Hiring freelancers shouldn’t feel like a gamble. On platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, you’re either drowning in profiles, spending hours vetting candidates, or paying steep fees without any real assurance of quality.
But what if you could skip the hassle and hire top talent quickly without blowing your budget?
In this post, we’ll break down how Upwork and Fiverr stack up and why Arc might be the smarter choice. We’ll cover pricing, vetting processes, trial periods, and billing so you can find the best fit for your project fast.
Looking for top talent fast? See how Arc can help you:
⚡️ Find developers, designers, marketers, and more
⚡️ Freelance or full-time remote + fully vetted
⚡️ Save up to 80% with global hires
Hire top talent with Arc risk-free →
| Feature | Upwork | Fiverr | Arc |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fees | Service fees start from 5% on the basic plan, increase to 10% for the business plan, and custom pricing for Enterprise customers | 5.5% service fee per payment, an additional $3 fee for small orders | No extra fees for hiring freelancers, for full-time hires, a one-time 20% fee based on the first year’s salary |
| Hourly Rate Range | Varies significantly based on experience, skillset, and project scope | Starts at $5, but varies widely depending on the gig and seller level | $15 to $110+ per hour, depending on expertise, role, and location |
| Vetting | None for basic plan customers, vetted talent available via Upwork Enterprise | None for standard freelancers, Fiverr Pro offers vetted sellers | Rigorous screening, only the top 2% of freelancers accepted |
| Best For | Businesses needing flexible work and willing to spend time vetting freelancers | Quick, one-time gigs, businesses looking for low-cost, task-based work | High-quality remote freelancers, companies needing pre-vetted tech talent, both freelance and full-time hiring |
| Pricing Structure | Hourly and fixed-price contracts, monthly invoicing for businesses | Fixed-price “gig” model, you pay upfront before work begins | Freelancers log daily hours, and weekly invoices with transparent billing |
| Billing | Supports PayPal, ACH, and credit cards | Upfront payment for gigs, supports PayPal, wire transfer, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and credit cards | Weekly invoices, no hidden fees, ACH and credit card payments |
| Pros | Wide range of freelancers, supports both short-term and long-term projects, flexible payment structures | Low-cost options available, easy hiring process, gig-based pricing | Pre-vetted talent, no hiring fees, AI-powered matching for quick hiring |
| Cons | Finding quality freelancers can be time-consuming, with higher service fees for businesses, no free trial or test period | No hourly contracts, vetting is limited to Fiverr Pro, and additional service fees can add up | Limited to remote freelancers only |
Upwork vs Fiverr vs Arc: A quick overview
Upwork
Upwork gives you full control to interview, hire, and work with freelancers and agencies with little to no assistance. It also offers Upwork Enterprise, a premium service that provides access to handpicked, pre-vetted freelancers for an additional fee.
Upwork has a network of 2 million freelancers across 90+ categories, along with built-in tools for project tracking, communication, and billing. However, evaluating freelancer capabilities yourself can be time-consuming and risky.
Fiverr
Fiverr isn’t a typical job search engine. Instead, it operates on a gig-based model where freelancers offer specific services starting at $5. You can browse these listings and choose the best option for their needs.
For access to vetted freelancers, you must sign up for Fiverr Pro, which features hand-vetted freelancers for businesses looking for high-quality talent. However, Fiverr Pro services are significantly more expensive.
You’ll need to assess freelancer portfolios and compare gigs yourself, which can be time-consuming. Plus, access to vetted talent is limited to the pro version only.
Read More: Fiverr Alternatives: Which Fiverr Competitors to Consider
Arc
Arc is a specialized platform that helps you connect with top professionals for remote freelance and full-time roles. Whether you’re looking for short-term support or long-term hires, Arc ensures high-quality talent without the hassle.
With a top 2% acceptance rate, Arc rigorously vets candidates for skills, communication, and experience. Real human support verifies work history, reducing the risk of “ghosting” or unqualified hires.
HireAI, Arc’s AI-powered matching tool, instantly connects you with the right talent, saving you time and effort.
With a talent pool across 190+ countries, you can hire top professionals while saving up to 80% compared to local rates. Built on the belief that “the best talent is everywhere,” Arc makes remote hiring seamless so you can focus on growing your business.
Read More: 10+ Things to Consider BEFORE Hiring a Freelance Software Developer
Upwork vs Fiverr vs Arc: Pricing comparison
Comparing pricing helps avoid hidden costs and ensures the best value. Service fees and project costs vary, and these expenses can add up quickly. Let’s dive into the pricing details of each platform to see which one is right for you.
Upwork pricing
Upwork offers a tiered pricing structure to fit different budgets and business needs. Freelancer rates can vary significantly based on the service, project scope, and freelancer expertise.
The basic plan includes a 5% service fee, offering AI-powered features, project management tools, reporting, and flexible payment options.
The business plan charges a 10% service fee and provides vetted talent, consolidated billing, a dedicated advisory team, and detailed reporting. It also includes monthly invoicing with Net 30 terms for easier financial management.
The enterprise plan has custom pricing and offers advanced features such as SSO and integrations with VMS, ATS, and HRIS systems. It also includes hiring pre-approvals, talent onboarding workflows, customized reporting, and compliance services.
Fiverr pricing
Freelancers on Fiverr set their own rates, starting at $5, offering a wide range of pricing options to fit different budgets. However, Fiverr charges a 5.5% service fee per payment, plus a $3 fee for small orders, which can add up depending on your project size.
Fiverr Pro freelancers come at a higher cost, though their rates are not publicly disclosed.
Arc pricing
The rates of the freelancers on Arc typically range from $15 to $110+ per hour, depending on role, expertise, and location. For full-time hires, Arc charges a one-time fee based on the first year’s salary, with the typical standard rate being 20%.
With no extra fees, Arc provides a cost-effective way to hire top talent without compromising quality. Its global hiring approach connects you with professionals at lower costs, helping you save while ensuring seamless remote collaboration.
Thanks to these benefits, BAXUS saved $50K annually by hiring remote developers through Arc. As U.S. salaries exceeded their budget, they turned to Arc to find skilled front-end developers at more affordable rates.
Arc quickly onboarded BAXUS and provided a curated list of pre-vetted remote developers, assessed for technical and soft skills. Prioritizing diversity, BAXUS successfully hired their founding full-stack developer from Colombia.
Here’s what Tzvi Wiezel, Founder & CEO of BAXUS, says about Arc:
“If you’re looking to save yourself time, money, and brainpower, Arc provides a clear solution to scale your globally distributed team.”
Read More: Remote Developer Salary Calculator compares salaries in different regions
Upwork vs Fiverr vs Arc: Are freelancers vetted?
The vetting process helps ensure you hire qualified, reliable freelancers, but not all platforms provide it. Here’s how Upwork, Fiverr, and Arc compare.
Upwork vetting
Upwork’s basic version does not include a formal vetting process, leaving you to choose freelancers based on work history and reviews.
However, you can access vetted talent through Upwork Enterprise if you’re looking for pre-screened professionals with verified expertise, soft skills, and work experience. Upwork’s vetting primarily relies on interviews and does not include skill-based tests.
Fiverr vetting
Similar to Upwork, Fiverr’s basic plan lacks a formal vetting process, requiring you to select freelancers based on profiles, services, and reviews.
If you’re looking for vetted talent, you can sign up for Fiverr Pro. However, Fiverr’s vetting mainly relies on past client experiences, such as notable projects, reviews, and deliverability, rather than formal assessments.
Arc vetting
Arc stands out with its rigorous and transparent vetting process. Talent undergoes a series of tests and interviews to assess communication, remote collaboration, and technical skills.
Assessments are tailored to each specialization. For example, marketers must showcase their digital marketing experience through past campaigns and case studies, while developers complete pair programming exercises to test problem-solving and software development skills.
Only the top 2% of candidates are accepted into Arc’s talent pool, ensuring you are matched with qualified professionals. This commitment to quality and pre-vetted talent sets Arc apart from Upwork and Fiverr.
Upwork vs Fiverr vs Arc: Understanding trial period
Trial periods help you assess compatibility on larger projects. Here’s which platforms offer this advantage and which fall short.
Upwork trial period
Upwork does not offer a free trial and prohibits you from requesting freelancers to work for free. However, you can assess a freelancer’s skills by assigning a small paid task before committing to a larger project.
Fiverr trial period
Fiverr does not offer a trial period for you to evaluate services without payment. Requesting free trials may be met with resistance, as many freelancers see them as inappropriate or exploitative.
Arc trial period
Arc offers a two-week trial period for hiring freelancers, giving you time to evaluate if they’re the right fit. If you’re unsatisfied, just notify Arc, and they’ll match you with another candidate at no extra cost.
This reduces buyer anxiety and gives you the confidence to hire without financial risk. Plus, expert recruiters are always available to guide you through the hiring process.
Upwork vs Fiverr vs Arc: Key differences in billing
Understanding the billing process is essential for managing budgets and financial constraints. Each platform has its own system, offering multiple payment methods for flexibility.
Upwork billing
Upwork’s billing system is flexible, with hourly and fixed-price options for different project needs and budgets.
For hourly contracts, you pay based on the freelancer’s recorded hours in their work diary. Fixed-price contracts allow upfront or milestone-based payments, giving you greater control over costs.
The Upwork platform operates on a weekly billing cycle from Monday through Sunday. It supports multiple payment options, including PayPal, ACH, and major credit cards.
Fiverr billing
Fiverr follows a gig-based billing model where you pay upfront for specific services rather than hourly work.
Payment methods include PayPal, wire transfer, Apple Pay, Google Pay, regional payment methods, and major credit cards. This upfront payment approach ensures a straightforward, direct transaction process.
Arc billing
Arc simplifies billing so you can focus on your project. Freelancers log hours daily, and you receive weekly invoices. This straightforward system makes financial management easy, especially for small businesses.
Accepted payment methods include ACH and major credit cards. With no additional processing fees, Arc’s transparent billing structure makes it an attractive option if you’re seeking a simple and cost-effective hiring solution.
Read More: Freelance Developer Hiring Guide 2023: Salaries, Rates, Skills & More
Upwork vs Fiverr vs Arc: Which platform is best for you?
Choosing the right freelance platform depends on your needs, budget, and hiring preferences. Some prioritize affordability, others vetting and speed, while some offer a balance of all three. Here’s how Upwork, Fiverr, and Arc compare.
Upwork: Flexible network, slower hiring
Upwork is a good choice if you need help with a one-time project and can accommodate a longer hiring process. Flexible payment options make it easy to hire and manage multiple freelancers individually, giving you more control over project budgets and timelines.
However, with limited vetting, you’ll need to invest time and effort in selecting the right freelancer. While Upwork provides access to budget-friendly freelancers, remember that you’ll pay at least a 5% platform fee, which can increase your overall costs.
Arc, on the other hand, connects you with interview-ready talent at no extra fee. Plus, you get personalized hiring support to help you find the right fit faster.
Fiverr: Gig-based, affordable services
Fiverr is a good option for low-stakes tasks and cost-effective solutions. Gigs start at $5, making it an affordable choice, but you’ll need to pay a 5.5% service fee along with an additional charge on small orders.
Many Fiverr freelancers offer quick turnaround times, making it ideal for businesses needing immediate assistance or tight deadlines.
However, lower prices can mean inconsistent quality, and you’ll need to assess freelancer profiles yourself, which can be time-consuming. Plus, Fiverr doesn’t offer a trial period.
Arc: Best option for tech teams
Arc is a global marketplace for top remote talent, specializing in tech roles like developers, designers, marketers, project managers, product managers, assistants, and more.
Whether you need freelance, full-time, or contract-to-hire professionals, Arc connects you with vetted experts in days, not months.
For complex tech projects, Arc helps you hire top talent fast by removing the need for job ads and resume screening. HireAI offers instant, budget-friendly recommendations with qualified, interview-ready candidates, saving you time and avoiding delays.
By expanding beyond local markets, you can find highly skilled freelancers at competitive rates, saving money without compromising quality. Thanks to Arc’s rigorous vetting process and global presence, you get Silicon Valley-caliber talent no matter where they’re based.
FAQs
Is Fiverr cheaper than Upwork?
Yes, Fiverr is generally more affordable than Upwork, with freelance services starting at $5. Upwork tends to be more expensive, as freelancers set higher rates. However, both platforms charge a service fee for hiring freelancers.
Arc, on the other hand, has no additional fees beyond freelancer rates, making it a more affordable and transparent option.
Which has better freelancers, Fiverr or Upwork?
Fiverr attracts a mix of beginner and intermediate freelancers, with even Pro plan freelancers assessed primarily on their past client history.
Upwork freelancers are generally more experienced, making the platform better suited for complex or long-term projects. The vetting process in Upwork Enterprise includes candidate interviews for a higher level of screening.
Arc stands out as the best alternative, with a strict vetting process that evaluates freelancers for communication, collaboration, and technical skills.
Is it easier to hire freelancers on Upwork vs Fiverr?
Upwork offers a smoother hiring experience with project-based contracts, flexible pricing, and direct rate negotiations. Fiverr, on the other hand, uses preset service packages with fixed prices, limiting customization and negotiation.
Arc eliminates the need to sift through freelancer profiles with its AI-powered HireAI, instantly matching you with vetted talent based on your requirements. This ensures you hire quality professionals quickly and with minimal effort.
How do Fiverr fees compare to Upwork fees?
Upwork charges a service fee starting at 5%, with the Business Plan requiring 10% and custom fees for Enterprise plans. Fiverr takes a 5.5% service fee per payment, plus a $3 fee for small orders.
In contrast, Arc is the most cost-effective option, where you pay only freelancer rates with no hidden fees.
Fiverr vs Upwork: Which is better for tech startups?
For tech startups, Upwork is better than Fiverr for its access to talented freelancers and project management flexibility. However, it comes with limitations like limited vetting, additional service fees, and no personalized support.
Arc offers a better alternative, providing vetted talent, expert hiring support, instant talent matching, and transparent pricing, ensuring a high-quality hire without the hassle.
Choosing the right platform for your needs
Each platform has its pros and cons, and factors like project budget, scope, and hiring needs should be carefully considered before making a decision. Start by understanding your requirements to avoid unexpected challenges.
Weigh your options. Need a quick, low-budget task? Fiverr or Upwork works. Want vetted talent at a lower cost? Arc is best. The right choice depends on your project’s needs, from broad talent access to niche expertise or structured vetting.
Get top talent, fast hiring, and budget-friendly rates with Arc. Enjoy personalized support and a seamless experience. Sign up today to connect with pre-vetted professionals and set your projects up for future success.
You can also try Arc, your shortcut to the world’s best remote talent:
⚡️ Access 450,000 top developers, designers, and marketers
⚡️ Vetted and ready to interview
⚡️ Freelance or full-time
