5 Must-Try Freelance Platforms for Bigger Opportunities than Fiverr & Upwork (2 are easy ones)

In the world of freelancing, platforms like Fiverr and Upwork have become household names. However, if you’re looking for higher-paying gigs, more exclusive clients, or less competition, there are several other freelance platforms that offer bigger and better opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned freelancer or just starting out, these alternatives can help you land high-value projects and grow your career.

5 Must-Try Freelance Platforms for Bigger Opportunities

If you’re looking to expand your freelancing career beyond Fiverr and Upwork, these five platforms offer better opportunities, higher pay, and exclusive clients. Whether you’re a designer, developer, marketer, or scientist, there’s a freelance platform tailored to your skills.

Why Look Beyond Fiverr & Upwork?

While Fiverr and Upwork are popular and widely used, they come with drawbacks like high competition, low-paying gigs, and platform fees. Exploring other platforms can give you access to better clients, higher rates, and more fulfilling projects.

1. Toptal – Exclusive Access for Top Talent

What is Toptal?

Toptal is a premium freelance network that connects the top 3% of freelancers with major global companies like Airbnb, Shopify, and Microsoft. The platform screens its applicants rigorously to ensure they only onboard the best professionals in software development, design, finance, and project management.

Why Choose Toptal?

• Higher Pay: Since Toptal is exclusive, freelancers can command premium rates.
• Prestigious Clients: Work with top-tier companies and startups.
• Long-Term Projects: Many gigs are long-term contracts, ensuring consistent income.
• Great Community: Toptal offers mentorship programs and networking events to enhance your freelance career.

How to Get Started?

1. Apply on Toptal’s website.
2. Pass the screening process (which includes interviews and test projects).
3. Once accepted, you can start applying for high-paying projects.

2. Contra – A Commission-Free Alternative

What is Contra?

Contra is a modern freelancing platform designed for independent professionals in design, marketing, and tech. Unlike Upwork, it doesn’t charge commissions, meaning freelancers keep 100% of their earnings.

Why Choose Contra?

• Zero Commission Fees – Keep all of your earnings.
• Beautiful Portfolio – Create a personalized online portfolio to attract clients.
• Verified Clients – The platform ensures clients are legitimate.
• Networking Opportunities – Contra hosts collaboration projects to help freelancers grow.

How to Get Started?

1. Create an account on Contra.
2. Build a stunning portfolio.
3. Apply for projects and start working commission-free.

3. Kolabtree – The Freelance Platform for Scientists

What is Kolabtree?

Kolabtree is a unique freelance marketplace for scientists, researchers, and PhDs looking for consulting and writing gigs in healthcare, biotech, and academia.

Why Choose Kolabtree?

• Specialized Projects – Work on highly technical and niche assignments.
• High-Paying Clients – Earn competitive rates for expert-level work.
• Flexible Work – Take on one-time gigs or long-term projects.
• Peer Collaboration – Connect with industry experts and work on research-based assignments.

How to Get Started?

1. Sign up on Kolabtree.
2. Set up your profile and highlight your expertise.
3. Apply for science-related freelance jobs.

4. We Work Remotely – Best for Remote Work

What is We Work Remotely?

We Work Remotely is a job board for remote workers, featuring job postings from reputable companies like Google, Basecamp, and GitHub.

Why Choose We Work Remotely?

• 100% Remote Jobs – No need to worry about onsite requirements.
• Established Clients – Access jobs from big brands and startups.
• Multiple Categories – Find gigs in tech, marketing, writing, and customer support.
• Freelancer Support – Offers educational resources and career tips.

How to Get Started?

1. Browse job postings on We Work Remotely.
2. Apply directly to companies looking for freelancers.
3. Secure long-term or part-time remote work.

5. Freelancer.com – A Classic Option with More Variety

What is Freelancer.com?

Freelancer.com is one of the largest freelance marketplaces, offering a wide range of job categories from graphic design to software development.

Why Choose Freelancer.com?

• High Job Volume – Thousands of new projects daily.
• Wide Range of Categories – From entry-level gigs to specialized roles.
• Flexible Payment Options – Choose between hourly rates or fixed-price projects.
• Freelancer Contests – Unique feature that allows you to compete for projects.

How to Get Started?

1. Create an account on Freelancer.com.
2. Set up your profile and portfolio.
3. Bid on projects that match your skills.

FAQs: Freelance Platforms Beyond Fiverr & Upwork

1. What is the best freelance platform for high-paying clients?
Toptal is the best platform for high-paying clients as it caters to the top 3% of freelancers and works with major companies like Airbnb and Microsoft.

2. Which freelance platform is best for beginners?
Contra and Freelancer.com are beginner-friendly platforms with no entry barriers and plenty of job opportunities.

3. Are these freelance platforms free to join?
Yes, all platforms mentioned—Toptal, Contra, Kolabtree, We Work Remotely, and Freelancer.com—are free to join, though some charge commission on earnings.

4. How does Contra differ from Upwork and Fiverr?
Contra offers a zero-commission model, allowing freelancers to keep 100% of their earnings, unlike Upwork and Fiverr, which charge fees on payments.

5. Which platform is best for specialized professionals like scientists or researchers?
Kolabtree is the best choice for scientists, researchers, and PhDs looking for freelance projects in fields like healthcare, biotech, and academia.

6. Can I use multiple freelance platforms at the same time?
Yes! Many freelancers use multiple platforms to diversify their income and increase their chances of landing high-quality projects.