Toptal Alternatives [2025]: Better Options for Hiring Elite Developers

Looking beyond Toptal for elite developer talent? Explore the best alternatives offering faster matching, specialized skills, and flexible pricing—without corporate overhead or premium costs. Discover platforms like Lemon.io and others that simplify hiring top-tier developers efficiently and affordably.
Aleksandr Volodarsky
Aleksandr Volodarsky
Apr 16
9 min read

Toptal vs. Upwork for Hiring Developers [2025]

Are you navigating the complexities of hiring freelance developers? This detailed comparison uncovers the true costs associated with popular platforms like Toptal and Upwork, including hidden fees, service charges, and commission structures. Drawing from extensive firsthand experience and user insights, we clarify pricing structures to help you accurately budget and make informed hiring decisions. Discover where each platform shines, potential pitfalls, and why Lemon.io might offer a more transparent and cost-effective alternative tailored to your project's specific needs.
Aleksandr Volodarsky
Aleksandr Volodarsky
Apr 14
15 min read

Arc.dev Review [2025]: The Good, Bad, and Better Alternatives

Are you considering Arc.dev for hiring freelance developers? This detailed review uncovers the true costs associated with Arc.dev, including hidden fees, service charges, and commission structures. Drawing from extensive firsthand experience and candid user stories, we clarify the platform's pricing, vetting processes, and overall reliability to help you accurately budget and avoid common pitfalls. Discover where Arc.dev excels, where it falls short, and why alternatives like Lemon.io might offer a more transparent and effective solution tailored specifically to your project's needs.
Aleksandr Volodarsky
Aleksandr Volodarsky
Apr 14
8 min read
software developer statistics hero

63 Key Software Development Statistics To Know in 2025

The software development industry is evolving rapidly. Emerging technologies, shifting market demands, and a growing talent gap make it harder for businesses and developers to stay competitive. But the industry is still growing, with revenues projected to reach $896.17 billion by 2029. Companies that don’t embrace change risk missing key hiring, compensation, and specialization opportunities. […]
Zhenya Kruglova
Apr 1
9 min read
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How Much Does It Cost To Build an App in 2025?

The average cost to build an app is estimated to be between $53,000-$160,000, but costs vary wildly. Discover how to budget effectively and find top developers.
Zhenya Kruglova
Mar 24
6 min read
data scientist

From Good to Elite: What Makes a Top 1.2% Developer

Elite developers aren't defined by impressive resumes or years of experience—instead, they possess a rare blend of deep technical insight, forward-thinking problem-solving, and the ability to transform challenges into lasting improvements. This article reveals the key traits that set the top 1.2% apart, offering practical tips to identify developers who not only write code but also architect scalable, resilient systems for the future.
Zhenya Kruglova
Feb 6
5 min read

Beyond the Algorithm: Why Your Technical Interview Process Is Broken

Traditional technical interviews often overemphasize algorithm puzzles at the expense of real-world problem-solving and business context, filtering out truly exceptional engineering talent. This article exposes the flaws in today's interview processes and offers a fresh approach that evaluates practical skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to build real products.
Zhenya Kruglova
Feb 6
8 min read