Fiverr vs Upwork: Freelancing has become increasingly popular over the years as more people seek to work on their own terms. Two of the most popular platforms for freelancers are Fiverr and Upwork. Both offer unique benefits, but which is better for you as a freelancer?
In this article, we will compare Fiverr and Upwork and highlight the key differences between the two platforms.
Overview of Fiverr vs Upwork
Fiverr vs Upwork: Fiverr was founded in 2010 and is a platform where freelancers can offer services to customers around the world. Clients can browse through Fiverr’s marketplace and hire freelancers for tasks ranging from graphic design to social media management.
On the other hand, Upwork was founded in 2015 as a result of the merger of two popular freelancing platforms, Enlace and ODesk. Upwork offers a wider range of services, including writing, programming, and accounting.
How to get Signup?
Fiverr vs Upwork: The sign-up process for both platforms is straightforward. Freelancers can create an account for free and start offering their services immediately. However, Upwork has a more rigorous vetting process for new freelancers.
Freelancers are required to complete a skills test to demonstrate their expertise in their chosen field. This can be a drawback for new freelancers who may not have the time or resources to complete the test.
How Does Fiverr Work?
Fiverr started as a platform where clients could hire freelancers to finish a project for only $5. It has evolved since then as freelancers can now set their own prices.
This freelancing platform refers to employers as buyers and freelancers as sellers. Fiverr is a freelancer-focused platform that lets sellers create packaged services and list them on sale. It also has a Buyer Requests section for employers to post jobs that sellers can apply for.
As a result, making appealing packages is crucial since they increase your chances of getting hired. By default, the Gigs are one-time purchases, but buyers can extend the contract using Gig Milestones or repurchase a Gig multiple times.
Fiverr categorizes sellers on four levels. The high-level ones will get more perks, like faster earnings withdrawal and better customer support.
Is Fiverr worth it?
Fiverr vs Upwork: Going through Fiverr is a good decision if the project needs creative people for short-term or one-off engagements.
However, one should note that the website offers limited categories. They have graphics and design, digital marketing, writing and translation, video and animation, music and audio, programming and tech, business, and fun and lifestyle.
Some freelancers stay away from Fiverr because the website allows buyers to cancel the project and get their money back even after the work has been completed.
This seems to be one of the reasons why only a few sellers have five star ratings and excellent feedback from buyers.
About Fiverr Pro
Fiverr vs Upwork: Fiverr also provides a Pro program. Over time an established freelancer on this platform who gets a track record of good ratings may get the opportunity to apply for Fiverr Pro.
This is the whole new section of Fiverr that offers more high quality and expensive high-end services. The type of services many employers go to platforms like Upwork for.
Though Fiverr Pro does open up opportunities for some expert freelancers with specific skills, not every freelancer can apply to opt-in it.
How Does Upwork Work?
Fiverr vs Upwork: Unlike Fiverr, Upwork is more client-focused. Clients publish job listings in the Talent Marketplace and choose freelancers to work with. Freelancers will need to bid for the jobs and pitch their skills. Alternatively, they can display predefined offerings on the Project Catalog.
Upwork uses a virtual currency named Connects. Freelancers use it to apply for jobs posted by clients, and clients need this currency to invite certain freelancers. Upwork freelancers will get ten free Connects each month.
This freelance marketplace is geared towards hiring freelancers for long-term projects by supporting ongoing contracts and hourly projects, which Fiverr doesn’t have.
Similar to Fiverr, Upwork also has freelancer levels and badges based on specific criteria, including your experience and diversity.
Is Upwork worth it?
There are a lot of freelancers on the website, and some clients comment that only a certain percentage are experts in what they do. Clients who choose poorly might end up hiring the wrong people.
But there are many freelancers and clients on the website; as long as people keep on their toes when searching, they can always find another person or project that fits their bill.
Fees and Commission
Both platforms charge a commission on each job completed by freelancers. Fiverr charges a flat 20% commission on each transaction, which can be a disadvantage for freelancers who are just starting out.
Upwork’s commission varies depending on the project’s size and complexity, with freelancers paying between 5% and 20% commission on each job.
Fiverr also charges a fee to withdraw earnings, with freelancers paying a $1 fee on transactions under $20 and a 5% fee on transactions over $20. Upwork, on the other hand, does not charge any fees to withdraw earnings.
Payment Protection
Fiverr vs Upwork: Both Fiverr and Upwork offer payment protection to freelancers. On Fiverr, clients are required to pay upfront for each job, which is held in escrow until the job is completed.
This means that freelancers are guaranteed payment for each completed job. Upwork also offers payment protection, with clients required to deposit funds into an escrow account before a job begins.
However, some freelancers have reported issues with Upwork’s dispute resolution process, which can be lengthy and complicated.
Client Base
Fiverr vs Upwork: Both platforms offer access to a global client base. However, Fiverr tends to attract clients who are looking for quick, low-cost solutions. This means that the average job on Fiverr is lower in value than on Upwork.
Upwork, on the other hand, attracts clients who are looking for high-quality, professional services. This means that the average job on Upwork is higher in value than on Fiverr.
Communication and Support
Fiverr vs Upwork: Both platforms offer communication tools for freelancers and clients to stay in touch throughout a project. Fiverr’s messaging system is simple and easy to use, while Upwork offers a more advanced system with additional features such as video conferencing.
In terms of support, both platforms offer customer support to freelancers and clients. Fiverr’s support team is known for its quick response times, while Upwork’s support team is available 24/7.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Fiverr and Upwork offer unique benefits to freelancers. Fiverr is a good option for freelancers who are just starting out and looking for quick, low-cost solutions. Upwork, on the other hand, is a better option for freelancers who are looking for.
We hope this article has helped you choose the best platform for your needs and build a successful freelancing career. If you work with multiple clients, check out our list of client management software to help organize your projects.
FAQS
How does Fiverr differ from Upwork?
Fiverr tends to attract clients who are looking for quick, low-cost solutions, while Upwork attracts clients who are looking for high-quality, professional services.
Fiverr charges a flat 20% commission on each transaction, while Upwork’s commission varies depending on the project’s size and complexity. Fiverr also charges a fee to withdraw earnings, while Upwork does not.
How does the sign-up process differ between Fiverr and Upwork?
The sign-up process for both platforms is straightforward. Freelancers can create an account for free and start offering their services immediately.
However, Upwork has a more rigorous vetting process for new freelancers, requiring them to complete a skills test to demonstrate their expertise in their chosen field.
How does payment protection work on Fiverr and Upwork?
Both Fiverr and Upwork offer payment protection to freelancers. On Fiverr, clients are required to pay upfront for each job, which is held in escrow until the job is completed.
Upwork also offers payment protection, with clients required to deposit funds into an escrow account before a job begins.
Which platform is better for new freelancers?
Both platforms are good options for new freelancers, but Fiverr may be a better choice for those who are just starting out due to its low fees and simple sign-up process.