1️⃣Toptal
Elite network for senior talent with enterprise budgets. Screening means less competition and higher pay. Clients expect premium rates and long-term engagements.
Address: San Francisco, USA
- Top-tier clients willing to pay premium rates
- Minimal bidding or race-to-the-bottom
- Fast payouts and long projects
- Dedicated matching reduces time wasted
- Strict vetting can delay onboarding
- Fewer roles for beginners
2️⃣Upwork
The largest freelance marketplace with massive client demand. Specialized profiles and Project Catalog help you charge more. Boosted proposals can win high-ticket gigs.
Address: San Francisco, USA
- Huge client base across every niche
- Strong discovery via badges and niche profiles
- Hourly protection and milestone escrow
- Multiple payout options and fast withdrawals
- Service fees can add up
- High competition requires standout profiles
3️⃣Fiverr Pro
Productized services that sell while you sleep. Pro tier commands higher prices and trusted badges. Great for designers, marketers, and devs who package outcomes.
Address: Tel Aviv, Israel
- Passive lead flow once gigs rank
- Upsells and packages increase order value
- Buyer protection builds trust
- Algorithm swings can tank visibility
- Favors fixed-price over complex custom work
- Customer support can be slow at peak times
4️⃣Freelancer.com
Global marketplace with constant job flow. Contests can land quick wins and samples. Good for building portfolio and testing offers.
Address: Sydney, Australia
- Many short-term gigs
- Contest feature for rapid exposure
- Milestone payments with escrow
- High fees and subscription nudges
- Frequent low-ball offers
- Interface noise and spammy invites
5️⃣PeoplePerHour
UK-centric platform with decent mid-market buyers. Good for agencies and solo pros selling retainer-style bundles. Works well for web, SEO, and content.
Address: London, United Kingdom
- Buyer-seller workstreams for clarity
- Hourly and fixed models
- Featured offers can drive steady sales
- Lower demand outside UK time zones
- Approval queue slows new accounts
- Rates can be squeezed in crowded categories