For Filipino freelancers, Freelancer.com is better for beginners seeking diverse projects, while Guru excels in providing specialized opportunities for experienced professionals. Here's my honest comparison after using both for 6 years.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Freelancer.com | Guru |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 10% or $5 per project | 8.95% per project |
| Payment to Philippines | GCash, BPI, UnionBank | Payoneer, Wire Transfer |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly for beginners | Better interface for experienced users |
| Best for | Entry-level freelancers | Specialized professionals |
When to Choose Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com is an excellent choice if you are just starting your freelancing journey or looking to gain experience across various domains. In my early days of freelancing, I found Freelancer.com to be a gateway into the vast world of online work. Here are some scenarios where Freelancer.com shines: - **Entry-Level Projects**: If you’re new to freelancing and need to build your portfolio, Freelancer.com offers a plethora of entry-level projects that are perfect for gaining experience. - **Diverse Project Categories**: The platform hosts a wide range of project categories, from data entry to complex software development, making it ideal for those looking to explore different fields. - **Beginner-Friendly Interface**: The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, which is beneficial for freelancers who are not tech-savvy. - **Contests for Exposure**: Participating in contests can provide exposure and help you secure your first few jobs, which was crucial in my first month. Throughout my freelancing journey, I earned approximately $2,500 in my first month on Freelancer.com by taking on multiple small projects. This experience taught me the value of diversifying my skills early on.When to Choose Guru
Guru is tailored for more experienced freelancers who have specialized skills and are seeking higher-quality projects. Here are some scenarios where Guru might be the better choice: - **Specialized Work**: If you have a niche expertise, such as graphic design or engineering, Guru offers a platform where clients are actively seeking such specialized skills. - **Long-Term Contracts**: Guru attracts clients who are interested in long-term collaborations, which can provide more stability and consistent income. - **Advanced Features**: The platform offers sophisticated tools for project management and collaboration, which are beneficial for complex projects. - **Higher Payment Security**: With its SafePay feature, Guru ensures that funds are secured before work begins, providing peace of mind for both freelancers and clients. In my experience, after building my portfolio, I transitioned to Guru where I was able to secure higher-paying, long-term projects. This shift significantly increased my income and allowed me to focus on my areas of expertise.Detailed Comparison
Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)
For Filipino freelancers, understanding the fee structure is crucial to maximizing earnings. Freelancer.com charges a 10% fee or $5 per project, whichever is greater. This can add up, especially for smaller projects. On the other hand, Guru charges a flat 8.95% fee per project, which can be more favorable for larger projects but might still be a factor for consideration when planning your budget.Payment Methods
Freelancer.com provides several payment methods convenient for Filipinos, including GCash, BPI, and UnionBank, making it easy to withdraw earnings directly to local banks. Guru, however, primarily uses Payoneer and wire transfers, which may involve additional fees Payoneer guide. In my case, I found using Payoneer with Guru more beneficial due to its international transactions and the additional $25 bonus they offer for new users receiving their first $1000.Ready to Start Receiving Payments?
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Freelancer.com’s interface is designed with simplicity in mind, making it suitable for beginners. The dashboard is straightforward, with clear instructions on how to bid for projects. Guru, while slightly more complex, offers a more robust set of tools for managing contracts and communication, which can be a great asset for seasoned freelancers managing multiple clients.Client Quality
In my experience, Freelancer.com has a mix of clients, ranging from small businesses to individuals looking for quick solutions at a lower cost. Guru tends to attract more professional and serious clients looking for quality and willing to pay for expertise. This difference can impact the type of work and the rates you can negotiate.For Beginners vs Experienced
Freelancer.com is ideal for beginners due to the variety of projects and low entry barriers. As a beginner, you can quickly start bidding on projects and build your profile. Guru, however, is better suited for experienced freelancers who have honed their skills and are looking for more specialized, higher-paying work. Transitioning to Guru after gaining experience on Freelancer.com helped me increase my rates and find more fulfilling projects.My Personal Experience
In my 6 years of freelancing, I started on Freelancer.com where I completed over 200 projects ranging from small data entry jobs to larger content writing assignments. The platform allowed me to build a diversified portfolio and learn different skills quickly. As I gained confidence and expertise, I transitioned to Guru, where I completed over 150 projects, focusing on higher-paying writing and editing roles. This transition not only increased my income but also provided more job satisfaction as I was able to work on projects that aligned with my strengths.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Bidding on Every Project**: It’s tempting to bid on every available project, especially when starting out. However, focusing on projects that match your skills increases your chances of winning and performing well. - **Ignoring Fees**: Always factor in platform fees when setting your rates to ensure you meet your financial goals. - **Underestimating Payment Processing Times**: Especially on Guru, be aware of the time it takes for payments to process and reach your local bank. - **Neglecting Client Communication**: Effective communication with clients is key to securing repeat business and referrals. Always keep clients updated on project progress.Frequently Asked Questions
Which platform has lower fees for Filipinos?
Guru generally has lower fees at 8.95% per project compared to Freelancer.com's 10% fee, making it more cost-effective for larger projects.
Can I use GCash to withdraw from Guru?
Guru primarily supports Payoneer and wire transfers, which can be linked to GCash indirectly through local bank transfers.
Which platform is better for long-term contracts?
Guru is better suited for long-term contracts as it attracts clients looking for ongoing projects and professional collaborations.
What payment methods are available on Freelancer.com for Filipinos?
Freelancer.com supports GCash, BPI, UnionBank, and other local banks for withdrawing earnings directly in the Philippines.
Is it easy to switch from Freelancer.com to Guru?
Yes, switching platforms is straightforward. Build a strong profile on Freelancer.com first, then use your experience to secure specialized projects on Guru.