A Critique of Fiverr, Workana, and Upwork
Is the risk worth it?
Freelance platforms such as Fiverr, Workana, and Upwork have become reference points for professionals across many disciplines, especially for those seeking remote work opportunities in graphic design, web development, writing, and other creative fields. While these platforms promise to connect freelancers with clients from around the world, they are far from flawless. In this critique, I’ll explore the most common complaints and concerns shared by users of these platforms.
Fiverr: The promise of fast work at a high cost
Fees and commissions
Fiverr stands out for its fast and accessible model, where freelancers offer services known as gigs, often starting at $5. However, one of the platform’s most criticized aspects is its fee structure.
Fiverr takes a 20% commission on every transaction, meaning that for every $100 earned, only $80 reaches the freelancer. For those offering lower-priced services, this commission can be particularly discouraging, as it significantly reduces net income.
It’s also worth noting that most users withdraw their earnings through PayPal, which applies its own transaction fees when the money is used or transferred—making the final loss even greater.
Client-first approach in disputes
Another controversial issue is how Fiverr handles disputes between clients and freelancers. Although the platform claims to be impartial, in practice, the client is often favored.
This means that if a client decides they are dissatisfied—even when all requirements have been met—Fiverr is likely to side with the client, potentially issuing a refund and leaving the freelancer unpaid for completed work. This lack of support can quickly lead to frustration and mistrust.
Profile ratings and response streaks
On Fiverr, reputation is everything. Profile ratings, response streaks, and client reviews heavily influence success on the platform. Unfortunately, these metrics can be negatively affected by something as simple as not replying to a message late at night.
Fiverr expects fast and constant responses, which can be challenging for freelancers who aren’t available 24/7. Even short communication gaps can lower your ranking, reduce the visibility of your gigs, and limit new opportunities.
Workana: Limited opportunities and high fees
Fees and commissions
Workana, widely used in Latin America, follows a business model similar to Fiverr’s, with commissions ranging from 15% to 20%, depending on the freelancer’s level. While these rates may seem slightly less aggressive, they still represent a significant burden—especially considering the high competition and generally lower project budgets.
Client priority in disputes
As with Fiverr, clients are often prioritized in disputes on Workana. Even if you deliver quality work, a dissatisfied client may result in partial payment or a full refund. This policy can discourage freelancers and create a sense of job insecurity, where income depends heavily on the client’s subjective judgment.
Visibility and access to projects
One of the most common issues on Workana is the lack of visibility for new or lower-rated freelancers. Unless you pay for a premium membership, your profile and proposals are far less likely to be seen.
This creates a significant barrier to entry, forcing newcomers to compete with established freelancers who already have strong reputations and positive reviews.
Upwork: Professionalism at the cost of freedom
Monitoring and surveillance
Upwork uses a system called Upwork Time Tracker for hourly projects, allowing clients to monitor work progress in real time. The tool takes periodic screenshots of the freelancer’s screen, tracks keyboard and mouse activity, and generates detailed time reports.
Many freelancers feel this system is invasive. Knowing that screenshots and activity data are constantly being recorded creates a sense of continuous surveillance, which can be stressful and uncomfortable. This pressure can negatively impact productivity and creativity—both essential in graphic design and other creative fields.
Additionally, creative tasks often require moments of reflection, research, or ideation, during which keyboard or mouse activity may be minimal. This can create pressure to appear constantly “busy,” even when the task doesn’t require it—ultimately affecting the quality of the work.
Fees and commissions
Upwork presents itself as a more professional platform, aimed at freelancers with specialized skills and larger projects. However, this professionalism comes at a price.
Commissions start at 20% for the first $500 billed to a client, drop to 10% for earnings between $500 and $10,000, and fall to 5% beyond that. While this structure becomes more favorable over time, it remains challenging for freelancers working on smaller projects or without long-term client relationships.
Response expectations and reputation
As on Fiverr, Upwork places strong emphasis on responsiveness and profile ratings. Freelancers are expected to remain highly available and reply quickly to messages to maintain good standing.
Delays in communication or missed deadlines can lead to a sharp drop in ratings, directly affecting future job opportunities.
Client preference in disputes
Dispute resolution on Upwork also tends to favor the client. While the platform offers arbitration mechanisms, many freelancers feel the balance still leans toward the client’s side.
Search algorithm and visibility
Another factor to consider is Upwork’s search algorithm, which prioritizes freelancers with higher ratings and recent activity. This can trap less active freelancers in a vicious cycle: less work leads to less visibility, which in turn reduces the chances of landing new projects.
Final thoughts: Are these platforms worth it?
Fiverr, Workana, and Upwork do offer opportunities—especially for freelancers just starting out and looking to gain experience. However, recurring criticisms such as high commissions, weak support during disputes, and the constant pressure to remain highly responsive highlight the challenges faced by those who rely on these platforms as a primary source of income.
For this reason, I recommend using these platforms strategically rather than intensively. Keeping an active profile, updating it regularly, responding to messages at your own pace, and offering attractive services can occasionally bring clients your way with minimal effort. When that happens, evaluate whether the opportunity truly fits your needs before accepting it.
Investing a large amount of time into sales strategies on these platforms makes sense mainly for those who see them as a long-term income source—a goal that most users either don’t achieve or choose not to pursue due to the associated difficulties.
It’s also important to understand that in disputes, platforms usually side with clients. While it’s possible to win clear-cut fraud cases by presenting solid evidence, a single unresolved dispute can be enough to seriously impact motivation—and that’s completely understandable.
Ultimately, the decision to use these platforms should be made with caution. Being aware of their downsides and prepared to navigate their challenges is essential. While they can serve as an entry point into the freelance world, it’s best to treat them as a temporary tool while building a more stable, direct client network—one where you can set your own rules and working conditions, free from the limitations and costs imposed by these platforms.
What do you think?
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