For Filipino freelancers, Freelancer.com is better for those looking for diverse job categories and client interactions, while Fiverr shines for those who prefer gig-style work and setting their own prices. Here's my honest comparison after using both for 6 years.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Freelancer.com | Fiverr |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 10% project fee | 20% commission |
| Payment to Philippines | Payoneer, Skrill, Wire Transfer | Payoneer, PayPal |
| Ease of Use | Moderate | Easy |
| Best for | Project-based work | Gig-based work |
When to Choose Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com is a solid option for Filipino freelancers when you're looking for project-based work that allows for more interaction with clients. Here are a few scenarios based on my experience: - **Diverse Job Categories**: If you want to explore different job categories, Freelancer.com offers a wide range. In my early days of freelancing, I found opportunities in both writing and graphic design, which was great for building my skills. - **Direct Client Interaction**: Unlike Fiverr, Freelancer.com allows more direct communication with clients, which is perfect for negotiations and understanding project requirements better. - **Bidding System**: If you thrive in competitive environments, the bidding system can be advantageous. I honed my proposal writing skills here and landed my first $500 project after several tries. - **Long-term Projects**: For longer contracts and consistent work, Freelancer.com often has clients seeking long-term collaborations.When to Choose Fiverr
Fiverr is ideal for freelancers who prefer a gig-based economy with the freedom to set their own prices. Here are some scenarios where Fiverr excels: - **Setting Your Own Rates**: Fiverr allows you to set your own rates, which is beneficial if you have a clear valuation of your skills. I was able to increase my income significantly by upselling services. - **Specialized Gigs**: If you have a specific skill or niche, creating a specialized gig can attract clients looking for exactly what you offer. My gig in SEO writing attracted recurring clients who loved my work. - **Ease of Use**: Fiverr's interface is user-friendly, which is great for beginners. When I first started, I appreciated the simplicity of setting up my profile and gigs. - **Quick Short-Term Projects**: For those who prefer quick turnaround projects, Fiverr is perfect. During busy months, I could complete several small projects a week, boosting my income.Detailed Comparison
Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)
Freelancer.com charges a 10% project fee, which can be a significant chunk if you're handling large projects. However, it also means that you get to interact more with clients, potentially leading to higher-value projects. On the other hand, Fiverr takes a 20% commission on all gigs, which sounds steep but is balanced by the ability to set your own rates. Both platforms charge in USD, so you'll need to consider conversion rates when transferring funds to your Philippine bank account.Payment Methods (GCash, Maya, bank transfer)
Both platforms offer Payoneer as a payment option, which can be linked to GCash for easy fund transfers gabay sa Payoneer, gabay sa GCash. Freelancer.com also supports Skrill and wire transfers. Fiverr, meanwhile, offers PayPal alongside Payoneer, which is beneficial if you already use PayPal for other transactions. Personally, I prefer Payoneer for its lower fees when transferring to my local bank.User Experience
Freelancer.com's interface can be overwhelming for new users due to its numerous features and bidding system. Meanwhile, Fiverr's straightforward setup is friendlier for beginners. However, once accustomed, Freelancer.com offers more control over project selection and client communication.Client Quality
In my experience, the client quality on both platforms can vary. Freelancer.com tends to attract clients with bigger budgets and long-term project needs, while Fiverr clients often look for quick and affordable solutions. This doesn't mean one is better than the other; it depends on your service type and pricing strategy.For Beginners vs Experienced
Beginners might find Fiverr more approachable due to its gig-based system and ease of use. For experienced freelancers, Freelancer.com offers more opportunities to scale through diverse projects and direct client interactions.My Personal Experience
Starting my freelancing journey, I initially joined both platforms to see where I could establish my career. On Freelancer.com, I landed a $2,500 project within my first few months, which was a turning point. The bidding system taught me how to articulate my value effectively. Meanwhile, on Fiverr, I enjoyed the creative freedom of setting up specialized gigs, and one of my SEO gigs earned me a consistent $800 monthly from a repeat client. The key takeaway is understanding each platform's strengths and aligning them with your goals.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Underpricing Your Services**: On Fiverr, it's tempting to set low prices to attract clients, but this can undervalue your skills. Focus on quality and upselling instead. - **Ignoring Client Communication**: On Freelancer.com, clear communication is crucial. I've learned to clarify project details upfront to avoid scope creep. - **Not Diversifying Income Streams**: Relying solely on one platform can be risky. I recommend using both to minimize downtime during lean periods. - **Neglecting Profile Optimization**: A well-crafted profile attracts more clients. Invest time in updating your skills and showcasing your best work.FAQ Section
Final Verdict
For freelancers in the Philippines, the choice between Freelancer.com and Fiverr depends largely on your work preference and career goals. Freelancer.com is ideal for those seeking long-term projects and client interaction, while Fiverr suits those who prefer gig-based work and setting their own rates. Personally, I use both platforms to maximize my opportunities and income. If you're still undecided, consider reading more about each platform in our higit pang gabay.
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