For Filipino freelancers, Fiverr is better for creative projects and accessing a wide range of international clients, while PeoplePerHour is better for specialized services and long-term collaborations. Here's my honest comparison after using both for 6 years.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Fiverr | PeoplePerHour |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 20% commission on earnings | 20% commission, reduced with more earnings |
| Payment to Philippines | PayPal, Payoneer, Bank Transfer | PayPal, Payoneer, Bank Transfer |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly interface | Complex for beginners |
| Best for | Creative gigs, short-term projects | Specialized services, long-term contracts |
When to Choose Fiverr
As a Filipino freelancer, you might find Fiverr more appealing in several scenarios: - **Creative Gigs**: If you're offering services like graphic design, writing, or video editing, Fiverr is a thriving marketplace. In my experience, I quickly found clients for logo designs, which helped me earn $2,500 in my first few months. - **Short-Term Projects**: For quick gigs with a clear start and end, Fiverr is ideal. The platform's gig system allows you to set predefined packages, making it easy to manage expectations and deadlines. - **Beginner-Friendly**: Fiverr’s interface is intuitive, simplifying the process for those new to freelancing. When I started, the step-by-step setup helped me launch my first gig in just a few hours. - **Global Clientele**: With Fiverr, I accessed a diverse international client base, expanding my portfolio across multiple industries.When to Choose PeoplePerHour
PeoplePerHour suits freelancers who are looking for: - **Specialized Services**: If your skill set is niche or highly specialized, PeoplePerHour can connect you with clients seeking expert services. For instance, I found clients interested in technical writing and consultancy, areas where I could offer deep expertise. - **Long-Term Collaborations**: This platform encourages ongoing projects and retainer agreements. I secured a long-term content writing contract that lasted over a year, providing steady income. - **Higher-Paying Projects**: Many clients on PeoplePerHour are seeking quality over quantity, often offering higher rates for the right expertise. - **Flexible Work Environment**: The platform supports various working arrangements, which was beneficial when I needed to balance multiple projects simultaneously.Detailed Comparison
Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)
Both Fiverr and PeoplePerHour charge a 20% commission on your earnings, which can significantly impact your take-home pay. On Fiverr, this rate is fixed, while PeoplePerHour reduces its fee as you earn more, which might be beneficial if you're handling large projects. For Filipino freelancers, consider that this fee can equate to a significant sum—a few thousand pesos each month.Payment Methods
Both platforms offer multiple payment options suitable for freelancers in the Philippines. You can use PayPal, Payoneer, or direct bank transfers for withdrawals. Personally, I prefer Payoneer for its competitive exchange rates and lower fees when transferring to my BDO account. Payoneer guideUser Experience
Fiverr’s platform is designed to be user-friendly, which is excellent for beginners. Its interface is clean and straightforward, making it easy to navigate through gigs and manage orders. PeoplePerHour, on the other hand, has a steeper learning curve with more complex features, but it offers greater control over project specifics once you get accustomed to it.Client Quality
Fiverr attracts a broad spectrum of clients, from startups to large enterprises, but the focus is often on quantity and speed. PeoplePerHour tends to have clients who are looking for quality and are willing to pay for specialized skills. This difference can influence the types of projects and the level of creativity or expertise required.For Beginners vs Experienced
For beginners, Fiverr is generally more accessible due to its simplicity and large client base. Experienced freelancers might find PeoplePerHour more rewarding due to its focus on quality and longer-term projects. I found that as I gained more experience and specialized skills, PeoplePerHour offered more opportunities that matched my expertise.My Personal Experience
In my 6 years of freelancing, both Fiverr and PeoplePerHour have been instrumental in building my career. When I first started on Fiverr, the ability to quickly set up gigs allowed me to earn my first $500 in just a few weeks. This was crucial as it equaled about one month of minimum wage in Manila, giving me the confidence to continue freelancing. On PeoplePerHour, I took on several consultancy projects that paid significantly more per hour than my initial gigs on Fiverr. One particular project involved a six-month contract that paid $3,000, which was a substantial income boost. The key lesson I learned was that both platforms serve different purposes at different stages of a freelancing career. Fiverr was perfect for building my portfolio and gaining quick income, while PeoplePerHour was invaluable for deeper, more financially rewarding engagements.Common Mistakes to Avoid
- **Underpricing Services**: Many freelancers price their services too low to attract clients quickly. This can devalue your work and make it challenging to raise rates later. Start with a fair price that reflects your skills and the market rate. - **Ignoring Platform Fees**: Always factor in the platform's commission when setting your rates. A 20% fee can quickly eat into your profits, so price your services accordingly. - **Inconsistent Communication**: Poor communication with clients can lead to misunderstandings and disputes. Ensure that you establish clear communication channels and respond promptly to queries. - **Neglecting Feedback**: Client feedback is vital for building your reputation on these platforms. Always ask for reviews after completing a project and use constructive criticism to improve your services.Frequently Asked Questions
Which platform has lower fees?
Both Fiverr and PeoplePerHour charge a 20% commission on earnings. However, PeoplePerHour reduces this fee as you earn more, which can be beneficial for larger projects.
Can I use GCash for payments?
Currently, neither Fiverr nor PeoplePerHour offers direct GCash withdrawals. You can use Payoneer or PayPal and then transfer your funds to GCash. GCash guide
Which platform is better for beginners?
Fiverr is generally more beginner-friendly due to its straightforward setup and large client base, making it easier to find initial projects.
Is it possible to work on both platforms simultaneously?
Yes, many freelancers use both platforms to maximize opportunities and income. Managing time and commitments effectively is key to success.
What payment method offers the best rates?
Payoneer often offers competitive exchange rates and lower fees compared to other methods, which can be advantageous for freelancers in the Philippines. Payoneer guide