Fiverr vs Peopleperhour: Which is Better?
In the rapidly expanding world of freelancing, online platforms have become the foundation for connecting professionals and clients. Among the most popular are Fiverr and PeoplePerHour. While both serve similar goals—connecting freelancers to clients—their approach, structure, and audience differ significantly.
Whether you’re a freelancer looking to make money online or a client in need of services, understanding the difference between Fiverr and PeoplePerHour can help you make the best decision.
1. Platform Overview
Fiverr
- Founded: 2010 (Israel)
- Model: Gig-based (service catalog)
- Users: 3.4 million+ active buyers
- Popular for: Logo design, writing, marketing, programming, voiceovers
On Fiverr, freelancers (called “sellers”) create gigs—fixed-price packages offering a specific service. Buyers browse gigs and place orders based on what they need.
PeoplePerHour
- Founded: 2007 (UK)
- Model: Hybrid (Gig-based + bidding system)
- Users: 1+ million freelancers
- Popular for: Design, business services, development, admin support
PeoplePerHour allows freelancers to either post Offers (similar to Fiverr’s gigs) or bid on posted jobs by clients. This hybrid model gives freelancers more flexibility.
2. Sign-Up and Setup
Fiverr
- Sign-up is quick and free.
- Freelancers can create up to 7 gigs (more as they level up).
- Each gig has 3 pricing tiers, descriptions, FAQs, and extras.
- No bidding—buyers come to you.
PeoplePerHour
- Sign-up is manual and reviewed.
- You must submit an application with your profile, experience, and skills.
- Once approved, you can apply to jobs or post Offers.
- You can only send a limited number of proposals unless you pay for more.
Verdict: Fiverr has a faster onboarding process. PeoplePerHour is more selective but may ensure higher-quality freelancers.
3. Fee Structure
Fiverr
- Charges 20% commission on every order.
- Clients pay a small processing fee.
- No subscription is required.
PeoplePerHour
- Commission rates are:
- 20% on first $350 with a client
- 7.5% on earnings between $350–$7,000
- 3.5% beyond $7,000
- Free membership allows 15 bids/month.
- Paid membership (starting at $13/month) gives more credits and features.
Verdict: PeoplePerHour’s commission decreases over time with recurring clients, while Fiverr has a flat 20% rate. For long-term clients, PeoplePerHour can be more economical.
4. Finding Work
Fiverr
- Freelancers wait for clients to find their gigs.
- Success depends on gig SEO, reviews, and delivery speed.
- You can also send custom offers if a buyer contacts you.
PeoplePerHour
- Freelancers can browse job listings and submit proposals.
- You get a set number of proposal credits each month.
- Also allows “Offers,” which are like Fiverr gigs.
Verdict: Fiverr is passive (clients come to you), while PeoplePerHour is more active (you search and apply). Choose based on your preferred style.
5. Project Types and Categories
Fiverr
- Best for predefined tasks: logo design, voiceover, article writing, website fixes, etc.
- Gig packages are perfect for small, repeatable jobs.
PeoplePerHour
- Supports more flexible and ongoing work: virtual assistance, development projects, consulting, etc.
- Strong in UK/Europe for business and tech services.
Verdict: Fiverr excels in short-term creative work. PeoplePerHour is ideal for longer or more customized jobs.
6. Client Interaction
Fiverr
- Clients buy your gigs directly, no proposal needed.
- Communication happens after the order or through messaging.
- You can’t apply to jobs unless the client messages first.
PeoplePerHour
- You can chat with the client before the project starts.
- Freelancers send tailored proposals explaining their approach and price.
- Better for negotiation and setting expectations upfront.
Verdict: PeoplePerHour allows more direct client engagement before work starts. Fiverr keeps the process fast and productized.
7. Payment and Withdrawal
Fiverr
- Payment is held in escrow.
- Funds are available for withdrawal after 14 days (7 for Top Rated sellers).
- Payment methods: PayPal, bank transfer, Fiverr Revenue Card.
PeoplePerHour
- Payments are also escrow-based.
- You can raise invoices manually.
- Withdrawals via PayPal, Payoneer, or bank.
Verdict: Both offer secure escrow systems, but Fiverr’s withdrawal delay is longer for new sellers.
8. Dispute Resolution
Fiverr
- Fiverr has its own resolution center.
- Clients can request revisions or cancel if expectations aren’t met.
- Fiverr support may lean in favor of buyers.
PeoplePerHour
- Has a structured dispute and refund system.
- Disputes can go to moderation with evidence.
- Better for protecting long-term freelancers.
Verdict: PeoplePerHour offers more formal resolution, especially useful for big or complex projects.
9. Earning Potential
Fiverr
- Earnings are scalable with multiple gigs.
- High-volume sellers or Fiverr Pro freelancers can earn thousands per month.
- Great for automation—same gig, multiple buyers.
PeoplePerHour
- More control over pricing, negotiation, and project terms.
- Lower commission for repeat clients improves profits.
- Better suited for building long-term contracts and relationships.
Verdict: Fiverr suits freelancers who like selling standardized packages at scale. PeoplePerHour is better for freelancers seeking deep client relationships and high-ticket projects.
10. User Base and Reach
Fiverr
- Global user base with a strong presence in the US, India, Pakistan, and Europe.
- High volume of buyers in creative fields.
PeoplePerHour
- Strongest presence in the UK and Europe.
- Focused on business and professional services.
Verdict: Fiverr has a broader global audience. PeoplePerHour offers better access to UK and EU businesses.
Final Comparison Table
Feature | Fiverr | PeoplePerHour |
---|---|---|
Platform Type | Gig-based | Hybrid (gig + bidding) |
Ease of Use | Very easy | Requires approval |
Commission | 20% flat | 20%–3.5% (sliding scale) |
Project Style | Short, repeatable gigs | Custom, ongoing work |
Client Communication | Post-order or via inbox | Pre-job messaging & proposal |
Best For | Designers, writers, voice-over | Consultants, devs, business pros |
Payment Release | 14-day clearance | Invoice-based, more flexible |
Popular In | Worldwide | UK, EU |
Dispute Handling | Basic | Formal & structured |
Conclusion: Fiverr vs PeoplePerHour – Which Should You Choose?
Choose Fiverr if:
- You want a quick start and passive gig income.
- You offer simple, repeatable services.
- You prefer to focus on delivery rather than writing proposals.
Choose PeoplePerHour if:
- You want to bid on custom projects.
- You seek long-term clients and recurring work.
- You offer business, tech, or administrative services.
Pro Tip: Many successful freelancers use both platforms. Use Fiverr to build your portfolio and get passive sales. Use PeoplePerHour to land bigger, more involved projects.