5 Best Freelance Websites And How to Make Them Work for You

"Should I even bother with freelance platforms?"

If you're a freelance marketer, you've probably asked yourself this question. With all the horror stories about race-to-the-bottom pricing and endless competition, it's tempting to write off platforms like Upwork and Fiverr completely.

But here's what most people don't realize: Some of the highest-paid freelancers I know still use these platforms to find premium clients. Many make $10,000+ monthly from platform-sourced clients alone.

I’ve personally hired freelancers on Fiverr and Upwork consistently for years now, and I’m always surprised to see how few US-based senior freelancers there are for categories like Facebook and Google Ads. My guess is a lot of them get their clients via word of mouth and don’t even need these platforms anymore, but if you’re still building your network, there goes your opportunity to capitalize on those platforms!

But of course, you need to know how to use these platforms strategically.

I’ll show you how to do that in just a minute. But first, I want to be upfront about the pros & cons of these platforms.

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The Truth About Freelance Platforms

Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are essentially marketplaces. Just like any marketplace, you'll find both bargain hunters and premium buyers.

Your job isn't to compete with everyone – it's to position yourself to attract the right clients.

Here are the pros and cons you need to know:

The Pros

Built-in Payment Protection

Most platforms hold client payments in escrow before releasing them to you. This means no more chasing payments or dealing with clients who disappear – you're guaranteed to get paid for completed work.

Constant Flow of New Clients

New projects are posted every few minutes across these platforms. Instead of spending hours on cold outreach, you can simply browse through a list of pre-qualified clients actively looking to hire.

Easy Access to High-Level Clients

Major companies like regularly hire through these platforms. This gives you access to enterprise clients you might never reach through cold outreach – and they often pay premium rates.

Perfect for Beginners to Gain Experience

You can start landing clients without an extensive portfolio or years of experience. The platform's reputation system lets you build credibility quickly through reviews and completed projects, making it easier to land bigger clients later.

The Cons

‍Platform Fees (Usually 5-20%)

These fees can take a significant bite out of your earnings, especially when you're just starting. For example, on a $1,000 project, you might lose $200 to platform fees – though this typically reduces as you build longer relationships with clients.

‍High Competition for Projects

It's not uncommon to see 50+ proposals on a single job within hours of posting. Many freelancers simply copy-paste generic proposals, creating noise you'll need to cut through with thoughtful, personalized responses.

‍Need to Build Platform-Specific Reputation

Your impressive LinkedIn profile or portfolio website won't help much here. Each platform requires you to build your reputation from scratch through reviews and completed projects – which can take months of consistent effort.

Can Be Time-Consuming to Find Good Projects

You'll often need to wade through dozens of low-quality opportunities to find the gems. Many freelancers spend hours daily just searching and applying for projects, with no guarantee of landing the work.

Despite the cons, thousands of freelancers make six figures using clients found on these platforms alone. 

If you decide to give these platforms a shot, the first decision you’ll have to make is which platforms to join.

Let's look at the four biggest platforms and what makes each one unique for freelance marketers:

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5 Best Freelance Websites You Need To Know

In the world of freelance marketing, some platforms stand out more than others. These are the best freelance platform options you should consider, depending on your skill set and goals. There’s something for everyone.

Upwork

Upwork is like the LinkedIn of freelance platforms. It's where serious businesses go to find long-term marketing partners. While it's harder to get accepted as a new marketer now, once you're in, you can command premium rates. I regularly see marketing freelancers landing $2,000-5,000 monthly retainers here.

To succeed, develop a clear Upwork strategy — position yourself as a niche expert, craft value-driven proposals, and focus on long-term relationships instead of one-off gigs.

Pros:

• Access to top companies willing to pay premium rates for quality work.
• Many jobs here lead to ongoing relationships and long-term contracts.
• Upwork’s rating system helps you build a reputation with each completed project.

Cons:

• It's harder to get started compared to platforms like Fiverr or Freelancer.com.
• Upwork charges a fee that decreases as you build longer-term relationships with clients.

Fiverr

Fiverr is also among the best freelance platform variants, but it works differently – instead of applying for jobs, you create specific marketing packages that clients can purchase. This makes it perfect for specialized services like writing sales emails or creating social media content. While you might start with lower-priced packages, many successful marketers use it to sell high-ticket marketing audits and strategy sessions. If you're curious about the differences, check out Upwork vs. Fiverr to see which fits your style better.

Pros:

• It's easy to create a profile and start selling services immediately.
• You can create specific services that match your skill set and interests.
• You can easily increase your rates once you've built a reputation on the platform.

Cons:

• You may need to start with lower-priced gigs to build your portfolio and reputation.

Betterly

Betterly is the elite club where projects often start at $5,000+. They only accept about 1% of applicants, but if you’re a true rockstar, it can connect you with funded startups and Fortune 500 companies. Full disclosure, I own this one :)

Pros:

• High-Paying Clients: Projects are typically high-paying, so it’s ideal for experienced marketers.
• Limited access guarantees you're working with the best of the best in the industry.

Cons:

• Competitive to get in.

Freelancer.com 

Freelancer.com is the best freelance platform for building your portfolio quickly. Rates tend to be lower, but it's easier to get started here compared to other platforms.

Pros:

• It’s easier to land your first few clients.
• There are a variety of projects across different marketing niches.
• You can offer competitive rates to attract clients initially.

Cons:

• The rates tend to be lower compared to other platforms, especially when you're starting out.
• Like many other platforms, you'll compete against many freelancers for the same jobs.

Guru

Guru is another great platform for freelancers, especially those in creative or technical fields. It can bring you project-based or recurring work with clients from different industries.

Pros:

• Guru attracts clients from a broad range of industries, so you get more chances of landing varied work.
• You can choose between hourly, milestone, or fixed-price contracts.
• You can easily manage multiple projects with a workroom for each.

Cons:

• It’s not as well-known as Upwork or Fiverr, so fewer opportunities might be posted.
• If you want more features, you may have to upgrade to a paid plan.

Now, once you’ve picked the right platform for you, let’s talk about…

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How to Choose the Best Freelance Websites

The best freelance platforms for you depend on three factors: your experience level, your freelance skills, and how you want to work.

Let me break this down:

Match the Platform to Your Experience Level

Just starting out? Fiverr and Freelancer.com are your friends. They're easier to break into, less competitive at the entry level, and you can build your portfolio fast.

Got some experience and want consistent work? Upwork is your best bet. It's where serious clients go for long-term relationships. The approval process is tougher, but once you're in, you can build a sustainable freelance business.

Already crushing it with high-level clients? Betterly is where you want to be. It's exclusive, the projects start at $5K+, and you're working with companies that have real budgets.

Consider Your Working Style

Do you want to create packages and have clients come to you? Fiverr's model is perfect. You set your services, price them, and wait for orders.

Prefer to pitch for specific projects? Upwork and Freelancer.com let you apply to jobs that match your expertise.

Want someone else to handle client matching? Betterly vets both freelancers and clients, then makes introductions.

Evaluate the Client Quality

Not all platforms attract the same clients. Fiverr tends to have more small businesses and solopreneurs. Upwork has mid-size companies and startups. Betterly focuses on well-funded companies and enterprises.

Ask yourself: who do I want to work with? What kind of budgets am I targeting? What kind of projects actually excite me?

Your answers will point you to the right platform.

Check the Fee Structure

Platform fees eat into your earnings. Upwork charges 10-20% depending on your client relationship length. Fiverr takes 20% of each transaction. Betterly has different terms because of its exclusivity.

Factor these fees into your pricing strategy. If you're charging $1,000 on Fiverr, you're really making $800.

Look at Your Niche

Some platforms are better for certain skills. Facebook ads managers? Upwork has tons of opportunities. Graphic designers? Fiverr is booming. Email marketers? Both work great.

Spend 30 minutes browsing each platform before committing. Search for your specific skill and see what kind of projects are posted, what clients are paying, and how competitive it looks.

Don't try to be everywhere. Pick one platform that matches your current situation, master it, then expand if needed.

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Top Freelancing Sites at a Glance

Here's a quick breakdown of best freelance platforms to help you decide:

Upwork

• Best for: Long-term contracts and serious clients who want ongoing relationships
• What you'll make: $2,000-$5,000/month on average for retainer work
• Competition: High - lots of freelancers, but fewer at the premium level
• Getting in: Medium-High difficulty - they're pickier than they used to be

Fiverr

• Best for: Package-based services and quick gigs you can turn around fast
• What you'll make: $100-$2,000 per project typically
• Competition: Medium-High - crowded, but you can stand out with the right positioning
• Getting in: Easy - pretty much anyone can start selling immediately

Betterly

• Best for: Premium projects and elite freelancers (if you're already crushing it)
• What you'll make: $5,000+ per project minimum
• Competition: Low once you're in - it's exclusive by design
• Getting in: Very High difficulty - only 1% of applicants get accepted

Freelancer.com

• Best for: Building your portfolio when you're just starting out
• What you'll make: $500-$1,500 per project on average
• Competition: Medium - easier to land your first few clients here
• Getting in: Easy - low barrier to entry

Guru

• Best for: Varied industries and flexible contract types
• What you'll make: $1,000-$3,000 per project typically
• Competition: Medium - not as crowded as Upwork or Fiverr
• Getting in: Easy-Medium difficulty - straightforward approval process

Use this as a starting point, but remember: your success depends less on the platform and more on how you position yourself.

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How to Actually Win on These Platforms

The 4 things you need to keep in mind are:

1. Position yourself as a specialist, not a generalist. Instead of saying "I do digital marketing," specify something like "I help SaaS companies increase trial conversions through email marketing." Back this up with real results: "Generated 127% more trials through automated email sequences for 3 B2B software companies."

2. Your proposals need to show you've done your homework. Most marketers fail because they talk about themselves instead of the client's problem. If a client needs help with Facebook ads, mention specific issues you've noticed in their current campaigns and outline your approach to fixing them.

3. For pricing, compete on value, not cost. Research what others charge for similar services, then position yourself slightly above average. If most Facebook ad managers charge $1,000/month, start at $1,200 but offer a more comprehensive package including weekly reporting and strategy calls.

4. Create templates for everything. Including project briefs, onboarding documents, reporting frameworks. This not only saves time but also makes you appear more professional. Set up systems to follow up with past clients and ask for reviews at the right time.

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Best Freelance Websites for Beginners

If you're just getting started as a freelancer, the key is to find platforms that allow you to build your portfolio and organically enter the competition. Some platforms offer a lower barrier to entry. Here are some of the best freelance websites for newcomers:

• Fiverr. With Fiverr, you can quickly launch and start offering specific services. It’s a great way to build a reputation and start earning. There’s no requirement for lots of experience as well.
• Freelancer.com. The pay here might not be as high initially. However, Freelancer.com helps you build your portfolio and gain exposure in a variety of niches.

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Your Action Step

Choose ONE freelance website that matches your goals. Spend 2 hours optimizing your profile using the guidelines above and submit 5 highly personalized proposals to relevant projects. Track your response rate and adjust accordingly.

You see, success on freelance platforms isn't about racing to the bottom or competing with hundreds of other marketers. The real winners are those who take the time to position themselves strategically, showcase their expertise, and focus on delivering exceptional value.

I've seen too many talented marketers give up on platforms too soon, missing out on what could be a consistent source of high-paying clients. 

So start with the action steps I've outlined above. Focus on one platform, perfect your approach, and give it at least 30 days of consistent effort. The clients – and income – will follow.

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Best Freelance Websites FAQ

Which is the best freelancing website?

The "best" freelancing website depends on your goals and skill level. For long-term relationships and premium clients, Upwork is ideal. For specialized services and niche offerings, Fiverr might be better. If you're looking for high-paying projects and exclusivity, Betterly is a top choice.

Is Fiverr better or Upwork?

It depends on your service model. Fiverr might be better if you offer specialized services. If you want long-term contracts, Upwork is more suited for you.

What website is better than Fiverr?

Fiverr is great for beginners and niche gigs. At the same time, Upwork gives more long-term opportunities and the potential for higher-paying clients. Betterly also stands out for its premium projects.

Which website is best for a beginner freelancer?

Fiverr and Freelancer.com are both excellent platforms for beginners. They allow you to start small and build your reputation, gaining valuable experience along your way.

Which freelance website pays the highest?

Betterly offers the highest-paying projects (many starting at $5,000 and going up from there). Upwork also has a reputation for higher-paying, long-term contracts.

How do I avoid scams on freelance platforms?

Never share personal banking details outside the platform's payment system, always use the platform's messaging system (it protects you), check client reviews and payment history before accepting work. Trust your gut - if something feels off, it probably is, and report suspicious accounts immediately.

How can I increase my chances of getting hired on freelancing websites?

Optimize your profile: use a professional photo, write a headline that speaks to client pain points, showcase specific results in your bio with numbers, and collect testimonials from every single client. Provide proof you can deliver. Start with lower-priced projects to build reviews fast, deliver more than promised on early gigs, ask satisfied clients for detailed testimonials, and respond to messages within an hour when possible.