For Filipino freelancers, Fiverr is better for creative gigs like graphic design, while PeoplePerHour is better for specialized projects requiring extensive collaboration. Here's my honest comparison after using both for 6 years.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Fiverr | PeoplePerHour |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 20% per gig | 20% service fee + $0.60 withdrawal fee |
| Payment to Philippines | Payoneer, PayPal, Bank Transfer | Payoneer, PayPal, Bank Transfer |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly for quick gigs | Better for ongoing projects |
| Best for | Creative and short-term projects | Long-term and specialized projects |
When to Choose Fiverr
In my 6 years of freelancing, I've found Fiverr to be particularly advantageous in several scenarios: - **Creative Gigs**: If you're a graphic designer, writer, or artist, Fiverr is ideal for you. The platform's layout is designed to showcase creative portfolios effectively. - **Short-term Projects**: Fiverr works best for projects that can be completed in a short timeframe, typically one-time tasks that don’t require ongoing collaboration. - **Building a Diverse Portfolio**: It's easier to take on a variety of gigs, helping you build a diverse portfolio quickly. This was how I landed 400+ projects, enhancing my skillset along the way. - **Entry-Level Freelancers**: If you're new to freelancing, Fiverr's gig creation system can help you get started without needing to bid on projects, which can be daunting for beginners.When to Choose PeoplePerHour
On the other hand, PeoplePerHour suits different needs: - **Specialized Skills**: If you have specialized skills such as software development or engineering, PeoplePerHour is a better choice due to its focus on detailed project descriptions and client collaborations. - **Long-term Projects**: It's ideal for long-term contracts where you can work closely with clients over an extended period. - **Higher Rates**: PeoplePerHour often attracts clients willing to pay higher rates for quality work, which can be beneficial if you're looking to maximize your income. - **Experienced Freelancers**: For someone like me, who has amassed significant experience, PeoplePerHour offers more complex projects that are suitable for honing expertise further.Detailed Comparison
Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)
Both Fiverr and PeoplePerHour take a 20% cut from your earnings. However, PeoplePerHour also charges a $0.60 withdrawal fee. Considering the exchange rates and local bank charges, this can add up. For instance, sending your earnings to a BDO or BPI account might incur additional fees, reducing your net income. This is significant, as every peso counts when supporting a family back home.Payment Methods
Both platforms offer flexible payment options, including Payoneer, PayPal, and direct bank transfers. For Filipino freelancers, using Payoneer is often advantageous due to its lower transaction fees and favorable exchange rates. I personally use Payoneer to receive payments from both platforms. Payoneer guideReady to Start Receiving Payments?
Open a free Payoneer account and get $25 bonus when you receive your first $1000.
Open Free Payoneer AccountUser Experience
Fiverr's interface is straightforward, making it simple for freelancers to create and manage gigs. On the contrary, PeoplePerHour requires more detailed proposals and offers a more complex user experience. Filipino freelancers who are tech-savvy and prefer detailed project management might find PeoplePerHour beneficial.Client Quality
While both platforms offer a range of clients, PeoplePerHour tends to attract businesses seeking long-term partnerships and higher-quality work. Fiverr, conversely, often caters to clients looking for quick, affordable solutions. In my experience, this difference can impact the type of projects you work on and the relationships you build with clients.For Beginners vs Experienced
Fiverr is beginner-friendly, allowing new freelancers to start earning without prior experience. PeoplePerHour, however, is more suited for experienced freelancers due to its demand for detailed proposals and the nature of the projects available. As a seasoned freelancer, I find PeoplePerHour's projects more challenging and rewarding.My Personal Experience
In my first month on Fiverr, I earned approximately $2,500 from various gigs, ranging from graphic design to writing SEO content. This was a significant boost compared to the salary I earned as an OFW. On the other hand, PeoplePerHour allowed me to work on more complex projects, such as a long-term content strategy for a UK-based company, where I earned over $5,000 in three months. This dual experience has taught me the importance of choosing the right platform based on my current goals and skills.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Not Understanding Fees**: Always calculate the total costs involved, including platform fees and bank charges, to ensure you're making a fair profit. - **Ignoring Client Reviews**: On Fiverr, client reviews can significantly impact your profile. Always strive for high ratings by delivering quality work on time. - **Overcommitting**: It's easy to accept too many gigs, especially on Fiverr. Prioritize quality over quantity to maintain a strong reputation. - **Neglecting Tax Obligations**: As a freelancer, you must file taxes with the BIR. Understanding the 8% tax rate and securing a TIN is essential to avoid penalties. BIR tax guideFrequently Asked Questions
How does Fiverr's fee structure work?
Fiverr charges a 20% fee on each transaction. This means if you earn $100, you will receive $80.
What are the withdrawal options on PeoplePerHour?
You can withdraw funds via PayPal, Payoneer, or direct bank transfer. Each method has different fees and processing times.
Is it possible to work on both Fiverr and PeoplePerHour?
Yes, many freelancers use both platforms to maximize their opportunities and income. However, managing time and commitments is crucial.
Which platform is better for web developers?
PeoplePerHour is often better for web developers due to its focus on long-term projects and specialized skills.
Can I negotiate my rates on these platforms?
On Fiverr, rates are typically set per gig, but on PeoplePerHour, you can negotiate fees with clients based on project complexity.