for Application: The application process can be time-consuming. You need to complete multiple tests and go through extensive interviews, which can take days or even weeks. For freelancers looking for a quicker route to start earning, Toptal’s onboarding process may feel like a hurdle.
5. Pressure to Perform at a High Standard: Since Toptal caters to elite clients, there is often pressure to deliver top-quality work on every project. This can be stressful for some freelancers, especially if you're not used to working on high-stakes, complex projects.
6. Limited to Top-Tier Freelancers: If you’re not an expert in your field or you’re just starting out, Toptal might not be the best platform for you. The platform only accepts the best of the best, so beginners or those with less experience may find better opportunities elsewhere.

How to Get Accepted on Toptal as a Freelancer

Joining Toptal as a freelancer can open doors to exciting projects and high-quality clients, but the application process is competitive. 

To increase your chances of being accepted, focus on presenting your skills and experience in the best possible light.

• Curate an Impressive Portfolio: Your portfolio is your chance to showcase your top work and demonstrate your expertise. Choose projects that highlight your unique skills and the value you bring to clients. Include detailed case studies that explain your role, the challenges you faced, and the results you achieved.
• Refine Your Communication Skills: Toptal places a strong emphasis on clear, professional communication. You'll need to demonstrate excellent English language skills throughout the screening process, so take the time to practice your written and verbal communication. Consider taking an English proficiency test like the TOEFL or IELTS to validate your language abilities.
• Research the Screening Process: Familiarize yourself with Toptal's multi-stage screening process, which includes language tests, skills assessments, live interviews, and sometimes test projects. Understand what's expected at each stage and allocate sufficient time to prepare. Reach out to current Toptal freelancers for insights and advice on navigating the process successfully.
• Highlight Your Problem-Solving Abilities: Toptal values freelancers who can think critically and tackle complex challenges. During the screening process, be prepared to discuss how you approach problem-solving and provide examples of how you've overcome obstacles in your past projects. Emphasize your ability to break down complex issues, think creatively, and deliver effective solutions.
• Demonstrate Professionalism and Reliability: Toptal looks for freelancers who embody professionalism and reliability. Throughout your interactions with the Toptal team and potential clients, be responsive, communicative, and proactive. Show that you're committed to delivering high-quality work, meeting deadlines, and maintaining open lines of communication. Emphasize your ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with remote teams.

Tips for Making the Most of Toptal as a Client

If you're a business looking to hire top-tier talent through Toptal, here are some practical tips to help you make the most of the platform:

1. Be Clear About Your Needs

Before submitting a job request, make sure you have a clear understanding of what you need.

A detailed project description will help Toptal match you with the best talent. Include specifics like the required skills, the scope of the project, the timeline, and any other relevant details.

2. Use the Risk-Free Trial Wisely

Toptal offers a risk-free trial period to assess a freelancer’s fit for your project. Use this time to evaluate the freelancer’s technical skills, communication, work ethic, and compatibility with your team.

If the freelancer isn't the right fit, be transparent about the reasons why. This allows you to request a replacement and ensures you get someone who better meets your needs.

3. Communicate Effectively

Whether you're working with a freelancer remotely or onsite, establish how often and how you expect to communicate (e.g., via email, Slack, or video calls). Consistent and clear communication is key to a successful collaboration.

Stay involved by checking in regularly to ensure everything is progressing as expected. Toptal freelancers typically have great autonomy, but regular touchpoints will keep the project on track.

4. Build a Strong Working Relationship

Even though they may be working remotely or part-time, freelancers are valuable contributors to your team. Treat them with respect, involve them in team discussions, and provide feedback that helps them grow.

If you find a freelancer who consistently delivers high-quality work, consider building a long-term relationship. Toptal freelancers often work on extended contracts, and maintaining continuity with a trusted freelancer can improve project outcomes.

5. Be Realistic About Costs

Toptal connects you with the top 3% of talent, so expect to pay premium rates. While the costs are higher than many other platforms, the expertise and quality you receive can be worth the investment. Be realistic about what you can afford, and plan your budget accordingly.

6. Leverage Toptal’s Support

Toptal offers client support to help you find the best-fit freelancer for your project. If you’re unsure about the skills you need or need advice on how to structure your project, don’t hesitate to reach out to Toptal’s support team for guidance.

7. Review Freelancers Thoroughly

While Toptal ensures all freelancers are highly skilled, it's always a good idea to review a freelancer’s past work and read any client reviews or feedback they may have. This will give you more insight into their capabilities and style.

Also, after the project is completed, leave feedback for the freelancer. Toptal values client reviews, and it can help future clients make informed decisions. Plus, constructive feedback is valuable for freelancers who are always looking to improve.

Comparing Toptal to Other Freelance Platforms

When considering Toptal for your freelance needs, it's natural to wonder how it stacks up against other popular platforms like Upwork and Fiverr.

While all three platforms connect businesses with freelancers, there are some key differences to keep in mind.

• Talent Pool: Toptal's rigorous screening process means you'll have access to a smaller but highly skilled pool of freelancers. On the other hand, Upwork has a larger and more diverse talent pool, with freelancers of varying skill levels and experience. Fiverr is known for its wide range of creative professionals, but the platform is geared more towards smaller, one-off projects.
• Pricing: Due to the caliber of talent on Toptal, you can expect to pay higher rates compared to Upwork and Fiverr. However, the quality of work and time saved in recruiting may justify the cost for businesses seeking top-tier freelancers. Upwork's pricing varies widely depending on the freelancer's skill level and experience, while Fiverr offers a range of price points for different project scopes.
• Matching Process: Toptal offers a personalized matching process with a dedicated team that works to understand your project needs and connect you with the most suitable freelancers. Upwork's matching process is more self-directed, with businesses searching for and contacting freelancers directly. Fiverr's platform is geared towards browsing and purchasing pre-defined services, or "gigs," offered by freelancers.
• Project Scope: Toptal suits businesses seeking high-quality freelancers for long-term projects or ongoing work. Upwork caters to a wider range of project scopes, from short-term tasks to complex, long-term engagements. Fiverr is ideal for smaller, one-off projects that require specific creative skills, such as logo design or video editing.
• Support and Resources: Toptal provides extensive support and resources for both clients and freelancers, including dedicated account managers, collaboration tools, and a knowledge base. Upwork offers dispute resolution services and a range of tools for managing projects and payments. Fiverr provides a resolution center for handling disputes and a blog with resources for buyers and sellers.

Ultimately, the choice between Toptal, Upwork, and Fiverr depends on your specific project needs, budget, and preferences. If you're looking for top-tier talent and are willing to invest in high-quality work, Toptal may be the best fit.

If you need a wider range of skills and price points, or if you're looking to hire for a shorter-term project, Upwork or Fiverr may be more suitable.

Is Toptal Worth It?

For businesses seeking top-tier freelance talent, Toptal's higher rates and rigorous screening process may be a worthwhile investment.

The platform's personalized matching, dedicated support, and no-risk trial period can provide peace of mind and help ensure project success.

Here's a breakdown of when Toptal can be worth the investment:

• Quality Over Cost: While Toptal's rates may be higher than other platforms, the caliber of talent and the time saved in recruiting and vetting freelancers can justify the expense for businesses prioritizing high-quality work.
• Comprehensive Support: Toptal's extensive resources and dedicated account managers can help you navigate the platform, manage your project, and foster a productive relationship with your freelancer, increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome.
• No-Risk Trial: The two-week trial period allows you to assess your freelancer's fit and performance before committing to a longer engagement, minimizing the risk of investing in an unsuitable match.

However, Toptal may not be the best choice for businesses with smaller budgets or less complex projects. In these cases, platforms like Upwork or Fiverr may offer better value and a wider range of price points.

Ultimately, whether Toptal is worth it depends on your specific needs, budget, and project requirements. If you value top-tier talent, personalized service, and are willing to invest in high-quality work, Toptal can be a valuable partner in achieving your goals.

Final Thoughts

Toptal is undoubtedly a solid choice for businesses seeking high-level freelance talent. Its rigorous vetting process guarantees access to elite professionals across various fields, such as software development, design, and finance.

Toptal offers a comprehensive platform paired with personalized matching and risk-free trial for companies looking for highly skilled experts for specific projects.

However, while Toptal connects you with top-tier talent, some limitations may make Pi Tech a more compelling option, especially if you're tackling complex, high-stakes projects or looking for long-term solutions.

Why Pi Tech is a Better Choice

At Pi Tech, you’re not just hiring a freelancer—you’re gaining a true partner. With over 30 years of experience and a proven track record of helping clients secure over $160M in funding, Pi Tech is trusted by industry leaders for solving tough challenges in industries like healthcare, wearables, and medical devices.

Unlike Toptal, where you might still face micromanagement and a reliance on project-based collaboration, Pi Tech allows you to delegate entire projects, knowing they will be delivered on time, on budget, and without constant oversight.

Pi Tech’s Specless Engineering methodology enables a more efficient, flexible approach to software development. While Toptal may ask for exact specs upfront, Pi Tech focuses on achieving your goals, not just following a checklist. 

Our senior developers, who bring both technical expertise and innovative ideas, don’t just build what you ask for—they build what you actually need, giving your project a level of insight and creativity that standard platforms often miss.

With Pi Tech, you can avoid common pitfalls like costly delays, lack of communication, and inconsistent quality that frequently happen when working with traditional outsourcing firms. Our approach to end-to-end project management eliminates the need for additional hires or oversight.

Whether you’re launching a custom healthcare solution or building an AI-powered predictive analytics platform, Pi Tech's focus on industry expertise, including healthcare, predictive analytics, and digital health platforms, ensures your project is in the hands of experts who can deliver solutions that make a lasting impact. 

From regulatory compliance to cutting-edge digital health tools, Pi Tech provides the support and expertise that helps you stay ahead of the competition.

If you want more than just a freelance hire and need a dedicated team that adapts to your vision and accelerates your success, Pi Tech offers the comprehensive support you need—no micromanaging required.

Get in touch with Pi Tech today to start turning your toughest challenges into breakthrough results.