For Filipino freelancers, Upwork is better for long-term projects and higher income potential, while PeoplePerHour is better for quick gigs and flexible work schedules. Here's my honest comparison after using both for 6 years.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Upwork | PeoplePerHour |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 5% to 20% depending on earnings | 20% for the first £250, then 7.5% up to £5,000 |
| Payment to Philippines | Payoneer, Bank Transfer, PayPal | Payoneer, Bank Transfer, PayPal |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly, feature-rich | Simpler interface, less clutter |
| Best for | Long-term projects, higher rates | Short-term gigs, flexibility |
When to Choose Upwork
In my 6 years of freelancing, I've found Upwork to be the go-to platform for certain situations: - **Long-term Projects**: Upwork is ideal if you're looking for consistent work. I once secured a client that provided a steady income for over two years, allowing me to focus on fewer clients while earning more. - **Higher Income Potential**: With its diverse clientele, Upwork offers opportunities for higher-paying jobs. I earned $2,500 in my first month on Upwork, which was a significant boost compared to my previous jobs. - **Variety of Skills**: If you have multiple skills, Upwork's broad job categories can be beneficial. I was able to take on projects in writing, graphic design, and digital marketing, all from the same platform. - **Professional Development**: Upwork offers skill tests and certifications. This boosts your profile and credibility, attracting more serious clients.When to Choose PeoplePerHour
PeoplePerHour can be the better choice in these scenarios: - **Short-term Gigs**: If you prefer quick tasks over long-term commitments, PeoplePerHour is perfect. I often used it for weekend projects, allowing me to earn extra without affecting my main work. - **Flexible Work Schedules**: The platform's job postings often require less time commitment, which is great if you have a fluctuating schedule. This allowed me to balance work with personal commitments easily. - **Niche Skills**: If your skills are niche, like a specific programming language or a unique design style, PeoplePerHour can connect you with clients looking for specialized expertise. - **Starting Out**: For beginners, the platform's simpler interface and less competitive environment make it a good starting point to build confidence and gather reviews.Detailed Comparison
Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)
Both platforms have their fee structures, but they impact your earnings differently. Upwork charges between 5% to 20% based on your lifetime billings with a client, which means the more you work with a client, the lower the fee. On PeoplePerHour, the fees are 20% for the first £250 earned, reducing to 7.5% up to £5,000, and then 3.5% beyond that. Considering the average monthly income in the Philippines, these fees represent a significant amount. For example, at a 20% fee, that's like paying almost a month of minimum wage for every $500 earned. As a freelancer, it's crucial to factor these costs into your pricing.Payment Methods
Both Upwork and PeoplePerHour offer payment methods that are accessible in the Philippines, such as Payoneer, PayPal, and direct bank transfers. However, Upwork's integration with local banks like BDO and BPI can make transactions smoother and faster. I prefer using Payoneer for its lower transfer fees and faster payout times. Payoneer guideReady to Start Receiving Payments?
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Upwork's platform is more feature-rich, with tools like time trackers, messaging, and collaborative workspaces. However, this can be overwhelming for new users. PeoplePerHour, on the other hand, offers a cleaner, more straightforward interface, which can be less daunting for beginners.Client Quality
In my experience, Upwork tends to attract larger businesses and more professional clients, which often translates to better job stability and payment reliability. PeoplePerHour is great for freelancers looking for individual clients or smaller businesses that require quick, one-off tasks.For Beginners vs Experienced
For beginners, PeoplePerHour's less competitive environment and simpler interface can be less intimidating, making it ideal to start and build your portfolio. However, experienced freelancers might find Upwork's extensive client base and varied job listings more beneficial for career growth and income maximization.My Personal Experience
In my first year of freelancing, I primarily used Upwork and managed to earn $10,000, which was a significant milestone for someone transitioning from an OFW career. This experience taught me the importance of building long-term client relationships and the benefits of a diverse skill set. I also used PeoplePerHour for quick projects, which helped supplement my income during lean months. The flexibility of hopping between platforms allowed me to manage my time and income effectively.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Underpricing Services**: Many freelancers, including myself initially, underprice their services to win bids. This can lead to burnout without fair compensation. Always assess the project scope and charge accordingly. - **Ignoring Platform Fees**: Always account for platform fees in your pricing. These can significantly impact your take-home pay, especially in the Philippines where every peso counts. - **Overcommitting**: It's tempting to take on multiple projects, but this can lead to missed deadlines and poor quality work. Prioritize quality over quantity to maintain a good reputation. - **Neglecting Reviews**: Requesting feedback is crucial in building your profile. Positive reviews enhance your credibility and attract better clients.Frequently Asked Questions
Which platform has lower fees?
Upwork has a sliding scale fee from 5% to 20% based on lifetime billings with a client, potentially offering lower fees for long-term projects compared to PeoplePerHour's 20% fee on initial earnings.
Can I use GCash for payments?
While neither platform directly supports GCash, you can transfer earnings from Payoneer or PayPal to your GCash account. GCash guide
Is PeoplePerHour good for beginners?
Yes, PeoplePerHour is less competitive and has a simpler interface, making it a suitable choice for beginners looking to build their portfolio and earn initial reviews.
How do I avoid scams on these platforms?
Always verify client profiles, read reviews, and ensure that payments are made through the platform's secure system. Avoid clients who request transactions outside the platform.
How can I maximize my earnings?
Focus on building long-term client relationships, continuously improve your skills, and price your services competitively but fairly.