On the lookout for a cheap web designer? Reviews are a smart place to start, but not all of them are genuine.
Fiverr and Google are packed with testimonials for cheap web design services. Some are real, but others are faked to lure you in. Trusting fake reviews could mean throwing money at a website that’s a flop.
Here’s how to spot the fakes.
Why Fake Reviews Are Everywhere
Reviews build confidence. A freelancer with a ton of five-star feedback feels like a safe bet, especially at budget prices. But some sellers cheat. They buy reviews, swap them, or use fake accounts to praise themselves. On Google, some hire agencies to “manage” their reputation.
It’s shady, but it’s common.
Red Flags to Notice
1. Over-the-Top Hype
Real clients don’t sound like they’re pitching a product.
Fake: “This cheap web design service was unreal! Perfect work, crazy fast, absolute pros!!!”
Real: “They built a site for my bakery. It’s clean and works well.”
Excessive enthusiasm or too many exclamation marks? Be cautious.
2. Vague Compliments
Legit reviews include details — project type, business name, or specific fixes.
Fake: “Great job. Very professional. On time.”
Real: “Made a portfolio for my art business. Fixed a gallery issue fast.”
Generic praise that could fit any service is a red flag.
3. Suspicious Reviewer Profiles
Check the reviewer’s account.
On Google: Only one review? Posted with others same day?
On Fiverr: No profile pic, no order history, no other reviews?
Accounts made just to leave one review are suspicious.
4. Repeated Phrasing
Spot the same phrases across reviews?
Example: “Top cheap web designer, highly recommend!”
If reviews sound scripted, they probably are. Some sellers even reuse usernames across gigs.
5. Sudden Review Spikes
A new profile with 65 five-star reviews in a week? Unlikely.
Most happy clients don’t review. A rapid surge of perfect feedback often means paid reviews. On Fiverr, this is common for sellers chasing higher ranks.
Google Reviews: Same Scams, Different Style
Freelancers with websites use Google reviews to seem credible. Watch for:
- Reviews from one-review accounts
- All five-star ratings, no variety
- Generic names (“Chris R.,” “Emma P.”) with no profile pics
- Reviews posted in a tight time frame
- Stiff or reused wording
If it feels off, it probably is.
Signs of Honest Reviews
Real feedback looks like this:
- Plain Language: “They made my shop’s site. Looks good, runs fine.”
- Balanced Comments: “A bit slow on revisions, but the final site is great.”
- Specific Details: “Used WordPress for my blog. Mobile version is smooth.”
- Casual Tone: Like a friend chatting, not a sales ad.
Pro Tip: Reach Out
On Fiverr, you can sometimes message past clients. Try:
“Hi, saw your review. Still happy with the website?”
Not everyone replies, but those who do can give you the real scoop.
Don’t Trust “Perfect + Cheap” Claims
A designer with ultra-low prices, flawless reviews, and big promises? Be skeptical. Most cheap web design services are basic or unreliable. That’s fine if you’re after simple. But fake reviews can trick you into expecting premium quality for pennies. You won’t get it.
Final Thoughts
Real reviews are human — detailed, imperfect, and grounded. When searching for a Singapore cheap web designer, don’t just trust star ratings. Read the words, look for patterns, and dig deeper.
Spotting fake reviews protects your budget and your website.
