Whether you’re looking for a way into the QA automation industry or just a developer in need a side hustle, software testing is a great freelancing option.
Here are the best freelance sites you can join to find freelancing work as a software tester.
We offer this website completely free to our visitors. To help pay the bills, we’ll often (but not always) set up affiliate relationships with the top providers after selecting our favorites. However, we do our best not to let this impact our choices. There are plenty of high-paying companies we’ve turned down because we didn’t like their product.
An added benefit of our relationships is that we always try to negotiate exclusive discounts for our visitors.
Need to find a software tester? Check out our list of the best freelance websites to find software testers
Best Freelance Websites for Software Tester
1. Testlio
Best overall
Our top overall pick for software testing freelance opportunities is Testlio.
Some of their clients include huge, well-known companies like Roku, Paypal, and Microsoft. So, you may have opportunities to work with big industry names.
They offer competitive pay rates and flexible hours, as well as access to new tools and cutting-edge technologies.
Testlio employs the top 3% of software testers from around the world, offering opportunities to testers in smaller and international markets.
2. UserTesting
Best for non-software folk
Do you have absolutely no experience in software but still want to make extra cash testing it out? Try UserTesting.
This is where software developers go to test out their products on non-tech users. And it couldn’t be easier to find fast work.
With UserTesting, all you need to do is apply by filling out basic information about yourself. From there, you can browse and select testing projects that appeal to you. You will provide valuable feedback to software companies on their product, making suggestions and identifying areas that work.
3. Fiverr
Best for beginners
Fiverr has firmly established itself as a prominent platform with a huge user base spanning businesses of all sizes across multiple industries. This makes it an ideal starting point for aspiring freelance software testers looking to start their careers.
What makes Fiverr particularly enticing for beginning software testers is its straightforward profile creation process. It’s incredibly easy to get started as a tester. The platform also provides access to a large community of fellow freelance testers which allows opportunities for networking and brand development within the software industry.
However, the convenience comes at a cost. Fiverr deducts a 20% service fee from your earnings, which impacts your overall income.
Read our Fiverr review.
4. Toptal
Best for experienced developers
For top-tier freelance software testing professionals seeking opportunities with major enterprise companies, Toptal is our top choice.
This platform boasts partnerships with industry giants such as Bridgestone, Duolingo, KraftHeinz, and Shopify, offering numerous opportunities to collaborate with renowned brands.
Toptal distinguishes itself by prioritizing skill assessments over traditional CVs or extensive work histories. This approach welcomes exceptional software testers who may face challenges finding work due to a lack of extensive experience. It helps level the playing field and grants them access to high-quality projects without decades of work history.
Toptal also allows software testers to form relationships with professionals from diverse backgrounds worldwide, creating valuable connections and refinement of skills on a global scale.
Read our Toptal review.
5. Upstack
UpStack actively scouts the world's best software testing experts to showcase on their platform, connecting them with reputable business partners through a unique, customized AI system.
Their highly selective hiring criteria admit only the top 1% of talent, so aspiring candidates must excel in their careers. Luckily, this higher level of proficiency promises substantial rewards and premium compensation in return.
UpStack is renowned for its collaborations with big names like Microsoft and Lego, offering software testers unparalleled prospects.
For accomplished software testing professionals in search of exclusive opportunities that foster beneficial partnerships with leading employers, UpStack is an outstanding choice.
Read our UpStack Review.
6. Userbrain
Userbrain offers a user-friendly platform that makes it easy for freelance software testers to find amazing opportunities for work.
With Userbrain, testers first complete a qualification test, which gives them a good idea of what the work will be like.
Once they’re set up, testers record live videos of each of their tests, showing the software developers what their website or app looks like on the visitor side.
They offer a convenient payout method and a low payout threshold meaning you will be able to cash in more frequently and easily.
7. Upwork
Upwork is another solid choice for new software testers beginning their freelancing journey.
This platform facilitates the discovery of job opportunities that align with your skill set and experience level.
Your access to job applications relies on a monthly connection limit. You get a certain number of free connections each month and have the option to purchase more if you run out.
For me personally, Upwork served as a great stepping stone in my freelance copywriting career, so I know from experience that this is a great starting point.
It's worth noting that Upwork deducts a 10% service fee from your earnings, which is worth it for the connections they provide.
Read our Upwork review.
How to Become a Freelance Software Tester
Want to be a freelance software tester? You’re going to need a few certifications.
While many software testers do have a college degree in computer science, it isn’t necessary to enter the profession.
If you don’t have a degree, it’s recommended that you get training and certifications so that you’re able to use standard software testing-related tools like Tricentis and New Relic. Offer to do free testing for friends or small businesses and take assessments on your testing abilities.
Once you have a solid base of knowledge, create a profile on a large freelance platform like Fiverr or Upwork. From there, grow your client list and hone your skills, building a resume.
Once you’ve built up a good resume, branch out to more selective (and better-paying) sites like Toptal.
Benefits of Freelancing as a Software Tester
Here are some of the biggest benefits of freelancing as a software tester.
Flexibility and Independence
Freelancing allows you to have greater control over your work schedule. You have the freedom to choose when and where you work, giving you the flexibility to balance work with other aspects of your life. This leads to improved work-life balance and reduced (or non-existent!) commuting time.
Diverse Projects
Freelancing software testers often work on a variety of projects for different clients. This experience with diverse projects across different industries can help you develop a wide range of skills and knowledge, making you a more versatile and adaptable software tester. It also keeps work interesting and challenging.
Higher Earning Potential
Freelance software testers have the potential to earn more compared to traditional salaried roles. As a freelancer, you have the ability to set your own rates and take on multiple clients at the same time, increasing your income. You can also benefit from negotiating higher rates as your skills and reputation grow.
Skill Growth and Learning
Freelancing exposes you to real-world challenges and client requirements, which can accelerate your learning and skill development. You'll encounter various technologies, tools, and approaches, pushing you to expand your knowledge and hone your skills.
Networking
Freelancing as a software tester allows you the opportunity to network and build connections with a diverse mix of clients, colleagues, and other industry professionals. These connections can help you grow your career in the long run.
How to Choose the Right Freelance Website to Work For
To pick the right freelance site to work for, think seriously about your abilities, experience, and availability.
You should also take into consideration how much of your pay will be shaved off to pay platform service fees, as this can impact your overall income.
If you’re just getting started as a software tester, we recommend setting up an easy, free account on Fiverr or Upwork to start building your resume.
As you gain experience and improve your skills, you can look into more advanced, vetted sites like Toptal or Upstack.
The great thing about freelancing sites is that you can create profiles on as many or few sites as you want, allowing you endless work opportunities.
Best Freelance Websites by Category
Looking for more of the best freelance websites but need to browse by category? Check out our below freelance website reviews to either expand your portfolio or hire a freelancer for your next project.
- Freelancing Websites for Developers
- Freelancing Websites for WordPress Calculator Developers
- Freelancing Websites for AI Prompt Engineers
- Freelancing Websites for Graphic Designers
- Freelancing Websites for UX Designers
- Freelancing Websites for UI Designers
- Freelancing Websites for Illustrators
- Freelancing Websites for Writers
- Freelancing Websites for Accountants & Bookkeepers
- Freelancing Websites for Data Entry
- Freelancing Websites for Data Analysts
- Freelancing Websites for Data Scientists
- Freelancing Websites for Editors & Proofreaders
- Freelancing Websites for Digital Marketing
- Freelancing Websites for SEO Experts
- Freelancing Websites for Video Editors
- Freelancing Websites for Photographers
- Freelancing Websites for Virtual Assistants
- Freelancing Websites for Software Testers
- Freelancing Websites for Attorneys
- Freelancing Websites for Translators
- Freelancing Websites for Transcribers
- Freelancing Websites for Voice-Overs
- Freelancing Websites for College Students to Find Work
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you work freelance as a software tester?
Yes, you can work freelance as a software tester, and many software testers freelance full-time.
How do I become a freelance QA tester?
To become a freelance QA tester, first get the education and training necessary, then build your skills by learning new tools and techniques. Finally, create a profile on Fiverr or Upwork, build a resume, and get better opportunities to make more money.
How to find freelance software development work?
To find freelance software development work, create a profile on a freelance platform like Fiverr, Upwork, or Toptal.
Claire Fountain
Rashida Beal
