For Filipino freelancers, Fiverr is better for creative gigs like graphic design and writing, while Freelancer.com is better for large-scale projects and technical gigs. Here's my honest comparison after using both for 6 years.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Fiverr | Freelancer.com |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 20% per job | 10% or $5, whichever is higher |
| Payment to Philippines | Via Payoneer, GCash, bank transfer | Via Payoneer, bank transfer |
| Ease of use | Very user-friendly | Moderately complex |
| Best for | Creative and small gigs | Technical and large projects |
When to Choose Fiverr
In my 6 years of freelancing, Fiverr has been an excellent choice for the following scenarios: - **Creative Gigs**: If you're into graphic design, writing, or digital marketing, Fiverr is a haven for creative professionals. The platform is designed to showcase your portfolio, making it easier for clients to browse your work and hire you. - **Quick Turnaround**: For projects that require speedy delivery, Fiverr's system allows for rapid client-freelancer interactions. I've completed projects within 24 hours, which is a common expectation on this platform. - **Freelancers Just Starting Out**: Fiverr is ideal for beginners because it's straightforward to set up gig listings. You don't need to bid on projects; clients come to you based on your gig description and reviews. - **Supplemental Income**: For those looking to earn extra income alongside full-time work, Fiverr is an excellent option due to its flexibility and range of available gigs. In my first month on Fiverr, I earned around $1,200 by offering writing services, which was a significant boost to my income at the time. The platform's ability to reach global clients quickly helped me gain traction.When to Choose Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com is more suitable when: - **Complex Projects**: If you're a software developer or engineer, Freelancer.com often hosts larger, more complex projects that require detailed proposals and multi-phase completion. - **Long-Term Engagements**: For projects that require continuous collaboration, such as app development or consultancy, Freelancer.com provides a more structured environment for long-term contracts. - **Diverse Skill Set**: If you have a broad range of skills, Freelancer.com allows you to bid on various projects, increasing your chances of finding work that matches your expertise. - **Competitive Environment**: For those who thrive in competitive settings, the bidding process on Freelancer.com can be advantageous. It encourages you to refine your proposals and negotiate terms effectively. I remember a project on Freelancer.com where I collaborated with a team on a six-month app development project. It was a challenging yet rewarding experience, earning me $15,000.Detailed Comparison
Fees and Costs
Filipino freelancers need to be mindful of platform fees, especially when converting earnings to pesos. Fiverr charges a flat 20% per job, which can be steep for high-value projects but predictable for smaller gigs. On Freelancer.com, fees are 10% or $5, whichever is higher, making it potentially cheaper for larger projects. However, the competitive bidding might drive prices down initially.Payment Methods
Both platforms offer payment methods suitable for Filipinos. Fiverr supports Payoneer, which I use to transfer funds to my BPI account Payoneer guide. Freelancer.com also provides Payoneer and direct bank transfers. Unfortunately, GCash is not directly supported on Freelancer.com, but you can transfer via linked bank accounts GCash guide.User Experience
Fiverr's interface is intuitive, allowing freelancers to set up gigs easily without needing to bid. This user-friendly design is perfect for creative professionals who want to focus on their work rather than the bidding process. In contrast, Freelancer.com has a more complex interface due to its bidding system, which might be intimidating for new users but advantageous for those who enjoy negotiating.Client Quality
In my experience, Fiverr attracts clients looking for quick, creative solutions, often leading to repeat business if they like your style. Freelancer.com clients usually have larger budgets and require more detailed work, which can lead to long-term partnerships.For Beginners vs Experienced
Beginners thrive on Fiverr due to its straightforward setup and marketplace approach. It's a great way to build a portfolio and gain reviews. Experienced freelancers may prefer Freelancer.com for its variety of projects and potential for higher earnings through complex jobs.My Personal Experience
In my freelancing journey, I initially started on Upwork but shifted to Fiverr and Freelancer.com for diversification. On Fiverr, I focused on writing gigs and earned about $2,500 in my first month, leveraging my previous experience as an OFW to connect with international clients. This platform's simplicity allowed me to concentrate on delivering quality content without the hassle of bidding. Conversely, on Freelancer.com, I took on a project management role for a tech startup. This project lasted nine months and paid $20,000, a significant income that allowed me to stay in the Philippines and support my family without the need to work abroad again. This experience taught me the importance of choosing the right platform based on your strengths and project requirements.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Ignoring Platform Fees**: Always consider the platform's fees when pricing your services. On Fiverr, factor in the 20% deduction, and on Freelancer.com, keep the 10% fee in mind. - **Underestimating Project Scope**: Especially on Freelancer.com, where project details can be extensive, ensure you fully understand client requirements to avoid underbidding. - **Neglecting Communication**: Effective communication is key on both platforms. Always clarify doubts with clients before starting a project to avoid misunderstandings. - **Not Requesting Reviews**: Reviews are crucial for building credibility. After completing a project, politely ask clients for feedback to enhance your profile's visibility.Frequently Asked Questions
Which platform is better for beginners?
Fiverr is generally better for beginners because of its straightforward gig setup and less competitive environment compared to Freelancer.com's bidding system.
How do payments work for Filipino freelancers?
Payments can be received via Payoneer Payoneer guide or bank transfers. Fiverr also supports GCash indirectly through Payoneer, while Freelancer.com supports direct bank transfers.
Can I work on both platforms simultaneously?
Yes, many freelancers work on both Fiverr and Freelancer.com to maximize their opportunities and income streams.
What types of projects are common on Freelancer.com?
Freelancer.com hosts a variety of projects, including software development, engineering, design, marketing, and data science, often with longer durations and larger budgets.
Does Fiverr charge a fee to withdraw funds?
Fiverr does not charge a withdrawal fee, but payment processors like Payoneer may have their own fees. It's important to check with them for the most current rates.
How can I increase my visibility on these platforms?
To increase visibility, optimize your profile with keywords, request reviews from clients, and consistently update your portfolio with recent work samples.