Freelancing has undergone massive changes in the last several years. Freelancers used to be located at the end of the gig economy, but now they are leading it. Simultaneously, companies both large and small are starting to outsource different specialized tasks and projects to freelancers.
This has led to the growth of Upwork and other freelance platforms. It seems like the list does not end. From well known names to lesser known sites focused on a specific industry. How does one go about picking the right one from a freelancer or client side?
This post will cover what we think are the best freelance platforms in 2024 alongside important features, benefits, and costs of those platforms. We will provide tips and tricks that will help users choose the right platform and achieve success.
What to Consider When Choosing a Freelance Platform
Before moving on to our list, let’s analyze the features that make freelance platforms great. Keep these tips in mind when deciding which platform fulfills all of your requirements:
1. Specialized vs. General Platforms
Decide if the platform that you are choosing is for your specific industry or consists of a variety of different fields. Some examples are:
• Some specialized platforms tend to focus more on design, information technology, or writing.
• General platforms serve the clients and freelancers from many industries.
2. Fees and Pricing
Freelance platforms might charge:
• A fee of service on the earnings (i.e. a commission cut on a freelancer’s income)
• Additional payments for extra options
• Payment processing fees
Examine the organization and how it fits with the finances and requirements.
3. Ease of Use
Check out east of navigation and platforms that offer self-explanatory layouts. Freely editable user profiles, advanced filters for targeted searches, or intuitive payment processes are all huge plus sides.
4. Client and Freelancer Vetting
Some platforms vet users very carefully to ensure users only collaborate with other vetted users. Decide whether you would rather be on an open platform or one with stringent screening policies for clients and freelancers.
5. Payment Security
There is a minimal option for payment security, and it has to be there. Check if the platform you are considering guarantees payment protection through escrow or offers similar services.
Top Freelance Platforms in 2024
Now that you are aware of the freelance platforms you are targeting, below is a selection of freelance platforms for the year 2024. Each platform has been selected for its all-in-one features, pricing, and services offered.
1. Upwork
Features:
• One of the largest freelance funds markets from different industries.
• Advanced search filters, along with job suggestions.
• Tools for managing tasks, tracking time, and collaborating with clients.
Benefits:
• Best suited for freelancers at any level from novice to veteran.
• Global opportunities available.
• Payment protection ensures funds are secured until work is completed.
Pricing:
• Freelancer charges are 5% to 20% based on the freelancer’s payments from a certain client.
• Clients normally incur a 3% fee for processing.
2. Fiverr
Features:
• Designed for project-based work, starting at $5.
• Easily accessible “Gig” system for freelancers to market their services.
• Quick completion options for urgent work.
Benefits:
• Ideal for short or individual assignments.
• Appeals to clients who already understood what they wanted.
• A more developed platform is simple to navigate for new users.
Pricing:
• Freelancers incur a 20% service fee per transaction.
• No upfront payment is needed by buyers; clients only pay for the completed work.
3. Toptal
Features:
• An exclusive pool of rigorously verified elite talent.
• Focuses on niche high-level professions such as software engineering, designing, and finance.
• Direct matchmaking of freelancers to clients.
Benefits:
• Guarantees clients quality because only the top 3% of applicants are accepted.
• Provides expert freelancers well-paying projects.
• Supreme support is provided through assigned project managers.
Pricing:
• Freelancers have custom pricing with zero upfront fees.
• The client can pay by the hour or by the project to the freelancer according to their pricing.
4. Hubstaff Talent
Features:
• It is a completely free platform serving as a marketplace for clients to find remote freelancers and agencies.
• Ease of communication and collaboration.
• Interested in developing long-term business relationships.
Benefits:
• There are no fees for freelancers and clients.
• The free directory adds to the freelancers’ profits.
• Aimed at establishing long-term working relationships.
Pricing:
• Freelancers and businesses can use it for free.
Comparison Table of Freelance Platforms
It offers a complete overview of diverse freelance platforms starting with the description provided in the first column of the table.
Platform Best For Freelancers’ Fee Clients’ Fee Unique Features
Upwork Complex projects that require considerable time investment 5%-20% 3% In-built time tracker, opportunities
Fiverr Performing tasks that are quick and require little time exuberance 20% none Ease of posting ‘Gigs’, speedy delivery options
Toptal Clients looking for serviced rendered by top-notch, premium priced experts None Custom Served by and ‘exclusively’ vetted freelancers, premium priced services
Hubstaff Talent Clients and freelancers looking for zero fees
Freelancer/User/More details on offer requested by use for free and long-term remote work
Tips for Success on Freelance Platforms
These listings are customized for users already selected the platform that best aligns with their goals:
1. Build an Outstanding Profile
• Highlight the description that sets you apart like your skills and work experience, as well as your certifications.
• Use a professional profile photograph.
• Make certain to out upload a portfolio containing samples of your work
2. Strategically Promote Yourself or Place Bids
• Make sure the bids for jobs or projects are tailored to fit the specifics of the job.
• Clearly articulate how you will deliver on the promise and value propositions while addressing the client’s pain points.
3. Utilize Communication Skills
• Make sure to always be polite and professional while responding to inquiries and do so with utmost urgency.
• Be proactive in managing client expectations around deadlines, defined scope of work, timelines, and fees.
4. Use Feedback Effectively
• Focus on the quality internationally to improve sustaining positive reviews which otherwise assists in the increase of credibility.
• There is no harm in asking for outcomes after the job is complete.
5. Treat Freelancing as a Business
• Monitor income for taxation as well as reinvesting for skills incremental training, and during periods of low activity remain idle.
• Remain relevant to the platform as this increases presence on the site.
Elevate Your Freelancing Experience
Whether an entity requires more freelancers to hire or a business seeks expert-tier talent on other sites, the ideal site makes a significant distinction. Each one above has its own strengths specialized for different markets and industries.
Do not forget that you are working to your success not solely on the platform, but in their description. With the previously shared tips, any freelance marketplace can be optimized.
If you are still confused on which platform meets your requirements best, create a few accounts on each and try them out. The next step in your career might be waiting for you online.
