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

Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Upwork	PeoplePerHour
Fees	5% to 20% depending on earnings	20% on projects below £250, lower for higher amounts
Payment to Philippines	Via Payoneer, Wise, direct to local banksPayoneer guide	PayPal, direct to bank accounts
Ease of Use	Moderate, complex interface	User-friendly, simpler interface
Best for	High-volume, diverse projects, experienced freelancers	Short-term, niche projects, beginners

When to Choose Upwork

- If you're looking for a wide range of job categories: Upwork offers diverse categories from graphic design to data science, making it ideal for freelancers with varied skills. - For access to high-budget projects: In my experience, I've landed projects worth over $5,000, something less common on PeoplePerHour. - When you want reliable payment methods: Upwork’s integration with Payoneer and Wise ensures faster and cheaper transfers to the PhilippinesPayoneer guide. - For building a long-term freelance career: Upwork's client feedback system helps build a strong reputation over time, increasing chances of securing better jobs.

When to Choose PeoplePerHour

- If you’re a beginner: PeoplePerHour is more welcoming to new freelancers, with an easier application process. - For quick, short-term projects: It's ideal for freelancers who want to take on smaller jobs that can be completed quickly. - If you prefer a simpler platform: The user interface is straightforward, which I found less overwhelming compared to Upwork. - When targeting European clients: PeoplePerHour is popular in the UK and Europe, providing good opportunities for those focusing on these markets.

Detailed Comparison

Fees and Costs (Philippines-specific)

Both platforms charge a percentage of your earnings, but the structure varies. Upwork's fees decrease as you earn more with a client, starting at 20% and dropping to 5% for earnings above $10,000. On the other hand, PeoplePerHour charges a flat 20% fee on projects under £250, which can be significant for smaller jobs. Given the current exchange rates, a project at £250 can equate to around PHP 16,000, making the fees comparable to two weeks’ salary for many entry-level jobs in Manila.

Payment Methods

Upwork supports payment methods such as Payoneer, Wise, and direct bank transfers, which are crucial for Filipino freelancers seeking efficient and cost-effective transfersPayoneer guide. PeoplePerHour offers PayPal and direct bank transfers, but the fees for currency conversion can be higher. For local convenience, GCash and Maya can be linked to PayPal, but this often involves additional steps and fees.

User Experience

Upwork’s interface can be initially daunting, with its numerous features and tools. However, once mastered, it provides useful insights into project management and client interaction. In contrast, PeoplePerHour’s interface is simpler and more intuitive, which can be less intimidating for newcomers. During my early freelancing days, I appreciated PeoplePerHour's simplicity, which allowed me to focus more on the work rather than navigating the platform.

Client Quality

Upwork tends to attract a diverse range of clients from all over the world, including high-profile companies. This offers opportunities to work on more prestigious projects. PeoplePerHour, while having a smaller client base, allows freelancers to connect more personally with clients, often leading to repeat work and long-term relationships.

For Beginners vs Experienced

Beginners might find PeoplePerHour more accessible due to its straightforward application process and less competitive environment. On the other hand, seasoned freelancers can leverage Upwork’s vast marketplace to find high-paying clients and long-term contracts. In my career, transitioning to Upwork allowed me to scale my freelancing business significantly, moving from projects worth a few hundred to those worth thousands of dollars.

My Personal Experience

In my 6 years of freelancing, I’ve navigated both Upwork and PeoplePerHour extensively. I started with PeoplePerHour, where I completed over 50 projects in my first year, earning approximately $2,000. This was a significant amount at the time, equivalent to several months of minimum wage in Manila. As I gained confidence and experience, I transitioned to Upwork, seeking larger projects. Within my first month, I earned $2,500 on Upwork, which was a turning point in my freelancing career. The ability to bid on a variety of projects and negotiate better rates helped me grow my income exponentially.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

- **Ignoring Platform Fees**: Always calculate your take-home pay after fees to avoid surprises. Utilize tools like Payoneer for better ratesPayoneer guide. - **Underpricing Your Services**: Don’t undervalue your work. Research and set competitive rates that reflect your skills and experience. - **Failing to Communicate Clearly**: Miscommunication with clients can lead to disputes. Always clarify project details before commencing work. - **Not Building a Portfolio**: A well-maintained portfolio can significantly increase your chances of being hired. Regularly update it with your best work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which platform is better for beginners?

PeoplePerHour is generally more beginner-friendly due to its simpler interface and less competitive environment.

How do payment methods compare for Filipino freelancers?

Upwork offers Payoneer and Wise, which are cost-effective for Filipino freelancers, while PeoplePerHour primarily uses PayPal, which can incur higher fees.

Can I use both platforms simultaneously?

Yes, many freelancers use both platforms to maximize their opportunities and income.

What are the typical fees on these platforms?

Upwork charges 5% to 20% depending on your earnings with a client, while PeoplePerHour charges 20% on projects below £250 and lower rates for higher amounts.

Which platform is better for long-term projects?

Upwork is generally better for long-term projects due to its larger client base and variety of available contracts.

Final Verdict

For Filipino freelancers, Upwork is the preferable choice for those seeking high-paying, long-term projects and a wide range of job categories. Its robust payment options and access to international clients make it ideal for experienced freelancers. However, PeoplePerHour remains a strong contender for beginners and those preferring short-term, niche projects. Ultimately, the best platform depends on your specific needs and career goals. Consider exploring both to see which aligns best with your freelancing style. more guides