99designs vs PeoplePerHour: Which Platform Is Better?
Real fees, real tradeoffs. No affiliate links, no sponsored rankings. Compare 99designs and PeoplePerHour side-by-side in 2026.
A design-focused platform featuring contests where multiple designers submit work.
Model: Contest + Marketplace
Market: Design
Founded: 2008
Fee Comparison
| Feature | 99designs | PeoplePerHour |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | 0 | 0 (paid options) |
| Cost per Lead | Spec work / contests | Credits per proposal |
| Commission | ~15–30% | 20% → 7.5% → 3.5% (tiered per client) |
| Free Client Access | Yes | Yes |
| No Account Required | No | No |
| Target Market | Design | Global / EU |
No affiliate links. No sponsored rankings. We earn nothing from recommending any platform listed here.
ListAllExperts is one of the platforms compared - full disclosure: that's us. We apply the same criteria to our own listing.
Platform pricing and features may change without notice. Please verify current terms directly with each platform.
Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed by the listallexperts.com team. How we evaluate platforms
Our Verdict
Choose 99designs if: Graphic designers willing to compete in contests
Choose PeoplePerHour if: Freelancers targeting European clients
Target Markets & Focus
Each platform caters to specific skills, industries, and geographic regions. Understanding these differences helps you choose where your expertise is most valued.
99designs
Graphic Design, Branding, Web Design, Logo
Global (design-only, strong in Australia and US)
Design
PeoplePerHour
Web Dev, Design, Writing, SEO
UK/EU focus (strong in UK, expanding across Europe)
Global / EU
99designs Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Access to design-specific clients
- Contest format can lead to wins
- Good for building portfolio
Cons:
- Spec work required
- High competition in contests
- 15-30% commission
Best for: Graphic designers willing to compete in contests
PeoplePerHour Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lower commission at higher volumes
- Strong EU presence
- Hourlie feature for quick gigs
Cons:
- Credits needed for proposals
- High initial commission
- Complex fee structure
Best for: Freelancers targeting European clients
Summary
99designs charges ~15–30% in commission, while PeoplePerHour charges 20% → 7.5% → 3.5% (tiered per client). The right choice depends on how you work, not just what you pay.
99designs works well for graphic designers willing to compete in contests, particularly in the Design segment.
PeoplePerHour works well for freelancers targeting european clients, particularly in the Global / EU segment.
Want a third option? ListAllExperts offers flat-rate pricing with zero commission and direct client contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the commission on 99designs?
99designs charges ~15–30% commission. Contest-based with platform fees
What is the commission on PeoplePerHour?
PeoplePerHour charges 20% → 7.5% → 3.5% (tiered per client) commission. Per-client tiers: 20% below £250, 7.5% to £5,000, 3.5% above
Is 99designs or PeoplePerHour better for freelancers?
99designs suits Design. PeoplePerHour suits Global / EU. Choose based on your preferred fee model and target client type.
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