99designs vs Experteer: Which Platform Is Better?
Real fees, real tradeoffs. No affiliate links, no sponsored rankings. Compare 99designs and Experteer side-by-side in 2026.
A design-focused platform featuring contests where multiple designers submit work.
Model: Contest + Marketplace
Market: Design
Founded: 2008
Fee Comparison
| Feature | 99designs | Experteer |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | 0 | ~~€20–40/month (longer terms cheaper) |
| Cost per Lead | Spec work / contests | €0 |
| Commission | ~15–30% | 0% |
| Free Client Access | Yes | No |
| No Account Required | No | No |
| Target Market | Design | DACH + EU (senior executives & managers) |
No affiliate links. No sponsored rankings. We earn nothing from recommending any platform listed here.
ListAllExperts is one of the platforms compared - full disclosure: that's us. We apply the same criteria to our own listing.
Platform pricing and features may change without notice. Please verify current terms directly with each platform.
Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed by the listallexperts.com team. How we evaluate platforms
Our Verdict
Choose 99designs if: Graphic designers willing to compete in contests
Choose Experteer if: Senior managers and executives seeking interim or permanent leadership roles in DACH
Target Markets & Focus
Each platform caters to specific skills, industries, and geographic regions. Understanding these differences helps you choose where your expertise is most valued.
99designs
Graphic Design, Branding, Web Design, Logo
Global (design-only, strong in Australia and US)
Design
Experteer
C-Level, Management, Finance, IT Leadership, Consulting
DACH + EU (Germany primary, Austria, Switzerland, broader Europe)
DACH + EU (senior executives & managers)
99designs Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Access to design-specific clients
- Contest format can lead to wins
- Good for building portfolio
Cons:
- Spec work required
- High competition in contests
- 15-30% commission
Best for: Graphic designers willing to compete in contests
Experteer Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Executive-level positioning
- Headhunter network access
- DACH + broader EU coverage
- Zero commission on placements
Cons:
- Monthly subscription cost for professionals
- Primarily employment/interim leadership (not project-based)
- Premium positioning limits general freelance reach
- Not suited for junior roles
Best for: Senior managers and executives seeking interim or permanent leadership roles in DACH
Summary
99designs charges ~15–30% in commission, while Experteer charges 0%. The right choice depends on how you work, not just what you pay.
99designs works well for graphic designers willing to compete in contests, particularly in the Design segment.
Experteer works well for senior managers and executives seeking interim or permanent leadership roles in dach, particularly in the DACH + EU (senior executives & managers) segment.
Want a third option? ListAllExperts offers flat-rate pricing with zero commission and direct client contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the commission on 99designs?
99designs charges ~15–30% commission. Contest-based with platform fees
What is the commission on Experteer?
Experteer charges 0% commission. Subscription for professionals; headhunter access unlocked
Is 99designs or Experteer better for freelancers?
99designs suits Design. Experteer suits DACH + EU (senior executives & managers). Choose based on your preferred fee model and target client type.
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