Top 19 Best UX Research Agencies to Hire in 2025

Finding a suitable UX research agency isn’t easy. Many lists just recycle marketing claims, making it tough to tell who’s actually good.

This guide is different. We’ve gathered real client reviews, Reddit insights, and industry data to help you make an informed choice. You’ll get:

• Honest pros and cons of top agencies.
• Who they’re best for — startups, enterprises, or niche industries.
• A comparison table to simplify decision-making.

If you’re looking for a reliable UX research partner that fits your exact needs, this list will save you time — and possibly a bad investment. But before we dive into the top agencies, let’s clarify exactly what a UX research agency does.

What does an UX agency do?

A UX research agency helps companies understand how users interact with their products. They conduct usability testing, in-depth interviews, surveys, and other research methods to uncover pain points and opportunities for improvement.

But UX research isn’t always limited to product design. Many agencies also support marketing, strategy, and business decisions by gathering insights on customer behavior. According to industry professionals, UX research often overlaps with market research, product strategy, and even data science.

This means hiring a UX research agency can provide value beyond just user experience. It can help inform business growth, customer engagement, and product-market fit. With that in mind, let’s look at the best UX research agencies available today.

Best UX research agencies in 2025 (with real reviews)

Not all user research agencies are the same. Some specialize in usability testing, while others focus on deep qualitative insights. Some are great for startups, others for enterprise clients.

To make choosing easier, we’ve grouped the top agencies into categories. Besides, each user experience research agency description includes:

• General overview (founding year, key services, industry focus)
• Rating + client reviews (strengths and weaknesses)
• Best for (who should hire them)
• Pricing (typical cost range, from project-based pricing to hourly rates).

Let’s dive in.

Best UX research & design agency

These agencies offer both UX research and UI/UX design. They are ideal for companies that need research-driven product design rather than research alone. If you are looking for a full-service approach that goes from discovery to execution, this is the category for you.

1. Eleken

Eleken is a UI/UX design agency that specializes in SaaS products. Unlike traditional agencies that separate research and design, we integrate UX research directly into the product design process. Instead of just delivering reports, we turn insights into actionable design solutions.

We follow a dedicated designer model, meaning clients get a designer who works as part of their in-house team focusing on one project only. Our setup allows for better collaboration and iterative design improvements based on real user research.

General overview

• Founded: 2015
• Key services: UX research + UI/UX design in one, UX audit, mobile app design, web app design, design systems
• Industry focus: SaaS, with expertise in sales, fintech, healthcare, marketing, data, geoservices, developer-focused products, and AI

‍

Rating + client reviews

Eleken has an overall review rating of 4.9 based on 101 client reviews on Clutch. 

Strengths:

• Deep expertise in SaaS UX.

• Transparent pricing & no hidden fees.

• Direct collaboration with experienced designers & researchers (no outsourcing).

• Profound research skills

Weaknesses:

• Might not be the best fit for companies needing traditional research-only services.

Best for

• SaaS startups
• Companies with niche industries like data, geospatial, or AI projects.
• Companies looking for both research and UI/UX design
• Businesses that want a subscription-based model rather than fixed project fees

Pricing

Clutch pricing snapshot

• Subscription-based pricing – a client pays a fixed amount monthly (also called time-based retainer model). It makes Eleken a flexible choice for startups that need ongoing UX improvements without the high costs of a full-time design team.
• Price range: depending on project duration, on average, $10 000 - $50 000 for a project.

Best UX research-only agencies

These firms specialize solely in UX research. They conduct usability testing, in-depth interviews, and behavioral analysis without offering design services. If you already have a design team and need independent research, these agencies are your best bet.

2. AnswerLab

AnswerLab is a user research company focused exclusively on delivering insights that help brands optimize their digital products. They specialize in providing scalable research programs that inform product development and business strategy. They use a variety of research methodologies, including usability testing, contextual inquiry, and AI research, to help clients understand how users interact with websites, mobile apps, AR/VR, and other digital products.

General overview

• Founded: 2004
• Key services: UX research, usability testing, contextual inquiry, ethnographic research, UX strategy, AI research, hardware user research
• Industry focus: Financial services, eCommerce, healthcare, gaming, automotive, technology & software, B2B, logistics, social media

Rating + client reviews

AnswerLab is known for its strong track record in enterprise-level UX research. While there are no available Clutch reviews, their long-term partnerships with global brands reflect high client satisfaction.

Strengths

• Expertise in enterprise-level UX research
• Customizable research programs tailored to client needs
• Extensive experience in AI, inclusive research, and hardware UX

Weaknesses

• Pricing is on the higher end, making it more suitable for large enterprises
• May not be the best fit for small-scale or niche projects

Best for

• Enterprise companies with large-scale research needs
• Product teams looking for long-term, continuous UX research support
• Companies building complex or high-risk products (for example. AI, hardware, finance)

Pricing

AnswerLab does not publicly disclose specific rates on their website. For detailed information tailored to your project's needs, it's best to contact them directly through their official channels. But it’s generally on the higher end due to their focus on large, enterprise clients. 

Engagements typically range from $30K to $100K+ depending on the complexity and duration of the project. Smaller-scale engagements may be available, but pricing is customized to each client’s needs.

3. Bold Insight

Bold Insight is a UX and human factors research agency that focuses on complex products, especially in healthcare and medical devices. Even though the company was founded in 2018, its leadership team has been doing UX research for nearly 20 years.

They run studies across the full product lifecycle — from early ideas to FDA-required testing. With their own research labs, ISO certification, and a strong focus on quality, they’re a solid choice for teams that need reliable, compliance-ready UX research.

General overview

• Founded: 2018
• Key services: UX research, human factors research, usability testing, expert reviews, accessibility research, ethnography, contextual inquiry, information architecture, validation testing
• Industry focus: Medical devices, healthcare, digital health, automotive, AI, employee experience, consumer tech, accessibility

Rating + client reviews

Bold Insight has a strong reputation in the UX and human factors community, with collaborations alongside companies like Stryker, Genentech, and AbbVie. While they don’t have verified reviews on Clutch at the time of writing, peer endorsements and industry presence reflect consistent quality and trust.

Strengths

• Extensive experience in regulated industries like healthcare and medical tech
• ISO-certified processes and in-house testing labs
• Ability to manage both small usability studies and large, global research programs
• Strong internal culture and team continuity (90+ full-time researchers)

Weaknesses

• Lack of public client reviews may make vendor evaluation harder for first-time clients
• Healthcare-heavy focus may not align with general consumer products or lean startup environments

Best for

• Companies developing medical or regulated products
• Enterprises needing formative and summative testing
• Teams seeking a research partner with internal labs and compliance expertise

Pricing

Bold Insight uses custom project-based pricing, with flexibility to support both quick-turn usability projects and long-term vendor engagements. According to a Clutch.co B2B listing:

• Typical project minimum: $5,000+
  Hourly rate: $150–$199/hour
• Average small project range: $15,000–$50,000 depending on scope

Bold Insight’s broad client range (from startups to Fortune 100 firms) implies they adjust pricing based on project complexity and scale, usually developing custom quotes rather than one-size packages.​

4. Loop UX

Loop UX is a full-service user research agency that specializes in international UX studies. They’ve conducted research in over 40 countries across six continents, making them a great option for companies that need insights from users around the world.

They handle every aspect of a UX study, from participant recruitment to in-field project management to final reports. They offer a wide range of research methods, including in-home interviews, usability testing, diary studies, and intercept interviews.

General overview

• Founded: 2011
• Key services: International UX research, participant recruitment, usability testing, in-home interviews, intercept interviews, diary studies, workshops, simultaneous translation, video deliverables
• Industry focus: Cross-industry, with experience in tech, fintech, travel, consumer products, and more

Rating + client reviews

Loop UX features strong testimonials from major global brands, including Facebook, Airbnb, Wise, eBay, and Meta, on their website. However, they have no Clutch profile or reviews on popular rating sites, meaning we can’t provide public star-rating reviews from other platforms than their official website.

Strengths

• Deep experience in global UX research
• End-to-end project support including local recruitment and logistics

• Flexible methodology and local presence to capture cultural nuance

Weaknesses

• Pricing is not publicly available, making cost evaluation harder upfront
• May not be ideal for small, fast-turnaround projects or early-stage startups

Best for

• Companies conducting international user research
• Teams looking for expertise in usability testing
• Projects that require cultural sensitivity and multi-market testing

Pricing

Loop UX does not list pricing publicly. Costs vary depending on the research location, methodology, and project scope. Clients should expect custom quotes, particularly for international, multi-country studies. For smaller single-market studies, pricing may still be flexible, but Loop UX is best suited to teams with moderate to large budgets and long-term goals.

5. Goto Research

Goto Research is a UX and service design agency with a strong emphasis on ethnographic and contextual research. They take a human-focused, insight-driven approach to research, combining deep qualitative methods with service design strategy. 

Goto Research is a small but high-quality user research firm that works with clients at every stage of the product lifecycle — from early discovery to strategic planning to product refinement. 

General overview

• Founded: 2005
• Key services: UX research, contextual research, usability testing, ethnography, UX strategy, service design, co-creation workshops, journey mapping, prototyping
• Industry focus: Healthcare, public services, consumer tech, education, automotive, media
• Research approach: Ethnographic studies, in-context observations, design thinking workshops, and service blueprinting

Rating + client reviews

While Goto Research doesn’t have public reviews on platforms like Clutch, their website features strong praise from government agencies and major corporations, like Covered California, and HealthCare.gov, as well as long-term partnerships with clients like Netflix, Citrix, Sony, Hyundai, and Wikipedia.

Strengths

• Deep expertise in ethnographic and contextual research
• Strong reputation in both public sector and enterprise work
• Known for turning complex human behavior into strategic insights
• Offers co-creation and design thinking workshops for ideation

Weaknesses

• May not be the best fit for teams looking for quant-heavy research or fast turnaround

Best for

• Companies needing deep, qualitative insights into user behavior
• Teams building products for public services, healthcare, or consumer tech
• Organizations looking to align UX research with service design strategy

Pricing

Goto Research does not share pricing publicly. As with many qualitative-heavy agencies, pricing depends on project scope, research methods, and client needs. Companies should expect project-based quotes rather than flat fees. Most suitable for teams with mid- to large-sized budgets and complex research objectives.

Market research firms with UX research divisions

These are large, established market research firms that have expanded into UX research. They often use data-driven methods and are well-suited for enterprise clients that need both user insights and broader market analysis.

6. Material + (formerly Kelton)

Material+ is a market research and strategy firm that blends behavioral science, UX research, and advanced analytics to help enterprise clients drive customer engagement and growth. 

Their UX research services sit within a broader ecosystem of customer insights, including ethnographic research, customer segmentation, and behavioral modeling. Material+ combines traditional UX research with AI, data science, and behavioral economics for large-scale, enterprise-level programs

General overview

• Founded: 2003
  
  
• Key services: UX research, customer insight, behavioral science, brand measurement, product and experience design, loyalty strategy, market segmentation, market research
  
  
• Industry focus: Retail, healthcare, tech, finance, CPG, media, education, non-profit
  
  

Rating + client reviews

Material+ has worked with major brands, including Google, Target, WHOOP, Liquid Death, Walmart, Hyundai, Netflix, and others.

While third-party reviews on platforms like Clutch are limited when we search internal case studies and repeat business suggest high client satisfaction. However, when we seek for Kelton Global (former company name) there’s more information available.

For example, Featured Customers provides a rate of 4.8 based on 2371 reference ratings for Kelton.

Overall, the agency maintains a reputation for delivering results that align with strategic business goals.

Strengths

• Decades of experience with Fortune 500 clients
• Integrates behavioral science, UX research, and AI
• Full-service capabilities from research to design and execution
• Strong in qualitative insights

Weaknesses

• UX research is not their sole focus — it’s one part of a broader offering
• Pricey

Best for

• Enterprises looking to tie UX insights to broader business strategy
• Teams that want to combine quantitative data and behavioral science
  
  

Pricing

Given that Material+ works with large enterprises and complex, bespoke projects, pricing is likely determined by the scope and nature of each engagement. Clients are typically world’s most recognizable brands and innovative companies, which implies budgets tailored to extensive research, strategy, and creative work rather than off-the-shelf packages. 

The company’s profile in industry rankings reinforces this enterprise-oriented approach – for example, Kelton (Material+) is listed among top research/branding agencies serving Fortune 500 firms. 

In summary, prospective clients should expect a tailored proposal: a minimum spend in the low five figures for smaller engagements, scaling up significantly for large-scale insights or creative programs, with pricing structured on a case-by-case (often “contact for pricing”) basis typical of strategic UX research consulting firms.

7. NIQ

NIQ is the world’s leading consumer intelligence provider, combining market research, behavioral analytics, and retail data to give brands a complete picture of consumer behavior. Following its 2023 merger with GfK, NIQ now offers a unified platform known as the Full View™, designed to support everything from product innovation to omnichannel strategy.

Although UX research is just one part of their broader analytics portfolio, NIQ helps enterprise clients understand how users interact with products across online and offline touchpoints.

General overview

• Founded: 1923
• Key services: Market measurement, UX research, omnichannel analytics, consumer behavior insights, brand and media strategy, innovation support
• Industry focus: Consumer packaged goods, retail, tech & durables, beauty, public sector, eCommerce, media, finance

Rating + client reviews

Clients like L’Oréal, FreshDirect, and Shameless Pets highlight the value of its omnichannel analytics and real-time dashboards.

Strengths

• Largest global reach of any consumer intelligence provider
• Advanced integration of AI, behavioral science, and UX data

Weaknesses

• UX research is not a core focus — more complementary to market insights
• Pricing and contracts are complex and vary significantly by client size

Best for

• Enterprises seeking omnichannel consumer behavior data
• Brands needing market segmentation, testing, and innovation support
  Teams wanting to align UX performance with larger growth strategy

Pricing

NIQ offers custom, enterprise-level pricing that depends on data access, service tier, number of categories or markets tracked, and consulting scope.

8. Ipsos

Ipsos is one of the largest and most established market research firms in the world, operating in 90+ countries with over 20,000 employees. The company provides enterprise-level research сombining UX methods with large-scale quantitative data, behavioral science, and market modeling

General overview

• Founded: 1975
• Key services: market research for enterprise-level companies
• Industry focus: Healthcare, automotive, finance, retail, government, consumer goods, public sector

Rating + client reviews

Ipsos doesn't have a strong presence on review platforms, but its reputation is built on decades of collaboration with global enterprises, public institutions, and NGOs. They conduct over 50 million interviews annually, including millions of online studies. Case studies often highlight their ability to turn complex data into clear, actionable insights for product teams, marketers, and strategists.

Strengths

• Global reach and credibility across industries
• Deep expertise in quantitative research and analytics
• Strong infrastructure for large, multi-market UX studies

Weaknesses

• UX research is not a core specialization — more of a capability within a much broader offering
• Less agile or personalized than boutique UX firms

Best for

• Enterprises seeking to combine UX research with broader market insights
• Government or healthcare organizations with multi-country or longitudinal research needs

Pricing

Ipsos does not publicly disclose pricing, as engagements are fully customized.

• Expect pricing to scale with project size and geographic scope
• Suitable for organizations with mid-to-large research budgets
• Clients must contact Ipsos directly for tailored proposals

UX Design + Research Agencies

Unlike full-service UX research and design agencies, these firms primarily focus on design but also offer UX research as a complementary service. They are a good fit for companies that want strong UI/UX design with some research support.

9. Blink UX 

Blink is a user experience research consultancy with a focus on building experiences people love and remember. They combine deep UX research with full-service design capabilities, from product strategy to AI-powered enterprise platforms. Their proprietary Evidence-driven Design process grounds every decision in real user insights, making them a trusted partner for high-stakes projects across sectors.

Overview

• Founded: 2000
• Key services: UX research, product design, usability testing, experience strategy, accessibility research, AI assessments, journey mapping, design systems
• Industry focus: Tech, government, healthcare, financial services, nonprofit, education, retail, and enterprise platforms

Rating + client reviews

Blink is known for long-term client relationships — 90% of clients return for additional projects.

And as with most companies with well-known customer base, it’s difficult to find direct reviews or rates. Judging from their website, we can conclude  that clients often praise Blink for their dedicated project teams, seamless communication, and ability to align research insights with strategic business goals.

Strengths

• Full-service research + design under one roof
• Deep industry expertise and impressive case study results
• Custom AI and enterprise design capabilities

Weaknesses

• Not ideal for companies seeking research-only partnerships
• Premium pricing may not suit startups with limited budgets

Best for

• Enterprises looking for end-to-end UX strategy and execution
• Companies modernizing legacy platforms or launching new digital products
• Organizations seeking a design partner with AI and enterprise UX experience

Pricing

Blink does not publicly list pricing. Based on industry benchmarks and scope of work:

• Typical minimum engagement is around $25K+
• Hourly rate estimate $200–$300/hour
• Projects are fully customized, and pricing scales with research depth, design scope, and tech complexity

10. DesignX

DesignX is a subscription-based design service that offers UI/UX, branding, and marketing support through a flat monthly fee. Unlike traditional agencies or freelancers, they use a streamlined, asynchronous model, letting clients request unlimited tasks while receiving deliverables one or two at a time — depending on the plan.

General overview

• Founded: 2013
• Key services: UX design (that includes research), UI design, branding
• Industry focus: B2B, fintech, crypto/Web3, early-stage startups, marketplaces

Rating + client reviews

DesignX is well-reviewed on platforms like Clutch, with 5.0 rare based on over 200 client reviews.

Strengths:

• Asynchronous workflow with fast 48-hour average delivery

• Strong UX design and research skills

• No long-term commitment — pause or cancel anytime
• Clear pricing and predictable delivery

Weaknesses:

• Limited UX research capabilities
• Not ideal for companies seeking strategic product discovery or user interviews
• Asynchronous model may not suit teams that require frequent syncs or design workshop

Best for

• Startups (Seed to Series A) looking for fast, flexible design help
• Teams needing consistent UI/UX design, branding, or landing pages
• Founders or small product teams that want to avoid hiring full-time designers

Pricing

DesignX offers two main subscription tiers:

• Standard: $6,995/month – One request at a time, unlimited backlog
• Pro: $11,995/month – Two active requests, includes project manager
  Both plans come with unlimited users, brands, and stock photos. Additional dev add-ons like Webflow, Shopify, or WordPress start at $999/month.

11. Momentum Design Lab

Momentum Design Lab is a UX design agency that specializes in delivering innovative design solutions for startups and Fortune 500 companies. With offices in Silicon Valley, New York City, and London, they combine human-centered design with emerging technologies to create impactful customer experiences and drive business growth.

General Overview

• Founded: 2002

• Key services: Innovation strategy, experience design + UI/UX research, emerging technologies (AI, AR/VR, IoT, Blockchain), product engineering
• Industry Focus: financial services, healthcare, consumer electronics, automotive, technology startups

Rating + client reviews

Momentum Design Lab’s rate on Clutch is 4.8 based on 90 client reviews. 

Strengths:

• Strong focus on user testing, usability studies, and research-based design decisions

• Combines UX research with product design and engineering for end-to-end service

• Proven track record with large enterprises and startups.

Weaknesses:

• High project costs; may not be suitable for companies with limited budgets.

Best For

• Enterprises or tech startups that need end-to-end UX design with strong research capabilities.

Pricing

According to Clutch reviews, pricing ranges from $10,000 to over $1 million per project, depending on project scope and complexity.

12. Hedgehog lab

Hedgehog Lab is a globally recognized digital product design and development agency. They specialize in building high-quality, user-centered digital products, using advanced technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain. As a part of their services, they provide consultancy and conduct UX research.

General overview

• Founded: 2007
• Key services: Research and design, strategy & innovation, digital product management, migration & delivery, product management lifecycle
• Industries Served: financial services, healthcare, government & public sector, retail, travel & transport, logistics, energy, professional services, entertainment & media

Rating + client reviews

Hedgehog Lab is consistently rated highly on Clutch (4.8 based on 81 client reviews) for delivering exceptional digital solutions and UX design work for its clients.

Strengths:

• Strong focus on delivering innovative and scalable digital products.

• Expertise in emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain.
• Capable of combining UX research, and design with product engineering.

Weaknesses:

• Primarily focused on digital product development rather than research-heavy UX services.
• Pricely

Best For

• Medium to large enterprises needing expert UX research services to inform product strategy.
• Companies looking for a UX partner that integrates research with full-service digital product design and development.

Pricing

• Project Cost Range: According to Clutch, Hedgehog Lab’s pricing varies widely, ranging from $30,000 to over $1 million, depending on the complexity and scope of the project.
• Hourly Rate: Typically between $100 - $149 per hour for development and design services.

Boutique UX Research Firms

Smaller, highly specialized agencies that focus deeply on UX research. These firms are known for their expertise in niche areas like ethnographic research, qualitative insights, and in-depth user interviews. If you need highly customized, research-heavy work, boutique agencies offer a strong alternative to large firms.

13. Amplinate

Amplinate is a UX research firm known for delivering agile, high-impact research tailored to industry leaders. They specialize in cross-cultural and international qualitative research. Amplinate uses a mix of ethnography, cultural immersion, and accessibility research to ensure their findings are actionable, helping brands refine strategies and uncover hidden growth opportunities.

General overview

• Founded: 2019
• Key services: UX research (behavioral studies, usability testing, journey mapping, ethnography, cultural immersion, accessibility audits), market research, business & UX strategy consulting, innovation workshops, embedded staffing
• Industry focus: Technology, AI, healthcare, financial services, retail, pharma, and more

Rating + client reviews

Amplinate does not currently have a public Clutch or G2 profile with star ratings or formal aggregated reviews. However, their website features a variety of well-known client logos and case studies that indicate people trust.

Strengths

• Deep specialization in international and inclusive UX research
• Agile team with rapid recruitment and project start timelines
• Blends UX research with market insights for more strategic outcomes
• Strong cross-cultural research expertise, especially in emerging markets

Weaknesses

• Lacks public review presence (e.g., Clutch, G2), which may make it harder to benchmark externally
• Boutique size may limit capacity for high-volume or multi-stream engagements

Best For

• Companies looking for cross-cultural UX research and inclusive design.
• Global brands or startups that need agile, fast-turnaround research for product strategy and innovation.

Pricing

Amplinate does not publicly list its pricing. As a boutique firm, they emphasize flexible, tailored research engagements. They position themselves as competitively priced while maintaining high quality, especially for global and cross-cultural projects. For accurate estimates, prospective clients should contact Amplinate directly.

14. Good Research

Good Research is a U.S.-based boutique UX research consulting firm focused on solving privacy and security challenges through a user-centered lens. While not a traditional UX research agency, they offer research-backed insights that sit at the intersection of digital product development, data ethics, and security.

General overview

• Founded: ~2000s (exact year not specified, but they state "more than 20 years")
• Key services: Privacy-focused UX research, usability testing, privacy engineering, data product development, technical risk assessments, litigation support
• Industry focus: Technology, healthcare, legal, e-commerce, finance, transportation

Rating + client reviews

Good Research does not have a Clutch or G2 profile with public reviews. However, quotes on their website from recurring clients describe them as:

• “The privacy people who privacy people go to.”
• “Good Research is like the warm embrace of competence.”
• “Best-in-class example of cross-functional problem solving for privacy.”

While these are not independently verified testimonials, they suggest strong client satisfaction and expertise in niche, high-stakes projects.

Strengths

• Deep expertise in privacy, security, and compliance research
• Strong cross-functional team of researchers, engineers, and legal experts
• Focus on integrating user behavior into privacy-conscious product development

Weaknesses

• Not focused on traditional UX design or broad product usability work
• May not be suitable for clients needing fast, visual UI-focused deliverables

Best for

• Companies needing privacy-first UX research or risk assessments
• Legal teams seeking privacy experts for litigation or standards alignment
• Organizations working in sensitive sectors like health, fintech, or AI

Pricing

Good Research does not publish pricing. As a boutique, high-expertise firm, pricing likely reflects the complexity and scope of each engagement. Clients should expect custom proposals, especially for legal support or technical assessments.

15. SonicRim

SonicRim is a boutique design research and innovation consultancy specializing in exploratory, ethnographic, and co-creative research. The team uses social science and design thinking to help companies uncover future opportunities, define product strategies, and navigate cross-cultural challenges. 

General overview

• Founded: 1999
• Key services: UX research, market research, ethnographic research, co-creation, concept testing
• Industry focus: Automotive, consumer electronics, telecom, e-commerce, culture & museums, facilities management, toys, and more

Rating + client reviews

SonicRim does not currently have a public presence on major review platforms like Clutch, G2, or GoodFirms. However, they are known within design research circles for their global work with major corporations and innovation teams.

Strengths:

• Specialization in design research
• Strong emphasis on ethnographic and generative research
• Deep experience with co-creation and participatory workshops

Weaknesses:

• No publicly available client reviews, ratings and pricing information

Best for:

• Innovation teams and product leaders looking to explore new markets, technologies, or customer needs
• Companies looking for qualitative research services
• Organizations interested in ethnographic studies or long-term strategic planning

Pricing

SonicRim does not disclose pricing publicly. Given their bespoke and research-heavy approach, projects are likely scoped individually based on the client’s needs and may be best suited to mid-size or enterprise budgets.

16. Portigal Consulting 

Portigal Consulting is a UX research consultancy led by Steve Portigal, a well-respected expert in the field of user research. Rather than operating as a traditional agency, Steve works directly with clients. With over 20 years of experience, Steve helps businesses tackle complex user questions and facilitates a deeper understanding of customers' behaviors and attitudes. As a user research consultant, his expertise extends to guiding organizations through user research, training teams, and developing strategic roadmaps for user-driven innovation.

General overview

• Founded: 2001
• Key services: User research, research skills training, facilitation, strategic roadmap development, corporate speaking engagements
• Industry focus: Various sectors including technology, product development, and service design

Rating + client reviews

Steve Portigal is highly regarded in the user research field, with numerous recommendations from executives, designers, and researchers who have worked with him. However, he does not have a public profile on major review platforms. You can find some testimonials on his LinkedIn profile.

Strengths:

• Over 20 years of experience in UX research, focusing on complex and nuanced questions
  

• Strong in-depth training and coaching for individuals and teams
• Highly skilled in facilitating research and aligning stakeholders

Weaknesses:

• Primarily an individual consultant focusing on user research, which might not be ideal for large teams needing multiple researchers

Best for:

• Companies needing expert guidance for in-depth user research
• Teams looking to up-level their research skills through personalized training and coaching

Pricing

Portigal Consulting does not disclose specific pricing online. As an individual consultant, Steve's user research services are customized based on the client’s needs, ranging from short-term coaching sessions to long-term strategic engagements.

Europe-based UX research agencies

For businesses targeting European markets, these agencies provide local expertise. They specialize in cultural differences, regional user behaviors, and compliance with European research standards.

17. Useability.studio

Use Ability Studio is a UK-based agency that specializes in remote moderated usability testing and mixed-method user research. They help companies discover user needs, optimize customer journeys, and enhance overall user experience. While they focus primarily on usability testing, they also offer strategic UX consultancy services, user research, and design sprint interviews to support product development and improve customer experiences.

General Overview

• Founded: 2017
• Key services: Usability testing, UX consultancy, design sprint interviews, user research, remote usability testing, customer journey optimization, UX strategy
• Location: Tyberton, Herefordshire, UK
• Industry Focus: Telecoms, eCommerce, retail, healthcare, banking, fintech, government, iGaming

Rating + Client Reviews

Use Ability Studio has no ratings on platforms like Clutch or the like, though, there is positive customer feedback on their website and LinkedIn profile.

Strengths:

• Expertise in remote usability testing, providing actionable insights in just 10 days.

• Focus on affordable and cost-effective research services.
• Experience with gamification and play testing, particularly in iGaming.

Weaknesses:

• Small team (2-10 employees), which may limit capacity for larger-scale projects.
• Primarily focused on usability testing rather than comprehensive UX research services.

Best for

• Companies that need quick, cost-effective usability testing and insights.
• Businesses in eCommerce, retail, and healthcare looking to improve customer journeys.

Pricing

Judging from their Clutch account, Use Ability Studio’s pricing for usability testing starts from $5,000+, with hourly rates ranging from $50 - $99/hr. Given their focus on cost-effective research, they offer a 10-day turnaround for usability testing projects, providing actionable insights within a short timeframe.

18. Sapio Research

Sapio Research is a London-based full-service market research agency specializing in B2B and technology-focused insights. With deep expertise in both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, Sapio supports clients across audience understanding, brand development, and content-driven thought leadership. 

While not a UX-exclusive agency, they are well-suited for companies looking to explore customer motivations, behaviors, and perceptions through research.

General overview

• Founded: 2016
• Location: London, United Kingdom
• Key services: Market research, audience research, brand research, content/thought leadership research, strategic consulting, qualitative & quantitative research
• Industry focus: B2B technology, marketing & PR agencies, consumer brands, not-for-profits, industrial sectors, fintech, and eCommerce

Rating + client reviews

Sapio Research has strong client relationships and case studies with brands like Mailchimp, Visa, and Slack. Although they do not have a Clutch profile at the time of writing, their published work has appeared in media outlets and brand press releases.

Strengths:

• Deep specialization in B2B and technology market research
• Offers both qualitative and quantitative methodologies
• Known for content and thought leadership research, ideal for PR and marketing

Weaknesses:

• Focus on market research (not exclusively on UX research or usability testing)
• May not be the best fit for hands-on product design

Best for:

• B2B and tech companies needing market and audience insights
• Marketing and PR teams seeking data-driven storytelling
• Brands looking to validate positioning, messaging, or thought leadership content

Pricing

According to Clutch profile, Sapio Research projects start from $10,000+, with hourly rates ranging from $150–$199 depending on the scope and methodology. Pricing is customized per project and tailored to client goals.

19. Future Tonic

Future Tonic is a London-based innovation and research consultancy that blends human-centered design with futures thinking. Founded by ex-PDD researchers, they specialize in qualitative research methods, such as ethnography, interviews, diary studies, and co-creation sessions, that support early-stage UX and innovation work.

General overview

• Founded: 2015
• Location: London, United Kingdom
• Key services: Ethnographic research, trends forecasting, innovation workshops, concept testing, future personas, innovation strategy, training programs
• Industry focus: Consumer products, healthcare, education, R&D teams, corporate innovation departments

Rating + client reviews

Future Tonic does not appear to be listed on Clutch or other major review platforms. However, their website features strong testimonials from corporate clients, particularly those in product development and R&D roles.

Strengths:

• Strong emphasis on futures research and long-term innovation

• Experienced in ethnographic and co-creative methods
• Founders have extensive backgrounds in applied research and product development

Weaknesses:

• Not a fit for usability testing or UI-focused design
• More strategic and exploratory in nature; may not suit teams needing tactical UX improvements

Best for:

• Innovation teams looking to explore future opportunities
• Organizations investing in long-term product visioning
• Companies seeking research-led concept generation and team training

Pricing

No public pricing is available, but Future Tonic operates as a boutique consultancy, offering custom engagements ranging from workshops to multi-month strategic programs. Their services are likely to fall in the mid- to high-end range, depending on project scope and duration.

Let’s sum everything up with a comparison table of each agency mentioned above.

Common pitfalls when hiring a UX research agency

Though you now have a plenty of information about a variety of different user research firms, choosing the right one can still be tricky, especially with so many firms offering seemingly perfect services. 

While many agencies have great reputations and boast impressive client lists, there are several potential pitfalls that can make your partnership less than ideal. 

Hidden costs

One of the biggest surprises that can arise when working with UX research agencies is hidden costs. Some firms may quote an initial price but fail to mention additional charges that can quickly escalate the overall project cost.

• Participant recruitment fees: Many agencies charge extra for recruiting participants for usability testing or interviews. This is an essential part of the research process, but some agencies do not make these costs clear upfront.
• Extra charges for analysis and reporting: In some cases, the research itself might be provided at a standard cost, but analyzing the data and generating detailed reports might incur additional fees. Always ensure that the costs of reporting and analysis are included in the initial quote.

Always ask for a detailed breakdown of all potential costs before signing a contract. Be sure to inquire about any potential hidden charges, including recruitment, tools, or reporting costs.

Subcontractors

Another common pitfall is subcontracting. Some agencies may promise a team of senior, experienced researchers, but in reality, much of the work might be handed off to junior consultants or subcontractors. This can affect the quality of the research and the consistency of the work.

• Expertise vs. junior work: If you hire a top-tier agency expecting senior experts, there’s a risk that some tasks will be delegated to less experienced team members without your knowledge.
• Lack of continuity: Using subcontractors or a rotating team of researchers can lead to inconsistency in the research process, making it harder to track the evolution of insights across projects.

Ask directly who will be working on your project and whether any subcontractors will be involved. Ensure that the researchers you are promised are the ones you’ll actually work with throughout the engagement.

Mismatched methodologies

Not every UX research agency is suited for all types of research. If you need exploratory research, usability testing, or quantitative data analysis, it’s essential to make sure the agency you choose has the right approach.

• Exploratory vs. usability testing: Some agencies specialize in exploratory research, where the goal is to uncover new insights and areas for innovation. Others are more focused on usability testing, which evaluates how well users can interact with a product. If your project requires a different type of research than the agency specializes in, the results may not be as useful or accurate.
  
  
• Misaligned research approaches: Ensure that the methodology the agency uses aligns with your research goals. For example, if your product requires a quantitative approach (e.g., surveys, A/B testing), but the agency specializes in qualitative research (e.g., ethnography, user interviews), you may not get the results you're looking for.
  
  

Clarify the UX research process and the type of research you require before engaging with an agency. Discuss the specific needs of your project, and ensure the agency is well-equipped with UX research tools to meet them.

So, always ask the right questions upfront, clarify expectations, and ensure that the agency you choose is well-aligned with your project’s needs.

How to choose the right UX research agency for your needs

Okay, we’ve just gone through a ton of information — 19 agencies, their specialties, strengths, and potential red flags. Now it’s time to wrap things up with a few final takeaways. Some of these tips might seem obvious, but they’re easy to overlook — and they can make or break your experience when hiring a UX research partner.

1. Know who’s working on your project

Make sure to clarify upfront who will be working on your project. Many agencies have varying skill levels within their teams, and some may even subcontract work. Ensure you're getting the right expertise for your specific needs.

2. Understand their expertise

Not all agencies specialize in the same type of research. Some are better suited for usability studies, while others excel in competitive research. Choose an agency that aligns with your project requirements — healthcare, tech, or consumer-facing products might all need different approaches.

3. Big vs. small agencies

While larger market research agencies have built up their UX research capabilities, smaller boutique agencies often provide more personalized service and attention to detail. In general, smaller agencies (1-4 people) may offer higher quality work due to their focus and agility.

4. Help them help you

To ensure a smooth project, come to the table with clear goals and expectations. The more focused you are on what you need and what’s negotiable, the better you can assess agency proposals. Also, be transparent about the participant criteria.

5. Consider working styles

Cultural differences, and working styles all impact how effectively you’ll collaborate with an agency. Make sure their approach fits with your company’s size, budget, and work culture.

Ready to find the right UX research partner for your business? Contact Eleken today and let us help you drive impactful research and design solutions tailored to your goals.