▸ Comparison · Remote developer marketplace
Haystack vs Arc
Arc is a remote-only marketplace. Haystack is a curated hiring platform with vetted candidates across every working pattern.
Arc (formerly Codementor) built a remote-first freelance marketplace. Volume is good; consistency of vetting is uneven.
Haystack takes a different approach: every candidate is verified before they hit your shortlist, and remote, hybrid and on-site all sit under one filter. You aren't locked into remote-only workflows.
Side-by-side
Haystack vs Arc - the honest breakdown
| Area | Haystack | Arc |
|---|---|---|
| Hire type | Permanent + contract, any working pattern | Remote freelance and permanent |
| Vetting depth | Uniform: verified skills, salary, notice | Varies by tier (Arc, HireAI, Arc Contract) |
| Time to first shortlist | < 24 hours from job live | 3-10 days depending on stack |
| Pricing model | Flat subscription or pay-on-success | % of first-year salary or hourly fees |
| Working pattern filter | Remote, hybrid and on-site side by side | Remote-only |
| Geographic focus | UK, EU, US strong | Global remote |
| Best for | Any team wanting curated vetted hires | Fully remote teams on tighter budgets |
Which one is right for you?
Pick Arc if
Fully remote teams with a global-first hiring model.
Common questions
- Is Haystack a good Arc alternative?
- Yes - if you want consistent vetting and the flexibility to hire remote, hybrid or on-site under one workflow, Haystack is the clearest alternative.
- Which has better candidate quality?
- Haystack applies a single vetting bar to every candidate. Arc has multiple tiers with different bars, so quality is less predictable.
- Can I hire globally through Haystack?
- Haystack is strongest in the UK, EU and US. For fully remote hires from anywhere in the world, Arc has broader geographic coverage.
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