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Freelancing Platforms Compared: Fiverr vs Upwork vs Toptal
Introduction
As more moms look for flexible, work-from-home opportunities, freelancing continues to rise in popularity. Whether you’re a writer, designer, virtual assistant, web developer, or voiceover artist, freelancing gives you the freedom to work around your family’s needs—and earn on your own terms.
But here’s the big question: which freelancing platform is best for moms?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the top three platforms: Fiverr, Upwork, and Toptal. Each one has its strengths and drawbacks, different levels of entry, and distinct client bases. We’ll look at:
Pros and cons of each platform
Fee structures
How to land clients
Which platform is better for different stages of your freelancing journey
Plus, we’ll help you decide what fits your lifestyle and monetization goals, and provide affiliate links if you’re ready to dive in.
Platform Pros & Cons
Fiverr
Fiverr is a gig-based freelance marketplace. You create service packages (called “gigs”) that clients can browse and buy directly.
Pros:
Easy to sign up and get started
You set your rates and packages
High demand for a wide range of services
Built-in traffic—clients find you
Great for beginners and specialized services
Cons:
High competition in popular categories
Algorithm-based visibility
Limited communication pre-sale (until an order is placed)
Use Fiverr if you:
Want quick wins with low entry barriers
Offer services like logo design, blog writing, proofreading, or Pinterest management
(affiliate)
Upwork
Upwork is a proposal-based platform. You search for jobs posted by clients and send custom proposals.
Pros:
Higher-paying clients and long-term projects
Wide range of niches and industries
Great for virtual assistants, writers, developers, and marketing specialists
Cons:
Takes time to land your first few clients
Requires strong profiles and cover letters
Limited connects (tokens to apply for jobs)
Use Upwork if you:
Have prior work experience or a portfolio
Want to build long-term client relationships
Can handle custom requests and scoped projects
(affiliate)
Toptal
Toptal is a high-end freelance platform for top-tier talent. You must pass a screening process before joining.
Pros:
Premium rates and serious clients
Great for developers, designers, finance experts
Remote work with companies like Airbnb, Shopify, etc.
Cons:
Very selective (only 3% of applicants accepted)
Requires a portfolio and expert-level skill
Less suitable for beginners or generalists
Use Toptal if you:
Are highly skilled in design, development, or finance
Want fewer but higher-quality projects
Are ready for professional-level freelancing
(affiliate)
Fees Breakdown
For moms looking to start quickly, Fiverr’s flat rate is simpler. But for building long-term income, Upwork’s decreasing fee structure is more favorable over time.
Finding Clients
On Fiverr
Optimize your gig titles and descriptions with keywords
Add professional gig images and videos
Deliver work quickly to earn good reviews
Ask happy clients for testimonials
On Upwork
Build a polished profile with work samples
Use personalized proposals (no copy-paste!)
Start with small projects to earn ratings
Highlight mom-friendly skills like organization, multitasking, and reliability
On Toptal
Prepare a strong portfolio and resume
Pass the rigorous screening interview
Be ready for trial projects
Position yourself as a specialist (e.g., UI/UX for mobile apps)
Which Is Best for Moms?
Final Verdict
Choosing between Fiverr, Upwork, and Toptal depends on your lifestyle, skill level, and goals.
Fiverr is ideal for busy moms who want bite-sized gigs and quick wins.
Upwork is great for moms with a bit more time and professional experience who want to build a sustainable freelance business.
Toptal is for experts looking for fewer, higher-paying projects and who are ready to pass a rigorous vetting process.
No matter where you begin, the most important step is to start. Test a platform, learn from real client feedback, improve your profile, and scale as you go.
Ready to Start?
Whichever platform you choose, freelancing can be a powerful tool to earn income, stay creative, and build a business around motherhood—not in spite of it.
You’ve got this!
