List of the Best Software Development Firms

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Rankings updated: March 19, 2024
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  • ELEKS

    Verified
    ELEKS, a trusted partner for guaranteed software engineering excellence, quality, and transparency.
    ELEKS is the partner of choice for many leading enterprises, SMEs and technology challengers. We help businesses elevate their value through custom software development, product design, QA and consult [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development AWS Mobile App Development
    Chicago, Illinois
    1000 & Up $50/hr $25,000 - $50,000
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  • Unified Infotech

    Verified
    Empowering Your Digital Journey, One Innovation at a Time.
    Unified Infotech Inc is a distinguished boutique full-service digital agency with over 13+ years of expertise in delivering end-to-end solutions for web, mobile, and custom software needs. Our extensi [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design eCommerce Development
    New York City, New York
    100 - 249 $50/hr $10,000 - $25,000
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  • Essential Designs

    Verified
    Software Application Developers for Web, Mobile and Desktop
    Essential Designs is a team of custom application developers based ion Canada. We specialize in custom software and app development. Save 35% on your project with the Canadian Dollar!
    Top Services:
    Software Development .Net PHP
    Vancouver, Canada
    50 - 99 $50/hr $25,000 - $50,000
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  • Cubix

    Verified
    Building Custom Software and Mobile App Solutions Since 2008
    Cubix is the preferred partner for Fortune 500 companies, SMEs, and enterprises. We help businesses innovate, transform, and scale through cutting-edge mobile app, and custom software solutions.
    Top Services:
    Software Development Blockchain Software Testing
    West Palm Beach, Florida
    250 - 499 $49/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Yalantis

    Verified
    Trusted software engineering and IT consulting company
    We deliver cutting-edge, scalable, and fully functional software products and ecosystems that help clients achieve their specific objectives.
    Top Services:
    Software Development Cybersecurity UI/UX Design
    Warsaw, Poland
    500 - 999 $45/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Profil Software

    Verified
    First-class Custom Software Development Company
    We provide dedicated agile software development teams that deliver complex custom applications.We transform development experience into product confidence.
    Top Services:
    Software Development IT Services UI/UX Design
    Gdynia, Poland
    50 - 99 $45/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Diffco

    Verified
    Reliable mobile&web development partner
    Diffco is a Silicon Valley-based development company specializing in providing businesses with teams of senior developers to drive their success in the market.
    Top Services:
    Software Development eCommerce Development Mobile App Development
    Sunnyvale, California
    Under 49 $85/hr $50,000 & Up
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  • Admios

    Verified
    Nearshore Software Development Services
    Need devs but in a hiring freeze? Continue to build and increase productivity with our nearshore software development resources. We provides highly skilled, team-based resources to companies that need [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Mobile App Development Web Development
    San Francisco, California
    50 - 99 $55/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Binmile

    Verified
    Innovating digitally to enable businesses to scale!
    Binmile is a globally recognized software engineering company that empowers businesses to excel digitally and craft successful software solutions.
    Top Services:
    Software Development IT Services Web Development
    Claymont, Delaware
    250 - 499 $45/hr $10,000 - $25,000
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  • Twistag

    Product & Software Development Agency
    Weve worked with some incredible companies. We build digital brands, products and experiences that represent youyour product, your company, and your audience.Key ClientsNikeKenckoVolkswagen [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design eCommerce Development
    Lisbon, Portugal
    Under 49 $50/hr $25,000 - $50,000
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  • Designli

    Verified
    Designli is a top-rated development firm for mobile apps and custom software.
    Top-rated development firm for mobile apps, web apps, and custom software.
    Top Services:
    Software Development Mobile App Development Web Development
    Greenville, South Carolina
    Under 49 $65/hr $50,000 & Up
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Naked Development

    Verified
    We are a Creative Development Agency & Consultancy.
    First we listen and strip down your idea to reveal the core of your business objectives.This means designing a strategy that will best support the users total experience, end-to-end.Then our US-ba [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design Mobile App Development
    Irvine, California
    Under 49 Inquire $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Trango Tech

    Verified
    Driving Change Through Technology - Apps, Ecommerce, Staff Aug, BPO, Next Gen Tech and more!
    We are the nerds that every company wants in their tech division; experience, innovative and imaginative to the core!With more than 200 innovative software products and solution delivered, Trango [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development eCommerce Development Mobile App Development
    San Jose, California
    100 - 249 $25/hr $1,000 - $10,000
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  • Zazz

    Verified
    The app creation specialists you need!
    Zazz is a leading American mobile app development company with a team of 275+ software engineers and designers dedicated to building and maintaining mobile and web applications and government apps.
    Top Services:
    Software Development IoT React Native
    Seattle, Washington
    250 - 499 $50/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Saigon Technology

    Verified
    Building Innovative Custom Web & App and Fully-integrated Agile Software Development Teams
    Saigon Technology specializes in custom web and app design & development for growing startups and enterprises. Affordable cost, high quality services with project based or fully integrated dedicated s [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Development Software Testing
    Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
    500 - 999 $35/hr $10,000 - $25,000
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  • Light IT

    Verified
    Deep tech expertise for SME
    Light IT provides the following services on the global tech market:- consulting clients on IT products and services- custom product and software development- provision of resources at the clie [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development IT Services Mobile App Development
    Rickmansworth, United Kingdom
    100 - 249 $35/hr $10,000 - $25,000
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  • Outecho

    Verified
    Your Technology Partner To Build Winning Products
    We are a software development agency specializing in web and mobile application development, providing expertise to companies seeking to build or maintain their digital products. Our goal is to become [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design UI/UX Design
    San Francisco, California
    Under 49 $40/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • ScienceSoft

    Verified
    Healthcare Software from ISO 13485-Certified Vendor
    In healthcare software development for 18 years. Core features in 2-6 months, compliant with HIPAA, GDRP, FDA, and MDR. Their 150+ healthcare customers report 95% CSAT, 90+% diagnostic accuracy, $7M y [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Mobile App Development Fintech
    McKinney, Texas
    500 - 999 $50/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Digital Silk

    Verified
    DesignRush Design Award Winner
    Growing Brands Online
    Digital Silk is an agency focused on Creating Superior Digital Experiences for their clients. They create cutting-edge brand strategies, websites, apps and results-driven marketing campaigns for mid-s [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development eCommerce Development Ruby on Rails
    New York City, New York
    100 - 249 $150/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Ronas IT

    Verified
    DesignRush Design Award Winner
    Design, development, maintenance.
    We design and develop web and mobile apps for startups, small and medium businesses.
    Top Services:
    Software Development Mobile App Development Web Development
    Tallinn, Estonia
    50 - 99 $50/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • TechAvidus

    Verified
    Building Custom Software, web and mobile solutions
    Outsmart the competition with best-in-class Custom Software development, web & mobile app development & digital marketing services. Build digital products that let people do things differently. Acquir [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development eCommerce Development Mobile App Development
    Chicago, Illinois
    50 - 99 $18/hr $1,000 - $10,000
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  • Uinno

    Verified
    We stand for awesome!
    “I believe that it is better to think first and do the right thing from the beginning, than not to think and do bullshit.” Andrew Sharapo | The perfectionist and CTO at Uinno
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design Mobile App Development
    Tallinn, Estonia
    Under 49 $45/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • CXR

    Verified
    Next Generation, Tech Solutions
    CXR.Agency is an award-winning full-cycle software development and IT Consulting company building full-stack Web, Mobile, Blockchain, XR and AI applications as well as providing Staff Augmentation and [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development UI/UX Design Blockchain
    New York City, New York
    100 - 249 $100/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Itransition

    Verified
    Turning software ideas into reality
    Itransition specializes in assisting startups and medium to large scale businesses with their software solution needs. Our range of services encompasses the entire development lifecycle, from initial [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development AWS .Net
    Lakewood, Colorado
    1000 & Up $40/hr $50,000 & Up
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Kanda Software

    Verified
    A Reliable Full-Service Software Development, Cloud, DevOps and QA partner
    Leveraging 30 years of excellence designing, developing, deploying and supporting world-class software solutions, Kanda Software has established itself as a trusted Software Development, Cloud Enginee [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development AWS Java
    Boston, Massachusetts
    500 - 999 $50/hr $50,000 & Up
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Mobisoft Infotech

    Verified
    Digital Technology And Innovation Partners
    Mobisoft is an award winning technology-driven company that specializes in providing digital solutions and services to businesses worldwide. With a focus on digital innovation, Mobisoft aim to empower [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Salesforce Consulting Fintech
    Houston, Texas
    250 - 499 $35/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • LeverX

    Verified
    Innovate Today to Lead Tomorrow
    LeverX, an SAP Gold Partner, brings unparalleled expertise nurtured since 2004, delivering successful projects across manufacturing, automotive, and more.
    Top Services:
    Software Development Cybersecurity AWS
    Miami, Florida
    1000 & Up $75/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Sunrise Integration

    Verified
    Keep your business competitive in an app-connected world.
    Expert website design and development - mobile application development - API integration: we do it all! Your online presence can't be left to just anyone. We are an agile-focused agency with a high [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development eCommerce Development SAP Consulting
    Los Angeles, California
    Under 49 $150/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • TRIARE

    Verified
    TRIARE unlocks IT potential of YOUR business
    TRIARE provides comprehensive services encompassing the entire software development lifecycle of WEB and MOBILE applications, along with UI/UX Design, Prototyping, Business Analysis, and software test [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design Mobile App Development
    Cherkasy, Ukraine
    50 - 99 $50/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • HyperSense Software

    Verified
    Bridging the gap between business and tech
    As a top software development company, we help seamlessly integrate business and technology. We guide our clients to ask vital questions, enhancing the value of their software solutions. Our focus is [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design IT Services
    Chicago, Illinois
    50 - 99 $100/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Scopic

    Verified
    Your Cross-continental, Digital Innovation Partner
    With over 15 years of experience as a software product development company, we plan, build and promote new applications so you don't have to.Scopic excels in desktop, web, and mobile app developme [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design Mobile App Development
    Marlborough, Massachusetts
    250 - 499 $40/hr $1,000 - $10,000
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  • Glorium Technologies

    Verified
    Your Idea. Our Innovation and Engineering
    Glorium Technologies specializes in tech consulting and engineering for Healthcare and Real Estate. We offer comprehensive software development services, from planning to maintenance. Our mission is t [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design Web Development
    Princeton, New Jersey
    250 - 499 $50/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Redwerk

    Verified
    Your trusted team of software and unity developers!
    Redwerk is a versatile software development company with an excellent team of C# developers and unity developers, offering an array of services. Get in touch with us to know more!
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design Mobile App Development
    Kyiv, Ukraine
    50 - 99 $80/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Magneto IT Solutions

    Verified
    Empowering eCommerce Excellence
    Magneto IT Solutions, an award-winning eCommerce agency, specializes in Node.js development. We excel in creating top-notch B2C, B2B, and Marketplace eCommerce solutions. Our Exclusive Partnerships wi [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design Mobile App Development
    New York City, New York
    100 - 249 $30/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • WTT Solutions

    Verified
    World-class web and mobile platforms development
    WTT Solutions makes it easy for you to deliver on your business goals through amazing technologies. We are close to our US, UK, and German clients. We create web, mobile and software solutions as well [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Mobile App Development Ruby on Rails
    Tallinn, Estonia
    Under 49 $45/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Codup

    Verified
    Web, App & Custom Software Development for SMBs, Retailers and eCommerce Brands
    We're a Web and Software Development Company with 100+ team members who all work together to make your project a success. With 10 years of expertise and 1500+ projects under our belt, we've efficient [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development eCommerce Development Mobile App Development
    Houston, Texas
    100 - 249 $25/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Openxcell

    Verified
    Most Trusted App and Software Development Company
    OpenXcell is the world's most trusted performance testing, mobile app and software development company catering to leading brands like Google, Motorola, Byju's, Schlumberger, John Hopkins, Cin7, etc. [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development UI/UX Design Web Development
    Las Vegas, Nevada
    500 - 999 Inquire $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • DigitilizeWeb

    Verified
    Make things happen
    DigitilizeWeb takes pride in everything we do and collaborate with our clients to develop the most effective strategies for their businesses. We create a unique tone for your business and communicate [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development AWS Mobile App Development
    Manchester, United Kingdom
    Under 49 $20/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Surf

    Verified
    DesignRush Design Award Winner
    Mobile & Web Development Company
    For over 12 years we have been developing flagship mobile applications - native and with Flutter - for market leaders and startups. We're trusted by KFC, Mars, The Home Depot, Burger King, Raiffeisen [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development UI/UX Design Web Development
    Wilmington, Delaware
    100 - 249 $49/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Phenomenon Studio

    Verified
    Full service studio for both startups and established businesses
    Phenomenon is an international full-cycle product development company focused on building products that matter. Phenomenon has grown into a top-rated international agency with offices in Poland, Eston [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development Mobile App Development Enterprise
    Wroclaw, Poland
    50 - 99 $55/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Verified
    Get what matters!
    Suffescom is a leading mobile app development company offering top-notch solutions across diverse industries.
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design IT Services
    Los Angeles, California
    250 - 499 Inquire $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • The Software House

    Verified
    Software Engineering & Consultancy for technology-first companies
    We help technology-first companies to scale up by providing them with agile software development teams that help to level up their digital processes and transform technology to value faster.
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design IT Services
    Gliwice, Poland
    250 - 499 $50/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Instinctools

    Verified
    Dedicated Software Development Teams
    *instinctools is a software product development company providing a cross-functional global delivery model which reduces development costs while increasing speed to market.
    Top Services:
    Software Development .Net WordPress
    Potomac, Maryland
    250 - 499 $40/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Emerline

    Verified
    Custom software development that makes a difference.
    Emerline provides full-cycle software engineering services for companies worldwide and operates as a Strategic Technology Partner for a number of established companies and startups based in the USA an [...]
    Top Services:
    Software Development eCommerce Development Web Development
    Miami, Florida
    500 - 999 Inquire Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Cheesecake Labs

    Crafting Digital Excellence, Byte by Byte.
    We're more than a nearshore design and engineering firm. We're your dedicated partner in building mobile and web applications.
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design Mobile App Development
    San Francisco, California
    100 - 249 $75/hr $50,000 & Up
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Wolfpack Digital

    Verified
    Powerful Web and Mobile Apps Start-to-End
    Winner of the European Technology Awards for the App Development category!
    Top Services:
    Software Development eCommerce Development Ruby on Rails
    Cluj-Napoca, Romania
    50 - 99 $70/hr $25,000 - $50,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • VironIT

    Verified
    Full-cycle software development company
    VironIT is a reputable custom software and PHP development company with 18 years of experience, having completed over 600 projects for clients in various industries worldwide.
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design IoT
    New York City, New York
    100 - 249 $80/hr $10,000 - $25,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Brainvire Infotech

    Verified
    Hybrid App Excellence For All Business Sizes
    As pioneers in hybrid app, Python Django and Google App Engine development, Brainvire Infotech is dedicated to bridging the gap between your business vision and a dynamic mobile presence.
    Top Services:
    Software Development Web Design eCommerce Development
    Irving, Texas
    1000 & Up $25/hr $1,000 - $10,000
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • DevsData Tech Talent

    Verified
    Premium Software Development & Tech Recruitment Services
    IT managed services, offshore team in Poland , Romania , and LATAM , highly-technological clients with ultra high satisfaction
    Top Services:
    Software Development Mobile App Development AI Development
    New York City, New York
    Under 49 $55/hr Inquire
    VISIT WEBSITE
  • Andersen

    Verified
    FinTech Unleashed: React Native Excellence by Andersen"
    Choose Andersen for top-tier React Native development in the FinTech industry. Trust our 190+ experts to ensure 100% compliance with industry standards.
    Top Services:
    Software Development Mobile App Development UI/UX Design
    Dallas, Texas
    1000 & Up $50/hr $50,000 & Up
    VISIT WEBSITE
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Custom Software Development Company Hiring Guide

What is a software development company?

A software development company is a service provider that specializes in building programs, systems, platforms, and other digital interfaces to help businesses improve workflows, boost productivity, and customize existing programs according to their needs. 

“Software development companies are the architects of innovation. They go beyond coding, addressing complex challenges, and crafting custom software solutions.  

These firms empower businesses to streamline operations, boost productivity, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. In essence, a software development company is the driving force behind digital transformation, shaping the future of industry and enterprise.” [Kane Jason, Client Success Manager at Ace Infoway] 

What are the different types of software development firms?

The different types of software development firms can be categorized based on these parameters: 

Industry and field specialization Platform and system type specialization
  • Healthcare software companies
  • Education software companies
  • HR software companies 
  • Retail software companies 
  • Telecom software companies 
  • And more 
  • Web development companies
  • UI/UX development
  • Mobile development companies 
  • Enterprise software companies 
  • eCommerce development companies 
  • IoT development companies 
  • Artificial intelligence and machine learning specialized companies 
  • Cloud development  
  • Big data-specialized companies 
  • And more 

 

Additionally, custom software development companies can be grouped based on their service types: 

  • Staff augmentation or dedicated teams: They hire and manage teams of IT professionals dedicated exclusively to your organization, acting as an extension to its in-house team. This is typically a long-term partnership. 
  • Project-based development: These are often short-term, one-time partnerships that last until the successful delivery of the client’s project. 

What does a software development company do?

A software development company creates, improves, and maintains software solutions for a variety of purposes across a wide range of industries, users, and organizations. 

Software development companies conceptualize ideas and then create products that help brands improve workflows and optimize productivity. These products are usually referred to as “solutions” because they solve problems, ranging from the mundane and personal to the complex and professional. Software developers can also improve and personalize existing programs to meet an organization’s needs. 

Besides custom software development, software development agencies typically provide these services:  

  • Project management 
  • Consulting 
  • High-quality documentation 
  • Product development 
  • Software integration into other systems 
  • Data migration 
  • Big data and analytics 
  • DevOps 
  • Mobile app development 
  • Website development 
  • UI/UX design 
  • eCommerce development 
  • Specialized services 
  • Software testing and product quality assurance (QA)  
  • Troubleshooting  
  • Deployment 
  • Post-launch support 
  • Cloud software solutions 
  • And more 

A software development company’s workflow usually comprises the following stages [Kane Jason, Client Success Manager at Ace Infoway]:  

  1. Understanding clients’ needs in-depth 
  2. Crafting highly detailed and accurate blueprints 
  3. Writing custom code to build and customize software 
  4. Performing stringent testing to ensure product’s reliability  
  5. Giving constant customer feedback for further improvement 

How much time does it take to build software?

Building software typically takes four to nine months. This timeline covers: 

PhaseInclusionsEstimated timeline
DiscoveryDocumentation of requirements and design 2-4 weeks 
Planning, architecture & development Coding and framework construction 3-6 months 
Testing & compliance Coding review, end-to-end testing, and user acceptance testing (UAT) 3-6 weeks 

How much do top software development companies charge for their services?

The top software development companies can charge from $30,000 to over $300,000 for their services. 

The total cost of developing software depends on these factors: 

  • Level of expertise 
  • Third-party charges 
  • Project scope and complexity 
  • Number of platforms 
  • UI/UX design 
  • Technology stack 
  • Team size 
  • Location
  • Timeline 

Depending on location, these agencies typically have a $20 to $200/hour rate. Here’s a breakdown by region: 

RegionAverage hourly rate 
North AmericaUp to $200
Eastern Europe $22 to $38 
South Asia $18 to $25 

When it comes to the developer’s level of expertise, the hourly fee can be broken down further as follows:

Level of expertiseAverage hourly rate
Junior programmer $25 to $40 
Mid-developer $35 to $55 
Senior developer $45 to $70 

Based on the size and complexity of the project, software products might end up costing the following: 

Project complexityAverage project cost
Small apps$30,000 to $45,000 
Simple apps$40,000 to $120,000 
Large-scale apps$100,000+ 
Custom CRM software for small companies Up to $100,000 
Custom CRM software for startups $10,000 to $100,000 
Complex apps $200,000 to $300,000+ 

The more complex a project is, and the more developers are involved, the higher the expected cost. A small app that usually takes around 700 hours to develop comes at a lower price, while more complex software with server-side applications can have a six-figure price tag. 

Given a rate of $25 per hour, here’s a cost segmentation for a few key aspects of software development and their estimated time: 

Software featureEstimated project cost Number of hours 
Search$300 to $500 12-20 
Push notifications$625 to $875 25-35 
User login$750 to $1,125 30-45 
User profile editing$1,125 to $1,500 45-60 
Payment processing $1,500 to $1,875 60-75 
In-app calls $6,500 to $9,250 260-370 

As applications are essential in today’s business landscape, software development companies also offer mobile app development services. The cost of developing a custom mobile app varies greatly depending on the desired features.  

The average costs for app development are itemized as:  

App development projectAverage project cost
Minimum Viable Product (MVP) $5,000 to $20,000 
Simplified app $20,000 to $60,000 
Average-scale app $60,000 to $150,000 
Complex, full-scale mobile app $150,000+ 

“On average, software development budgets represent 4-6% of a company's total budget. Precise budgeting should align with the specific project's needs.” [Kane Jason, Client Success Manager at Ace Infoway] 

The top 50 software development agencies on DesignRush charge an average of $59/hour. Roughly 6.1% of software development companies on the platform have a minimum budget of less than $1,000, while 6% have a $50,000 minimum budget. 

What is the difference between custom software and commercial software?

The difference between custom and commercial software is that the former is specifically designed and developed for a particular user, while commercial software is pre-built and available for purchase and use by anyone. 

Here’s a breakdown of their differences and similarities: 

 Custom software Commercial software
PricingFlexibleFixed
Features
  • Fully customizable
  • Competitive advantage
  • Scalability as needed 
  • Ongoing support 
  • Built-in, out-of-the-box 
  • Results-driven based on consumer needs and general market strategies 
  • Broad technical pool 
  • Easy installation 
Designed forUnique requirements by specific users Purchase and access by anyone 
ExampleBanking services Microsoft Office 

Why does your organization need custom software?

Your organization needs custom software especially when: 

  • Technology is leaving your brand behind: With competition monitoring, deep data gathering and analysis, and increased productivity via automation, customized solutions can help you stay ahead of other businesses. 
  • Your current software limits your work: If your current product isn’t doing its job properly, then it is time to let go of it, especially if it causes problems and slows you down. 
  • There is an increased necessity for manual work: If you already own off-the-shelf solutions that require manual workaround, you’re not maximizing your productivity. Customized solutions can automate manual processes. 
  • Reaching customers is getting tougher: If you find it difficult to reach and manage your customers, then it might be time for a technological upgrade. 
  • Your business is expanding: As your business grows, your software requirements will change, and off-the-shelf products may become too limiting. Customized solutions will scale with you. 

Why hire a custom software development company?

The main reason to hire a custom software development company is to obtain tailored solutions and leverage the latest technologies, allowing for scalability and seamless systems integration. 

Providing specialized skills, experience, and flexibility, software development companies are key partners to businesses that want to thrive in an ever-changing technology-driven business environment. 

Other reasons to partner with a specialized company are: 

  • Proven software development methodology 
  • More scalable solutions than off-the-shelf products 
  • Advanced management tools 
  • Dedicated technical support from experts  
  • Dedicated maintenance  
  • More robust cyber security measures 
  • Automation 
  • Integration between different departments within an organization 
  • Superior quality 
  • Timely completion 

Here's a case study that reinforces these reasons further. TradeSmith partnered with software development company Itransition to create a cutting-edge platform for effective portfolio management and stock market updates. 

Itransition launched the client's flagship investment management product, TradeStops, which gained a user base of 30,000+ traders and investors. Further demonstrating the benefits of hiring a top agency, TradeStops's total value of managed portfolios has exceeded $20 billion. 

How do I find the best custom software development company?

The steps to finding the best custom software development company for your business are as follows: 

  1. Identify your project objectives, requirements, budget, and KPIs. 
  2. Understand the different software development technologies and decide which technology to use for your project.  
  3. Research service providers on top agency rankings and professional platforms.  
  4. Search for potential companies with experience, expertise, and portfolios in your domain. The more your partner understands your target market and competition, the better it can meet your needs, provide high-quality solutions, and deliver quickly. 
  5. Consider their location. 
  6. Look through the tech stack they use. 
  7. Look for software development companies with expertise in user experience. 
  8. Shortlist five agencies based on client reviews and portfolios. 
  9. Send them a project brief and require a software development request for proposal (RFP).  
  10. Review custom proposals once they are submitted.  
  11. Arrange interviews to discuss your project in detail and assess their capabilities and resources. 
  12. Know their software development methodology and understand the project plan. 
  13. Ask about QA testing and maintenance. 
  14. Inquire about after-development or post-launch support. 
  15. Learn their cybersecurity measures, practices for protecting products and code, and crisis management plan. 
  16. Examine team structure and dynamics, processes, and communication style. 
  17. Decide on your final choice based on the information gathered. 

If you need assistance finding the right software development agency, visit our Marketplace and let us know the details of your project. We'll thoroughly search our extensive Agency Directory to find the top candidates that best suit your needs. We'll connect you with two to five shortlisted agencies so you can choose the ideal match for your business — all for free. 

What questions should I ask custom software development companies before hiring one?

Consider asking these key questions before hiring a custom software development company: 

Its Relevant Background 

  1. What are your core areas of expertise?  
  2. What similar projects have you completed? 
  3. Do you have references from past clients? 
  4. What regulatory compliance requirements in my industry have you worked with? 

Company Services and Processes 

  1. Which development methodology do you use and why? 
  2. What is your approach to project management, strategies, and KPIs? 
  3. Which coding languages and technology frameworks do you specialize in? 
  4. How do you deliver your custom software development services? Do you work on a project-based or dedicated team model? 
  5. What security and data privacy measures do you take? 
  6. Do you provide after-launch support and maintenance? Is there a post-launch maintenance fee? 

The Project 

  1. How many people are on the software development team assigned to our project, and what are their specializations?  
  2. How do you approach the first phases of the project? 
  3. How do you determine how long the project timeline will be? 
  4. Do you outsource any project tasks to contractors? 
  5. How often can we expect updates and progress reports? 
  6. How will you update the project in the future? 
  7. What is your post-launch policy? What happens if we're less than satisfied with the output? 
  8. How do you handle intellectual property (IP)?  
  9. Who will own the code after launch? Can you share the project's track record?  
  10. What files will I have access to during the project? 
  11. What are the services included in our total project cost? 
  12. What would the actual deliverables be? 
  13. Who will be the designated point of contact throughout the project? 
  14. How do you handle project disputes or conflicts? 

What are the top software development agencies in the U.S.?

  • Kanda Software 
    • 4.8 stars on DesignRush (15 reviews) 
    • 4.7 stars on Google (7 reviews) 
    • Top clients: OneSky, Rue La La, Imprivata, Lionbridge 
  • Itransition 
    • 5.0 stars on DesignRush (21 reviews) 
    • Top clients: PayPal, Adidas, PepsiCo, eBay 
  • BairesDev 
    • 4.9 stars on DesignRush (25 reviews)  
    • 4.3 stars on Google (27 reviews) 
    • Top clients: Google, IBM, Salesforce, Rolls-Royce 
  • Diffco 
    • 5.0 stars on DesignRush (20 reviews)  
    • 5.0 stars on Google (21 reviews) 
    • Top clients: Nokia Care, Food Rocket, NCRIC, International Business Times 
  • Codup 
    • 5.0 stars on DesignRush (43 reviews) 
    • 4.5 stars on Google (44 reviews) 
    • Top clients: Unilever, Dyson, Harrods, National Wildlife Federation 

You can also go through the listing above to learn more about the top agencies. Narrow down your search according to location, fees, client reviews, team size, and other parameters.

How legitimate is the content in the hiring guide?

We’ve consulted two industry experts, Kane Jason of Ace Infoway and Ciril Sreedharof Sreyas IT Solutions Pvt Ltd. to ensure reliable and accurate data in our Hiring Guide. They have verified its accuracy and provided further valuable insights, which are designed to guide decision-makers on their journey to hiring a software development company.

Here are their bios: 

Kane Jason is a dedicated Client Success Manager at Ace Infoway. He combines technical expertise with industry knowledge and excellent communications skills, ensuring that clients stay competitive in their markets. Previously, he led a successful project for one of the largest advertising agencies in Hollywood, enhancing and integrating system components, automating data entry, and addressing technical challenges. 

Ciril Sreedhar is the CEO of Sreyas IT Solutions Pvt Ltd. He’s served 20% of the company’s client base for over a decade, overseeing the projects and operational activities. Skilled in SQL, Oracle Database, Requirements Analysis, PHP, and Strategic Planning, he and his team have successfully forged a seven-year partnership with Drivers Domain UK, developing complex projects such as an online booking system and a risk assessment platform. 

About The Author and Expert Reviewer
Sumana Ganguly has over a decade of experience in writing for the tech industry. She started her career at Indus Net Technologies, Embee Software, and Global Info and Solutions System, where she won the Best Content Writer award. As the resident tech-savvy writer at DesignRush, she covers insightful tech topics and trends that help companies future-proof their businesses.
Chief Technology Officer
Gary Kuznetsov is a seasoned programmer, web developer, and certified Laravel developer. He was a Senior PHP developer at Blue Fountain Media, then soon became Head of Development at Digital Silk. With hundreds of successful websites/applications deployed throughout his career, it is no surprise that he is now a Chief Technology Officer at DesignRush, spearheading digital products and solutions to meet the company’s challenges and objectives.