Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Fiverr | Freelancer.com |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 20% per project | 10% per project or $5 (whichever is greater) |
| Payment to Philippines | PayPal, Payoneer | PayPal, Payoneer, Wire Transfer |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly for sellers | More complex, feature-rich |
| Best for | Creative services, quick gigs | Diverse job categories, long-term projects |
When to Choose Fiverr
In my 6 years of freelancing, I've found Fiverr to be particularly beneficial in several scenarios: - **Creative Services**: If you're offering creative services like graphic design, writing, or video editing, Fiverr's marketplace allows you to showcase your portfolio effectively, attracting clients looking for visually appealing works. - **Quick Turnaround Projects**: For projects that require a quick turnaround, Fiverr's gig-based system is ideal. I earned $1,200 in my first month by focusing on short-term jobs that I could deliver swiftly. - **Beginners in Freelancing**: Fiverr is user-friendly, making it an excellent platform for beginners. The gig creation process is straightforward, and you can start selling without much initial investment. - **Full Control Over Pricing**: On Fiverr, you set your rates, which allows you to control your pricing strategy. This is crucial for freelancers in the Philippines where cost of living varies significantly across regions.When to Choose Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com is the better choice in different circumstances based on my experience: - **Diverse Job Categories**: If you're skilled in technical fields like IT, engineering, or data analysis, Freelancer.com offers a wide range of job categories that can cater to your expertise. - **Long-term Projects**: For those looking for more stable income through long-term projects, Freelancer.com provides opportunities to engage in ongoing work with clients. - **Complex Project Bidding**: The bidding system on Freelancer.com is suitable for freelancers who are adept at showcasing their skills and negotiating prices. I secured a project worth $3,500 by leveraging the bidding process effectively. - **Networking Opportunities**: Freelancer.com allows for more interaction with clients, which can be beneficial for building relationships and securing repeat business.Detailed Comparison
Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)
Fiverr charges a flat 20% fee on all transactions, which can be significant for high-value projects. However, for smaller gigs, this percentage might be more manageable. On Freelancer.com, the fee is 10% per project or $5, whichever is greater. For Filipino freelancers, understanding these fees is important as it affects your final earnings, which can be valuable especially when compared to local wages.Payment Methods
Both platforms offer payment methods popular in the Philippines. Fiverr allows payments through PayPal and Payoneer. Freelancer.com offers PayPal, Payoneer, and wire transfers, which are beneficial for those who prefer direct bank deposits. With Payoneer, you can easily transfer your earnings to your local bank account, like BDO or BPI, often with better rates than PayPal. Payoneer guideUser Experience
Fiverr is generally more user-friendly, especially for sellers. Its interface is designed to help you create gigs and manage orders efficiently. On the other hand, Freelancer.com offers a more complex interface with features like bidding and milestone payments, which may appeal to more experienced freelancers looking for those functionalities.Client Quality
In my experience, Fiverr clients often seek quick, creative solutions, which can mean less detailed briefs but higher creative freedom. Freelancer.com clients tend to provide more detailed project descriptions and may offer larger budgets for comprehensive work, appealing to freelancers who prefer detailed guidelines and structured projects.For Beginners vs Experienced
Fiverr is more welcoming to beginners due to its easy setup and gig-based system. However, experienced freelancers might find Freelancer.com more rewarding due to its diverse project range and the ability to negotiate project terms directly with clients.My Personal Experience
In my freelancing journey, I started with Fiverr due to its straightforward platform. I quickly built a portfolio and earned $2,500 in my first month. However, as my skills expanded, I transitioned some of my work to Freelancer.com to access more substantial projects. One memorable project involved a $5,000 long-term contract that significantly boosted my earnings. This experience taught me the importance of platform diversification and adapting to different client needs.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Ignoring Platform Fees**: Always consider the fees before pricing your services. Not accounting for platform deductions can lead to undervaluing your work. - **Overpromising**: Only take on projects that you can deliver within the stipulated time and scope. Overpromising can harm your reputation and lead to negative reviews. - **Poor Profile Setup**: Ensure your profile is complete with a professional photo and detailed description of your services. A well-crafted profile can significantly increase your chances of attracting clients. - **Neglecting Client Communication**: Maintaining clear and consistent communication with clients is crucial. Misunderstandings can lead to project delays and dissatisfaction.Frequently Asked Questions
Which platform is better for beginners?
Fiverr is generally better for beginners due to its user-friendly interface and gig-based system. It allows new freelancers to set up quickly and start earning.
What are the payment options for Filipino freelancers?
Both platforms offer PayPal and Payoneer, with Freelancer.com also offering bank wire transfers. Payoneer is often preferred for its lower fees when transferring to local banks.
How do platform fees affect earnings?
Platform fees can significantly affect your net income. Fiverr charges a 20% fee, while Freelancer.com charges 10% or $5. It's crucial to factor these into your pricing strategy.
Is it possible to use both platforms simultaneously?
Yes, many freelancers use both platforms to maximize their opportunities. It allows you to diversify your client base and income streams.
Which platform offers better project variety?
Freelancer.com offers a wider range of job categories, making it suitable for freelancers with diverse skills. Fiverr is more focused on creative services.
Final Verdict
After using both platforms extensively, I recommend Fiverr for Filipino freelancers who are in creative fields and prefer quick gigs. For those who wish to engage in more diverse and long-term projects, Freelancer.com is the better option. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific skills and career goals. more guidesReady to Start Receiving Payments?
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