If you’re in the market for some extra cash and searching for an enjoyable side hustle, it’s well worth considering giving user testing a try.
Believe it or not, user testing sites give you the opportunity to earn from doing something as simple as using websites and apps, and giving your opinion on them. Sometimes you can even get paid play games and tell the developers what you think!
So, if you like the thought of trying out new apps and recording your opinion on them, read on. This article tells you all you need to know to get started as a tester, including 21 sites where you could sign up today.
What is Website User Testing?
Website testers provide constructive feedback on new prototype versions of websites and apps to the developers working on them.
Depending on the website, there are several different testing methods. Some involve answering simple questions or filling out questionnaires.
The most popular way sees you record your thoughts out loud into your microphone, sometimes while recording a video. Usually, you complete a prescribed set of tasks on the website (or app) to see how easy or intuitive the experience is.
What are User Testing Sites?
These are websites that pay you to test the sites of their clients. Those clients are usually companies or developers.
Generally, you browse a list of open jobs and claim any if you meet the required demographics. However, some sites send email invitations instead of opening up to everyone on their database. Sometimes, you do the testing via the user testing site’s own system. Other sites may require you to download software or use systems like Zoom.
With most sites, you first register a free account so you can get paid to test websites. Some will ask you to take a pretest, while others let you dive right in.
Note that the amount of available work tends to fluctuate. Sometimes you might see a several dozen studies available and then have the lists completely dry up at others.
Also, some developers ask for specific demographic requirements like age, gender or income level, so not everyone can claim every assignment.
Demographic requirements can be precise at times, for example: “people who regularly book overseas travel” or “those who use particular accounting software.”
With so many homeworking scams out there, user testing IS a legitimate way to make money online. So if you’re looking for ways to earn a bit of extra money, check out the user testing sites below.
21 User Testing Sites
The growth in demand to test websites has caused significant shifts in the industry. The biggest players are trying to keep their hold on the market by purchasing their rivals. Others are repositioning, and new players are trying to get a foot in the door.
It all points to changes ahead. So, always make sure that any site you decide to work for is still legitimate. We have done our best to provide you with the best options available at the time of writing. However, we’ve not used every one of these sites ourselves – please do your own due diligence.
1. UserTesting
UserTesting is a favourite of HomeWorkingClub, and a site we can definitely vouch for. UserTesting works by having you install an app on your device (for mobile) or using a Chrome extension (for tests on your computer).
This software allows the company to record your actions as you interact with a website. It records while you speak your thoughts out loud. You work through a series of tasks on whatever website or app you are testing.
This site pays $10 for a test, and they take up to 20 minutes to complete on average. Some tasks can be more involved and pay more. The highest paying tests are “live conversations” – these tests pay up to $120, and involve a direct Zoom call, rather than a test you record.
The California-based company accepts testers worldwide, including the U.S., Canada, the UK and Mexico. You get paid via PayPal seven days after task completion.
For more information, you can read our full UserTesting review here.
2. TestingTime
This Switzerland-based site facilitates both online user tests and market research style interviews. It pays up to €50 per study, with tests taking anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes.
The site works by having you first set up an account with profile information and an email address. If your profile matches a study’s demographics, you get an email inviting you to be a website tester for that study.
Tests are assigned on a first-come-first-served basis. Payment comes via PayPal or directly to your bank account within ten business days.
This is another site the team has used with good results. Sign up here.
3. UserCrowd
UserCrowd is in a different from some other user testing sites, because you rate the websites and apps you test using a series of short questions. You also answer these questions directly from your browser.
You may be more comfortable with this option if you don’t like the idea of someone else monitoring your activity remotely or are shy of speaking into a microphone.
Also, with UserCrowd, you don’t have to have complete silence while you work, which isn’t the case if you’re being recorded.
The site also works on more of a micro-task setup. Each task typically takes less than a minute and you simply give your opinion. However, most tasks pay less than one dollar. For instance, you might be paid 20 cents or 50 cents per task. As such, this is very much “pocket money” income.
UserCrowd is the tester brand side of the Australia-based UsabilityHub, which has been around since 2008. For more information, you can read our full review of UserCrowd here.
4. TryMyUI
US-based TryMyUI has mixed reviews online. However, it’s a common site to see pop up when you’re looking for ways to get paid to test websites, so its inclusion here is justified.
The controversy around this site suggests that you don’t get paid if the company deems that you did a test “wrongly.” Some people report prompt payment of their money via PayPal the Friday after completing tests. Others say they haven’t been paid for work completed – so proceed with caution. This site pays $10 for tests that take around 20 minutes.
From what we’ve seen, TryMyUI doesn’t have nearly the volume of tests you see on sites like UserTesting.
5. MTurk
Amazon’s Mechanical Turk, or MTurk, also has user testing tasks that you can claim. Amazon is, of course, a US-based site, but MTurk takes workers from many countries around the world. Workers outside the US in 25 countries can now transfer earnings directly to their bank accounts.
MTurk works on a micro-task format, where you complete small tasks for varying rates of pay. MTurk’s homepage doesn’t list usability testing as one of the most common tasks, but other sites give tutorials on using MTurk for usability tests.
We have a full user review of Mechanical Turk here.
6. UserFeel
This is one of the user testing sites that pays the standard $10 for a 10 to 20-minute test. You perform tasks on a website, such as navigating through the site or finding specific features. Thanks to their mobile app, you can work from your computer, phone or tablet, and speak through your experience as you perform the website testing.
Based in the UK and Greece, UserFeel has been around since 2010. The company takes clients and testers from across the world, and the site works in 40 different languages.
7. Userlytics
Userlytics is a little different in that rates can vary between tests. Common rates run from $5 all the way to $20 per test. Some tests even pay up to $90. This is another site where you speak out loud into a microphone.
Most of the projects are based in Europe and North America, however, the company says it’s opening up projects to other locations like South Africa, China, Japan and other countries. The California-based company has been around since 2009 and currently has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
8. Enroll
Enroll is popular because it does not make you take a sample test and it allows you to test websites and apps using a smartphone, a tablet, or a computer.
The downside is that the amount they pay you to test is lower than most other sites. The testing jobs vary a lot in terms of the minutes to complete and therefore so does the pay. Payment is once per month via PayPal.
9. Userbrain
To become a Userbrain website tester, you will need to complete a sample test. But the site provides help, so you do know what’s expected in advance.
Tests on this site take 5 to 15 minutes to complete. Don’t expect to make a lot of money by testing for them, though, as pay is $3 per test. Once again, you will need to have a PayPal account to get paid.
Userbrain may decline to pay for the work done by their website testers if:
- there is a problem with the video or audio
- you do not follow instructions, or
- if you familiarize yourself with the site being studied before you start testing.
So, if you want to ensure you are making money when you test websites, you must follow the rules carefully! This applies to all sites!
10. PingPong
PingPong is another company that claims to enable users from across the globe to test websites. You get €15 per 30-minute test and €30 for 60-minute tests. They also claim that in some exceptional cases you could make up to €200 if you have the specific background or occupation that their client is looking for.
The length of the tests means it may be a bit harder to squeeze them in around other work – but it may be easier to make more per month than testing websites for other companies as you need to qualify for fewer studies. You can expect to get paid within seven days via PayPal or Transferwise.
11. Checkealos
Checkealos emphasises diversity and inclusivity in its call for people to test websites and apps. It focuses on cars, banking, insurance, e-commerce, and virtual reality. In return for providing 15 minutes of feedback, you get €8.
Like most of these sites, you need a good internet connection, a PayPal account and a reasonably up-to-date device to take tests and get paid. Checkealos will notify you by email when your profile fits a project. You still need to act fast as tests are assigned on a first-come-first-serve basis.
12. Respondent.io
Respondent is slightly different from other website testing companies in that they are looking for professionals from various industries. Here you will be making money based on your area of expertise rather than on the minutes spent completing tests. Aside from testing websites, users can also get paid for surveys and joining focus groups.
The money paid varies greatly, with sales and support professionals making an average of $100 per hour and executives averaging $700. Respondent doesn’t send notifications when you qualify for a test. But it’s well worth the effort of logging in daily and checking, especially if you are in one of their highly sought-after professions.
13. IntelliZoom
IntelliZoom is the sourcing panel used by UserZoom, which also acquired several other prominent industry players such as Validately and WhatUsersDo.
The website testing on IntelliZoom is either done by responding to standard surveys or recording audio and video. They only pay $2 for standard surveys, but average $10 for each recorded test. That makes sense as the recorded tests take 10 to 20 minutes each.
It is easy to get started, and payments come via PayPal within 21 business days after completing the work.
14. UTest
UTest claims to be the largest community of testers in the world. Still, it important to note that they mainly pay for finding software bugs. You can make money by completing usability surveys but this is one of the testing opportunities that is more suited to those with technical skills.
Since UTest does help testers improve their skills, this could perhaps be a gateway to more skilled testing jobs. This site is considered to be one of the best-paying sites for professional software testers. In order to get paid you will need a Payoneer or PayPal account. How much you will be getting paid will vary depending on the work you do.
15. Loop11
You need to fill out an application to test websites for this Australian company. It does not always accept submissions to join its panel of paid website testers (Applications are being accepted at the time of writing). Loop11 prefers building a list of high-quality testers and rewarding them with bonuses and more work.
Unlike many other platforms, Loop11 doesn’t cap the length of tests.
Although they claim to pay above-average rates, the company doesn’t provide a lot of information to prospective testers. Since testing websites is really a side hustle and the more sites you use the more you are likely to make, it seems like it is worth taking five minutes to fill out their application in order to be contacted for work in the future.
16. Ferpection
This French site is a good option if you really aren’t too keen about recording audio or video. With Ferpection you test websites on a smartphone or tablet and send feedback using screenshots and detailed comments.
There is a sample test you must complete before accepting other tests (or “missions” as Ferpection calls them). You will earn around €10 per test but you cannot withdraw your money via PayPal until you reach the €25 threshold.
While Ferpection gets praise for its support team, you won’t get paid until their moderators have approved your feedback. That moderation can sometimes take time.
17. TestIO
TestIO is another site that is geared more towards pros. The company has users test apps, websites, and games looking for bugs. You can earn up to $50 for every issue you find – and even if you don’t spot any bugs you can still get paid for rating the apps.
TestIO pays once per month and has more payment options than most, offering PayPal, Payoneer, Skrill, or bank transfer.
18. PlaytestCloud
In PlaytestCloud, testers help game developers learn what works and what doesn’t in their games.
You’ll need a relatively modern Android or IOS phone or tablet to test the games, and the rewards depend on the tasks you’re asked to do. However, an average test runs for 15-20 minutes and pays approximately $9 US.
To become a playtester, you have to complete the sign-up form, which asks for details like “which games do you like to play at least weekly?” and “Your Gaming Devices.” You’ll also have to complete a short, unpaid qualification test.
After you pass the test, you’ll need to download the PlaytestCloud software onto your device. Then you’ll get emails inviting you to test new games when they become available.
As with most testing sites, the game developers want to know what you think, so you’re asked to give your opinion out loud as you play the game. The software records both the onscreen action and your spoken feedback.
19. Validately
Based in New York, Validately hires testers in UX (User Experience) for desktop and mobile app testing. When you sign up, they’ll ask several questions, including the devices you use, your age, education and income bracket. Then, if your application to join is successful, they’ll send you emails with a link to a suitable study for you to enter.
Validately conduct “unmoderated” tests, which usually pay $10 for 10-15 minutes.
The company also conducts scheduled moderated live tests, which last longer and pay between $40 and $70. During these tests, you speak via a webcam and share your screen with a moderator.
It seems, though, that completing a test doesn’t automatically guarantee payment, as the researcher makes the ultimate decision about whether a response qualifies or not. However, if something goes wrong and they reject your test, they email you to tell you why.
As usual, all payments are made via PayPal, so having an account is a prerequisite for joining Validately.
20. Ubertesters
Ubertesters has two kinds of testers, “beta” (unqualified) and PrimeTesters, who hold an Ubertester Certificate. To become a PrimeTester, you need to pass a theoretical test and a practical task. However, the good news is that you don’t have to pay to complete the tests.
Once you’ve registered, you may have to wait a while before you hear from Ubertesters. As with most companies, they have thousands of testers on their books. If a suitable project comes up, you’ll receive an email inviting you to join.
Payments are made monthly via Amazon gift cards, Paypal or (occasionally) Upwork. The rates vary by the project and your level of experience. Unlike some sites, Ubertesters guarantees payment when you complete a project/test.
21. UserPeek
UserPeek is a new kid on the block when it comes to user testing sites. It’s so new that its own testing software is still under development.
However, the site is currently asking for pre-registrations. To qualify, you need to speak English reasonably well and have a PayPal account that allows you to receive money in your country.
UserPeek intends to pay $10 US for a 15-20 minute website testing video when they get going. Like UberTester, they will also offer the opportunity to increase your earnings by qualifying as a certified tester.
After you apply to join, the site takes you on a tour of the software. Then you’re asked to record an example user test which they review to ensure it meets their quality standards. If you pass, you’ll be approved as a UserPeek tester, and they’ll let you know when the site is up and running.
If you’re interested in doing user testing, it’s probably worth your while to apply to UserPeek and be one of the first in line for when it does get up and running.
Does User Testing Really Pay?
Companies and developers need feedback on websites and apps, and there are plenty of user testing sites around to help.
You CAN make real money doing user testing; just don’t expect it to be a full-time income.
How Much do Website Testers get Paid?
Most sites tend to pay in the region of $10 per test, and tests typically take approximately 20 minutes. It’s not bad for work that needs no qualifications and only requires you to give your opinion on a website or app. However, it’s not “get rich quick” money.
Tips to Make the Most of Testing Websites
Testing websites is a relatively simple process overall. If you can use a website and give your opinion, you’re qualified. However, to get the most out of it, below are some extra tips for user testing sites:
- Get used to speaking your thoughts out loud – this is precisely what the testing sites want.
- Carefully review each site’s equipment requirements. User testing sites may require you to have a completely up-to-date operating system, for example.
- Make sure you know what currency they pay in and how you will be paid. You want to be clear about how much money you will receive at the end of the day. Currency conversions and PayPal fees can make a BIG difference.
- Make sure you take the sample test, if required, seriously.
- Consider signing up for several sites. That way, you stand a better chance of finding testing opportunities that you qualify for.
- Make sure you work in a quiet environment. Many sites require you to work over a microphone, and some request a webcam. Distractions will reduce the quality of your tests, which can stop you from being allocated more.
- Many sites offer test participation on a first-come-first-serve basis. If you plan on doing this work, you should set up automatic email alerts and have fairly open availability. This work is best suited to those with the freedom to grab a test the second it becomes available.
- Be as detailed as you can in your website assessments. That helps give the clients better data and improves your test feedback.
- DON’T try to get more tests by “cheating” the demographic questions.
Conclusion
Getting paid as a website tester on user testing sites can be one of the more enjoyable ways to make extra money online. Just remember that it’s a side hustle and not a full-time job. You’re not likely to make a fortune given the limited number of testing opportunities.
However, getting the chance to make extra money while showing a company what it’s like for the average consumer to use a website, app or game is something you can’t really “get wrong,” and it can be rather fun!
More Ideas
- If you are concerned about PayPal fees, you need to read this article on ways to avoid paying so many PayPal fees.
- For more side job ideas, check out this side jobs list.
- Don’t fancy testing websites? How about doing some surveys instead? Check out Swagbucks and Prizerebel.
Karen Fleming is a writer, translator, and teacher with more than 10 years of freelance experience. When she isn’t reading, writing, or taking yet another online class, she is probably doing some one-on-one tutoring or enjoying a good movie with her husband and two daughters.
Thank you so much for all this information it was very relevant and thought provoking. I am definitely interested in testing and will apply to some of the sites you mentioned that best suits me. God bless you
Thanks a lot, very hulpfull.