For Filipino freelancers, Fiverr is better for beginners and gig-based tasks while Freelancer.com is better for project-based work and long-term collaborations. Here's my honest comparison after using both for 6 years.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Freelancer.com | Fiverr |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 10% or $5 per project, whichever is greater | 20% per gig |
| Payment to Philippines | Payoneer, bank transfer, Skrill | Payoneer, PayPal, bank transfer |
| Ease of Use | Complex for beginners | User-friendly interface |
| Best for | Long-term projects, specialized skills | Short-term gigs, creative services |
When to Choose Freelancer.com
Choosing Freelancer.com can be advantageous in several scenarios: - **Long-term Projects**: If you prefer working on extensive projects that require ongoing collaboration, Freelancer.com is ideal. In my experience, I once worked on a year-long project for a software development company, providing steady income and professional growth. - **Specialized Skills**: For freelancers with niche skills, such as engineering or legal expertise, Freelancer.com offers a wider range of opportunities. I found unique projects in technical writing here, which matched my specialized skill set. - **Client Relationships**: Those who want to build strong, lasting relationships with clients will appreciate the platform's focus on project continuity. This has helped me secure repeat clients who value consistent collaboration. - **Project Flexibility**: Freelancer.com provides flexibility in bidding on projects, allowing freelancers to choose projects that align with their skills and interests.When to Choose Fiverr
Fiverr is an excellent choice in the following scenarios: - **Beginners**: If you're just starting and want to build a portfolio, Fiverr's gig-based system is straightforward. I remember earning my first $500 by offering simple writing gigs, which boosted my confidence. - **Creative Services**: For freelancers in creative fields like graphic design or voice-over work, Fiverr's platform is tailored to showcase your talents effectively. My friend, a graphic designer, quickly gained traction here with visually appealing gig pages. - **Variety and Volume**: If you enjoy working on diverse tasks, Fiverr allows you to offer multiple gigs, catering to different client needs. This helped me experiment with various writing styles and expand my expertise. - **Quick Turnaround**: Fiverr is perfect for freelancers who thrive on quick projects and frequent payouts. The platform's rating system encourages prompt delivery, leading to more opportunities.Detailed Comparison
Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)
Freelancer.com charges a fee of 10% or $5 per project, whichever is greater. This might seem high, but for larger projects, it becomes more economical. On the other hand, Fiverr takes a flat 20% cut from every gig. For Filipinos, this means that earning a stable income might be more predictable on Freelancer.com, especially for larger projects.Payment Methods
Both platforms support various payment methods, but it's crucial for Filipino freelancers to have accessible options. Freelancer.com allows withdrawals via Payoneer, Skrill, and direct bank transfers, which can be crucial when dealing with local banks like BDO or BPI. Fiverr supports Payoneer and PayPal, with options for bank transfers, making it flexible for those who prefer digital wallets like GCash GCash guide.User Experience
Fiverr's interface is more intuitive, especially for beginners. The gig system simplifies the process, reducing the learning curve. Freelancer.com, however, can be overwhelming due to the bidding system and project management tools. In my early days, I found Fiverr easier to navigate, which helped me focus on delivering quality work rather than understanding complex systems.Client Quality
Freelancer.com tends to attract clients looking for specific expertise and long-term partnerships, often leading to higher-quality engagements. Fiverr, while offering a broad client base, sometimes attracts clients looking for quick and inexpensive solutions. Over time, I've found that the projects on Freelancer.com allowed me to showcase my skills more comprehensively.For Beginners vs Experienced
For beginners, Fiverr's gig-based model offers a straightforward entry point without the pressure of bidding wars. Experienced freelancers might find Freelancer.com more rewarding due to the potential for substantial projects and skill-specific opportunities. As an experienced freelancer, I appreciate the depth of projects available on Freelancer.com.My Personal Experience
In my 6 years of freelancing, I initially started on Fiverr and quickly adapted to its gig system. I earned $2,500 in my first month by leveraging my writing skills and offering various gig packages. As I gained confidence, I transitioned to Freelancer.com to explore more complex projects. A notable project was a comprehensive content strategy for an Australian tech startup, which spanned eight months and earned me around $15,000. This experience taught me the importance of building relationships and delivering consistent quality.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Underpricing Services**: Many freelancers undervalue their skills to attract clients. Instead, research market rates and adjust pricing accordingly to ensure sustainable income. - **Ignoring Client Communication**: Effective communication is crucial. I made the mistake of not clarifying project details early on, leading to misunderstandings. Always confirm expectations before starting. - **Overcommitting**: Avoid taking on more projects than you can handle. I once juggled too many gigs, resulting in missed deadlines. Focus on quality over quantity. - **Neglecting Profiles**: Keep your profile updated and professional. A well-crafted profile attracts better clients. I saw a significant uptick in inquiries after revamping my profile with new skills and testimonials.Frequently Asked Questions
Which platform is better for beginners?
Fiverr is generally better for beginners due to its straightforward gig system, allowing new freelancers to start without the complexities of bidding.
How can I receive payments in the Philippines?
Both platforms offer Payoneer and bank transfer options, which are widely accessible in the Philippines. GCash and Maya are also popular digital wallet options.
What are the fees involved?
Freelancer.com charges 10% or $5 per project, while Fiverr takes a 20% cut of each gig. Consider which fee structure suits your work style.
Can I work on both platforms simultaneously?
Yes, many freelancers use both platforms to diversify their income streams and access a broader range of opportunities.
Which platform offers better client quality?
Freelancer.com tends to attract clients seeking specialized skills and long-term collaboration, while Fiverr offers a diverse mix of clients looking for quick solutions.
Final Verdict
After evaluating both platforms, my recommendation for Filipino freelancers is to start with Fiverr if you're new to freelancing and prefer short-term gigs. As you build experience, consider transitioning to Freelancer.com for more extensive and skill-specific projects. Both platforms have their strengths, and leveraging them effectively can lead to a successful freelancing career. For more insights on getting started, check out our Fiverr guide or Upwork guide.Ready to Start Receiving Payments?
Open a free Payoneer account and get $25 bonus when you receive your first $1000.
Open Free Payoneer Account