Peopleperhour vs Upwork Fees 2026: Which Is Better for Filipinos?

Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Upwork	PeoplePerHour
Fees	5% to 20% sliding scale	20% fixed
Payment to Philippines	Payoneer, Wire Transfer, PayPal	PayPal, Payoneer
Ease of use	Complex for beginners	More intuitive
Best for	High-volume work, diverse categories	Specialized skills, smaller projects

When to Choose Upwork

In my 6 years of freelancing, I've found Upwork ideal for several scenarios: - **High-Volume Work**: If you're looking to fill your schedule with numerous projects, Upwork's vast marketplace is unmatched. At one point, I managed 15 projects simultaneously, generating a steady income stream. - **Diverse Categories**: Upwork offers a wide array of categories from IT to creative writing, making it easier to shift between different job types as your skills evolve. - **Long-Term Engagements**: For freelancers interested in building long-term relationships with clients, Upwork provides opportunities for ongoing contracts that can last several months or even years. - **Established Freelancers**: Experienced freelancers can benefit from Upwork's Top Rated program, which I achieved in my third year, allowing access to premium jobs and exclusive customer support.

When to Choose PeoplePerHour

There are specific situations where PeoplePerHour might be the better choice: - **Specialized Skills**: If you have niche skills, such as advanced graphic design or specialized programming, PeoplePerHour's project listings often cater to more specific needs. - **Smaller Projects**: Freelancers looking for short-term gigs will find PeoplePerHour's project scope often involves smaller tasks, ideal for quick turnarounds. - **Showcasing Portfolios**: The platform allows freelancers to prominently display their work portfolios, helping attract clients who value visual evidence of prior work. - **Beginners**: For those starting out, PeoplePerHour's structure might be less daunting, offering a more welcoming environment to build initial client relationships.

Detailed Comparison

Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)

Upwork operates on a sliding scale fee structure, starting at 20% for the first $500 billed with a client, then 10% up to $10,000, and 5% beyond that. For a Filipino freelancer, this means that building long-term client relationships can significantly reduce costs. PeoplePerHour, on the other hand, charges a flat 20% fee on all projects, which might feel hefty if you're used to Upwork's decreasing rates. However, for short-term projects, the flat rate could be simpler to manage.

Payment Methods

Both Upwork and PeoplePerHour offer PayPal and Payoneer for payments, which are accessible in the Philippines. Upwork also extends the option of direct bank transfers, which could be more convenient for freelancers with accounts in major banks like BPI or BDO. For those using digital wallets, PayPal connects easily to GCash and Maya, facilitating smooth transfers to your local bank or cash withdrawal points. Payoneer guide GCash guide

User Experience

While Upwork provides a comprehensive platform with many features, it can be overwhelming for new users. The learning curve is steeper due to its extensive job categories and bidding processes. In contrast, PeoplePerHour is more intuitive with a straightforward interface, making it easier for beginners to navigate and start bidding on jobs.

Client Quality

Client quality can vary on both platforms. On Upwork, the sheer diversity of clients means you can find both high-paying and lower-budget projects. I've secured contracts with international clients who have paid up to $50 per hour. PeoplePerHour tends to attract smaller businesses, which might mean lower budgets but also less competition for jobs.

For Beginners vs Experienced

Beginners might find PeoplePerHour less intimidating due to its simpler interface and project structure. However, experienced freelancers may appreciate Upwork's larger client base and the potential for higher earnings through long-term contracts and repeat clients. As an experienced freelancer, I often turn to Upwork for more significant projects that align with my skills and expertise.

My Personal Experience

In my freelancing journey, I started on Upwork, where I earned $2,500 in my first month by diligently applying for projects and building a strong profile. This platform helped me transition from being an OFW to working from home, allowing me more time with my family. The experience taught me the importance of client communication and maintaining a high job success score, which has been crucial in securing more projects. On PeoplePerHour, I found opportunities to showcase my specialized skills in content writing and editing. Although the projects were smaller, they often provided quicker payouts, which was beneficial during lean months. The ability to quickly find and complete projects on PeoplePerHour complemented the longer-term engagements I maintained on Upwork.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

- **Ignoring Platform Fees**: Always factor in the platform fees when setting your rates. On Upwork, consider the sliding scale and adjust your pricing strategy accordingly. On PeoplePerHour, account for the flat 20% fee. - **Neglecting Profile Updates**: Keep your profile updated with new skills and certifications. Both platforms use algorithms that favor active and complete profiles. - **Underestimating Communication**: Miscommunication can lead to disputes and negative reviews. Ensure clear and regular communication with clients to avoid misunderstandings. - **Overcommitting**: Taking on too many projects at once can lead to burnout and compromised quality. Manage your workload effectively to maintain high standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which platform is better for high-paying clients?

Upwork is generally better for high-paying clients due to its diverse client base and the potential for long-term contracts.

How do I get paid in the Philippines from these platforms?

Filipino freelancers can use PayPal or Payoneer for both platforms, with Upwork offering additional bank transfer options. GCash guide

Are there taxes on earnings from these platforms?

Yes, freelancers must report earnings to the BIR and may opt for the 8% tax rate if eligible. BIR tax guide

Can beginners start on these platforms?

Yes, both platforms are suitable for beginners, though PeoplePerHour may be less daunting due to its simpler interface.

How can I improve my chances of getting hired?

Enhance your profile with a strong portfolio, maintain timely communication, and apply strategically to jobs that match your skills.

Final Verdict

For Filipino freelancers, choosing between Upwork and PeoplePerHour depends on your specific needs and goals. If you're aiming for high-volume work and are comfortable navigating a complex platform, Upwork is your best bet. However, if you prefer a more straightforward interface and are focusing on specialized skills or smaller projects, PeoplePerHour might be more suitable. Ultimately, it's about aligning the platform's strengths with your freelancing strategy. more guides