99designs vs Gigster: Which Platform Is Better?
Real fees, real tradeoffs. No affiliate links, no sponsored rankings. Compare 99designs and Gigster side-by-side in 2026.
A design-focused platform featuring contests where multiple designers submit work.
Model: Contest + Marketplace
Market: Design
Founded: 2008
Gigster assembles managed teams of vetted freelancers for software development projects. Clients receive a dedicated project manager, tech lead, and developer team — pricing is project-based rather than hourly. Suited to companies wanting a managed delivery model rather than raw talent access.
Model: Managed Software Agency
Market: Enterprise software projects
Founded: 2014
Fee Comparison
| Feature | 99designs | Gigster |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | 0 | $0 |
| Cost per Lead | Spec work / contests | $0 |
| Commission | ~15–30% | Project-based pricing |
| Free Client Access | Yes | No |
| No Account Required | No | No |
| Target Market | Design | Enterprise software projects |
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 Gigster if: Enterprises and funded startups that want a complete software development team managed end-to-end without internal project management overhead
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
Gigster
Software Engineering, Mobile, Product Management, DevOps, QA
Global (US-based)
Enterprise software projects
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
Gigster Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Managed delivery (PM included)
- Vetted team assembly
- Project-based fixed pricing
- Speed to start (48-hour kickoff)
- Strong enterprise track record
Cons:
- Premium pricing vs. direct hiring
- Less control over individual team members
- Not suited for ongoing staff augmentation
- Limited for non-software disciplines
Best for: Enterprises and funded startups that want a complete software development team managed end-to-end without internal project management overhead
Summary
99designs charges ~15–30% in commission, while Gigster charges Project-based pricing. 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.
Gigster works well for enterprises and funded startups that want a complete software development team managed end-to-end without internal project management overhead, particularly in the Enterprise software projects 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 Gigster?
Gigster charges Project-based pricing commission. Managed delivery with PM included; not a raw talent marketplace
Is 99designs or Gigster better for freelancers?
99designs suits Design. Gigster suits Enterprise software projects. Choose based on your preferred fee model and target client type.
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