This decision comes down to trade-offs between cost, accountability, and continuity — not one being universally "better" than the other.
The Case for a Freelancer
Independent developers, like David Esabwa — a Nairobi-based web designer and digital strategist with over 300 websites and 45+ M-Pesa integrations shipped — often offer more competitive pricing and a more direct, personal working relationship than a larger agency.
The Case for an Agency
An agency, such as our sister studio Elite Designs, typically has a team covering design, development, and strategy together, which matters for larger or more complex projects, and provides continuity if one team member is unavailable.
The Real Risk With Freelancers
If a freelancer becomes unavailable mid-project — illness, other commitments, simply disappearing — you can be left with a half-finished site and no easy recourse. This risk is lower, though not zero, with an established agency.
The Real Risk With Agencies
Larger agencies can be more expensive, slower to communicate, and less personally invested in a smaller client's specific project compared to an independent developer who depends directly on their reputation.
What to Actually Check, Either Way
- A real portfolio of completed, live projects — not just mockups
- Clear pricing and a written scope before work starts
- References or reviews you can verify
Our Own Recommendation Path
See our hire a developer service, built around exactly this accountability concern — one team from kickoff to handover, with full code ownership at the end.