My commute is 20 km one-way, and while I love it most days, it does feel like a chore when I'm feeling tired or when the weather is bad. I don't push as hard as when I am on a rec ride. Plus, 20 km is very short for a rec ride for me. I'd not be fully satisfied unless it's at least 2 hours long. So, physiologically, it's easier. But perhaps psychologically it is tougher.