For Filipino freelancers, Fiverr is better for creative gigs and quick projects, while Freelancer.com is better for long-term contracts and diverse job categories. Here's my honest comparison after using both for 6 years.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Fiverr | Freelancer.com |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 20% per gig | 10% or $5, whichever is greater |
| Payment to Philippines | Payoneer, PayPal, Bank Transfer | PayPal, Skrill, Wire Transfer |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly for sellers | Complex but versatile |
| Best for | Creative services and quick tasks | Long-term projects and diverse categories |
When to Choose Fiverr
In my six years of freelancing, I've found Fiverr to be ideal for several scenarios. If you're a creative professional—such as a graphic designer, writer, or musician—looking to showcase your skills through well-defined gigs, Fiverr is a great platform. Here's when you should consider it: - **Quick, One-off Projects:** Fiverr is perfect if you're looking to complete quick gigs that don't require long-term commitment. I once earned $500 in a week by focusing on short writing projects. - **Creative Services:** As a platform that thrives on creativity, Fiverr allows you to sell services like video editing, logo design, and voice acting. The gig-centric model makes it easy to market specialized skills. - **Building a Portfolio:** Fiverr's gig setup lets you create a professional portfolio, which is crucial for newcomers looking to establish credibility without needing a long history of work. - **Flexibility:** If you prefer to control your workload and schedule, Fiverr’s structure allows you to decide when to accept orders, making it a flexible option for managing work-life balance.When to Choose Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com, on the other hand, offers distinct advantages for certain freelancing needs: - **Diverse Job Categories:** From engineering to legal services, Freelancer.com offers a wide range of job categories. This diversity is beneficial if you're skilled in less common fields. - **Long-term Projects:** For those seeking stability with ongoing work, Freelancer.com often lists projects with longer durations. I once secured a six-month contract that paid $2,000 monthly, providing a steady income. - **Competitive Bidding:** If you enjoy negotiating and have a knack for sales, the bidding process can work to your advantage by allowing you to set your rates and terms. - **Team Collaboration:** Freelancer.com's platform supports larger projects that require team collaboration, making it suitable for professionals who want to work on complex, multi-faceted assignments.Detailed Comparison
Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)
The cost of freelancing on these platforms significantly affects your take-home pay. Fiverr charges a 20% commission on each gig, which can add up, especially for high-value projects. In contrast, Freelancer.com charges 10% of the project fee or $5, whichever is greater. This can be more economical for larger projects, but less so for smaller tasks.Payment Methods
Transferring your earnings to the Philippines is a crucial consideration. Fiverr offers multiple payment options like Payoneer, PayPal, and direct bank transfers. Payoneer guide In contrast, Freelancer.com supports PayPal, Skrill, and wire transfers. For most Filipino freelancers, Payoneer is a preferred method due to its lower fees and ease of use in the Philippines. GCash guideUser Experience
Fiverr's interface is straightforward, focusing on individual gigs, making it beginner-friendly. You create a profile, list your services, and wait for buyers. Freelancer.com, however, involves a more complex process of bidding on projects, which can be overwhelming for new users but offers more control over the projects you take.Client Quality
Fiverr attracts clients looking for quick and specific services, which can lead to a high volume of small projects. Freelancer.com, with its diverse project listings, often has clients seeking professionals for more complex and longer-term projects, potentially offering higher financial rewards.For Beginners vs Experienced
As a beginner, Fiverr is more accessible due to its simple setup and gig structure. For experienced freelancers, Freelancer.com offers opportunities to engage in larger, more rewarding projects through its bidding system.My Personal Experience
In my freelancing journey, I've utilized both platforms extensively. I started on Fiverr, quickly earning $2,500 in my first month by focusing on writing gigs. This initial success was crucial in building my confidence and financial stability. Over time, I transitioned to Freelancer.com to secure long-term contracts, including a notable project that paid $12,000 over six months. This experience taught me the value of diversifying my freelancing strategies and adapting to different market demands.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Underpricing Services:** Many beginners set low prices to attract clients. While this might win you initial projects, it can undervalue your skills in the long run. Set competitive yet fair rates to ensure sustainability. - **Ignoring Platform Fees:** Always account for platform fees when pricing your services. These can significantly reduce your earnings if not considered upfront. - **Overcommitting:** Accepting too many projects can lead to burnout. Prioritize quality over quantity to maintain a high standard and positive reviews. - **Neglecting Communication:** Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings and unsatisfied clients. Always clarify expectations and maintain regular contact.Frequently Asked Questions
Which platform is cheaper to use?
Fiverr charges a 20% commission on each gig, while Freelancer.com charges 10% or $5, whichever is greater. Depending on project size, Freelancer.com can be cheaper for larger projects.
How do I withdraw my earnings in the Philippines?
Fiverr supports Payoneer, PayPal, and bank transfers, while Freelancer.com supports PayPal, Skrill, and wire transfers. Payoneer is often preferred for its lower fees. Payoneer guide
Which platform is better for creative work?
Fiverr is better suited for creative professionals due to its gig-centric model, allowing freelancers to market specific creative services effectively.
Can I use both platforms simultaneously?
Yes, many freelancers use both to maximize opportunities. This approach allows you to benefit from Fiverr's gig model and Freelancer.com's project diversity.
What are the payment processing times?
Fiverr typically processes payments within 14 days after order completion, while Freelancer.com payments can vary, often depending on the client's release of funds.
Final Verdict
After weighing the pros and cons, Fiverr stands out for Filipino freelancers seeking creative gigs and quick earnings, while Freelancer.com is better for those looking for long-term contracts and diverse job categories. For maximum success, consider leveraging both platforms to expand your opportunities and income streams. OFW alternative guideReady to Start Receiving Payments?
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