Upwork or Fiverr: Do They Really Work? Which Is Better?

upwork or fiverr

Upwork or Fiverr – Isn’t it tough to choose the right platform to work on? Freelancing itself is a long, rough journey with so many ups and downs in between, but the right platform would be so helpful, making it smoother for all of us. Here are the highest-paying freelancing careers to pick if you have still not decided on one. 

Technically speaking, the progress around the world amazes me. We have so many platforms and so many options out there today that it’s pretty tough for us to select one. To make it short and easier for you, I’ve picked some popular and the best platforms to discuss.

Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer are three popular options; each of these platforms offers different ways to get jobs and work with clients.

Every platform is progressing day by day. As of August 2024, Fiverr attracts around 109.72 million visitors per month globally. This shows significant growth compared to previous months, with an increase of over 29% from July to August​. Amazing! Right?

This blog will help you to decide whether Freelancer, Upwork or Fiverr which is better pick for you. As a freelancer, I know choosing the right platform really stresses us all sometimes. So keep on reading to find your perfect match.

Upwork vs Fiverr: Which is Better for Your Freelance Success?

Upwork and Fiverr are two different platforms. Yes, they are the most popular freelancing platforms but they operate quite differently. Here’s a short Upwork Fiverr comparison for you to understand and observe things more keenly.

How do Upwork and Fiverr Work?

Upwork

Are you interested in long-term projects? Wondering which one to use, Upwork or Fiverr? Let me tell you, Upwork is the one for you. Yes, you heard it right. It’s a platform that will give you the chance to apply for jobs directly by submitting proposals. Find out: Is Upwork legit?

The work dynamic is simple on this platform. Clients post job descriptions, and freelancers send their rates and skills to get the job. 

You need to make a detailed profile on Upwork. Make sure that your profile has your experience mentioned and your portfolio. You can also list the type of jobs you’re interested in. Clients will look at your profile when deciding if they want to hire you.

Upwork allows you to send proposals to the clients. Now, how does this proposal thing work? A proposal is like a job application in that you tell the client why they should hire you. Writing a good proposal will definitely get you hired. Once you’re hired, you and the client agree on the project details, including deadlines and payment.

upwork or fiverr

If you are someone looking for steady work and long-term clients, then trust me, Upwork is best for you. With many projects in areas like writing, design, tech, and marketing, there’s something for everyone. 

I can guarantee one thing: if you want to grow your freelance career and work on bigger, better-paying jobs, and are confused between Upwork or Fiverr, then Fiverr is the right place to succeed.

Fiverr

Fiverr uses a gig-based system. Now, what is the gig? Well, freelancers create services known as “gigs” with set prices, and then the clients will look through these gigs to find what they need.

Wondering, why do we call it Fiverr? Let’s take an example to understand the dynamics. If you are good at making logos, you can create a gig offering logo design services. Each gig has a starting price, often $5, which is why it’s called “Fiverr.”

You can also set Gig packages on Fiverr. Personally gig packages are really beneficial for all of us. As a freelancer, you can also create packages within their gig. For example, the basic package might cost $5, but it’s not it. You can offer more advanced services for higher prices, such as adding extra features or faster delivery times. Here is my guaranteed strategy to get orders on Fiverr

If you’re into one-time and quick jobs, then Fiverr is the right platform for you. It doesn’t matter if you’re offering logo design, writing, or video editing, Fiverr helps you show off your skills and get clients fast. 

As a beginner, I remember I was trying to make a portfolio and Fiverr helped me a lot in it. These one-time and quick jobs allow you to build a portfolio, and make money at the same time. So, just go for it.

Learn More!

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Payment & Fee Method – Upwork or Fiverr?

Upwork

Upwork is a platform that will initially charge you a fee. Is paying for a platform to work there safe or not? Relax; it’s safe. You can trust me and give it a shot.

Now, how much does it charge? Well, Upwork charges freelancers a sliding fee based on their earnings with a client. It starts at 20% for the first $500 and then drops to 10%.

However, Upwork takes care of your payment securely. But after you complete your task, send it to your client as per their demands.

Fiverr

Unlike Upwork, Fiverr has some different charging methods. It will take 20% of your every transaction, regardless of how much you earn with the client.

On Fiverr, the client will buy your gig and then you start working on it. After completing the given task and when the client approves the work, Fiverr releases the payment to the freelancer. Then comes the not-so-favorite part of us, which is when Fiverr keeps a small percentage of the payment as their fee. 

However, payments are received after the task is completed.

upwork or fiverr which is better

User-Friendliness – Upwork or Fiverr?

Upwork

Technically speaking, Upwork is a great platform for professionals who want a mix of short-term and long-term jobs. It allows you to send proposals to bid on jobs. It’s the best thing to get more control over the work you’ll take.

My favorite thing is reviewing on this platform. I’m sure that it must be your favorite as well. Both freelancers and clients leave reviews after the project is complete. These reviews help others know how good someone is at their job. Good reviews will help you get hired for more jobs in the future.

Moreover, it doesn’t matter if you’re experienced or just want more job options; Upwork offers you plenty of chances to grow.

Fiverr

If you are a beginner in this huge world of freelancers, from platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, I would suggest you go with Fiverr. It is perfect for beginners because of its simple setup.

Just like Upwork, Fiverr also has a review system. Clients will rate your work after the project is done. This is something that will help build your trust and attract more clients in the future.

Now, how does it work? It’s simple. You create a gig, set a price, and clients come to you. There’s no need to write proposals or compete for jobs. 

Fiverr makes it easy to get started and find quick work. This is something that makes it a top choice for new freelancers.

However, if you ask me about Fiverr or Upwork for Beginners? As per my experience, between Upwork or Fiverr, the answer will be Fiverr. 

I know it’s pretty controversial, but I think Upwork can be more competitive, and you’ll need a strong profile to land your first job.

Is Freelancer a Flexible Platform for Every Freelancer?

Freelancer is a platform that offers many job types, from quick tasks to long-term projects. I would say it mixes up both bidding and fixed-price jobs, so it’s up to you to choose to bid on projects or pick a set-price gig. 

As a freelancer, this is something that makes it flexible for all of us. It doesn’t matter if you want a short job or something that lasts longer. Platforms like Upwork or Fiverr have different opportunities and ways for us. But Freelancer is all in one.

upwork or fiverr or freelancer

Bidding System

Freelancers can bid on jobs by sending offers to clients. This allows you to set your own price and show off your skills, much like Upwork. 

Moreover, Freelancer also has contests, where you can compete with others to win projects.

Variety of Jobs

Are you interested in trying different jobs? Well, Freelancer is a platform that offers work in many areas like design, writing, programming, and marketing.

However, you can grow your skills with so many different options around you.

Working with Clients

What is better than dealing with clients directly? Freelancer is a platform that makes it happen. It lets you talk directly with clients to discuss project details. 

This makes it easy to stay connected and keep the project moving smoothly.

Fiverr, Upwork, or Freelancer: Which is Better?

To make it easy for you to decide between platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, Let’s compare the platforms side by side: 

FeaturesUpworkFiverrFreelancer
Best ForLong-term projects and ongoing workQuick gigs and small tasksIt has contest-based work and varied projects
Payment StructureSliding fee (starts at 20%)Flat 20% fee on all gigsSliding fee (starts at 10%)
Ease of UseIt is more complex and also requires proposalsIt has a simple gig creationIt is competitive and has more bidding
Project SizesMedium to largeSmall to mediumSmall to large
Competition LevelIt has high competition and also requires a strong profileCompetition is lower for beginnersThe competition level is very high

Wrap-up!

In the end, it doesn’t matter if you choose Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer, it completely depends on your freelancing style and goals. 

Upwork is great for long-term projects and building strong client relationships, while on the other hand, Fiverr is perfect for quick, one-off jobs.

Freelancer is a platform that offers a bit of both flexibility and variety. No matter which platform you pick Upwork or Fiverr, there’s plenty of opportunity to grow and succeed in your freelance career. I would say just jump in and find the platform that works best for you.


FAQs

Which platform is better for beginners, Upwork or Fiverr?
Fiverr is easier for beginners because it’s simple to set up gigs. You don’t have to apply for jobs, and clients come to you.

Is Upwork or Fiverr good for long-term work?
Yes, Upwork and fiverr are great for long-term jobs! You can build strong relationships with clients and work on big projects.

Can I use both Fiverr and Freelancer?
Yes, you can! Using both platforms gives you more chances to find work and grow your freelance career.

Do I have to bid on jobs on Freelancer?
Yes, on Freelancer, you bid on jobs by sending offers to clients. You can also take part in contests to win projects.

Which platform pays the most?
A. It depends on the job and your skills. Upwork usually offers higher-paying, long-term projects, while Fiverr has fixed prices. Freelancer has a mix of both!

Ashmal Saeed

Ashmal Saeed

Business Contact: +923280331759

Address: Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan