Upwork is a better choice for businesses seeking a wide range of freelancers and flexible pricing options. Toptal is more suitable for those needing top-tier talent and are willing to pay a premium for it, accepting less flexibility in contract options.
| Attribute | Upwork | Toptal |
|---|---|---|
| Freelancer Skill Level | Thorough screening process to evaluate technical expertise and soft skills. Algorithm recommends profiles based on client requirements. | Connects clients with the top 3% of freelance talent, focusing on experienced experts. |
| Pricing Structure (hourly, fixed) | Freelancers: Service fee ranging from 0% to over 15%. Clients: Marketplace fee. Marketplace plan: 5% service fee (3% for eligible ACH). Business Plus plan: 10% service fee (8% for eligible ACH). Enterprise plans: Custom pricing. | $79 monthly subscription fee; Freelancer rates range from $60 to $200+ per hour; Undisclosed markup on freelancer rates, potentially up to 50%; Flexible hiring options: hourly, part-time, and full-time engagements. |
| Project Management Tools | Tools to assist in managing time and tasks. Work Diary tool for tracking progress. Facilitates project management through scopes of work and timelines. Aids communication between clients and freelancers. | Offers project management tools; Integrates with Jira, Asana, and Slack. |
| Payment Security and Escrow | Guaranteed payment protection. Escrow for fixed-price jobs until completion. Hourly Payment Protection via Upwork Desktop App. Funds released automatically after 14 days if no client response. | Offers a 'no-risk trial period'; Handles payments. |
| Communication Channels | Text-based messages, file sharing, automated interview scheduling. Video/voice calls via Upwork, Zoom, or internet phone. Chat and negotiation through messaging system. | Slack channels; Platform for communicating with clients. |
| Dispute Resolution Process | Encourages direct communication. Freelancers can dispute fixed-price contracts. Disputes must be filed within seven days. Mediation process with an Upwork specialist. | Not available |
| Freelancer Screening Process | Candidates can add cover letters and answer screening questions. Screening questions assess attention to detail. Algorithm matches profiles to client requirements. | Designed to measure subject matter expertise, professionalism, and communication skills; Takes 3-8 weeks to complete; Includes language and personality assessment, in-depth skill review, live screening, and test projects. |
| Client Support Quality | Customer support to maintain the platform and manage transactions. Mediation assistance available. | Provides ongoing support throughout the project lifecycle. |
| Variety of Freelance Categories | Wide range of categories including web design, software development, customer service, accounting, AI & Machine Learning, Data Science & Analytics, and Web, Mobile, & Software Development. | Software development, design, finance, product management, project management, and marketing. |
| Time Tracking Features | Time Tracker for logging hours and maintaining transparency. Easy start/stop, detailed memos, project labels, and editable entries. Accurately tracks hours and captures screenshots every 10 minutes. | TopTracker (free time tracking software); Timed screenshots, activity level tracking, project creation, and productivity reports; Integrations with Hubstaff. |
| Mobile App Availability | Available for iOS and Android. Free to download and use. Allows managing nearly all tasks from devices. | TopTracker has desktop apps for Windows and Mac. |
| Contract Options and Flexibility | Hourly contracts for flexible projects. Fixed-price contracts with optional milestones for clearly scoped work. | Requires clients to hire freelancers on a weekly basis for either 20 or 40 hours; Offers flexible engagements: hourly, part-time, full-time, and project-based. |