Fansly vs. OnlyFans: Which will make you RICH and FAMOUS?

Ah, the eternal dilemma: Fansly or OnlyFans? It’s like debating whether to wear the little black dress or your boldest sequined number—both will turn heads, but which one really screams you? Sure, they might look similar on the surface, but trust me, these platforms have some very different vibes.

Before you commit your content and charisma to just one, let’s break down what makes each tick. By the end, you’ll know whether to ride the OnlyFans wave or join Fansly’s rising star moment. Spoiler alert: you might just want to strut both runways.

What is OnlyFans? (And a quick history)

OnlyFans is a subscription-based platform where creators and fans connect directly—no middlemen, no unnecessary fluff. It’s where exclusive content lives, and for many, it’s a passport to making bank while staying authentic. From fitness tips to steamy after-dark entertainment, OnlyFans has carved out its corner of the internet. 

However, it gained significant fame as a hub for adult content, where models, performers, and adult creators could share photos, videos, and other material directly with fans in exchange for a subscription fee.

But how did it go from niche startup to pop culture phenomenon? Let’s roll back the clock.

The humble beginnings

OnlyFans launched in 2016, thanks to Tim Stokely, a UK entrepreneur with a knack for spotting creator-driven trends. The platform offered something unique: a way for creators to monetize their skills, talents, or, let’s be real, their charisma. 

Unlike traditional social media, OnlyFans handed the reins to creators, letting them charge fans for exclusive access. 

Think Patreon, but with fewer rules about what’s “appropriate.”

The rise of the risqué

Here’s where things get interesting. OnlyFans initially attracted fitness instructors, artists, and chefs. But when adult creators noticed the platform’s flexible policies and no-judgment vibe, they turned it into a thriving space for NSFW content. 

By 2020, a global lockdown turned OnlyFans into a household name, as people stuck at home sought entertainment—and creators saw an opportunity to cash in on their allure.

The pandemic boom

The world hit pause, people stayed home, and let’s face it—many were bored, lonely, and looking for something… stimulating. Enter OnlyFans, which became the platform for creators to connect with fans while raking in cash. By 2021, OnlyFans claimed a whopping 220 million registered users and over 3 million creators, making it the industry giant we know today.

But like every rockstar, OnlyFans had its “What were they thinking?” phase. In August 2021, they dropped a bombshell: adult content—aka the very thing that made them famous—was about to be banned. Their reasoning? Pressure from payment processors and banking partners. Creators understandably freaked out. Fansly and other alternatives became the talk of the town.

Realizing they’d made a colossal misstep (cue collective internet outrage), OnlyFans did a 180 and announced that explicit content was here to stay. Phew, right? But the damage was done. The trust that creators had in the platform took a hit, leaving many feeling like they’d just survived a messy breakup.

Why it’s still the big dog

Despite the drama, OnlyFans remains the heavyweight champ of adult content platforms. The brand recognition alone means new creators can tap into a massive, ready-made audience. It’s the digital equivalent of setting up shop in Times Square—crowded, sure, but buzzing with potential.

The perks?

• A simple, streamlined system for subscribers.
• The ability to offer live streams, custom content, and even merch.
• Global reach that makes it easier to turn followers into paying fans.

The downside? That 2021 misstep still lingers, and for some creators, it’s like dating someone who ghosted you once—you can forgive, but can you forget?

OnlyFans is still the platform to beat. It’s got the numbers, the infrastructure, and the name recognition. But if you’re a creator who values trust as much as traffic, that 2021 hiccup might leave you eyeing other options. After all, nobody wants to build an empire on shaky ground.

What is Fansly?

Fansly quietly entered the scene in 2020, ready to shake things up. It wasn’t until 2021, during OnlyFans’ brief flirtation with banning adult content, that Fansly truly stepped into the spotlight. Creators, feeling jilted by OnlyFans’ indecisiveness, flocked to Fansly faster than you can say “subscription fee.”

The rapid ascent

By 2023, Fansly boasted over 130 million active users and more than 2 million content creators.

Not too shabby for the new kid, right? The platform’s user base was growing at a rate of approximately 95,000 new users daily, translating to about 4,000 new users every hour.

What sets Fansly apart?

Fansly didn’t just copy the OnlyFans playbook; it added its own flair:

• Multiple subscription tiers: Creators can offer various subscription levels, giving fans options and creators more ways to monetize. It’s like a buffet of content choices.
• Lenient content policies: Fansly is more relaxed about content restrictions, attracting creators who felt stifled elsewhere. It’s the “cool parent” of content platforms.
• User-friendly interface: With features like a “For You” page and better search functionality, Fansly makes it easier for fans to discover new creators. Because who doesn’t love a good recommendation?

Fansly positioned itself as the reliable alternative during OnlyFans’ moment of uncertainty. Its rapid growth and creator-friendly features make it a compelling choice for those looking to diversify their platforms. While it may not have the same brand recognition as OnlyFans, Fansly’s rise suggests it’s more than just a rebound—it’s here to stay.

What are the key differences between Onlyfans and Fansly?

OnlyFans and Fansly are both subscription-based platforms that enable creators to monetize their content, particularly in the adult entertainment sector. However, they differ in several key aspects:

The OG vs. the rebel

• OnlyFans: Established in 2016, OnlyFans has become a prominent platform for adult content creators. In August 2021, the company announced a ban on sexually explicit content, citing pressure from financial partners. This decision was met with significant backlash, leading to a reversal of the ban shortly thereafter. The incident raised concerns about the platform’s stability and commitment to adult content creators.

• Fansly: Launched in November 2020, Fansly gained attention as an alternative to OnlyFans, especially during the latter’s brief content ban. Fansly’s design and functionality are similar to OnlyFans, offering a familiar interface for users and creators.

OnlyFans vs. Fansly’s content policies

• OnlyFans: Allows adult content but has shown a willingness to change policies, as evidenced by the 2021 incident. This has led to concerns about future policy stability among creators.
• Fansly: Known for more lenient content policies, Fansly has attracted creators seeking a platform with fewer restrictions.

OnlyFans vs. Fansly monetization: Well… show me the money b*tch

You’re here to create, sure—but let’s not pretend the cash doesn’t matter. Let’s break down how OnlyFans stacks up in the monetization game.

OnlyFans: The established earner

• Subscription pricing: Creators can set a monthly subscription fee ranging from $4.99 to $49.99.
• Tips: Fans can tip creators up to $200 per transaction, allowing for additional income beyond subscriptions.
• Pay-Per-View (PPV) content: Creators can send locked content via direct messages, with prices typically ranging from $3 to $50+ per item, depending on the content’s exclusivity and length.
• Merchandise sales: OnlyFans offers an integrated merchandise feature, enabling creators to sell physical products directly through their profiles, providing an additional revenue stream.

Earnings potential

• Average earnings: The average monthly earnings of an OnlyFans creator is $180.
• Top earners: The top 1% of OnlyFans creators earn nearly 33% of all earnings on the platform.
• Total payouts: OnlyFans has paid out over $5 billion to creators since its inception.
  

Key takeaways

• Earning potential: OnlyFans takes a 20% commission on earnings, allowing creators to keep 80%.
• Flexibility: OnlyFans’ integrated merchandise feature provides an additional revenue stream for creators.

OnlyFans payout

Here’s the deal with OnlyFans: after you make that sweet, sweet cash, you’ll need to wait seven days before it’s even eligible for withdrawal. And once you’ve crossed that threshold, payouts take 3–5 business days to hit your account. Minimum withdrawal? A very manageable $20, which makes it easy for new creators to see their money without having to hit big milestones.

Now, if you’re in a smaller country, prepare for a little extra red tape. OnlyFans holds your earnings for 21 days during your first four months—because apparently, trust is earned, not given. After that, you’re back to the standard 7-day hold, but let’s just say OnlyFans isn’t winning any awards for speed.

So, OnlyFans offers a straightforward monetization model with the added benefit of merchandise sales, allowing creators to tailor their offerings to their audience’s preferences.

Fansly: The flexible newcomer

• Subscription pricing: Fansly allows creators to set subscription fees starting at $4.99, with the potential to go up to $499.99 per month, offering greater flexibility in pricing.
• Multiple subscription tiers: Creators can offer various subscription levels, each with different pricing and content access, catering to a broader audience and encouraging higher spending from dedicated fans.
• Tips: Fansly permits tips up to $500 per transaction, significantly higher than OnlyFans, potentially increasing creator earnings.
• PPV content: Similar to OnlyFans, Fansly supports PPV messages, allowing creators to charge for exclusive content sent directly to subscribers.

Key takeaways

• Earning potential: Both platforms take a 20% commission on earnings, allowing creators to keep 80%.
• Flexibility: Fansly’s higher tip limits and multiple subscription tiers offer creators more ways to monetize their content and engage with fans.
• Merchandise sales: OnlyFans’ integrated merchandise feature provides an additional revenue stream not currently available on Fansly.

Category	OnlyFans	Fansly
Subscription pricing	$4.99 – $49.99 per month	$4.99 – $499.99 per month
Tip limits	Up to $200 per transaction	Up to $500 per transaction
Pay-Per-View (PPV) content	$3 to $50+ per item	Available via direct messages
Merchandise sales	Available with an integrated feature	Not available
Average earnings per creator	$150-180 per month	$180-250 per month
Top earners	Top 1% earn 33% of platform earnings	Data not available
Total payouts	Over $5 billion paid out	Data not available
Commission rate	20% (creators keep 80%)	20% (creators keep 80%)
Payout process	7-day eligibility hold, 3-5 days for payout, $20 minimum	Standard payout process, tip-friendly

OnlyFans and Fansly features

When it comes to features, both OnlyFans and Fansly have their unique offerings designed to enhance the creator and fan experience. Let’s dive into what each platform brings to the table.

OnlyFans: The veteran’s toolkit

• Advanced analytics: OnlyFans provides detailed statistics, allowing creators to analyze their content’s performance and understand their audience better.
  
• Scheduled posts: Creators can plan and schedule posts in advance, ensuring a consistent content flow without the need to be online constantly.
  
• Community polls: Engage your audience by creating polls, gathering feedback, and making your fans feel involved in your content decisions.
  
• 24-hour stories: Share temporary content that disappears after 24 hours, similar to Instagram Stories, adding a layer of exclusivity.
  
• Direct messaging: Communicate privately with subscribers, offering personalized interactions and the opportunity to send pay-per-view (PPV) content.
  
• Live streaming: Broadcast live to your audience, fostering real-time engagement.
  
• Co-streaming: Collaborate with other creators in live sessions, expanding your reach and offering diverse content.
  
• Lists: Organize your subscribers into lists for targeted messaging and promotions.
  
• PPV messaging: Send exclusive content via direct messages that fans can unlock for a fee.
  
• Merchandise sales: Utilize the integrated merchandise feature to sell custom-branded products directly through your profile.
  
• Spotify integration: Share your favorite tracks or playlists with your audience, adding a personal touch to your profile.
  
• Tipping: Fans can tip during streams, on posts, or via messages, providing additional income opportunities.
  
• Fundraising: Raise money for causes directly through your profile, engaging your community in charitable efforts.
  
• Campaign tracking: Monitor the success of your promotions and marketing efforts with built-in tracking tools.
  
• Bookmarking: Save favorite content for later viewing, enhancing user experience.
  

Fansly: The up-and-comer’s arsenal

• “For you” page: A discovery feature that promotes trending creators, increasing visibility and potential subscriber growth.
  
• Keyword search: Enhanced search functionality allows users to find creators or content based on specific keywords, improving discoverability.
  
• Tiered subscription options: Offer multiple subscription levels with varying pricing and content access, catering to a broader audience and encouraging higher spending from dedicated fans.
  
• Hashtags: Utilize hashtags in post captions to categorize content and increase reach within the platform.
  
• Direct messaging: Communicate privately with subscribers, offering personalized interactions and the opportunity to send PPV content.
  
• Live streaming: Broadcast live to your audience, fostering real-time engagement.
  
• PPV messaging: Send exclusive content via direct messages that fans can unlock for a fee.
  
• Tipping: Fans can tip during streams, on posts, or via messages, with higher tip limits compared to OnlyFans.
  
• Detailed analytics: Access comprehensive analytics to track audience engagement and earnings, aiding in content strategy.
  
• Geoblocking: Restrict access to your content from specific regions, providing control over your audience.
  
• Watermarking: Automatic watermarks on your content help protect against unauthorized use and IP infringement.
  
• Mass messaging: Send messages to all your subscribers simultaneously, useful for announcements or promotions.
  
• Customizable profiles: Personalize your profile to reflect your brand and aesthetic, enhancing user experience.
  
• Content scheduling: Plan and schedule posts in advance to maintain consistent content delivery.
  
• Polls and surveys: Engage your audience by creating polls and surveys to gather feedback and preferences.
  

Both OnlyFans and Fansly offer a robust set of features tailored to enhance the creator and fan experience. OnlyFans provides a comprehensive suite of tools, including merchandise sales and Spotify integration, catering to a wide range of content creators. 

Fansly, while newer, focuses on discoverability and flexibility with features like the “For You” page, keyword search, and tiered subscriptions. Your choice between the two should align with your content strategy and the features that best support your creative and business goals.

OnlyFans vs. Fansly features summary table below

Category	OnlyFans features	Fansly features
Analytics and insights	Advanced analytics, campaign tracking	Detailed analytics
Content scheduling	Scheduled posts	Content scheduling
Audience engagement	Community polls, 24-hour stories	Polls and surveys, hashtags
Direct communication	Direct messaging, PPV messaging, lists	Direct messaging, PPV messaging, mass messaging
Live features	Live streaming, Co-streaming	Live streaming
Payment and earnings	Tipping, fundraising, merchandise sales	Tipping (higher limits), tiered subscriptions
Content discovery	None highlighted (requires direct links)	For you’ page, keyword search
Customization	Spotify integration, merchandise sales	Customizable profiles
Content protection	None highlighted	Geoblocking, watermarking

What are the pros and cons of OnlyFans?

Alright, let’s get real—OnlyFans has its perks and its pitfalls. First up, let’s talk about what makes it such a hit with creators and fans alike.

10 pros of OnlyFans

1. Massive user base
   With over 220 million registered users, OnlyFans provides access to a large, ready-made audience. Creators don’t have to build a platform from scratch; the users are already there and willing to spend.
2. Established brand
   OnlyFans is a household name in the content subscription world. This recognition builds trust among users, making it easier to convert visitors into paying subscribers.
3. Straightforward monetization
   Creators can set subscription prices between $4.99 and $49.99, offer pay-per-view content, and receive tips, creating multiple revenue streams in a simple and manageable way.
4. Merchandise sales
   Unlike many competitors, OnlyFans allows creators to sell branded merchandise directly through the platform, adding another layer of income.
5. Advanced analytics
   OnlyFans provides creators with insights into their content’s performance, allowing them to track engagement and adjust strategies based on data.
6. Scheduling posts
   This feature ensures content is consistently released, even when creators are offline, keeping fans engaged and subscriptions renewed.
7. Diverse content allowed
   Although there are restrictions, OnlyFans permits a wide range of adult and non-adult content, making it versatile for different types of creators.
8. Global reach
   With users from all over the world, OnlyFans allows creators to tap into international audiences, broadening their earning potential.
9. Low payout threshold
   Creators can withdraw earnings once they hit $20, making it accessible for those just starting out.
10. Co-streaming option
    The platform supports collaborations, allowing creators to co-stream and reach each other’s audiences, increasing visibility and potential subscriber growth.

10 cons of OnlyFans

But hey, it’s not all sunshine and cash flow. Let’s take a look at the not-so-great side of OnlyFans and where it might leave you wanting more.

1. Lack of discovery features
   Fans can’t browse or search for creators on the platform itself, meaning you’re entirely reliant on external promotion to gain new subscribers.
2. Competitive market
   With over 3 million creators, the competition is fierce, and standing out requires constant effort and marketing beyond the platform.
   
3. Strict content policies
   Despite allowing adult content, OnlyFans enforces strict guidelines, and some creators find the restrictions limiting for their niche.
   
4. 2021 content ban debacle
   The platform’s announcement (and quick reversal) of an adult content ban in 2021 created mistrust among creators, with many fearing future policy changes.
5. Limited interaction tools
   While tools like polls and messages exist, the platform doesn’t prioritize community-building features, making fan interaction feel transactional.
6. Outdated interface
   The platform is functional but lacks modern design and user-friendly navigation, leading to a clunky experience for both creators and fans.
7. Longer payout processing
   Payments take 3–5 business days to process after the 7-day holding period, which can feel slow compared to faster alternatives like Fansly.
8. High commission fee
   OnlyFans takes a 20% cut of creator earnings, which is standard but still a significant chunk, especially for smaller creators.
9. Dependency on social media
   Without a discovery feature, creators rely heavily on external platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit to drive traffic, adding to their workload.
10. Reputation issues
    As a platform closely associated with adult content, OnlyFans carries a stigma that may deter certain fans or creators looking for non-adult-focused opportunities.

OnlyFans pros and cons summary

Pros	Cons
Massive user base (220M+ users)	No discovery features
Trusted, established brand	High competition (3M+ creators)
Simple monetization options	Strict content policies
Merchandise sales feature	2021 ban caused mistrust
Advanced analytics tools	Limited interaction tools
Post scheduling for consistency	Outdated interface design
Wide range of allowed content	Slow payout processing
Global audience reach	20% commission on earnings
Low $20 payout threshold	Heavy reliance on social media
Co-streaming for collaboration	Stigma due to adult content

What are the upsides and downsides of Fansly?

Before we get into where Fansly might fall short, let’s take a moment to appreciate what it brings to the table for creators and fans.

10 pros of Fansly

1. Flexible subscription options
   Fansly allows creators to set subscription fees between $4.99 and $499.99 per month. Additionally, its tiered subscription system enables creators to offer multiple levels of content access, appealing to fans with different budgets.
2. High tip limits
   Fansly permits tips up to $500 per transaction, significantly higher than OnlyFans, which caps tips at $200. This makes Fansly a great choice for creators with generous fans.
3. “For you” page for discovery
   Fansly’s discovery tools, like the “For You” page and keyword search, help new fans find creators without needing direct links, improving visibility for emerging creators.
4. Sleek, modern interface
   The platform has a user-friendly design that simplifies navigation for both creators and fans, providing a more enjoyable experience overall.
5. Faster payout processing
   Fansly processes payouts within 1–2 business days after the 7-day holding period, making it one of the fastest platforms for creators to access their earnings.
6. More lenient content policies
   Fansly is known for its relaxed guidelines, allowing creators to explore edgier or niche content that might not be permissible on OnlyFans, as long as it complies with legal requirements.
7. Keyword search
   Fansly’s keyword search lets users explore specific niches or interests, making it easier for fans to connect with creators who match their preferences.
8. Community-driven atmosphere
   The platform fosters a sense of community through its interactive features and discovery tools, encouraging creators to build lasting fan relationships.
9. Support for diverse payout methods
   Fansly offers multiple payout options, including Paxum, SEPA transfers, and cryptocurrency, catering to a wider range of creator preferences.
10. Growing popularity
    Fansly is still growing, meaning creators have a chance to establish themselves early on and benefit as the platform expands its user base.

10 cons of Fansly

1. Smaller audience size
   While Fansly is growing, it still lags behind OnlyFans in terms of total users, with 130 million active users compared to OnlyFans’ 220 million. This limits exposure to a wider audience.
2. Higher payout thresholds for some methods
   While the $20 minimum payout for Paxum is low, SEPA transfers require at least $50, and crypto or international transfers need $100, which might be a barrier for smaller creators.
3. Steeper learning curve
   Fansly’s tiered subscription system, while flexible, requires more effort and planning from creators to manage effectively compared to OnlyFans’ simpler setup.
4. Less established reputation
   As a newer platform, Fansly doesn’t yet have the name recognition that OnlyFans enjoys, which could make attracting new fans more challenging.
5. Limited third-party integrations
   Unlike OnlyFans, Fansly does not currently support integrations like Spotify or merchandise sales, reducing diversification options for creators.
6. Dependency on external promotion
   While discovery tools exist, Fansly creators still need to promote themselves heavily on social media to maximize their reach and earnings.
7. Smaller fan community
   The platform’s smaller audience means fewer potential fans overall, particularly for creators looking to scale quickly.
8. Lack of advanced analytics
   Fansly does not yet offer the detailed analytics that OnlyFans provides, which can make it harder for creators to refine their strategies based on audience data.
9. Limited customization for profiles
   While Fansly has a sleek interface, creators have fewer options for customizing their profiles compared to platforms like OnlyFans.
10. Still in development
    Fansly’s newer status means ongoing platform updates and occasional bugs, which can disrupt user experience and require patience from creators.

Fansly advantages and disadvantages

Pros	Cons
Flexible subscription options with tiered levels	Smaller audience size compared to OnlyFans
High tip limits ($500 per transaction)	Higher payout thresholds for some methods
For You’ page improves creator discovery	Steeper learning curve for tiered subscriptions
Sleek, modern, and user-friendly interface	Less established reputation than OnlyFans
Faster payout processing (1–2 business days)	Limited third-party integrations
More lenient content policies	Dependency on social media for promotion
Keyword search for specific niches	Smaller fan community for scaling quickly
Community-driven atmosphere	Lack of advanced analytics tools
Diverse payout methods (Paxum, crypto, SEPA)	Limited profile customization options
Opportunity to grow with a rising platform	Ongoing updates can cause occasional bugs

So, who’s the winner: OnlyFans or Fansly?

Fansly vs. OnlyFans—it’s like choosing between the classic rockstar and the up-and-coming indie darling. OnlyFans has the crowd, the fame, and the sheer numbers with its 220 million users, but let’s not forget the clunky interface and that little 2021 trust-breaker moment. 

Fansly, on the other hand, is the cool new kid with discovery tools, sleek design, and flexible monetization options, though it’s still growing its audience. If you’re all about stability and a built-in fan base, OnlyFans might be your jam. But if you’re looking for a platform that’s fresher, faster, and a bit more fan-friendly, Fansly’s where it’s at. 

Honestly, why not double-dip and work both? More platforms, more cash—sounds like a win to me.

FAQ: Fansly vs. OnlyFans