WhatASaaS vs hiring a developer
A ready AI chat app with sign-in and checkout, compared with hiring a developer to build one: timeline, cost, launch checks and code ownership.
| Topic | WhatASaaS | hiring a developer |
|---|---|---|
| Getting started | Write a short brief or start from a template. You approve a spec before anything builds. | Write a spec, find someone, agree on scope. |
| Getting paid | Sign-in, checkout and document answers are built in. The app goes live after its launch checks pass. | Built to order. |
| Before launch | Automated launch checks must pass. | Depends on the developer's process. |
| Owning it | Download the full source any time, free. | Depends on the contract. |
| Cost | Host $29/mo, Studio $99/mo, Factory $249/mo. No cut of your sales. | A project fee or hourly rate, plus hosting. |
General category, reviewed October 2026. Every option is different, so check before you decide.
When hiring a developer is the better pick
- You need custom integrations such as an ERP or Salesforce.
- You need something other than an AI chat app.