Upwork vs Fiverr: Which Platform Pays Better for Kenyans?
Introduction
If you’re a freelancer in Kenya trying to land global clients, you’ve probably asked the same question many others have: Upwork vs Fiverr—where do I begin, and which one pays better? Both platforms are popular. Both can work. But they operate very differently. This blog will break it down simply, so you can pick the best platform for your skill, experience, and long-term goals.
Upwork: The Job Marketplace
Upwork works like a job board. Clients post tasks, and freelancers send proposals to win the job. It’s more structured and often better suited for long-term work.
Pros of Upwork
- You can land high-paying, ongoing projects
- Many clients are agencies, startups, or businesses with real budgets
- You get access to job categories like data analysis, virtual assistance, web development, and writing
- Clients often leave detailed reviews, helping you build a solid profile
Cons of Upwork
- You need to apply for jobs, and competition is high
- You must pay to buy “Connects” (tokens to send proposals)
- Without a solid profile or previous reviews, it’s hard to get noticed
Related: Freelancing Takes 6–9 Months to Pay Off — Are You Patient Enough?
Fiverr: The Gig Storefront
Fiverr flips the model. You don’t apply to jobs. Instead, you create “gigs” and wait for buyers to find and hire you.
Pros of Fiverr
- You don’t need to pitch clients—your gig does the talking
- It’s easier to get started with zero experience
- You can offer simple services like logo design, resumes, video editing, or Canva posts
- Great for Kenyans who want to sell digital products or template-based services
Cons of Fiverr
- There’s a price war. Many beginners charge as little as $5
- You need strong visuals, reviews, and SEO-optimized gig descriptions to rank
- Scaling to premium pricing can take time and reputation
Related: Freelancing Is a Skill, Not Just a Job — Here’s How to Master It
Course: Freelancing Workshop – June 2024
Which Platform Pays Better for Kenyans?
If your goal is long-term, high-paying projects, Upwork tends to pay more, especially for web design, marketing, SEO, and admin roles. However, if you’re just starting out with no portfolio, Fiverr can help you get your first few sales quickly—especially for simpler tasks.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Upwork | Fiverr |
|---|---|---|
| Application Method | You send proposals | Clients come to your gig |
| Ideal For | Skilled freelancers | Beginners and microservice sellers |
| Income Potential | Higher with time | Lower at first, can grow |
| Onboarding Speed | Slower but long-term | Faster, but more competitive |
| Best For Kenyans With | Strategy, writing, coding, design | Canva, TikTok editing, captioning |
Related: From Broke to Booked: How Freelancers Make Big Money Online
Final Thoughts
So, Upwork vs Fiverr for Kenyans? Choose based on your level. Fiverr works well when you’re starting small and want faster wins. Upwork is better when you’re ready to compete on value, not just price. Whichever you choose, focus on building a skill, showing up consistently, and delivering great work. That’s how you grow—platform or not.
Want help building your freelance foundation?
Visit courses.elvisw.online
