10 Best Andela Alternatives for Scalable Remote Tech Hiring

When clients search for Andela alternatives, they often see problems like long interviews, middleman costs, and lack of control over developers.

Because of this, clients look to platforms offering clearer pricing, faster hiring, task-based payments, or direct access to talent including AiDOOS, Toptal, Gun.io, Fiverr Pro, and Lemon.io.

In the next section, we'll compare these alternatives based on what matters most to clients: hiring speed, cost transparency, and control over development projects.

Top 10 Andela Alternatives - Overview

Here’s an overview of top 10 Andela alternatives:

When clients look for Andela alternatives, they often find problems like long hiring steps, cuts in developer pay, and lack of control over talent. 

One Reddit user described the process as:

“I saw my profile on their platform and it was full of lies, they took my info from LinkedIn and built a similar profile but added more experience than I had, instead of 4-5 years they added 7 to 9 in X framework and other stuff.” https://www.reddit.com/r/programming/comments/10dqxpy/anyone_try_to_go_through_andela_to_get_a_job_what/

Another said:

“Andela is basically a matching agency that takes a disproportionately large cut of the salary and gives next to nothing back.” https://www.reddit.com/r/Kenya/comments/upci5i/andela_in_2022_is_it_worth_it/ 

Because of these issues, clients are turning to platforms that offer faster hiring, clear pricing, task-based work, or direct access to developers, including AiDOOS, Lemon.io, Toptal, Gun.io, and Upwork.

Here are 10 best Andela alternatives for tech talent:

1. AiDOOS

AiDOOS is a platform that helps businesses complete tech projects without hiring full-time staff. 

It uses a model called the Virtual Delivery Center (VDC), where AiDOOS builds and manages a team for you, handles tasks, and ensures the project is finished on time. 

This makes it different from platforms where you have to find and manage freelancers yourself.

It focuses on outcomes rather than hours, which helps everyone stay on the same goal.

• Best For: Companies needing help with IT, software, or cloud projects but don't want to hire full-time employees.

• Project Types: Software development, cloud services, data analytics, and other tech-related tasks.

• Delivery Model: AiDOOS creates and manages a team for your project, taking care of everything from start to finish.

• Pricing Model: Costs are based on the tasks or outcomes you want. You can also get a free estimate for your project.

• Platform Fees: AiDOOS takes a portion of the project cost as a fee, but this doesn't affect what the experts are paid.

• Vetting Process: Experts go through technical tests and interviews to ensure they are qualified.

• Payment Terms: Payments are made after the project or parts of it are completed and accepted. You can pay using different methods like bank transfers.

Why is it a Better Alternative to Andela?

AiDOOS lets you pay only when tasks are complete, no upfront hiring needed.

You only pay for real results. No long contracts or middleman delays like with Andela.

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2. Turing

Turing is an AI-driven platform that matches clients with remote software developers through a deep vetting system. 

It's different from other platforms because it focuses on full-time, long-term placements and offers a two-week risk-free trial, making it well-suited for businesses seeking dependable remote engineers.

Many developers earn more than the average in their country after passing Turing’s 5+ hour vetting tests, which cover coding, system design, and soft skills.

Clients appreciate the two-week no-risk trial, which helps them test the fit before committing.

But the vetting and onboarding process is lengthy, taking over two weeks and involving multiple interviews and tests.

Some developers and clients report inconsistent communication, racial bias, and unclear pay structures, with unexpected hourly fluctuations.

• Best For: Businesses looking to hire full-time remote software engineers from a pre-vetted global pool.

• Project Types
  Long-term development work like backend systems, frontend apps, DevOps, and system architecture.

• Delivery Model: Full-time or long-term contractor arrangements, often with a two-week trial period to assess fit.

• Pricing Model: Hourly rates range from $100 to $200 per hour.

• Platform Fees: No upfront fees; clients pay hourly rates that include support and vetting costs.

• Vetting Process: Developers go through an AI-powered vetting system covering coding languages, data structures, algorithms, system design, and communication; only around 1% are accepted.

• Payment Terms: Clients pay hourly based on actual work; there is a two-week trial before full commitment.

Why is it a Better Alternative to Andela?

Turing uses AI to match developers in 24–48 hrs for both long-term and short-term work.

Faster hiring and no long vetting loops, unlike Andela’s weeks-long interviews.

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3. Toptal

Toptal is a platform that connects businesses with highly skilled freelancers in areas like software development, design, finance, and project management. 

Unlike other platforms, Toptal accepts only the top 3% of applicants after a strict screening process. 

On the downside, many social media users say there are too many freelancers for each available job, making the application process long and time-consuming. 

Also, some report that client fees on Toptal can be almost double what freelancers actually earn.

• Best For: Companies looking for highly experienced freelancers in tech, design, finance, and project management.

• Project Types: Software development, UI/UX design, financial consulting, product management, and project management.

• Delivery Model: Toptal matches clients with freelancers based on project needs. Clients can hire for short-term or long-term projects.

• Pricing Model: Freelancers set their own rates, typically ranging from $60 to over $200 per hour.

• Platform Fees: Toptal charges clients a $79 monthly platform fee . Additionally, Toptal applies a markup to freelancer rates, which can be up to 50% 

• Vetting Process: Toptal has a rigorous screening process that includes language and communication tests, in-depth skill reviews, live screening, and test projects. Only about 3% of applicants are accepted.

• Payment Terms: Clients are invoiced twice a month with Net 10 terms, allowing time for review before processing .

Why is it a Better Alternative to Andela?

Toptal vets the top 3% of global tech talent, adds escrow protection, and has over 150 new job listings each week.

Transparent pricing, fast matching, and no hidden fees, unlike Andela’s middleman model.

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4. Gun.io

Gun.io connects clients with senior, pre-vetted software developers using both AI screening and human review. 

It focuses on full-time or long-term contract roles, and it’s well-suited for businesses that want highly experienced remote developers without upfront hiring costs.

Many clients appreciate access to highly skilled developers with an average of 8+ years of experience and a fast hiring process; on average, clients find a match in about 13 days. 

They also offer a two-week trial period with no upfront fees, which lets clients test the developer before fully committing.

While the talent is strong, several reviewers say the developer may go over budget, and Gun.io may not manage costs or offer support during the project.

• Best For: Companies needing senior-level developers for long-term or full-time remote projects.

• Project Types: Backend systems, frontend development, DevOps, architecture, and other complex tech roles.

• Delivery Model: Clients get matched with candidates in about 13 days, followed by a two-week trial before a long-term hire.

• Pricing Model: Flexible monthly retainers starting at $5,000, or 20% of the developer’s first-year salary for full-time placement.

• Platform Fees: Included in retainers or salary fees; no extra charge displayed separately.

• Vetting Process: Developers undergo algorithmic screening, background checks, work history reviews, and live technical interviews with senior engineers.

• Payment Terms: Clients pay monthly on net-30 terms after the trial period. Developers are paid weekly for logged hours.

Why is it a Better Alternative to Andela?

Gun.io connects you with senior developers quickly (usually within 48 hours). It’s praised for vetting but not for open invites .

Quick access to experienced developers without long contracts or inflated costs.

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5. X-Team

X‑Team offers dedicated remote engineering teams to businesses, with a focus on long-term collaboration and developer growth. 

It differs from marketplaces by providing company‑led team management and ongoing skill development.

Many clients praise the deep integration of developers into their teams and long-term partnerships .

Some say the hiring process is slow and unclear, including redundant interviews. There are few external reviews or public feedback, making it hard to assess reliability.

• Best For: Businesses seeking long-term, integrated remote developer teams.

• Project Types: Software development, mobile apps, web systems, DevOps, and continuous innovation roles.

• Delivery Model: Company-managed remote teams embedded in client workflows.

• Pricing Model: Developer rates range from $40–$50/hour, suited for multi-month or year-long engagements.

• Platform Fees: Included in hourly rates; no separate platform fees.

• Vetting Process: Thorough interviews and skills assessments, company-led vetting.

• Payment Terms: Hourly payments or retainer-style billing paid monthly or per project.

Why is it a Better Alternative to Andela?

X-Team offers dedicated developer teams who work long-term with your existing workflow.

You get one cohesive team, not rotating staff, making project management easier than with Andela’s matching model.

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6. CloudDevs

CloudDevs connects businesses with top-level Latin American developers, offering fast placement (within 24–48 hours) and a flexible trial week. 

It handles legal compliance, payroll, and taxes, making it ideal for companies wanting full support in remote hiring.

Clients and developers appreciate the fast match process and strong support; one public review praised their coordination and reliable payments.

But some candidates report disorganized hiring, no follow-up after interviews and delays in response.

A G2 review noted payments often arrive two months late, and no one follows up until the freelancer reaches out, ultimately affecting the quality of vetted professionals.

• Best For: Businesses wanting vetted Latin American developers with full remote hiring support.

• Project Types: Full-stack development, backend systems, cloud apps, AI/ML, and more.

• Delivery Model: : Clients share job needs and receive vetted candidates within 24–48 hours, then start a one-week trial.

• Pricing Model: Developer rates between $45–$75/hour, with CloudDevs keeping a 20% fee. No extra costs.

• Platform Fees: 20% markup included in hourly rate. No setup fee; trial deposit ($500 is refunded or credited)

• Vetting Process: Three-stage vetting: English + attitude screen, technical evaluation, and live coding challenge.

• Payment Terms: Billing hourly or weekly after trial. Payroll and compliance handled by CloudDevs. Trials and replacements are risk-free.

Why is it a Better Alternative to  Andela?

CloudDevs provides vetted Latin American developers in 24–48 hrs, with a 7‑day risk‑free trial.

You start fast with no long hires, no upfront costs, unlike Andela’s multi-interview hiring cycle.

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7. Upwork

Upwork is a global freelance marketplace where clients post jobs and review bids. It suits clients of all sizes who want to hire hourly or fixed-price freelancers with transparent processes.

Clients appreciate the massive talent pool and escrow payments, plus scoring systems like Job Success Score. 

But they mention paying connection fees to freelancers, and seeing many low‑ball bids or ghosted jobs.

• Best For: Developers, designers, data experts, etc. for short or long engagements.

• Project Types: Hourly tasks, fixed-price jobs, long-term roles.

• Delivery Model: Clients review proposals and hire directly. Work tracked by Upwork for hourly contracts.

• Pricing Model: Hourly rate or fixed-price; clients pay into escrow for fixed projects.

• Platform Fees: Clients pay a 3% processing fee; freelancers pay 10–20% (based on earnings per client)

• Vetting Process: Profile-based with badges (e.g., Top Rated), client skills tests; no strict vetting, clients decide.

• Payment Terms: For fixed jobs, escrow. For hourly, automatic via tracked hours with Protection.

Why is it a Better Alternative to Andela?

Upwork allows you to post tasks, review bids, and hire directly, using escrow protection.

You see candidates, set rates, and control the hiring, no hidden middleman or long wait times.

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8. Fiverr Pro

Fiverr Pro is Fiverr’s premium tier offering highly vetted professionals. Unlike Andela, clients select ready-made service packages from top-rated experts.

Clients value upfront pricing and fast delivery. But Fiverr’s quality varies, and some feel support can be inconsistent.

• Best For: Small businesses and individuals seeking one-off tasks handled quickly by vetted talent.

• Project Types: Design, writing, simple apps, small components.

• Delivery Model: Clients pick from “Gigs” (basic, standard, premium tiers); freelancers deliver the work.

• Pricing Model: Fixed-price packages; buyer pays upfront before work begins.

• Platform Fees: Freelancers pay 20% fee; buyers pay 5.5%, plus ~$2 fee for small orders.

• Vetting Process: Fiverr Pro vets freelancers via application for quality, background, skills.

• Payment Terms: Payment is held in escrow and released on delivery acceptance.

Why is it a Better Alternative to Andela?

Fiverr Pro offers fixed-price work by vetted professionals with clear deliverables.

Pay once, get a clear output. No lengthy contracts or middleman fees like Andela.

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9. Lemon.io

Lemon.io is a platform that connects clients with pre‑vetted Eastern European and LATAM developers, offering fast matching (within 48 hours) and a no‑risk trial. 

It’s different because it combines human-led vetting with quick placement, making it great for businesses needing reliable, startup‑ready developers.

Clients say Lemon.io makes hiring easy and respectful, matching them with well‑skilled developers quickly. 

Some report that developer replacements happen occasionally, which can disrupt ongoing projects. 

Also, few note that deposits or upfront payments are required, which may not suit all budgets.

• Best For: Startups and small teams looking for vetted developers fast.

• Project Types: Web and mobile development, backend systems, cloud solutions, AI/ML, and testing roles.

• Delivery Model: Clients submit needs; Lemon.io handpicks 1–3 candidates within 48 hours and manages contracts and trials.

• Pricing Model: Developers usually charge $55–$95/hour; clients pay weekly or monthly after an initial deposit.

• Platform Fees: Fees are included in developer rates; there is an upfront deposit equal to one week or month’s fee.

• Vetting Process: A 4‑step human-led review: CV check, soft‑skills interview, technical interview, and live coding, accepting only about 1 % of applicants. 

• Payment Terms: Clients pay for actual hours worked weekly or monthly. A no-risk paid trial of up to 20 hours is offered, and Lemon.io will replace developers for free if needed.

Why is it a Better Alternative to Andela?

Lemon.io provides vetted developers ready within 48 hrs, with pay-as-you-go billing and no deposit.

Fast, transparent hiring without long vetting or hidden commissions.

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10. Freelancer.com

Freelancer.com is an online platform where businesses and individuals can hire freelancers for various tasks. 

Unlike some platforms where clients browse predefined services, Freelancer.com allows clients to post projects and receive bids from freelancers. 

This setup is ideal for clients who have specific project requirements and want to choose from multiple proposals.

Freelancer.com has over 59 million users, making it easy to find clients in many categories. You can bid on tech, writing, design, and more. 

But because so many freelancers bid on each job, often 20 or more, it is hard for new or smaller profiles to win work. 

In addition, many social media users note that clients sometimes post jobs paying under $10 per hour, which can be discouraging for skilled freelancers.

• Best For: Clients and businesses looking to hire freelancers for tasks like software development, writing, design, marketing, and more.

• Project Types: Suitable for a range of projects, including app development, graphic design, content writing, data entry, and digital marketing.

• Delivery Model: Clients post a project with details and budget. Freelancers then bid on the project, and the client selects the most suitable freelancer.

• Pricing Model: Clients set a budget for their project. Freelancers place bids, and the client chooses based on the proposal and price.

• Platform Fees: A fee of 3% or $3 USD (whichever is greater) is charged when a project is awarded.

• Vetting Process: Freelancer.com has a general open marketplace where freelancers can sign up and offer services.The Preferred Freelancer Program, freelancers undergo a vetting process that includes evaluation of their qualifications, past work experience, and performance. 

• Payment Terms: Clients can deposit funds using various methods like credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. Payments to freelancers are made upon project completion and client approval.

Why is it a Better Alternative to Andela?

Freelancer lets you post projects, receive bids, and hire directly with milestone payments.

More flexible and lower cost, no long hiring process, and full project control, unlike Andela's model.

Conclusion

If Andela feels too slow, too complex, or too expensive, you’re not alone. Many clients on Reddit say they faced long interview steps, unclear pricing, or had less control over the developers they hired. That’s why businesses are now choosing more flexible platforms.

AiDOOS, for example, lets you pay only when work is delivered, without any interviews or monthly contracts. Others like Turing, Gun.io, and Upwork offer faster hiring, more transparent pricing, and better control over your team.

If you're a startup or a growing business, these Andela alternatives help you get tech work done faster and with less hassle.

Why is AiDOOS a Better Alternative to Andela

AiDOOS is not a regular freelancer marketplace like Andela. Instead of making you hire and manage people, AiDOOS takes your project and handles everything from start to finish. 

You get outcome-based work, which means you focus on what needs to be done, not how or who does it.

CTA: 

Ready to try a new way of getting work done? Explore AiDOOS and see how easy project delivery can be!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best alternatives to Andela?

Some popular alternatives to Andela are AiDOOS, Turing, Toptal, Gun.io, Upwork, and Fiverr Pro. These platforms are often faster, cheaper, or more flexible for clients.

2. Why are some businesses moving away from Andela?

Businesses leave Andela because many clients say Andela has a long hiring process, too many interviews, and hidden fees. They want something faster, with more control and clear pricing.

3. Is Andela suitable for long-term or recurring projects?

Yes, but it’s not always easy. Some clients say it’s hard to manage freelancers over time or feel disconnected.

4. How is the hiring process on Andela different from other sites?

Andela’s process can take weeks, with multiple interviews and paperwork. Others like AiDOOS or Fiverr Pro let you start work in 1–2 days without interviews.

5. Are there platforms with lower service fees than Andela?

Yes. Freelancer.com, Upwork, and Lemon.io often have lower fees or transparent costs. And AiDOOS only charges for completed tasks, no upfront or subscription fees.

6. Which platforms offer better delivery support than Andela?

AiDOOS offers full project delivery, where the client doesn’t need to hire or manage freelancers. This helps businesses that want results without managing each step.

7. How is AiDOOS a smarter alternative to Andela?

AiDOOS doesn’t just connect you with freelancers, it takes care of the whole project through an outcome-based model. You don't need to hire, track, or manage people. This makes it easier and faster for many businesses to get work done.