When it comes to crafting the perfect freelancer, you have two potential options: Fiverr or Upwork. These websites allow you to hire freelancers to do digital work.
The main difference between Fiverr and Upwork is that on Fiverr the client pays by the job, while on Upwork the client usually pays by the hour.
If you're wondering which freelancing platform is right for your project, this article will help you understand the key differences between Fiverr and Upwork. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be able to choose the platform that best suits your needs.
What is Fiverr?
Fiverr is a freelancing platform where businesses and individuals can find services to outsource. They launched their service in 2010, and it has been growing ever since. It is now a leading platform for freelancers and businesses to connect and collaborate.
Fiverr is similar to Upwork in that it offers a variety of services, but differs in that it has a fixed price for most services. This can be an advantage for businesses and entrepreneurs looking for a set price.
On Fiverr, you can outsource a wide range of tasks and services. Many types of services are available: from web and app development to SEO and social media marketing. You can also find creative professionals to help with tasks like graphic design, video editing, and writing. You can probably find someone on Fiverr to do any task you can think of!
This platform is open to freelancers and it is very easy to sign up to become a seller. Each seller on Fiverr is publicly rated by his clients, making it easier to choose the best freelancer for any project.
What is Upwork?
Upwork is a freelancing platform where businesses and independent professionals connect and collaborate remotely. In other words, it’s a website that lets you find work if you're a freelancer and hire workers for specific tasks or projects if you're a business. Formerly known as Elance-oDesk, this company was founded in 1999.
Upwork is the world’s largest freelancing platform and they connect millions of freelancers and businesses worldwide. The platform also helps businesses gain exposure for their projects, allowing them to find qualified workers at an affordable rate.
Here are some key numbers to know about Upwork:
- Upwork has over 12 million registered freelancers
- Upwork freelancers have earned over $1 billion in 2015
- There are over 3,000 skills represented on Upwork
- Upwork freelancers are from over 180 countries
There are many popular services that you can find on Upwork. Some of the most popular ones include web and app development, SEO services, social media marketing, and content writing.
If you have a specific service that you are interested in, then you can use the Upwork search function to find freelancers who offer that service. But the most common way to find freelancers on Upwork is by posting a job offer that freelancers can apply for.
What are the Key Differences Between Fiverr and Upwork?
Pricing
Fiverr and Upwork have two different pricing models: on Fiverr you pay by the job while on Upwork you pay for the number of hours worked.
That's why when you go to the profile of a seller on Fiverr, there is directly the list of his services with the prices clearly displayed.
While on Upwork, there will often only be the rate per hour on the freelancer's profile.
Payment methods
Fiverr and Upwork offer the most common payment methods but Fiverr offers a few more like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Sofort.
Here are the details of the payment methods you can use on both platforms:
- Credit card
- PayPal
- ACH
- Local bank
- Payoneer
- Wire transfer
- Apple Pay (available on Fiverr only)
- Google Pay (available on Fiverr only)
- Sofort (available on Fiverr only)
Marketplace
Fiverr is more like a marketplace than Upwork. The basic principle of Fiverr is to search for services on the marketplace via the search engine. For example, if I want a new logo on my website I can type "logo design" on Fiverr and get a large choice of logo design services.
On Upwork, you usually post a job, and then you choose your freelancer according to the answers you get. There is also a marketplace system on Upwork, but it's not used much because there are not many services.
Cost
Generally, services are cheaper on Fiverr because there is more competition between freelancers. On Upwork, rates are higher because there is less competition and more freelancers from developed countries.
There is a 5% fee on Upwork and a 5.5% fee on Fiverr and Fiverr charges an extra 2$ if the order is less than 50$.
Quality
You can find high-quality freelancers on both platforms... even on Fiverr which is low cost. When screening a freelancer, you should consider both the ratings and the description to ensure the freelancer is qualified for the position.
On Upwork as on Fiverr, you can find good quality as well as bad... but that's part of the game. Some businesses find freelancers on these platforms and work with them for years! As in the world of classical work, there are hidden nuggets to be found.
Comparison Chart: Fiverr Vs Upwork
| Specifications | Fiverr | Upwork |
| Website | fiverr.com | upwork.com |
| Suitable for | Beginners | Advanced |
| Support | 24/7 | 24/7 |
| Service fees for buyers | 5.5% + 2$ if the order is less than 50$ | 5% |
| Pricing | Customers pay by the job | Clients pay by the number of hours of work |
Similitudes
There are many similitudes between Fiverr and Upwork. They are both freelancer platforms that offer a variety of services from a variety of providers. They both have a rating system to help buyers choose the best provider for their needs, and they both require providers to complete a profile before being able to offer services.
Conclusion
Fiverr is geared more towards small, one-time tasks, while Upwork is better for larger projects that require more time and effort.
Fiverr is also generally less expensive than Upwork, although there are some exceptions. In general, Fiverr offers a variety of services at a lower price than Upwork, making it a great option for those on a budget.
