10 Best X-Team Alternatives for Building Scalable Tech Teams

When clients look for X-Team alternatives, it’s usually because they want lower costs, faster onboarding, or more control over their remote developers. 

Popular alternatives include AiDOOS, Toptal, Turing, CloudDevs, and Upwork. These platforms offer options like pay-per-task pricing, rapid hiring in under 48 hours, or direct freelancer selection.

In this article, we’ve compared each alternative based on pricing, project size, hiring speed, and team control, so you can choose the best fit for your needs.

Top 10 X-Team Alternatives - Overview

Here’s an overview of top 10 X-Team alternatives:

When clients search for X-Team alternatives, they often want more flexibility, lower costs, or the option to hire for smaller, short-term projects. On Reddit, one user said,

“X-Team is great if you need a long-term dedicated team, but the price is too high for my small startup.” (reddit.com)

Others mention that X-Team handles all hiring, so clients don’t always get to choose their exact developers, which can be a drawback for teams wanting more control.

That’s why many are now turning to X-Team alternatives like AiDOOS, Toptal, Turing, CloudDevs, and Upwork. These platforms let you pick your own talent, use pay-per-task models, or onboard freelancers in less than 48 hours.

Here are 10 best X-Team 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 X-Team?

AiDOOS lets you pay only for finished tasks. No hiring or managing a team is needed.

You save money and time, and get results without long contracts or monthly fees.

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2. 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 X-Team?

Toptal gives you the top 3% of developers, and you can hire for short-term or long-term work.

You choose your own talent. No big commitment, and hiring can be done in a few days.

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3. 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 X-Team?

Turing uses AI to quickly match you with vetted remote engineers, often in 1–2 days.

Fast onboarding and no need for full-time contracts. Good for both big and small projects.

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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 Model1; 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 X-Team?
Gun.io connects you to experienced engineers, with strong vetting and quick matching.

You can start in days, pick who you want, and don’t pay for unneeded extras.

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5. 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 X-Team?
CloudDevs matches you with senior Latin American developers in under 48 hours, with US/EU time zones.

Quick start, no big upfront fees, and you pick your own developer, good for fast-moving teams.

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6. 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 X-Team?

Lemon.io offers vetted European and LATAM developers, with no deposit and fast matching.

Pay as you go, clear pricing, and start in 1–2 days, not weeks.

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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 X-Team?

Upwork is a big freelancer marketplace where you post jobs and pick freelancers directly.

More control, flexible pricing, and you only hire for what you need, no monthly retainer.

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8. Fiverr Pro

Fiverr Pro is Fiverr’s premium tier offering highly vetted professionals. Unlike X-Team, 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 X-Team?

Fiverr Pro gives you fixed-price expert gigs with vetted freelancers.

See prices upfront, order quickly, and get work done with no long contracts.

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9. 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 X-Team?

Freelancer.com lets you post your project, get bids, and choose who you want.

Low cost, lots of choice, and control over every step.

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10. Andela

Andela is a global talent platform that connects companies with mid-to-senior engineers, mainly from Africa and Latin America. 

It handles the full hiring cycle, vetting, payroll, and onboarding.

Clients praise Andela’s skilled engineers who integrate well into teams

But some social media users describe their experience as an “interview loop,” with many rounds, unclear hiring steps, and no guaranteed timeline, ultimately reducing the pool size of vetted professionals.

Some report that developer availability is limited and project options can be few, making it hard to start work quickly.

• Best For: Companies want embedded, long-term engineering talent from emerging markets.

• Project Types: Backend, frontend, mobile, DevOps, AI/ML, cloud, and team builds.

• Delivery Model: Clients post needs; Andela sources and employs engineers on 12-month contracts.

• Pricing Model: Monthly flat rates range between $6,000–$14,000 per developer.

• Platform Fees: Included in monthly rate; no hidden fees.

• Vetting Process: AI/ML matching, English test, coding challenge, live technical interview.

• Payment Terms: Clients pay monthly; payroll and compliance managed by Andela.

Why is it a Better Alternative to X-Team?

Andela provides global developers with payroll and support managed for you.

Managed service like X-Team, but with more choice and direct access to your team.

Conclusion

X-Team is known for providing long-term remote teams, but some clients feel it’s too expensive or not flexible enough for short-term or smaller projects. 

Many businesses now choose other options to save money, hire faster, or get more control over who works on their projects.

Platforms like AiDOOS let you pay only when work is finished, so you avoid long contracts and only pay for results.

Others like Toptal, Turing, and CloudDevs give you fast access to top developers when you need a quick job, these X-Team alternatives give you better value and more freedom.

Why is AiDOOS a Better Alternative to X-Team

AiDOOS is not a regular freelancer marketplace like X-Team. 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.

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 X-Team?

Some popular alternatives to X-Team are AiDOOS, Toptal, Turing, CloudDevs, and Lemon.io. They offer more flexible pricing and faster hiring for different project needs.

2. Why are some businesses moving away from X-Team?

Businesses leave X-Team because X-Team can be too expensive or only fits big, long-term projects. They want lower costs, quicker starts, or to hire for smaller, short jobs.

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

Yes, X-Team is made for long-term projects. But if you need to swap team members, or just want help for a short time, platforms like AiDOOS or Fiverr Pro can be a better fit.

4. How is the hiring process on X-Team different from other sites?

X-Team gives you a full team, but you don’t always pick every person. With sites like Upwork or Freelancer.com, you choose who you hire and can swap or add people as you like.

5. Are there platforms with lower service fees than X-Team?

Yes. AiDOOS lets you pay only for finished work, with no monthly fees or contracts. Platforms like Fiverr Pro and Freelancer.com also show prices upfront, making it easy to control your budget.

6. Which platforms offer better delivery support than X-Team?

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 X-Team?

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.