Thumbtack and TaskRabbit are two different ways to get things done for your home rather than doing them yourself. Unknown to some, the two companies are, in fact, different legally and in terms of their global presence.
Thumbtack is a service that connects customers with local professionals, like handypersons, photographers, and fitness instructors. They work by posting their customer’s needs on the site and then sending them to local pros who bid on the job. Customers can choose the best fit based on their budget and reviews.
TaskRabbit is a service that connects freelancers with people who need work done. You can post a task you need to be completed, such as cleaning your house, picking up groceries, or moving furniture, and TaskRabbit freelancers will bid on the job.
When you accept a bid and hire someone to complete the task, you pay through TaskRabbit, and the site handles all the payment processing. The platform serves as an intermediary between people who have tasks to complete and people who want to earn money by completing those tasks.
Neither has a significant overall difference, though there are quite a few found between the two startups, which will be highlighted below so that you understand them.
There is a lot of confusion on what they do and where you should use them. However, I decided to distinguish between the two services so that you can make an informed decision on which service is exemplary for you.
TaskRabbit vs Thumbtack: What Are They & How They Work
As a business owner, TaskRabbit and Thumbtack can be great tools to help you take some of the load off your shoulders.
That said, they are also different – in terms of what they offer and how they work.
TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit assists consumers in locating immediate help for everyday activities such as cleaning, moving, delivery, and handyman services by matching freelancers with local demand via their online and mobile platforms.
The TaskRabbit app enables users to find and book trusted and reliable Taskers in their local area to complete household, delivery, and handyman services.
Taskers are vetted, background-checked individuals rated and reviewed by the community.
From assembling furniture to cleaning your home, TaskRabbit can connect you with the help you need.
Thumbtack
Thumbtack is one of the most popular lead generation services for contractors and providers. Whether you need a handyperson to fix your roof, a DJ for your wedding, or a yoga teacher, Thumbtack will connect you with local professionals who can provide those services.
The first thing anyone looking for service needs to do is create an account on the platform and describe their project. Once they’ve done this, Thumbtack will send that lead out to all the businesses in their network who are qualified to complete that kind of work.
TaskRabbit vs Thumbtack: Features
TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is a marketplace that helps you find tasks to outsource and people to help you do them. Below are some of its key features:
Dashboard
The dashboard, which you can access from the top of your TaskRabbit account page, is where you will find all the tasks that have been assigned to you. It provides an overview of your scheduled task history and a calendar view of upcoming assignments.
Templates
TaskRabbit is all about convenience. With this in mind, Templates allow Taskers to offer a range of services and prices, depending on the scope of work.
Templates can be used for simple tasks like assembling flat-pack furniture to more complex ones like home repair that require extra time and expertise.
Same-day delivery service
TaskRabbit’s newest feature is its same-day delivery service. You can get same-day delivery on select products, such as groceries and other household items. If you are in a rush and need something delivered to your doorstep right away, this is undoubtedly a helpful option. With same-day delivery, you will also receive an estimated time of arrival for your package.
Referral program
Another feature that TaskRabbit offers is a referral program. If you know someone who would like to become a member, you can refer them through the website or the mobile app. The person you refer will receive a $20 credit when they sign up using your unique link or code. Once they have completed their first task, you will receive a $20 credit!
TaskRabbit also has an option for businesses to hire people for tasks through the mobile app. This is known as “Task For Businesses”. A business can post any job that needs to be done, and someone qualified for that particular job will contact the business with their rate and availability.
Integrations
You can add your TaskRabbit account to IFTTT — If This, Then That — and connect it with all services. By creating recipes on the IFTTT website, you can set up rules for how TaskRabbit should interact with those services.
With the IFTTT channel, you can create “recipes” that will automatically post new tasks to TaskRabbit. For instance, if you want someone else to do the laundry, ask Alexa to send the task details to TaskRabbit. Then, sit back and relax while one of TaskRabbit’s talented Taskers takes over.
Security
TaskRabbit’s Trust & Safety team is dedicated to keeping you, your family and pets, and your home safe. Feel secure knowing that every Tasker has undergone a rigorous vetting process, including in-person interviews, background checks, and reviews from other clients.
eSignatures
The best way to sign a contract is in person, but sometimes that’s just not possible. TaskRabbit uses eSignatures to make signing agreements as hassle-free as possible.
You can sign a contract using a computer or mobile device by clicking the Sign button on the Dashboard.
Thumbtack
Thumbtack is a marketplace of professionals — painters, plumbers, DJs, etc. The company matches customers with pros to help them get more business done. Here are some of the features that make Thumbtack much more than a lead generation service.
Dashboard
Thumbtack has a free dashboard to help you manage your leads and track your business’s performance. You can get there by clicking the down arrow next to your name in the top right corner of any page on Thumbtack.
eSignature
Thumbtack eSignature allows customers to sign proposals on Thumbtack while still giving you the flexibility to send your contracts and invoices.
Security
+Thumbtack uses encryption and authentication tools to keep your personal information safe and secure. They also have a team of security experts who work hard to ensure the site is protected from hackers, spammers, and other malicious activity.
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Client Screening
Get an overview of your customers to see their location, history, and rating. Make your business more efficient by prioritizing leads you can trust and have a better chance at booking.
Lead Management
Save time with automated follow-ups and track your progress with email notifications. Thumbtack will help you schedule appointments, get reviews, and send quotes to customers who will most likely book you.
Messaging
Thumbtack allows you to communicate directly with prospective clients via their secure platform. Never worry about exchanging private information over text or email again!
Reviews
Use verified reviews from real customers to build trust and demonstrate your expertise to new clients.
TaskRabbit vs Thumbtack: Integrations
Thumbtack
Many integrations are scheduling tools that allow businesses to sync their schedule with Thumbtack or connect with customers via their Thumbtack profile.
These tools will enable you to focus on your business while allowing customers to book appointments through your listings when convenient for them—even if you’re busy on the job! Some of the most popular Thumbtack Integrations include:
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Google Contacts
This integration allows you to sync your Thumbtack contacts with Google Contacts to manage all your contacts in one place.
Google Calendar
This integration will sync your events with Google Calendar so that you can keep track of all your appointments in one place.
Outlook Calendar
This integration will sync your events with Outlook Calendar so that you can have a record of your appointments in one place.
Zapier
Connect Thumbtack to hundreds of web apps via Zapier, including CRM tools like Salesforce and HubSpot. You’ll be able to automate the flow between Thumbtack and those apps to log leads and follow up with customers quickly.
Quicken
This integration allows you to connect your Thumbtack account directly to Quicken to keep track of all your finances.
QuickBooks
Keep track of jobs—past and current—in one place by connecting Thumbtack with QuickBooks. Invoices will sync automatically, and you’ll save time by not having to enter them manually! The QuickBooks integration also makes it easy to track your finances.
PayPal
PayPal’s integration with Thumbtack allows you to make and receive payments via your PayPal account. Customers can pay you using their PayPal balance, bank account, credit card, or debit card.
TaskRabbit
You can use TaskRabbit to integrate with other services, such as Google Calendar, or you can use it to build tasks that you’ve already created in another service. Here are some ways TaskRabbit makes it easy for you to integrate your service with other services.
Calendar Integration
You can use TaskRabbit to access your calendar so that tasks and appointments in your calendar are easily accessible.
Task Integration
TaskRabbit makes it easy to integrate your tasks into a single task list. This is great because you can add tasks from any part of your day, whether running errands or going out to lunch.
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Thumbtack vs TaskRabbit: Pricing
TaskRabbit
Taskers must be at least 18 years of age and undergo an identity verification process to ensure they are who they say they are. Taskers must take a selfie, write down their Social Security number (TaskRabbit will verify it with a third party), and provide proof of address.
Once the account is approved, Taskers can post their prices for different jobs, which typically start at about $22. TaskRabbit does not have a tiered pricing structure for its workers or services.
The pricing model for Taskers is broken down by category. For example, if you’re looking for help with cleaning, the average rate on TaskRabbit is $63 to $150. If you want help moving some furniture, the price is $46 to $105.
If you’re worried about getting stiffed or not paid at all, don’t be — TaskRabbit handles all monetary transactions between you and the customer. TaskRabbit says it gets paid only when the Tasker does.
Thumbtack
Thumbtack charges a service fee for each lead you receive from Thumbtack. The price is based on the professional service offered and the type of project requested.
For example, if a customer in your area is looking for a house cleaner, the average price is $110 to $140. If they like what they see and want to contact you, they’ll be prompted to pay a small connection fee to send you their information. It’s that simple!
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TaskRabbit vs Thumbtack: How They’re Different?
Both TaskRabbit and Thumbtack are great platforms to hire a professional. However, they differ slightly in their operations. Some of the differences are highlighted below.
TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit and Thumbtack are similar in their approach to freelancing, but there are some differences. TaskRabbit focuses on creating a marketplace for people to complete tasks, while Thumbtack emphasizes the ability to find professionals. TaskRabbit is more like a digital temp agency than Thumbtack is.
TaskRabbit works with city officials and community leaders to ensure that its service complies with local licensing laws and regulations. Thumbtack lets contractors decide if they need to be licensed or not.
TaskRabbit has a strict vetting process for the individuals that use its service, including background checks and in-person interviews. Thumbtack doesn’t have a vetting process for the contractors that use its service, but it does collect reviews from customers who have completed work with them.
TaskRabbit offers same-day delivery for tasks that need to be completed quickly, like moving furniture or cleaning up after a party. The company also has an app where you can order services from your smartphone or tablet when you’re on the go.
Thumbtack has no same-day delivery option, but it does have an app where you can browse contractors in your area and request quotes for work.
You pay TaskRabbit a service fee on top of the task price. Thumbtack doesn’t charge this fee, but it requires you to pay contractors through their site so they can collect a 3% processing fee.
You decide who works with TaskRabbit, but Thumbtack matches you with contractors automatically.
TaskRabbit clients submit their jobs and get bids, while Thumbtack’s clients describe what they need done and receive proposals from pre-screened professionals. The former allows more freedom for both parties to shop around, while the latter gives clients a broader range of options from vetted professionals.
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Thumbtack
Thumbtack has an instant price quote tool that lets you compare offers from multiple providers at once. The same tool can also be used to read reviews about each company.
Thumbtack profiles tend to have more details than TaskRabbit, including information on pricing, specialties, licenses, and certifications.
Thumbtack has a cleaner interface that makes it easy to find the information you need quickly.
Thumbtack is designed more for homeowners than business owners. They have services available for both, but they primarily serve homeowners looking for repairs, improvements, or extra services around the house.
TaskRabbit vs Thumbtack: Pros and Cons
Thumbtack Pros
- Getting started with Thumbtack is easy. You can fill out an online form and receive quotes from one or more pros within 24 hours.
- There are no obligations once you find a pro. If you decide to hire someone, you can do so through the platform and even make payments securely online.
- You also don’t have to worry about working with unqualified pros because Thumbtack thoroughly vets every professional on their platform. Each person must verify their identity and business license before responding to customer requests.
- The company also offers personalized recommendations if you have trouble finding the right professional for your project. If you need help finding a pro for your specific area, Thumbtack will connect you with someone in your area who has the skills and expertise necessary to complete your project.
- They help you price your services and give you tips on how to improve your profile so that customers will notice you when they search for services in your area. You can even add pictures of your work!
- You don’t need an email address or phone number to sign up – simply create a username and password. Potential customers can contact you through Thumbtack’s messaging system rather than having to give out personal information like an email address or phone number right away; which might make some people feel uncomfortable. This also helps protect against spam emails/calls from potential customers who just want free quotes without hiring anyone.
- Thumbtack also offers many tips on how to improve your business, as well as how to generate a better return on investment. They offer tips on creating profiles, developing a brand, and how to market yourself on their website and app. If that isn’t enough, they also offer online courses on how to do all of these things, making life so much easier.
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Thumbtack Cons
- Before submitting a request for a quote, you have to answer questions about your project (such as how many people will be attending an event catered by the pro). This can be frustrating if you don’t yet have all the details.
TaskRabbit Pros
- TaskRabbit allows you to spend a lot less time on household chores, giving you more freedom to spend time with your family or pursue hobbies.
- TaskRabbit provides access to a larger pool of workers, which means that you can find someone who will complete your tasks faster, cheaper, and better than they could have done themselves.
- Handyman Services – You can hire someone to paint your living room, assemble new furniture, clean your windows, or fix leaky faucets.
- Delivery Services – If you don’t have time to get those birthday gifts for your best friend and her kids, you can have a Tasker deliver them.
- Odd Jobs – Do you need someone to wash the car, mow the lawn, or shovel the driveway? TaskRabbit is a great place to find people to do these jobs for you.
- Most of these services are offered by people who genuinely love their work and have been doing it for years. They’re often working multiple jobs just to make ends meet, so they appreciate the opportunity to get hired through TaskRabbit—it’s a win-win!
- Making money on your schedule can be great for parents who want to stay home with kids or need a flexible schedule.
- You can choose what kind of work you want to do. If you’re only comfortable hanging pictures, you don’t have to offer a wider variety of services.
TaskRabbit Cons
- It can be challenging to find workers in certain areas. For example, if you live in a rural area where there aren’t many people looking for work, it may take longer to find someone to do your tasks than if you were in a city where more potential workers are looking for jobs.
- There isn’t much control over who gets hired or not; some people may get lucky and find someone who does an excellent job at whatever task they need to do, while others might not have as much luck.
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TaskRabbit vs Thumbtack: Bottom Line
TaskRabbit is a fantastic tool that I would recommend. It’s prevalent, after all; the website already holds an Alexa Traffic Rank, which is quite impressive! Overall, TaskRabbit provides users with a lending platform that allows anyone to get anything done.
And because it’s an online marketplace, users can always find the right “TaskRabbit” for the job by just using their skills, talents, and abilities.
It all boils down to personal preference as much as the offered services. Ultimately, depending on your budget or needs, there’s a tool that can provide you with the services you need at the correct price tag.
Cassie Riley has a passion for all things marketing and social media. She is a wife, mother, and entrepreneur. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, language, music, writing, and unicorns. Cassie is a lifetime learner, and loves to spend time attending classes, webinars, and summits.