Freelancer
The world's largest freelancing and crowdsourcing marketplace.
About Freelancer
Freelancer is a leading global marketplace that connects businesses and individuals with freelancers across a vast array of fields, including graphic design, web development, writing, and software engineering. With over 86 million users, Freelancer provides a robust platform for both employers seeking skilled professionals and freelancers looking for job opportunities. The platform's advanced technology facilitates seamless communication and collaboration, enabling users to efficiently manage projects, track progress, and ensure timely delivery of services. Utilizing cutting-edge algorithms, Freelancer matches employers with freelancers based on skills, project requirements, and budget, making the hiring process quick and efficient. One of the standout features of Freelancer is its diverse range of services, which includes everything from creative design and content writing to complex software development and data analysis. This extensive variety allows businesses to find the exact expertise they need, regardless of the project size or scope. Furthermore, Freelancer's user-friendly interface simplifies the process of posting jobs, reviewing bids, and selecting the right freelancer, making it accessible to users of all technical backgrounds. Freelancer also offers various tools and features that enhance the user experience. For instance, the platform's milestone payment system protects both employers and freelancers by ensuring that payments are only released upon satisfactory completion of project phases. Additionally, the platform supports international collaboration by allowing users to filter freelancers by location and time zone, which is particularly beneficial for businesses looking to build global teams. Moreover, Freelancer is continuously evolving, incorporating innovative solutions such as AI-driven features to streamline project management and improve user experience. This commitment to leveraging technology ensures that Freelancer remains at the forefront of the freelancing and crowdsourcing marketplace, providing users with the tools they need to succeed in a competitive landscape. In terms of benefits, Freelancer not only offers a vast pool of talent but also provides cost-effective solutions for businesses of all sizes. Users can save up to 90% on project costs compared to traditional hiring methods, making it an attractive option for startups and small businesses. The platform also fosters a sense of community, with freelancers able to showcase their work through portfolios and receive feedback from clients, which helps build credibility and trust within the marketplace. With its comprehensive features and global reach, Freelancer is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to hire or work as a freelancer.
Freelancer Key Features
Global Talent Pool
Freelancer offers access to a vast network of over 86 million professionals worldwide, enabling businesses to find the right talent for any project. This feature allows employers to tap into a diverse range of skills and expertise, ensuring that they can find freelancers who meet their specific needs.
Milestone Payment System
The platform provides a secure milestone payment system that protects both employers and freelancers. Payments are only released when the work is completed to satisfaction, reducing the risk of disputes and ensuring that both parties are committed to the project's success.
Real-Time Communication Tools
Freelancer includes integrated chat and messaging tools that facilitate seamless communication between employers and freelancers. This feature ensures that project updates, feedback, and revisions can be handled efficiently, keeping projects on track and within scope.
Freelancer Contests
Employers can host contests to crowdsource ideas and solutions from the global freelancer community. This feature is particularly useful for creative projects like logo design, where multiple entries can be reviewed and the best one selected, often at a lower cost than traditional hiring.
Freelancer API
The Freelancer API allows businesses to integrate the platform's capabilities into their own systems, providing access to a cloud workforce of skilled freelancers. This feature is ideal for companies looking to scale their operations or automate certain tasks using external talent.
Preferred Freelancer Program
This program highlights top-performing freelancers who have consistently delivered high-quality work. Employers can easily identify and hire these vetted professionals, ensuring a higher likelihood of project success and satisfaction.
Project Management Tools
Freelancer offers built-in project management tools that help employers and freelancers track progress, deadlines, and deliverables. These tools facilitate better organization and coordination, ensuring projects are completed efficiently and on time.
Local Jobs Feature
The platform supports local job listings, allowing employers to find freelancers in specific geographic locations. This is particularly beneficial for projects that require on-site work or local expertise, such as event management or field services.
Enterprise Solutions
Freelancer provides tailored solutions for enterprise clients, offering dedicated support and resources to manage large-scale projects. This feature helps businesses leverage the platform's capabilities to enhance their competitive advantage and achieve strategic goals.
AI Development Services
Freelancer connects businesses with AI experts who can help implement cutting-edge technology solutions. This feature is crucial for companies looking to integrate AI into their operations, offering expertise in areas like machine learning, data analysis, and automation.
Freelancer Pricing Plans (2026)
Basic Membership
- Post projects for free
- Bid on projects
- Access to freelancer profiles
- Limited number of bids per month
- Higher fees on projects
Plus Membership
- Increased bid limits
- Ability to showcase your profile
- Access to premium projects
- Still subject to project fees
Freelancer Pros
- + Access to a vast pool of freelancers with diverse skills.
- + Cost-effective solutions, with potential savings of up to 90% compared to traditional hiring.
- + User-friendly platform that simplifies project management.
- + Secure payment system that protects both employers and freelancers.
- + Global reach allows for hiring talent from various locations and time zones.
- + Real-time communication tools facilitate collaboration and feedback.
Freelancer Cons
- − Quality of freelancers can vary significantly, requiring careful vetting.
- − Fees can accumulate, impacting overall project costs.
- − Time zone differences may complicate communication and project timelines.
- − Some users report difficulties in finding freelancers for niche skills.
Freelancer Use Cases
Small Business Website Development
A small business owner uses Freelancer to hire a web developer to create a professional website. By accessing a global talent pool, the owner finds a skilled developer within budget, resulting in a high-quality online presence that boosts business visibility.
Graphic Design for Marketing Campaign
A marketing agency leverages Freelancer to source creative talent for a new campaign. By hosting a design contest, the agency receives multiple design concepts, allowing them to choose the best fit for their brand, ultimately enhancing their marketing efforts.
Software Development for Startups
A tech startup uses Freelancer to build their MVP (Minimum Viable Product) by hiring experienced software developers. This approach allows the startup to quickly prototype and test their product in the market, accelerating their path to growth and investment.
Translation Services for Global Expansion
A company expanding into international markets uses Freelancer to hire translators for localizing their content. This ensures that marketing materials and product information are accurately translated, helping the company effectively communicate with new audiences.
Data Entry for E-commerce Business
An e-commerce business outsources data entry tasks to freelancers on the platform. By doing so, they efficiently manage large volumes of product data, ensuring their online store is up-to-date and accurate, which improves customer experience and sales.
Custom Mobile App Development
A business seeks to develop a custom mobile app to enhance customer engagement. By hiring mobile app developers on Freelancer, they gain access to specialized skills and innovative solutions, resulting in a user-friendly app that meets their business objectives.
Legal Document Review for Compliance
A company uses Freelancer to hire legal experts for reviewing contracts and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. This use case highlights the platform's ability to provide specialized professional services that help businesses mitigate legal risks.
SEO Optimization for Increased Traffic
An online retailer hires SEO specialists through Freelancer to improve their website's search engine rankings. This strategic move results in increased organic traffic and higher conversion rates, contributing to the retailer's overall growth and profitability.
What Makes Freelancer Unique
Diverse Talent Pool
Freelancer's extensive network of over 86 million professionals offers a diverse range of skills and expertise, making it easier for businesses to find the right talent for any project, regardless of complexity or scope.
Secure Payment System
The platform's milestone payment system ensures that funds are only released when project milestones are met, providing security and peace of mind for both employers and freelancers.
Flexible Engagement Models
Freelancer offers various engagement models, including contests and direct hiring, allowing businesses to choose the best approach for their specific needs and budget constraints.
Comprehensive Project Management Tools
Integrated project management tools facilitate efficient collaboration and communication, enabling users to track progress, manage deadlines, and ensure successful project delivery.
Global Reach with Local Expertise
While offering a global talent pool, Freelancer also supports local job listings, allowing businesses to find freelancers with specific geographic knowledge or on-site availability, bridging the gap between global reach and local expertise.
Who's Using Freelancer
Small Business Owners
Small business owners use Freelancer to find affordable and skilled freelancers for tasks like website development, graphic design, and marketing. This allows them to compete with larger companies by accessing high-quality services without the overhead costs.
Enterprise Teams
Enterprise teams leverage Freelancer for large-scale projects that require specialized skills and flexibility. The platform's enterprise solutions provide dedicated support, helping these teams manage complex projects efficiently and effectively.
Freelancers
Freelancers use the platform to find job opportunities across various fields, from writing to software development. By showcasing their skills and building a portfolio, they can attract clients and secure projects that match their expertise and interests.
Startups
Startups utilize Freelancer to quickly assemble a team of experts for developing prototypes and MVPs. This approach allows them to remain agile and responsive to market demands, accelerating their growth and innovation.
Marketing Agencies
Marketing agencies use Freelancer to source creative talent for campaigns and projects. By accessing a diverse pool of designers and marketers, they can deliver innovative solutions to clients, enhancing their service offerings and reputation.
Non-Profit Organizations
Non-profit organizations use Freelancer to find cost-effective solutions for tasks like website design and content creation. This enables them to allocate more resources to their core mission while still maintaining a professional online presence.
How We Rate Freelancer
Freelancer vs Competitors
Freelancer vs Upwork
Freelancer and Upwork both offer platforms for hiring freelancers, but Upwork has a more robust project management system and higher fees.
- + Wider range of project categories
- + More competitive bidding process
- − Upwork has a more complex fee structure
- − Freelancer has a more user-friendly interface
Freelancer Frequently Asked Questions (2026)
What is Freelancer?
Freelancer is a global online marketplace that connects businesses with freelancers for various projects, allowing users to hire skilled professionals or find freelance jobs.
How much does Freelancer cost in 2026?
Freelancer operates on a commission-based model, charging fees that vary based on project size and type, typically ranging from 3% to 10%.
Is Freelancer free?
While posting a project is free, employers pay a fee when hiring freelancers, and freelancers may incur fees when bidding on projects.
Is Freelancer worth it?
Freelancer is considered worth it by many users due to its vast talent pool, cost savings, and the flexibility it offers for both employers and freelancers.
Freelancer vs alternatives?
Freelancer is often compared to other freelancing platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, with differences in user experience, fee structures, and available features.
How do I post a job on Freelancer?
To post a job, create an account, navigate to the 'Post a Project' section, fill out the project details, and publish it to receive bids.
Can I communicate with freelancers before hiring?
Yes, Freelancer allows employers to chat with freelancers before making hiring decisions to discuss project details.
How do payments work on Freelancer?
Payments are made through the milestone system, where funds are deposited into escrow and released upon completion of agreed-upon project milestones.
What types of projects can I post?
You can post a wide range of projects, including graphic design, writing, programming, marketing, and more.
How do I find the right freelancer?
You can filter freelancers by skill, location, and budget, and review their profiles, portfolios, and feedback from previous clients.
Freelancer on Hacker News
Freelancer Company
Freelancer Quick Info
- Pricing
- Freemium
- Upvotes
- 0
- Added
- January 18, 2026
Freelancer Is Best For
- Entrepreneurs looking to build a startup team
- Small business owners needing affordable project solutions
- Corporations seeking specialized freelance talent for short-term projects
- Freelancers looking for job opportunities and clients
- Nonprofits that require cost-effective services for their missions
Freelancer Integrations
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