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

Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Upwork	PeoplePerHour
Fees	20% for the first $500, then 10%	20% flat rate until £250, then 7.5%
Payment to Philippines	PayPal, Payoneer, Direct to Local Bank	PayPal, Payoneer
Ease of Use	Moderately complex with many features	Simple and straightforward
Best for	Long-term projects, diverse opportunities	Quick, short-term tasks

When to Choose Upwork

In my 6 years of freelancing, I've found that Upwork is particularly beneficial under several scenarios: - **Long-term Projects**: If you're looking for ongoing work with the potential for a stable income, Upwork is ideal. Many clients seek freelancers for projects that can last months, allowing you to develop a consistent working relationship. - **Diverse Opportunities**: The sheer variety of job listings on Upwork caters to a wide range of skills, from virtual assistance to software development. This diversity can help you pivot between different types of work as you gain more experience. - **Building a Portfolio**: When starting, securing a few diverse projects on Upwork can help you build a robust portfolio. Each completed project enhances your credibility, attracting more clients over time. - **Reputation Building**: Upwork's feedback system allows freelancers to accumulate ratings and testimonials. As a former OFW, building a strong profile helped me transition smoothly into freelancing without the need for physical relocation.

When to Choose PeoplePerHour

On the other hand, PeoplePerHour might be the better option in these scenarios: - **Quick Tasks**: If you prefer completing tasks that require less commitment, PeoplePerHour offers numerous short-term projects that can be finished in a day or two. - **Side Hustle**: For freelancers who are exploring online work alongside a full-time job, PeoplePerHour's project-based system allows you to take on work as your schedule allows. - **Specialized Skills**: If you have niche skills, PeoplePerHour's platform can help you stand out. For example, I once found a project needing expertise in a specific graphic design technique that was less common on Upwork. - **Fewer Proposals Needed**: Unlike Upwork, PeoplePerHour often requires fewer proposals to land a job, making it less competitive for new freelancers.

Detailed Comparison

Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)

For Filipino freelancers, understanding the fee structure is crucial. Upwork charges a 20% fee on the first $500 you earn with a client, which reduces to 10% for total billings between $500 and $10,000. Meanwhile, PeoplePerHour charges a flat 20% fee up to £250, then reduces to 7.5%. Considering the average earnings in Manila, these fees can significantly impact your net income.

Payment Methods

Both platforms support PayPal and Payoneer, but Upwork offers more flexibility by allowing direct transfers to local banks like BDO, BPI, and UnionBank. This feature can save you from high transfer fees and delays associated with international payments. For a comprehensive guide on using Payoneer for these platforms, see Payoneer guide.

User Experience

Upwork's interface is feature-rich, which can be overwhelming for beginners but beneficial as you become more familiar with freelancing. PeoplePerHour, in contrast, is more straightforward, making it easier for newcomers to navigate and start applying for jobs quickly.

Client Quality

From my experience, Upwork tends to attract more established businesses looking for long-term partnerships, while PeoplePerHour often features smaller businesses or individuals needing immediate help with specific tasks. This dichotomy can influence the type of work you secure and your potential for growth.

For Beginners vs Experienced

For beginners, PeoplePerHour's simpler bidding process and less crowded marketplace can be advantageous. However, as you gain more experience, Upwork's broader client base and diverse project listings offer better opportunities for career advancement and income growth.

My Personal Experience

In my first month on Upwork, I earned $2,500, a significant jump from my previous salary as an OFW. This opened my eyes to the potential of online freelancing. I learned to diversify my skill set, which allowed me to tap into various projects, from writing to project management. On PeoplePerHour, I found that quick projects were perfect for filling gaps between larger commitments, ensuring a steady cash flow.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

- **Ignoring Platform Fees**: Always calculate your potential earnings after fees. Both platforms have significant charges that can affect your net pay in the Philippines. - **Overlooking Payment Methods**: Ensure that the payment method you choose is supported and cost-effective. Payoneer is a popular choice, but direct bank transfers could be more beneficial, depending on your bank's fees Payoneer guide. - **Neglecting Profile Optimization**: Whether on Upwork or PeoplePerHour, a well-optimized profile with a strong portfolio can significantly increase your chances of securing projects. - **Underestimating Proposal Quality**: Writing generic proposals often leads to rejection. Tailor each proposal to the client's specific needs, demonstrating your understanding and ability to meet their requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Upwork or PeoplePerHour better for beginners?

PeoplePerHour can be easier for beginners due to less competition and simpler projects, but Upwork offers more diverse opportunities for long-term growth.

How do payment methods compare for these platforms in the Philippines?

Upwork supports PayPal, Payoneer, and direct bank transfers to major Philippine banks, while PeoplePerHour primarily uses PayPal and Payoneer.

What are the fees on Upwork and PeoplePerHour?

Upwork charges 20% on the first $500 earned per client, then 10%. PeoplePerHour has a 20% fee up to £250, reduced to 7.5% thereafter.

Can I use GCash to receive payments?

While GCash is not directly supported for withdrawals, you can transfer PayPal funds to GCash. Check GCash guide for more details.

Which platform is better for long-term freelancers?

Upwork is generally better for long-term freelancers due to its variety of projects and potential for building lasting client relationships.

Final Verdict

For Filipino freelancers, choosing between Upwork and PeoplePerHour largely depends on your goals and work preferences. If you're seeking long-term projects and want to build a diverse portfolio, Upwork is the way to go. However, if you prefer quick tasks or are just starting, PeoplePerHour might offer a smoother entry into freelancing. Ultimately, both platforms can be valuable, depending on how they align with your career ambitions. For more guidance on using these platforms, check out the more guides.