Toptal vs Factored: Which is Better for AI, Machine Learning & Data Teams?
As demand for AI, machine learning, and data talent surges, companies are turning to talent platforms to scale quickly. Toptal is a well-known name in this space, offering freelance professionals across multiple disciplines. But if you're looking to build or scale a high-performing AI or data team, is Toptal your best option?
Let’s compare Toptal and Factored, highlighting their key differences and helping you decide which partner best fits your needs for AI, ML, and data engineering.
1. Specialization: Generalist Platform vs Deep AI Expertise
Toptal casts a wide net, connecting companies with freelancers in software development, design, finance, product management, and project management. While they do offer AI and data experts, these are part of a much broader talent pool.
Factored, on the other hand, specializes in AI, machine learning, and data engineering. Co-founded by Dr. Andrew Ng, the visionary behind Google Brain, Coursera, Factored vets and specialized engineers through a rigorous curriculum designed by experts from Stanford, and MIT. Every engineer brings exceptional talent and industry specific knowledge.
Factored — for companies prioritizing AI expertise and depth over breadth.
2. Talent Model: Freelance Marketplace vs Embedded Teams
Toptal operates primarily as a freelance marketplace. Clients hire individual contributors for specific contracts, with limited integration into internal teams. Great for short-term needs or gap-filling, but potentially less suited for long-term AI initiatives that require deep context and collaboration.
Factored offers embedded nearshore teams who integrate directly into your workflows, processes, and time zones. These aren’t gig freelancers — they’re full-time engineers focused on delivering long-term value, innovation, and iteration alongside your core team.
Factored — for companies building long-term AI capabilities, not just hiring contractors.
3. Time Zones & Communication
Toptal talent is global. This can be an advantage for 24/7 coverage, but often creates challenges with time zone misalignment, scheduling meetings, and maintaining velocity.
Factored teams are based in Latin America, working U.S. time zones. That means no 6am standups or midnight check-ins. Communication flows naturally, speed of execution is high, and real-time collaboration is seamless.
Factored — for teams who value close collaboration and time zone alignment.
4. Talent Quality & Vetting Process
Toptal vets their freelancers thoroughly and promotes the top 3% of talent. However, with such a wide range of categories, the depth of vetting in specialized areas like ML and data engineering can vary.
Factored vets exclusively for AI and data roles. Engineers go through an intensive multi-week training and evaluation program developed with input from top university faculty and AI industry leaders. Many hold degrees from top universities or come from high-impact startups and research labs.
Factored — for companies that need elite, highly specialized AI and data experts.
5. Retention, Reliability, and Long-Term Value
Toptal freelancers may cycle off after projects or pursue other clients. It’s a flexible model but may lack consistency.
Factored engineers are low-attrition, long-term collaborators. With an attrition rate under 2.5%, they become part of your team’s DNA. You get continuity, institutional knowledge, and ongoing performance improvement.
Factored — for consistency, quality, and long-term delivery.
The Verdict: Factored for Serious AI & Data Teams
Toptal is a solid choice for companies needing generalist freelancers. But if your business depends on AI innovation, ML-powered products, or advanced data systems, Factored offers a purpose-built alternative that’s faster, sharper, and more aligned with long-term success.
- Specialized AI talent trained by the best
- Embedded teams that integrate deeply
- Real-time collaboration in your time zone
- Scalable, reliable, and ready to deliver from day one
Want to see what a high-performing AI team could look like inside your organization?
Get in touch with Factored to learn how we help teams like yours scale innovation without compromise.
