For Filipino freelancers, Upwork is better for high-value, long-term projects while Freelancer.com is better for quick gigs and diverse opportunities. Here's my honest comparison after using both for 6 years.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Upwork | Freelancer.com |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 5% to 20% per project | 10% per project |
| Payment to Philippines | Payoneer, Direct to BPI/BDO | PayPal, Payoneer |
| Ease of use | Intuitive interface | More complex bidding system |
| Best for | Long-term, high-value projects | Short-term, diverse gigs |
When to Choose Upwork
In my 6 years of freelancing, I've found Upwork to be ideal in several scenarios: - **Long-term Projects**: If you're looking for stability and consistent income, Upwork is great for securing long-term contracts. In my first year, I landed a year-long project that paid $2,500 monthly. - **High-Paying Clients**: Upwork tends to attract high-quality clients willing to pay more for expertise. I've worked with clients who were willing to pay $50 per hour, which is significantly higher than the average rate on other platforms. - **Professional Networking**: The platform is excellent for building a professional network. Many of my repeat clients come from referrals through Upwork. - **Skill Development**: Upwork often features projects that require specific skills, allowing you to learn and grow. I honed my SEO skills by taking on challenging projects that paid off both financially and in expertise.When to Choose Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com offers unique advantages in certain situations: - **Quick Gigs**: If you need to earn money quickly, Freelancer.com has a plethora of short-term gigs. During lean months, I took on quick projects that filled my income gaps. - **Diverse Opportunities**: The platform offers a wider variety of job categories. From graphic design to data entry, I've tried various roles, enhancing my skill set. - **Competitive Bidding**: If you're adept at negotiating, the bidding system on Freelancer.com can work to your advantage. I once scored a project by strategically lowering my bid, which led to a long-term client relationship. - **Freelancer Contests**: The platform hosts contests where you can showcase your skills and win prizes. I participated in a logo design contest, which resulted in a $500 prize and a new client.Detailed Comparison
Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)
Both platforms have different fee structures. Upwork's fees range from 5% to 20%, depending on your relationship with the client. This tiered system can be beneficial for long-term projects. For instance, if you earn $10,000 with a single client, the fee drops to 10% after the first $500. In contrast, Freelancer.com charges a flat 10% fee on each project. While this might seem higher initially, it can be more predictable for short-term gigs.Payment Methods
For Filipino freelancers, receiving earnings is crucial. Upwork allows payments through Payoneer, which can be linked to a BPI or BDO account for seamless transfers Payoneer guide. Freelancer.com also supports Payoneer and PayPal, but PayPal's currency conversion fees can add up. Personally, I've found Payoneer to be the most cost-effective way to withdraw funds, especially when transferring to local banks.Ready to Start Receiving Payments?
Open a free Payoneer account and get $25 bonus when you receive your first $1000.
Open Free Payoneer AccountUser Experience
Upwork's interface is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to navigate even for beginners. Its project management tools, like time tracking and milestone setting, are robust. Freelancer.com, while offering more features, can be overwhelming due to its complex bidding system. However, once familiar, it provides more control over how you bid and negotiate contracts.Client Quality
In my experience, Upwork generally attracts more serious clients who value quality over cost. This means higher-paying projects but also higher expectations. Freelancer.com, on the other hand, has a mix of clients, including those looking for budget-friendly solutions. While this can be challenging, it also means more opportunities for entry-level freelancers.For Beginners vs Experienced
Beginners might find Freelancer.com's diverse job categories and contests more accommodating as they build their portfolio. When I started, I experimented with various roles to discover my strengths. Experienced freelancers, however, may prefer Upwork for its higher-paying projects and professional network. As I gained more experience, I shifted more of my focus to Upwork for its consistency and quality clients.My Personal Experience
In 2018, I faced a pivotal moment. I was juggling multiple projects across both platforms. On Upwork, I had a steady contract with a US-based client, earning $2,500 a month. Simultaneously, I took on quick gigs on Freelancer.com to supplement my income. This strategy allowed me to maintain financial stability while exploring new skills and opportunities. What I learned from this experience was the importance of diversifying one's income streams. By leveraging the strengths of both platforms, I maximized my earning potential and secured a more stable freelance career. This balance helped me transition from being an OFW to a successful freelancer in the Philippines.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Ignoring Fee Structures**: Many freelancers overlook the impact of platform fees. Always account for these in your pricing strategy to ensure profitability. - **Not Vetting Clients**: Especially on Freelancer.com, it's crucial to vet clients to avoid scams. Check reviews and payment verification before accepting projects. - **Underestimating Time Zones**: Working with international clients means managing different time zones. Use scheduling tools to avoid missed deadlines. - **Neglecting Contracts**: Always have a clear contract in place. This protects you from scope creep and ensures both parties understand their responsibilities.Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Which platform is cheaper for freelancers?
Freelancer.com has a flat 10% fee, while Upwork's fees range from 5% to 20%, making Freelancer.com generally cheaper for short-term projects.
How do I receive payments in the Philippines?
Both platforms support Payoneer, which can be linked to BPI or BDO accounts for local transfers. PayPal is also available but may incur higher fees.
Can beginners succeed on these platforms?
Yes, both platforms offer opportunities for beginners. Freelancer.com provides a wider range of entry-level jobs and contests, while Upwork offers learning resources and a more structured environment.
Is it possible to use both platforms simultaneously?
Absolutely, using both platforms can diversify your income and client base. It's a strategy that I personally found effective, especially when starting out.
How do platform fees affect my earnings?
Platform fees reduce your net earnings, so it's important to factor them into your pricing. On Upwork, fees decrease as you earn more with a client, while Freelancer.com maintains a flat rate.