Being a content creator is not an easy job, it's a career, brand, and so much more, especially a creator trying to turn their content into income.
That's why platforms like Patreon and Cirrden are gaining attention, while one is a platform that uses the subscription model. The other is a fast growing platform used among digital content creators all over the world who want flexibility and direct control over how they earn.
But the question is: which platform is best for content creators?
As a creator just starting out or looking for a platform that best serves your needs, well fret not. This article will break down the comparison, payment models and platform policies of both Patreon and Cirrden.
What is Patreon?
Founded in 2013 by Jack Conte and Sam Yam. Patreon has become a go to platform for creators worldwide. It's a membership based platform that allows fans (called patrons) to subscribe and support their favorite creators directly.
Whether you're a writer, YouTuber, podcaster, or musician, Patreon offers creators the opportunity to earn a steady income by offering exclusive content to paying fans.
Patreon offers three main plans: Lite, Pro, and Premium.
Creators can also set up the tiered subscription model, letting fans choose how much they want to contribute. For example, fans can pick the $5 monthly subscription for behind the scenes footage or the $10 monthly subscription for early access videos. The system is very flexible, giving creators full control over what they offer.
However, African creators often struggle with the Patreon payout system especially due to PayPal and Stripe restrictions.
What is Cirrden?
Cirrden is the rising star and new face for African content monetization. Built with Nigerian creators in mind, it offers a flexible platform where independent creatives can get paid directly with no middle men.
Cirrden allows Indie creators like YouTubers, podcasters, bloggers, social media influencers, Filmmakers, writers, and Gamers to monetize their content directly and build a community and fan base.
Unlike Patreon subscription only model, Cirrden offers a variety of ways to earn; through tips, subscriptions, one-time payment, donations, and optional pay-per-content.
The platform's ideal customers are independent creatives between the ages of 16 and 35 who are dedicated to building their brand presence digitally and harnessing their skills and art into multiple income streams.
Cirrden also has a flexible payout option that allows creators to choose how and when they get paid, either daily, weekly, monthly, or annually. Whatever option you choose you are in control.
Monetization Model Comparison
Patreon
1. Subscriptions based: Patreon uses the monthly subscription model that allows creators to set up monthly or annual plans. A lower tier can provide access to exclusive contents while a higher tier can include early access to new projects.
2. Lite (5% fee) : basic tools to get creators started. Features like membership tiers, analytics and messaging.
3. Pro (8% fee) : unlock more features like advanced analytics, customer support, and integrations with tools like Discord and Zapper.
4. Premium (12% fee) : offers everything in the pro, plus advanced options like onboarding assistance and account support.
5. Best for long term contents like podcasts, music videos, video series, and educational materials.
Cirrden
1. Cirrden doesn't take any cuts or commission from creators' earnings, instead it offers an affordable, fixed monthly plan.
Starter: ₦5,000 / $10
Diamond: ₦15,000 / $25
Gold: ₦30,000 / $40
2. Offers multiple income streams: Cirrden has so many monetization options like tips, subscriptions, one time payment and donations.
3. Supports local currency: Cirrden uses both naira, cedis, Rand, or any payment method. This makes it suitable for any creator.
Global Reach
Patreon has a significant global reach, supporting creators and patrons across numerous platforms.
Although the platform has a glitch in reaching Africa creators. Nigerians have to make use of VPN in order to access the platform.
With Cirrden, creators' content is accessible anywhere in the world including Africa and most especially Nigeria. It also allows creators to earn revenue globally without any restrictions while staying locally. African creators can utilize the platform without any restriction and hindrance.
Payment Options
Patreon pays through PayPal or direct bank transfers. If you're in Nigeria you may need a VPN just to access the platform. Even with that, getting your money isn't always easy and straightforward.
With Cirrden, you get paid directly in Naira, Cedis, Rand, or whatever payment method fits your market best. It is fast, easy, and stress free.
Audience Fragmentation
Patreon requires you to move your audience from social media to their platform. And let's be honest not every fan will be willing to follow you to another platform just to pay.
Cirrden has tackled this smartly, through its seamless YouTube integration. you can connect your YouTube channel directly to your Cirrden account and start earning without making your fans do the impossible.
Platform policies
Patreon can change its policies and guidelines any time. These changes can impact creators earnings and monetization strategies. As a creator there's nothing you can do about it.
Cirrden keeps things transparent. No hidden fees, non-algorithmic discovery system. Just clear pricing and full control over your content and how you can earn it.
While both Cirrden and Patreon are powerful tools for content creators, they cater to different needs and audiences.
As a creator looking for a well established system with global credibility and subscription model then Patreon is a reliable option. This platform is best suited for creators with an international audience.
But if you're looking for creative freedom, multiple monetization options, transparent pricing, loyal community, and a system built specifically for African creators, Cirrden is just for you.