As a freelancer in 2025, you have more options than ever to find clients online. Two of the biggest names in the freelance marketplace world are Upwork and Fiverr. But which one is right for you? In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences, benefits, and drawbacks of Upwork vs Fiverr from a freelancer’s perspective. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this article will help you decide where to invest your time, and how to maximize your earnings.
What’s the Real Difference Between Upwork and Fiverr?
At first glance, Upwork and Fiverr might seem similar—both connect freelancers with clients from around the world. But their business models, fee structures, and types of work available are quite different.
Upwork is designed for a wide range of projects, from short-term gigs to long-term contracts. Freelancers bid on jobs posted by clients, and the platform supports both hourly and fixed-price contracts. This means you can build ongoing relationships with clients and potentially earn a steadier income.
Fiverr, on the other hand, is built around “gigs.” Freelancers create listings for specific services at set prices, and clients browse and purchase these directly. Fiverr is known for its speed and simplicity, making it ideal for quick, one-off tasks.
Upwork vs Fiverr: How Each Platform Works for Freelancers
Understanding how each platform works is key to choosing the right one for your freelance career. Below, we break down the main processes and features of Upwork vs Fiverr, so you can see exactly how freelancers connect with clients and get paid on each site.
The Bidding System on Upwork
When you sign up for Upwork, you create a profile that highlights your skills, experience, and portfolio. You then browse job postings and submit proposals using “Connects,” the platform’s virtual currency for applying to jobs. Clients review your proposal and may invite you to interview or hire you directly.
Upwork’s system is more involved than Fiverr’s. You’ll need to write tailored proposals for each job, which can be time-consuming but also increases your chances of landing higher-paying, long-term work. The platform is especially popular with businesses looking for ongoing support, such as content creation, web development, or virtual assistance.
The Gig Economy on Fiverr
Fiverr is all about simplicity. You create a profile and list your services as “gigs,” each with a clear description and price. Clients search for the service they need, compare options, and purchase directly from you. There’s no need to write proposals or bid on projects—clients come to you.
This makes Fiverr great for freelancers who want to focus on delivering specific services, like logo design, copywriting, or voiceovers. The platform is especially popular for quick, fixed-price projects, and it’s easy to get started even if you’re new to freelancing.
Upwork vs Fiverr: Pricing and Fees
One of the biggest questions freelancers have is: Is Upwork more expensive than Fiverr? The answer depends on how you use each platform.
Upwork Fees
Starting May 1, 2025, Upwork introduced a new way to calculate its Freelancer Service Fee.
The old flat 10% fee is gone for new contracts. Instead, you’ll now see a variable fee that can go up to 15%, depending on factors like client demand for your specific skills, the type of project, and current marketplace conditions. Sometimes, Upwork will run promotions and offer discounts—if you’re eligible, they’ll let you know directly.
Fiverr Fees
Fiverr takes a flat 20% commission on every sale. There are no membership fees, but you’ll pay this commission regardless of how much you earn from a client. For buyers, there’s an additional service fee of 5.5%.
Is Upwork or Fiverr Better for Beginners?
If you’re just starting out, you might wonder: Is Upwork good for beginners? The answer is yes—but with some caveats.
Fiverr is often easier for beginners because you don’t need to write proposals or compete in a crowded bidding process. You simply create a gig, set your price, and wait for clients to find you. The platform’s rating system and clear service listings make it simple to build a reputation and get your first clients.
Upwork is also beginner-friendly, but it requires more effort. You’ll need to write strong proposals and compete with other freelancers for jobs. However, if you have some skills or a portfolio (even from personal projects), you can find plenty of entry-level jobs on Upwork. Some freelancers even start with no experience, using mock projects or small gigs for friends and family to build their portfolio.
Tip:
If you’re new to freelancing, check out our guide on how to start freelancing in 2025 for practical tips and advice.
Can You Actually Make Money on Upwork?
Absolutely. Many freelancers have built successful, full-time careers on Upwork. The platform offers a wide range of jobs, from simple tasks to complex, ongoing projects. With persistence and a strong profile, you can land clients who need ongoing support, which can lead to steady income and long-term relationships.
That said, competition can be fierce. You’ll need to stand out with a professional profile, tailored proposals, and a portfolio that showcases your skills. But if you put in the effort, Upwork can be a reliable source of income.
Is Upwork or Fiverr Better for Long-Term Work?
As an experienced freelancer, I’ve found that Upwork is better for long-term clients. The platform’s structure supports ongoing contracts, hourly work, and project-based arrangements. Many clients on Upwork are looking for someone to work with them regularly, which can lead to stable, predictable income.
Fiverr is great for quick, one-off projects. While you can build repeat business with clients, most gigs are designed for specific deliverables. If you want to build a full-time freelance business, Upwork is usually the better choice for long-term growth.
Upwork vs Fiverr: Which Platform Has More Opportunities?
Both platforms have millions of users and a wide variety of job categories. However, Upwork offers more flexibility and a broader range of project types—from short-term gigs to full-time remote positions. The platform is popular with businesses of all sizes, from startups to large corporations.
Fiverr is best for specialized services and quick tasks. The platform’s gig-based system makes it easy for clients to find exactly what they need, but it can be harder to land large, complex projects.
Practical Tips for Success on Upwork and Fiverr
No matter which platform you choose, here are some tips to help you succeed:
On Upwork
- Create a professional profile: Highlight your skills, experience, and portfolio.
- Write tailored proposals: Show clients you understand their needs and explain how you can help.
- Build your portfolio: Even if you’re new, include personal projects or volunteer work.
- Communicate clearly: Respond quickly to messages and be professional in all interactions.
- Ask for reviews: Positive feedback from clients will help you land more jobs.
On Fiverr
- Create clear, detailed gigs: Describe exactly what you offer and include high-quality images or samples.
- Offer multiple packages: Give clients options at different price points.
- Deliver excellent work: Go above and beyond to earn positive reviews.
- Respond quickly: Fast communication builds trust and can lead to repeat business.
- Promote your gigs: Share your Fiverr profile on social media and other platforms to attract more clients.
Upwork vs Fiverr: Which Should You Choose?
The best platform for you depends on your goals, skills, and the type of work you want to do.
Choose Upwork if:
- You want to build long-term relationships with clients.
- You’re comfortable writing proposals and competing for jobs.
- You’re looking for a wide range of project types, from hourly work to fixed-price contracts.
- You want to grow your freelance business and potentially earn more over time.
Choose Fiverr if:
- You want to get started quickly and easily.
- You prefer offering specific services at set prices.
- You’re looking for quick, one-off projects.
- You want clients to come to you, rather than bidding on jobs.
How to Get Started on Upwork and Fiverr
If you’re ready to dive in, here’s a quick checklist for getting started on both platforms:
Upwork
- Sign up and create a profile.
Fill out your profile with your skills, experience, and portfolio. - Browse job postings.
Look for jobs that match your expertise. - Submit proposals.
Write tailored Upwork cover letters for each job, explaining how you can help. - Communicate with clients.
Respond quickly and professionally to messages and interview requests. - Deliver excellent work and ask for reviews.
Build your reputation and attract more clients.
Fiverr
- Sign up and create a profile.
Highlight your skills and experience. - Create gigs.
List your services with clear descriptions and prices. - Set up multiple packages.
Offer basic, standard, and premium options. - Promote your gigs.
Share your profile on social media and other platforms. - Deliver great work and earn reviews.
Build your reputation and attract repeat business.
For more tips on landing your first clients, check out our guide on how to get clients for freelancing.
Final Thoughts: Upwork vs Fiverr as a Freelancer
Both Upwork and Fiverr are powerful tools for freelancers, but they serve different needs. Upwork is ideal for those who want to build long-term client relationships and work on a variety of projects. The platform’s structure supports ongoing contracts and higher earning potential, especially for experienced freelancers.
Fiverr is perfect for beginners or freelancers who want to focus on specific services and quick projects. The platform is easy to use, and you can start earning money almost immediately.
As someone who has worked on both platforms, I’ve found that Upwork is my go-to for building a sustainable freelance business. The ability to land long-term clients and work on interesting, ongoing projects has made all the difference in my career. Fiverr is great for quick wins and extra income, but for true growth, Upwork is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Upwork or Fiverr better for beginners?
Fiverr is often easier for beginners because you can set up a gig and wait for clients to find you, while Upwork requires writing proposals and competing for jobs—though both offer opportunities to get started.
Is Upwork more expensive than Fiverr?
Upwork’s fees now range up to 15% for new contracts (as of May 2025), while Fiverr charges a flat 20% commission. Upwork can be less expensive if you build long-term client relationships.
Can you actually make money on Upwork?
Yes, many freelancers earn a steady income on Upwork by landing ongoing contracts. Success requires a strong profile, tailored proposals, and consistent effort.
Which platform is better for long-term freelance work?
Upwork is generally better for long-term work and building client relationships, while Fiverr is best for quick, one-off projects and specific services.
