Guru
What is Guru?
Guru is one of the oldest freelance platforms, founded in 1998. It offers a straightforward marketplace for freelancers across programming, design, writing, admin, marketing, and engineering categories. With lower fees than major competitors, it's an attractive option for cost-conscious freelancers.
The platform features a unique "Workroom" system for collaboration, multiple payment methods, and flexible agreement structures including hourly, fixed-price, task-based, and recurring payments.
Key Features
SafePay: Guru's escrow system holds client payments until work is approved, protecting freelancers from non-payment.
Workrooms: Dedicated project spaces with file sharing, invoicing, and communication tools – all in one place.
Flexible Payments: Get paid via PayPal, wire transfer, check, or even prepaid Mastercard.
Earning Potential
Rates vary widely by category: writers earn $15-75/hour, designers $20-100/hour, and developers $25-150/hour. Guru's lower fees (5-9% vs competitors' 10-20%) mean more money in your pocket.
Pros
- Lower fees than Upwork (5-9%)
- Multiple payment options
- Flexible agreement types
- Built-in collaboration tools
- Less saturated than bigger platforms
- Daily payout option available
Cons
- Smaller job pool than Upwork/Fiverr
- Outdated user interface
- Less brand recognition
- Premium membership required for best features
- Some categories have limited opportunities
Disclaimer
Dig it Up is not affiliated with Guru. Earnings depend on skills, experience, and market demand.