For Filipino freelancers, Upwork is better for beginners and those seeking a diverse client base, while Freelancer.com excels for project-based work and competitive bidding. Here's my honest comparison after using both for 6 years.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Upwork | Freelancer.com |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 5% to 20% depending on earnings | 10% or $5, whichever is greater |
| Payment to Philippines | Payoneer, Bank Transfer, PayPal | PayPal, Skrill, Bank Transfer |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly with guided setup | More complex, requires experience |
| Best For | Long-term projects, diverse clients | Short-term projects, competitive bidding |
When to Choose Upwork
Choosing Upwork can be beneficial in several scenarios. In my 6 years of freelancing, I've found it particularly useful for: - **Beginners**: Upwork offers a straightforward user interface that guides new freelancers through profile creation and bidding processes. When I started, its structure helped me understand freelancing basics. - **Long-term Projects**: If you're looking for steady income, Upwork is ideal as it often features clients seeking ongoing partnerships. Initially, I secured a six-month project that paid $1,500 monthly, a significant boost. - **Diverse Clientele**: Upwork's global reach connects you with clients from various industries. It's how I landed a project with a tech startup in the US, diversifying my portfolio. - **Reputation Building**: The platform's rating system helps build credibility. My Top Rated status on Upwork attracted more high-paying clients over time.When to Choose Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com is better suited for different circumstances. Here's when you might consider it based on my experience: - **Project-Based Work**: If you prefer quick projects, Freelancer.com is ideal. I used it for short-term gigs, earning $500 to $700 per project. - **Competitive Pricing**: For those who thrive in competitive environments, the bidding system here allows you to showcase your skills. A well-calculated bid helped me win a $2,000 project. - **Niche Skills**: If you have specialized skills, Freelancer.com often has clients seeking specific expertise, such as graphic design or SEO. This was beneficial when I offered niche consultancy services. - **Flexibility**: The platform is good for freelancers balancing multiple clients, offering flexibility in choosing projects without long-term commitments.Detailed Comparison
Fees and Costs
In the Philippines, managing costs is crucial. Upwork charges 5% to 20% based on lifetime billings with a client, which can reduce over time. Freelancer.com charges 10% or $5, whichever is higher, which can be steeper for small projects. While Upwork's fees might seem high initially, they decrease as you build relationships with clients, which is cost-effective in the long run.Payment Methods
Receiving payments in the Philippines is seamless with Upwork's options like Payoneer Payoneer guide, which offers direct bank transfers and GCash GCash guide. Freelancer.com also supports PayPal and Skrill, but these can incur higher fees when converting to PHP. Upwork's partnership with local banks like BDO and BPI makes withdrawals easier and cheaper.User Experience
Upwork's interface is intuitive, ideal for beginners. It offers a guided setup and clear navigation. Freelancer.com, while feature-rich, can be overwhelming for new users. Its dashboard requires more time to master, which might deter those unfamiliar with freelancing platforms.Client Quality
Upwork generally attracts higher-quality clients looking for long-term relationships, which helps build a stable income. On Freelancer.com, the open bidding system can lead to price undercutting, attracting clients focused on cost over quality.For Beginners vs Experienced
For beginners, Upwork offers a supportive environment with ample resources to learn and grow. It's where I earned my first $2,500. For experienced professionals, Freelancer.com provides opportunities to leverage niche skills and negotiate higher rates for specialized projects.My Personal Experience
In my freelancing journey, I started on Upwork, where I secured my first major project within three months, earning $4,500. This experience taught me the value of building client relationships. On Freelancer.com, I tackled smaller projects, earning $1,000 in my first month. This platform honed my skills in quick project turnarounds and competitive bidding. The key takeaway was understanding which platform suited each project type, allowing me to maximize my earnings.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Underbidding on Projects**: It's tempting to bid low to win jobs, but this can undervalue your skills. Always research and set competitive, fair rates. - **Neglecting Profile Optimization**: A well-crafted profile attracts better clients. Invest time in showcasing your skills and past work. - **Ignoring Client Feedback**: Feedback impacts your reputation. Actively seek constructive criticism to improve and maintain high ratings. - **Overcommitting**: Taking on too many projects leads to burnout. Prioritize quality over quantity to build a sustainable career.Frequently Asked Questions
Is Upwork better than Freelancer.com for beginners?
Yes, Upwork is generally more beginner-friendly with its guided setup and supportive resources, making it ideal for those new to freelancing.
Can I use GCash to receive payments from Freelancer.com?
No, Freelancer.com does not directly support GCash. You can use PayPal or Skrill and transfer your funds to GCash separately.
Which platform has lower fees for Filipinos?
Upwork may offer lower fees over time due to its sliding scale model, especially if you build long-term client relationships.
How do I maximize earnings on Upwork?
Focus on building long-term client relationships and gradually increase your rates as you gain more positive feedback and experience.
Is it common to work on both platforms?
Yes, many freelancers use both platforms to diversify their client base and income sources, leveraging each platform's strengths.
Final Verdict
For Filipino freelancers, Upwork stands out for those starting out or seeking long-term, stable projects. It provides a supportive environment with a user-friendly interface and diverse client opportunities. Freelancer.com is better suited for those who enjoy project-based work and thrive in competitive bidding environments. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs and work style. Consider exploring both platforms to fully understand their offerings and align them with your career goals.Ready to Start Receiving Payments?
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