For Filipino freelancers, Fiverr is better for quick, small gigs while Freelancer.com is better for long-term, complex projects. Here's my honest comparison after using both for 6 years.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Fiverr | Freelancer.com |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 20% service fee | 10% to 20% service fee |
| Payment to Philippines | Payoneer, PayPal, Bank Transfer | Payoneer, PayPal, Skrill |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly for quick gigs | Complex interface, more features |
| Best for | Quick and small gigs | Long-term projects |
When to Choose Fiverr
In my 6 years of freelancing, Fiverr has proven to be an excellent platform for very specific scenarios: - **Short-term Projects**: If you're looking for quick gigs that can be completed in a few days, Fiverr is ideal. I started offering logo design services and could complete projects within 48 hours, earning $2,500 in my first month. - **Specialized Skills**: When you have a niche skill, Fiverr allows you to create gigs that highlight your expertise. For example, I created gigs specifically for social media content creation, which attracted clients looking for that exact service. - **Simpler Transactions**: Fiverr's interface is straightforward, perfect if you prefer a platform where you can easily set your rates and wait for clients to come to you. - **Part-time Freelancing**: If freelancing is not your main source of income, Fiverr allows you to work on the side without the pressure of maintaining constant availability.When to Choose Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com, on the other hand, is better suited for: - **Complex and Long-term Projects**: If you're interested in taking on comprehensive projects that span weeks or even months, Freelancer.com is the way to go. In one of my experiences, I managed a web development project that lasted three months, providing a stable income. - **Bid-Based Work**: If you're comfortable with bidding for projects and negotiating terms, Freelancer.com offers more flexibility in how you present your proposals to potential clients. - **Team Collaboration**: Freelancer.com provides features that allow you to work as part of a team, which is beneficial for larger projects requiring multiple freelancers. - **Higher Earners**: If you're an experienced freelancer with a robust portfolio, Freelancer.com can offer higher-paying opportunities due to its wider array of complex project listings.Detailed Comparison
Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)
Fiverr charges a 20% service fee on all transactions, which can be significant if you're handling numerous small transactions. Meanwhile, Freelancer.com's fees range from 10% to 20%, depending on the project type. For Filipino freelancers, understanding these percentages is crucial since it affects your net income. For instance, earning PHP 50,000 from a project on Fiverr would mean PHP 10,000 goes to fees, which could cover a month’s rent in Manila.Payment Methods
Both platforms offer reliable payment methods suitable for Filipinos. Fiverr supports Payoneer, PayPal, and bank transfers, which are convenient and widely used. Freelancer.com offers Payoneer, PayPal, and Skrill. Payoneer is particularly popular due to its lower fees and faster processing times. Payoneer guide For local payments, GCash and bank transfers via BDO, BPI, or UnionBank are popular options for transferring funds from Payoneer.Ready to Start Receiving Payments?
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Fiverr's user interface is more intuitive and straightforward, making it easier for beginners to navigate. You set up gigs and wait for clients to purchase. Freelancer.com, however, has a steeper learning curve with its bidding system and project management tools, but it offers more control over project negotiations and terms.Client Quality
On Fiverr, clients tend to look for quick and affordable services, which can sometimes lead to price haggling. Freelancer.com clients often have larger budgets and are looking for more comprehensive solutions, which can lead to higher earnings and long-term collaborations.For Beginners vs Experienced
For beginners, Fiverr is more accessible due to its gig-based system where you can start with minimal experience. In contrast, Freelancer.com might be challenging initially due to the competitive bidding environment but offers greater rewards for experienced freelancers with a strong portfolio.My Personal Experience
I started my freelancing journey on Fiverr, offering basic graphic design services. Within six months, I had completed over 100 projects, earning about $5,000. However, as I gained more experience, I shifted to Freelancer.com for larger projects, such as website development. One significant project earned me PHP 150,000, a substantial amount that allowed me to save for future investments. This journey taught me the importance of adapting to each platform's strengths and how leveraging both can maximize earnings.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Underpricing Services**: On both platforms, pricing too low can devalue your work and attract less serious clients. Start with competitive rates and gradually increase as you gain more positive reviews. - **Ignoring Client Reviews**: Reviews are crucial on both platforms. Always request feedback and learn from any constructive criticism to improve your service. - **Inadequate Profile Setup**: A poorly filled profile can deter potential clients. Make sure to showcase your skills, experiences, and portfolio effectively. - **Ignoring Platform Rules**: Both platforms have strict guidelines. Make sure to familiarize yourself with their rules to avoid account suspension.Frequently Asked Questions
Which platform is best for beginners?
Fiverr is often considered more beginner-friendly due to its simpler gig-based system, allowing new freelancers to start with minimal experience.
How do payment fees compare between Fiverr and Freelancer.com?
Fiverr charges a 20% service fee on transactions, while Freelancer.com's fees range from 10% to 20%. Payment method fees also vary depending on whether you use Payoneer, PayPal, or other services.
Can I use both Fiverr and Freelancer.com simultaneously?
Yes, many freelancers use both platforms to maximize their opportunities and income. It's essential to manage your time effectively to meet all client deadlines.
How do I withdraw earnings to the Philippines?
Both Fiverr and Freelancer.com support withdrawal methods like Payoneer and PayPal, which can then be transferred to your local bank account or GCash for convenience.
What should I do if I encounter a scam client?
Report any suspicious activity to the platform's support team immediately. Both Fiverr and Freelancer.com have measures to protect freelancers from scams.