The 12 Best 99designs Alternatives in 2025

Suppose someone gave you a box. Would you be more interested in opening the box or knowing what's inside without opening it? Most people would choose to open the box—that's human nature.

The same principle applies to design platforms. While 99designs is popular, there are numerous alternatives that might better suit your specific needs.

Why Look for 99designs Alternatives?

99designs has been a go-to platform for crowdsourced design, but it has some limitations:

High Costs: Contest fees can add up quickly

Quality Variance: Not all submissions meet professional standards

Time-Consuming: Managing contests takes significant time

Limited Revisions: Working with winning designers for revisions can be challenging

Top 12 Alternatives

1. Fiverr

Best for: Quick, budget-friendly designs
Price Range: $5 - $500+

Fiverr offers a vast pool of designers at various price points, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.

2. Upwork

Best for: Long-term design partnerships
Price Range: $15 - $100+ per hour

Upwork excels at connecting businesses with freelance designers for ongoing projects.

3. Dribbble

Best for: Finding top-tier designers
Price Range: $50 - $200+ per hour

Dribbble is where the design elite showcase their work, making it perfect for high-end projects.

Choosing the Right Platform

Consider these factors when selecting a design platform:

Budget: What's your design budget?

Timeline: How quickly do you need the work completed?

Quality Requirements: Do you need premium design work?

Project Scope: Is this a one-off project or ongoing work?

Communication Style: Do you prefer direct communication with designers?

Pro Tips for Working with Design Platforms

Before You Start

Define your brand guidelines clearly

Gather inspiration and reference materials

Set realistic timelines and budgets

Prepare detailed briefs

During the Project

Provide timely feedback

Be specific about revisions

Maintain open communication

Respect the designer's expertise

Conclusion

While 99designs pioneered crowdsourced design, these alternatives offer different approaches that might better fit your needs. Whether you prioritize cost, speed, quality, or ongoing relationships, there's a platform that's right for your business.

The key is understanding your specific requirements and choosing the platform that aligns with your goals and budget.