Top 5 UI/UX Design Agencies In the World — July 2025

Finding the exemplary user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) agency for your digital product design can take time since so many companies offer this service.

Updated July 3, 2025

Table of Content

The Best 5 UI/UX Design Agencies — July 2025
—1. Clay
— 2. IDEO
— 3. Big Human
— 4. Doberman
— 5. Code & Theory
FAQ
— What are the top UI/UX design companies in 2025?
— Why Is Good UI/UX Design Important?
— How Much Does a UI/UX Design Agency Cost in 2025?
— How long does a typical UI/UX project take?
— What deliverables should I expect from a UI/UX agency?
— How do I choose the best UI/UX design agency?

The Best 5 UI/UX Design Agencies — July 2025:

This list features agencies selected for their proven track records, strong portfolios, client satisfaction, detailed case studies, and diversity. They represent global options and specialize in various industries and services, ensuring innovative and impactful design solutions.

These are the top 5 UX design firms (all five are top-notch) that have the best UX designers to make your choice easier:

1. Clay

Clay is a web design, branding, and UX design agency based in SF

A global web design, branding, and UI/UX design agency

Based in San Francisco, Clay is a top-tier UI/UX design agency known for its expertise in digital strategy, branding, and user experience design. Trusted by tech giants and startups alike, Clay combines aesthetic precision with practical design principles to create functional, high-performing digital products.

Best for: Clay is ideal for tech-focused businesses — especially startups and companies in FinTech, eCommerce, and Web3 — seeking high-end UI/UX design. With a client list that includes Google, Facebook, and Amazon, Clay combines big-brand expertise with a passion for helping new ventures grow. Their end-to-end services, from user research to development, make them a strategic, full-service partner.

Their deep tech specialization and ability to align design, product, and brand strategy to support long-term growth are what sets them apart.

Notable Clients:

1. DFINITY — The partnership between Clay Global and DFINITY resulted in a visually captivating website that effectively showcases the organization’s global computer vision. Clay created an engaging platform for new users using dynamic motion design, bold color schemes, and custom illustrations.
2. Snapchat—Through their collaboration with Snapchat, Clay developed an innovative user interface for AR technology, allowing for seamless shopping experiences. The interface uses voice and gesture control and consistent tutorial animations, making it user-friendly for all levels of users.
3. Slack—Clay’s work with Slack resulted in an interactive demo that serves as the company’s primary sales tool. Focusing on efficient onboarding and responsive design, the demo effectively showcases Slack’s communication-centered product.

Founded: 2016
Headquarters: San Francisco
Pricing: $$$
Team Size: 50–100 people
Industries: FinTech, eCommerce, technology, startups, food & beverage, telecommunications, healthcare, B2B, Web3, finance, retail, logistics
Capabilities: UI/UX design, motion design, full-stack development, UX research, CX & interaction design, web design
Portfolio: https://clay.global/work
Socials: Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn

Feel free to contact Clay at hey@clay.global with any inquiries or for any information.

2. IDEO

IDEO is a design company known for its human-centered, interdisciplinary approach

UX design with a focus on doing better

IDEO is a globally recognized design agency driven by a clear mission: to create positive change through human-centered design. With studios in San Francisco, London, and Tokyo, IDEO applies its user-focused approach across sectors like consumer goods, hospitality, healthcare, and financial services.

Best for: IDEO is ideal for large organizations seeking to address complex global challenges. Their experience with companies like H&M and Ford demonstrates their strength in delivering impactful, socially conscious solutions — particularly in healthcare, education, finance, and the non-profit space.

What sets IDEO apart is its commitment to design as a force for good, embedding empathy and user insight into every project.

Notable Clients:

1. American Express — Through a collaboration with IDEO, American Express has successfully developed Pay It Plan It — a feature enabling card members to split large purchases into smaller monthly payments without interest. This innovative solution caters to the preferences of millennial and Generation Z audiences, providing them with greater control and flexibility in their payment options.
2. Digital Services Georgia — IDEO partnered with Digital Services Georgia to revamp its platform and create a more cohesive, reliable, and uniquely Georgian experience for citizens. This project resulted in developing a versatile digital design system and brand identity that caters to the diverse needs of the state’s public.
3. Beyond 12—In collaboration with Beyond 12, IDEO designed and expanded a coaching model that leverages technology to support first-generation college students. The result was the creation of MyCoach, an app that serves as a college co-pilot for students, offering assistance with everything from financial aid to connecting with peers for inspiration and motivation.

Founded: 1991
Headquarters: San Francisco
Pricing: $$$$+
Team Size: 600
Industries: healthcare, education, finance, startups, retail, technology, non-profit
Capabilities: UI/UX design, UX research, product design, consulting
Portfolio: https://www.ideo.com/work
Socials: Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn

If you want to get in touch with IDEO, you can visit their website at https://www.ideo.com/contact

3. Big Human

Big Human is UX design and digital product studio, NY

An NYC-based UX design and digital product studio

Big Human is a New York-based full-service UX agency offering digital strategy, design, development, and branding. Known for its expertise in digital products, the agency prioritizes research-driven, user-centered design to build innovative and effective experiences.

Best for: Big Human is a strong fit for B2B, eCommerce, Web3, and entertainment companies looking to launch or refine digital products. Their integrated approach makes them an ideal partner for delivering seamless, cross-platform user experiences.

What sets them apart is their multidisciplinary team of UX experts who blend creativity, business insight, and technical precision. Their focus on usability, information architecture, and striking interaction design ensures both aesthetic appeal and functional excellence.

Notable Clients:

1. Netflix — With a focus on accessibility and user experience, the digital studio worked closely with Netflix to design a centralized website that effectively showcases the company’s assets and values to diverse audiences.
2. Quinn — In collaboration with Quinn, Big Human revamped the audio-first platform’s website and mobile app, incorporating personalized features based on user feedback while staying true to the brand’s fun and youthful identity.
3. Carnegie Hall—The agency enhanced the design styles of Carnegie Hall’s educational programs, including their Musical Explorers and Orchestra maps. Through optimization for various devices, minimal text, high-quality media, and JavaScript animation, the team successfully created visually engaging content that enhances the user experience.

Founded: 2010
Headquarters: New York
Pricing: $$$$+
Team Size: 50–100 people
Industries: B2B, food & beverage, Web3, fashion, telecommunications, hospitality, education, healthcare, eCommerce
Capabilities: UI/UX design, UX research, full-stack development, illustration, web and app development
Portfolio: https://www.bighuman.com/work
Socials: Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn

For any inquiries or questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Big Human through their website at https://www.bighuman.com/contact-us.

4. Doberman

Doberman is digital innovation and UX design studio

A digital innovation and UX design firm

Founded in 1998, Doberman is a Scandinavian UX design studio known for its cutting-edge creativity, longevity, and bold design vision. With offices in Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, Oslo, and a partner studio in Brooklyn, Doberman delivers sleek, transformative design solutions with global impact.

Best for: Doberman is ideal for forward-thinking companies in technology, education, finance, and healthcare seeking innovative digital products or reimagined user experiences. Their Scandinavian design roots and international reach make them a strong partner for businesses blending style with functionality.

Doberman stands out for applying UX principles beyond screens — extending into areas like urban infrastructure and service design. Their end-to-end capabilities, from product design to business transformation, position them as a comprehensive, forward-looking design partner.

Notable Clients:

1. MoMA — The agency helped revamp the iconic Museum of Modern Art brand by designing a new logo and visual identity that embodies its dedication to contemporary art and global influence.
2. IBM — Doberman provided visual system guidelines for tech giant IBM, bringing a cohesive, modern, and human-centered aesthetic to their digital and physical touchpoints.
3. Pearson—The UX studio collaborated with education company Pearson to create Aida, the world’s first AI-driven tool for calculus education. This project showcased their product design and branding expertise, as Aida received praise for its intuitive interface and effectiveness in helping students learn complex mathematical concepts.

Founded: 1998
Headquarters: Oslo
Pricing: $$$$+
Team Size: 100–150 people
Industries: technology, telecommunications, education, finance, eCommerce, healthcare
Capabilities: UI/UX design, UX research, CX strategy, product design, business design & transformation, service & industrial design
Portfolio: https://doberman.co/work
Socials: Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn

If you have any inquiries or would like to collaborate with Doberman, you can reach out to them at hello@doberman.ey.com

5. Code & Theory

Code and Theory is a UX design and digital creative agency based in SF, NY, London, Manila.

A UX design and digital creative agency

With offices in San Francisco, New York, London, and Manila, Code and Theory is a digital-first agency known for combining innovative design with advanced technology. Their strategic, results-driven approach consistently delivers impactful digital ecosystems.

Best for: Code and Theory is a strong match for businesses in B2B, eCommerce, healthcare, and Web3 looking to transform their digital presence. Their forward-thinking solutions make them especially suited for companies embracing digital innovation and emerging tech.

What sets them apart is their global reach and ability to integrate design with technology at scale. From UX design to business consulting and digital transformation, their end-to-end capabilities position them as a powerful partner for complex, tech-focused projects.

Notable Clients:

1. TikTok—Code and Theory’s collaboration with TikTok successfully consolidated their web ecosystem. By enhancing site functionality, the popular video-sharing app was able to attract more advertisers and increase its revenue.
2. Meta for Business — The agency’s work with Meta for Business focused on creating a user-friendly central hub for all their products and resources. This improved accessibility and organization for marketing, advertising, and business purposes.
3. Pfizer — Code and Theory partnered with pharmaceutical giant Pfizer to revamp their global intranet, providing a personalized subscription system for employees. The new design aimed to inspire and engage employees on the platform, ultimately increasing productivity and communication within the company.

Founded: 2001
Headquarters: New York
Pricing: $$$$+
Team Size: 500+ people
Industries: B2B, education, fashion, telecommunications, eCommerce, hospitality, healthcare, Web3
Capabilities: UI/UX design, UX research, content strategy, product design, business consulting, design transformation
Portfolio: https://www.codeandtheory.com/things-we-make
Socials: Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn

Contact Code and Theory for all your business inquiries at newbiz@codeandtheory.com

FAQ

Q: What are the top UI/UX design companies in 2025?

– Clay specializes in clean, product-driven UX/UI for top tech companies and startups, focusing on polished digital experiences.
– IDEO is known for human-centered design and solving complex problems through research and innovation.
– Big Human combines design and development with a playful, experimental edge, creating unique digital interfaces.
– Doberman emphasizes service design and future-ready user experiences through collaboration and prototyping.
– Code and Theory blends storytelling, UX, and engineering to build large-scale platforms for media, e-commerce, and finance.

Q: Why Is Good UI/UX Design Important?

Customers expect seamless experiences, making UI and UX design crucial for product development. Poor usability can drive them to competitors, while intuitive design enhances brand image and customer retention. Effective UI/UX design simplifies purchasing, boosts engagement, and increases sales. A smooth experience fosters brand credibility and loyalty. Even a one-second delay can significantly impact customer satisfaction and conversions. Consistent interactions across platforms enhance user journeys, as seen with General Electric’s estimated $30 million savings.

Q: How much does a UI/UX design agency cost in 2025?

The cost of working with a UI/UX design agency can range anywhere from $5,000 to over $500,000, depending on your project’s size, complexity, and the agency’s level of expertise. Here’s what to expect:

Small to Medium Projects

For simpler websites, marketing pages, or MVPs, costs typically start around $5,000–$30,000. Freelancers, small studios, or boutique agencies often handle these projects. They’re best for startups and small businesses with tight budgets and straightforward needs.

Larger, Custom Projects

If you’re building a fully designed mobile app, SaaS platform, or large-scale web application, expect to pay $50,000–$150,000 at a mid-tier agency. These projects usually involve user research, journey mapping, UI kits, and interaction design — not just visuals.

Enterprise-Level or High-End Work

For companies that need deep user research, service design, branding, and long-term design support — such as in healthcare, finance, or Web3 — costs can exceed $200,000–$500,000+. This is the realm of top-tier agencies like IDEO or Code and Theory, who work with global brands and complex digital ecosystems.

What Influences Cost

• Scope: The number of screens, user flows, and platforms involved.
• Research Depth: Projects involving user interviews, testing, and data analysis cost more.
• Design Deliverables: Are you getting just wireframes or clickable prototypes, animations, and dev handoff files?
• Agency Reputation: Elite agencies with strong case studies and global clients naturally charge more.
• Timeline: Urgent or accelerated timelines will raise the price.
• Location: Agencies in North America and Western Europe are significantly more expensive than those in Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, or Latin America.

Pricing Models

Most agencies use one of three models:

• Fixed price for clearly scoped projects
• Hourly rates, which can range from $100–$300+ in Western markets
• Monthly retainers for ongoing design support, starting around $5,000/month and up

What’s Usually Included

A typical UI/UX engagement may cover user research, personas, information architecture, wireframes, full UI design, interactive prototypes, and a developer-ready design system. Some agencies also offer brand design, strategy, or full product development.

Q: How long does a typical UI/UX project take?

The timeline for a UI/UX project depends on the scope, complexity, team size, and whether the project is a new build or a redesign. On average, UI/UX design projects can take anywhere from 3 weeks to 6 months or more. Here’s a breakdown by project type:

Small Projects (3–6 weeks)

Projects like landing pages, small marketing sites, or simple mobile app prototypes fall into this category. These usually include light user research, basic wireframes, and visual UI design.

Deliverables: sitemap, wireframes, UI mockups, responsive design
Team: 1–2 designers
Best for: Startups, MVPs, internal tools

Medium Projects (6–12 weeks)

Includes mobile apps, company websites, or web-based dashboards. These often require user personas, interactive prototypes, and iterative design with feedback rounds.

Deliverables: user flows, high-fidelity UI, basic design system, clickable prototypes
Team: designers + project manager, sometimes researchers
Best for: SMBs, growing tech startups

Large Projects (3–6 months+)

Complex enterprise platforms, SaaS products, or eCommerce ecosystems usually fall into this range. These involve extensive research, testing, design systems, and multiple stakeholder reviews.

Deliverables: deep UX research, user journey maps, responsive UI for multiple devices, design system, usability testing, dev handoff
Team: full UX team (researcher, strategist, designers, PM)
Best for: enterprise companies, long-term product teams

Other Factors That Impact Timeline:

Level of Research: More discovery (interviews, audits, testing) = more time
Rounds of Iteration: Revisions can extend the project
Number of Stakeholders: Approvals and meetings often slow things down
Design + Development Overlap: If development starts after the design is finished, the total timeline may double

In summary, while a small UI/UX project can be completed in under a month, most robust and research-driven design engagements take between 2 and 6 months, especially when quality, testing, and alignment with business goals are priorities.

Q: What deliverables should I expect from a UI/UX agency?

Source: The Interaction Design Foundation

1. Discovery & Research

— User personas — Representations of your target users based on research
— Customer journey maps — Visuals showing how users interact with your product
— Competitive analysis — Review of similar products and design patterns
— User research findings — Insights from interviews, surveys, or usability testing
— UX audit (for redesigns) — Evaluation of your current product’s usability issues

2. UX Strategy & Structure

— Information architecture (IA) — Site map, navigation structure, or content hierarchy
— User flows — Diagrams showing how users move through your product to complete tasks
— Wireframes — Low-fidelity screen layouts to establish layout and functionality
— Interaction maps — Show how screens connect and respond to user actions

3. UI Design

— Moodboards / visual direction — Design inspiration and style exploration
— High-fidelity mockups — Pixel-perfect visual designs of each screen
— Responsive layouts — Designs optimized for mobile, tablet, and desktop
— Design system / UI kit — A collection of reusable components, styles, and assets (buttons, icons, typography, etc.)

4. Prototyping & Testing

— Clickable prototype — Interactive prototype built-in tools like Figma or Framer
— Usability testing reports — Insights from testing the prototype with real users
— Iteration cycles — Revisions based on user feedback and stakeholder input

5. Handoff & Documentation

— Developer-ready files — Organized Figma (or similar) files with naming conventions and specs
— Design tokens or CSS guidance — For front-end implementation
— Handoff documentation — Guidelines for developers to implement the design
— Support during development — Optional QA or design consulting as devs build the product

Optional (Based on Scope)

— Logo or branding design — If the project includes visual identity work
— Animation specs or micro interactions — Motion design for transitions, buttons, loaders
— Content strategy / UX writing — Microcopy, labels, and calls to action
— Accessibility guidelines — WCAG-compliant design elements for inclusivity

Q: How do I choose the best UI/UX design agency?

Here are key factors to consider:

Local vs. Remote

Local agencies often offer easier collaboration, real-time communication, and better cultural alignment — helpful for fast-moving or stakeholder-heavy projects. However, they usually come with higher costs. Remote or offshore teams can be more affordable and offer diverse talent, but may introduce time zone differences and communication lags. Consider what matters most: budget flexibility or streamlined interaction.

Small vs. Large Agencies

The size of the agency should match the scope of your project. Large agencies are ideal for complex, long-term initiatives — they offer robust teams, wide-ranging services, and scalability. Smaller studios or boutique firms tend to be more agile and hands-on, offering faster turnarounds, closer creative collaboration, and a more personalized experience.

Cost vs. Quality

Top-tier UI/UX design comes at a premium — high-impact projects often exceed $100,000. That said, cost shouldn’t be your only filter. Review portfolios, ask for case studies, hold discovery calls, and define success metrics. A clear, well-structured RFP (request for proposal) will help you compare candidates fairly and ensure alignment on scope, timelines, and expectations.

Industry Expertise

UI/UX agencies that specialize in your industry — whether fintech, eCommerce, healthcare, SaaS, or B2B — bring valuable domain knowledge and experience with similar user problems. This often leads to more strategic design decisions, faster onboarding, and fewer rounds of revision. Industry expertise can differentiate between a good interface and a product that moves the needle.

Thanks for reading! 🙏🏼