6 Ways to Earn Money Online with UserTesting: A Guide for the Curious

For many seeking flexible ways to earn extra income, UserTesting has become an attractive option. This platform offers opportunities to share insights on digital products such as apps, websites, and software. In return, payments are made for each completed task. However, a common question arises: “How much do you get paid for UserTesting?”

This money-making blog will delve into the different types of tests available, the payment range for each test, and factors that can influence earning potential. With this information, anyone can decide if UserTesting is worth including in their extra income plans.

1. 5-Minute Screening Tests

The 5-minute screening tests on UserTesting typically consist of a series of short questions designed to determine whether participants meet the criteria requested by clients. The questions in these tests may include:

• Demographics: For example, “Is your age within a certain range?” or “Do you frequently use financial apps?”
• Experience or Habits: “Have you used a specific device before?” or “How often do you shop online each month?”
• Interests or Preferences: “Are you interested in international travel?” or “Have you ever used a particular streaming service?”

These screening tests do not evaluate performance but focus on compatibility with the client’s needs. If a participant passes the screening, they gain access to the main tests, which offer higher payouts. Even as a selection process, these tests are compensated at approximately $3–$5 to account for the time spent.

2. Standard 20-Minute Tests

One of the most common types of tests on UserTesting is the standard test, which lasts around 20 minutes. The task is simple: provide honest feedback about a digital product while recording the screen and voice. Each test typically pays $10, making it an appealing opportunity to earn extra income in a short time.

For instance, completing three standard tests in one day can generate $30. If done consistently over five days a week, the total earnings amount to $150—all from flexible work that can be done anytime.

With clear compensation and straightforward tasks, standard tests are a major draw for those looking to make productive use of their free time.

Some challenges participants might face during these 20-minute tests include:

• Unclear Instructions: At times, the provided guidelines may lack specificity, leading to confusion.
• Technical Issues: Problems such as unstable internet connections or incompatible software can disrupt the testing process.
• Distracting Environment: Background noise or other interruptions can affect the quality of recordings and concentration during the test.
• Time Constraints: Some participants feel that 20 minutes is not enough to complete all tasks thoroughly.
• Access Limitations: Occasionally, participants may lack access to specific devices or applications required for certain tests.

Overcoming these challenges requires preparation, such as ensuring devices and internet connections are functioning well, choosing a quiet environment, and carefully reading instructions before starting a test.

With these steps, the testing experience can become smoother and more effective.

3. Live Conversations (30–60 Minutes)

One of the more lucrative ways to earn money through UserTesting is by participating in live conversation sessions. These tests involve real-time discussions with clients via video calls. The payouts are quite attractive, usually ranging from $30 to $120, depending on the session duration—typically 30 to 60 minutes—and the complexity of the tasks.

For example, completing one live conversation session in a day can yield approximately $60. If two to three such sessions are completed in a week, the total earnings can range from $180 to $360. With flexible timing and competitive pay rates, this type of test is a favorite among many.

During live conversations on UserTesting, discussions usually focus on users’ experiences with products, services, or concepts being developed by the client. Common topics include:

• Product Experience: Clients may seek opinions about apps, websites, or devices being tested. For instance, “What’s your first impression of this design?” or “Does the navigation feel intuitive?”
• Specific Feature Feedback: Concentrating on particular features, such as checkout pages, search functions, or interactive elements. Examples include: “How was your experience using this search feature?” or “Does this feature meet your expectations?”
• User Habits: Clients might explore behavioral patterns, such as “How often do you use similar apps?” or “What’s your usual process for online shopping?”
• Suggestions for Improvement: Clients may ask, “What do you think is lacking in this product?” or “How can this product be made more useful?”
• Exploring New Ideas: For concepts still in the early stages, discussions may involve brainstorming. For instance: “Would this solution address a specific problem?” or “What features would you expect in a product like this?”
• Visual or Interactive Reactions: In some cases, participants are asked to react directly to visual elements or interact with prototypes. Examples include: “What catches your attention first when viewing this design?”

These discussions are usually relaxed yet structured. Clients ask questions, participants respond based on personal experiences or perceptions, and the recordings are used to understand how to improve the product. This test type provides valuable insights for clients and attractive compensation for participants.

Preparation for these tests is straightforward—requiring a stable internet connection, a device for video calls, and a quiet environment for the discussion. With minimal effort, this type of test offers an ideal opportunity to earn significant additional income.

4. Prototype or Beta Tests

Participating in prototype or beta tests on UserTesting provides an opportunity to explore products in their early development stages. These tests often involve exploring new features, giving feedback on functionality, or noting first impressions while using an app or website. Due to their specificity and sometimes requiring in-depth analysis, these tests typically offer compensation similar to standard tests, approximately $10 for 20 minutes.

For example, completing three prototype tests in one day could yield $30. When done several times a week, the earnings could range between $90 and $150, depending on test availability and engagement levels. For those who enjoy trying new things and sharing opinions, these tests are a great way to earn extra income while helping clients refine their products.

5. Targeted Surveys or Demographic-Based Studies

UserTesting also offers targeted surveys, which are simple tasks requiring text-based responses. These surveys are typically used to gather quick insights on specific habits, preferences, or experiences. Because of their straightforward and concise nature, compensation for these surveys usually ranges between $1–$5.

For instance, completing three surveys in a day can earn between $3 and $15. Over five days, the total can reach $15 to $75 weekly. While the per-survey payment is relatively small, these tasks require little time and can easily supplement income from other tests.

In the context of targeted surveys or demographic-based studies on UserTesting, demographics refer to participant characteristics used to ensure compatibility with client needs. Common demographic elements include:

1. Age: For example, a survey might target specific age groups, such as 18–24 years or 45–60 years, depending on the product being tested.
2. Geographic Location: Surveys may focus on participants from certain regions, such as the United States, Europe, or Southeast Asia, as clients test products in specific cultural or market contexts.
3. Gender: Sometimes, clients seek feedback from specific genders, particularly for products tailored to men or women.
4. Income: Studies may target certain income groups to understand the needs of users within particular economic categories.
5. Occupation or Industry: Clients might need insights from professionals in specific fields such as technology, education, healthcare, or marketing.
6. Habits or Preferences: Surveys may focus on participants with specific habits, such as frequent online shopping, using financial apps, or enjoying sports activities.
7. Experience with Certain Products or Technologies: Clients often look for participants familiar with specific products, like project management software, e-commerce apps, or streaming services.

These elements help ensure that the feedback provided aligns with client needs. By selecting participants based on demographics, survey results become more accurate and useful for product development.

With its simplicity and clear compensation structure, these surveys are an appealing option, particularly for those with limited time but still wanting to stay productive.

6. Special Projects

UserTesting also features tasks that differ slightly from regular tests—special projects. These typically involve more complex requirements or longer durations, such as delving into specific features, providing detailed feedback on products, or continuously testing an app over several days. Due to their intensive nature, the payment for special projects is significantly higher than standard tests.

For example, a project spanning a week with multiple interactive sessions might yield total compensation between $200 and $500, depending on the duration and scope of the tasks. Compared to the standard tests, which usually pay $10, these projects offer a substantial earning opportunity.

Special projects provide added value not only in terms of payment but also the chance to engage more deeply in the product development process. With greater commitment, the outcomes are well worth the effort.

Payment Methods

All payments are made via PayPal and are typically processed within 7 days after a test is completed. However, in certain situations, processing may take up to 14 days, particularly if there are technical or administrative delays.

What’s great is that there is no minimum withdrawal amount, and UserTesting does not deduct any fees. Any credited amount is automatically transferred to the PayPal account without needing to meet a threshold. This makes the process highly flexible and accessible.

With a transparent payment structure, flexible timing, and no minimum withdrawal, the platform offers an attractive opportunity to earn additional income during free time.

Conclusion

Before wrapping up, there are a few important points to clarify to avoid potential misunderstandings in the future. These are essential.

UserTesting accepts participants from around the world, as long as they have access to compatible devices (computer, smartphone) and the ability to communicate in the required language, primarily English. Payments are always made in USD, regardless of the participant’s location.

Some regions, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and countries in Western Europe, often have more tasks available. This is because many UserTesting clients are based in these regions and tend to target local users for product testing.

Participants in these areas generally receive more test invitations, especially for live conversations or high-paying projects.

In developing countries or regions with fewer clients, the chances of receiving tasks might be more limited. However, this does not mean there are no tasks at all.

Participants from these regions may find more opportunities with global tests or tasks that do not require specific locations.

Ultimately, anyone from various countries can join and earn money through UserTesting.

So, How much do you get paid for UserTesting? The answer is outlined in this article. For more details, visit the UserTesting homepage. Hopefully, this article provides helpful insights.

Read also: 10 Proven Websites for Earning Money Online.

FAQs

Is UserTesting a legit side hustle?

UserTesting is known as a platform that offers additional income opportunities in a simple and flexible manner. Several factors make it considered legitimate and trustworthy, such as:

• Partnerships with Major Companies: Many renowned companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Adobe are known to use UserTesting to gain direct feedback from users. These partnerships demonstrate the platform’s high-quality standards in testing and the results it delivers.
• Transparent Payments: Payments are made via PayPal, a globally reputable payment method. Users report that payments are typically processed on time after completing tests, with no hidden fees.
• Clear and Controlled System: The registration, qualification, and test-taking processes are governed by transparent procedures. Prospective testers must complete a sample test to demonstrate the quality of their feedback. This ensures the platform maintains high standards for both clients and users.
• Positive Reviews in Online Communities: Many user reviews across forums, review sites, and online communities like Reddit and Trustpilot confirm positive experiences. Most users mention that UserTesting is one of the easiest ways to earn extra income online.
• Longevity and Reputation: Established in 2007, UserTesting has been operating for over a decade. In the digital industry, such longevity shows its ability to build trust among users and clients alike.

Additionally, its accessibility is a key advantage. No special technical skills are required to participate—just the ability to provide honest and structured opinions. While test opportunities can depend on user profiles and availability, many find UserTesting to be a positive experience for making productive use of free time.

The combination of transparency, flexibility, and collaboration with major companies makes UserTesting a legitimate and trustworthy option for those looking to try a side hustle.