The creator economy is thriving, and platforms like OnlyFans and Fansly have revolutionized how creators monetize exclusive content.
With OnlyFans leading as the largest platform and Fansly emerging as a rather new and for many creators still unexplored alternative, many wonder: Which is the best subscription platform for creators in 2025?
This guide will help you decide by comparing both Fansly and OnlyFans with respect to their features, payout options, and challenges. Whether you’re an experienced creator or new to the scene, this guide aligns your goals with the platform that best suits you.
TL;DR
The OnlyFans vs. Fansly debate is one of the biggest questions for creators in 2025. Both platforms are powerful tools for monetizing exclusive content, but they cater to different needs.
Quick Comparison
- OnlyFans: Established platform with 305 million users, offering global reach, trusted payment systems, and simple tools. Ideal for creators targeting broad audiences.
- Fansly: A newer alternative with 130 million users, advanced features like tagging and tiered subscriptions, and less competition. Perfect for creators focused on niche audiences.
Key Takeaways
- Platform Features: OnlyFans focuses on simplicity, while Fansly offers customization and detailed analytics.
- Payout Options: OnlyFans offers daily payouts, while Fansly provides flexible schedules and cryptocurrency support.
- Challenges: OnlyFans is highly competitive, while Fansly’s smaller audience requires extra promotion.
How to Choose the Right Platform
- Assess your audience and niche.
- Evaluate platform features like tagging and PPV content.
- Test both platforms to compare earnings and engagement.
1. Overview of OnlyFans and Fansly
OnlyFans
Founded in 2016, OnlyFans has become the largest subscription-based platform in the world with over 305 million users and 2 million active creators
Creators benefit from tools like subscriptions, pay-per-view (PPV) content, live streaming, and messaging.
However, in 2021, the platform briefly announced plans to ban explicit content, causing concerns about stability. This move made creators consider alternative platforms like Fansly.
Fansly
Fansly, launched in 2020, is quickly becoming a favorite for creators due to its community-focused features and less competitive market.
With over 130 million users and more than 2 million creators, the platform focuses on giving creators tools like advanced tagging systems, tiered subscriptions, and content previews to connect better with niche audiences.
Its referral program allows creators to earn extra income, offering 5% of referred model earnings in the first year and 1.5% thereafter.
Generally speaking, if you want to get more insights on how an effective pricing strategy for OnlyFans or Fansly creators should look like, read this blog post.
2. Key Differences Between OnlyFans and Fansly
Platform Features
As mentioned above, Fansly offers advanced tools like tagging, tiered subscriptions, and analytics that help creators stand out.
On the other hand, OnlyFans focuses on simplicity and user-friendliness, making it a great option for broad audiences.
User Interface and Experience
- Fansly: Prioritizes customization, allowing creators to tailor their profiles for niche audiences.
- OnlyFans: Features a straightforward design, making it accessible to all types of creators.
Community Engagement
Fansly thrives on personalized fan interactions through tagging and interactive tools. Meanwhile, OnlyFans excels in direct messaging and live streaming, fostering real-time fan engagement.
Platform Policies
- OnlyFans: Its 2021 content ban reversal raised concerns, but its global recognition remains strong.
- Fansly: Consistently supports creators with stable content policies, making it a reliable choice.
And if you want to learn how to maximize your income by automating tasks, this guide right here is for you.
3. Payout Options for Creators
OnlyFans Payouts
- Frequency: Daily payouts with a $20 minimum threshold.
- Methods: Includes bank transfers, Payoneer, Skrill, and international wire transfers.
- Processing Time: Typically 1–3 business days.
Fansly Payouts
- Frequency: Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly payouts.
- Methods: Includes bank transfers, cryptocurrency, Payoneer, and other region-dependent platforms.
- Processing Time: Verified creators often receive payments faster, typically within 1–2 business days.
Summary: Fansly’s flexible payout schedules for new creators and cryptocurrency support offer more variety, while OnlyFans provides a globally trusted system.
4. Advantages of Each Platform
Why Creators Choose OnlyFans
- Largest user base: Over 305 million users mean unparalleled reach.
- Global credibility: Its established brand builds trust among fans and creators alike.
- Third-party integrations: Makes promotion easier with external tools.
Why Creators Choose Fansly
- Advanced tools: Features like tagging and tiered subscriptions help niche creators thrive.
- Less competition: A smaller user base gives new creators the chance to stand out.
- Referral program benefits: Earn extra income by referring other creators to the platform.
5. Challenges for Creators (and Solutions)
Challenges on OnlyFans
OnlyFans is highly competitive, with over 2 million creators fighting for attention. Additionally, past policy reversals have raised concerns about platform stability.
Solution: Partnering with an agency can help you stand out. They provide data-driven growth strategies for OnlyFans creators, helping you optimize your profile, pricing, and content promotion.
If you want to understand whether a collaboration with an agency really makes a (financial) difference or what the role of an OnlyFans agency is, make sure to check out our blog posts on these topics.
Challenges on Fansly
Fansly’s smaller user base limits immediate reach, and its lower brand recognition means creators often rely on external promotion to grow their audience.
Solution: Agencies can help Fansly creators grow by identifying the best niches, crafting optimized pricing strategies, and running campaigns to drive engagement.
However, if teaming up with an agency isn’t an option at the moment but you still want to increase engagement, read our guide on how to triple fan engagement and earnings.
6. Tips for Choosing the Right Platform
Here are some best practices for choosing an OnlyFans agency or deciding between Fansly and OnlyFans:
- Know your audience: Which platform aligns better with your target fan base?
- Evaluate tools: Fansly’s tagging and tiered pricing are great for niche creators, while OnlyFans’ simplicity caters to broader audiences.
- Test both platforms: Compare engagement, earnings, and differences between OnlyFans and Fansly payouts to find your best fit.
And if you’re open for expert input on how to effectively use Instagram, YouTube, X (previously Twitter), TikTok or Threads as an OnlyFans creator, make sure to check out our respective guides.
Conclusion
OnlyFans or Fansly – Which one is the better platform for creators in 2025?
The (quite boring but honest) answer: It depends on your specific needs as a creator.
OnlyFans offers a vast user base, global recognition, and robust tools for creators, making it an excellent option for those seeking an established platform. Fansly, on the other hand, provides innovative features, a community-focused environment, and less competition, making it ideal for creators who want to stand out in a growing space.
But remember, success isn’t just about the platform – it’s about leveraging its tools effectively, building your brand, and engaging your audience authentically.
If you’re ready to take your content to the next level, consider partnering with a top-notch OnlyFans agency like Calu to optimize your strategy, maximize your earnings, and grow your presence on your chosen platform.
Book a call with Calu Agency today, and let the experts take care of the details so you can shine in the spotlight.
