One of the many advantages of being a freelancer is that you can work from home with the help of online platforms. However, it’s crucial to choose the right one to find opportunities that align with your interests and advance your career.

That’s why today’s topic is FlexJobs vs. Upwork, two sites you’ve likely come across online.

Both platforms focus on remote work, but they offer very different services and experiences, from their application processes to the types of job listings. Each has its own set of advantages and limitations.

Here, we’ll break down the most important details of FlexJobs and Upwork.

FlexJobs vs. Upwork: Differences, Advantages, and Disadvantages

Getting to Know Upwork and FlexJobs

Upwork is a U.S.-based company with a website designed to connect professionals with clients seeking project-based work.

The platform covers both short- and long-term projects and manages the entire process, from contracts between the business and the professional to payments.

FlexJobs, on the other hand, is known as a job board that has been operating since 2007. It offers flexible job opportunities for working from home, part-time, or as a freelancer.

The platform guarantees that the job listings are not only legitimate but also high quality, thanks to its rigorous filtering system.

Upwork vs. FlexJobs: Key Differences

The most significant difference between FlexJobs vs. Upwork is their business models.

Upwork is focused on freelancers, offering a wide range of opportunities for working from home. It functions as an all-in-one platform, managing the entire work cycle.

This means it handles aspects such as searching for remote projects, communicating with clients, payments, and reviews. But when you explore job opportunities on FlexJobs, you'll see that it targets people seeking flexibility.

While there are freelance job opportunities, its primary focus is on traditional roles within companies that offer flexible conditions, like remote or part-time work.

Unlike Upwork, FlexJobs provides job listings where you apply directly to hiring companies.

FlexJobs vs. Upwork: Job Categories

One of the factors that makes FlexJobs reliable is the stability it can offer in remote work. The platform offers a wide range of verified remote jobs, both full-time and part-time.

If you decide to use Upwork, you’ll also find a variety of projects in different fields. But Upwork is ideal for more specific work across varying durations, meaning you can find both short- and long-term relationships.

Upwork vs. FlexJobs: Pricing and Fees

You can sign up, create your profile, and search for jobs on Upwork for free. However, keep in mind that the platform charges a fixed 10% commission per client, regardless of the invoiced amount.

There’s also a premium subscription option that increases your visibility and attracts more clients. The Freelancer Plus plan offers additional benefits, such as better tools for sending proposals and access to statistics reports.

FlexJobs, on the other hand, operates on a subscription-based pricing model. This means they won’t charge you any commissions on completed jobs, but you’ll need to pay for one of their plans. Subscriptions can be monthly, quarterly, or yearly, giving you access to additional resources and, of course, all the job listings.

Upwork vs. FlexJobs: Where Can I Find More Work?

In terms of freelance job opportunities, Upwork has a clear advantage.

As one of the world’s largest companies in this field, it offers a wide variety of projects across multiple categories.

With millions of active clients and freelancers, the number of short- and long-term projects is significant. So, you’re likely to find remote work on Upwork—just note that here, you’ll be working for yourself.

FlexJobs, on the other hand, is a job portal that, while it does offer freelance jobs, does not focus on them. Instead, it centers on job opportunities that are flexible for both parties.

Most opportunities tend to be permanent and long-term, working with reputable companies. You can work from home in full- or part-time positions, but these roles typically involve employer-employee relationships.

Therefore, if you're looking for a more traditional or stable position, FlexJobs may be a better option. However, it offers a lower volume compared to Upwork for freelance jobs.  

What Are the Payment Methods for Upwork and FlexJobs?

If you find jobs on Upwork, there are several options for receiving payments.

Available methods:

• PayPal

• Payoneer

• Direct Bank Transfer (ACH)

• International Wire Transfer

Upwork uses an escrow system to protect funds until the work is completed and the client confirms their satisfaction.

On FlexJobs, payments can be made using:

• PayPal

• Visa

• American Express

• Mastercard

• Discover

Since FlexJobs is a job search portal, you’ll need to arrange payments directly with the employer.

However, DolarApp is always a viable alternative for those receiving payments from abroad. By downloading it, you can receive money quickly and then convert it into Mexican pesos at competitive rates.

For this reason alone, it’s a convenient option compared to more traditional methods.

Pros and Cons of FlexJobs and Upwork

As a freelancer, it’s essential to research both the positive and negative aspects of each platform. So, in this comparison of FlexJobs vs. Upwork, we’ll highlight some of them.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Working from Home with FlexJobs

Advantages and Disadvantages of Looking for Remote Work on Upwork

Summary

Both FlexJobs and Upwork offer remote work opportunities, but they cater to different needs.

Upwork is a versatile platform that facilitates multiple freelance projects and client-freelancer relationships. FlexJobs, on the other hand, focuses on providing job positions for those looking for remote opportunities with flexible schedules.

Below is a comparison table summarizing FlexJobs vs. Upwork:

This chart clearly explains the main features and differences between FlexJobs vs. Upwork.