In today’s digital age, earning money online has become more accessible than ever. One of the most appealing side hustles is getting paid to watch videos. Whether you’re looking to make extra cash during your free time or seeking a low-effort way to supplement your income, watching videos for money is a legitimate opportunity. This article explores the best platforms and methods to get paid for watching videos, ensuring you avoid scams and maximize your earnings.
Why Do Companies Pay You to Watch Videos?
Before diving into the platforms, it’s important to understand the economics behind this unique earning opportunity. Companies pay users to watch videos for several key reasons:
Market Research: Businesses want to understand consumer behavior and preferences. By having real people watch ads, trailers, or product demonstrations, they gather valuable data on engagement, appeal, and overall impact.
Advertising Reach: Advertisers pay platforms to display their content to a targeted audience. You, as a viewer, become part of that audience, and your engagement helps validate the ad’s effectiveness.
Brand Awareness: Increased viewership, even if it’s passive, contributes to brand visibility and recognition.
Content Testing: For entertainment companies, paying “taggers” or reviewers helps them categorize and refine their content, ensuring better recommendations and user experience.
Why Do Companies Pay You to Watch Videos?
1. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is a widely used rewards platform that lets users earn points, known as “SB,” through various activities, including watching videos. By viewing playlists featuring short content like movie trailers, advertisements, or lifestyle clips, users can accumulate SB points and redeem them for rewards.
How It Works: Sign up for a free Swagbucks account, navigate to the “Watch” section, and choose from various video categories like movie trailers, ads, or lifestyle content. Watch playlists to earn SB points.
Earnings: 100 SB equals $1, redeemable for gift cards (e.g., Amazon, PayPal) or cash via PayPal. Expect $0.50–$2 daily from videos, depending on time spent.
2. InboxDollars
InboxDollars is a popular rewards site that allows users to earn cash by engaging in everyday online activities. One way to earn is by watching video playlists that include entertainment clips, news segments, advertisements, and more. As users watch these videos, they accumulate earnings that can be redeemed for real money.
How It Works: Sign up for free, access the “Videos” section, and watch short clips like entertainment news or ads. Complete playlists to earn cash.
Earnings: $0.01–$0.10 per video, with daily limits. Cash out via check, gift cards, or PayPal after reaching $30.
3. MyPoints
MyPoints is a well-known rewards platform that lets users earn points for completing various online tasks, including watching videos. Users can view curated playlists featuring content such as ads, entertainment clips, and lifestyle segments. As they watch, they collect points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards.
How It Works: Watch videos in categories like travel, food, or health after signing up. Earn points for each video or playlist completed.
Earnings: 1–5 points per video, with 1,450 points equaling about $10. Redeem for gift cards or PayPal cash.
4. Nielsen Computer and Mobile Panel
Nielsen Computer and Mobile Panel is a unique rewards program that pays users for simply using the internet as they normally would. By installing the Nielsen app on their computer or mobile device, participants allow anonymous data collection on their browsing habits. In return, they earn rewards over time, which can be redeemed for gift cards or sweepstakes entries.
How It Works: Install the Nielsen app on your device to track your regular video-watching habits (e.g., Netflix, YouTube) passively in the background.
Earnings: Up to $60 per year per device, plus sweepstakes entries for larger prizes.
5. AppTrailers
AppTrailers is a mobile app that rewards users for watching short video trailers of apps, movies, and other content. Users earn points by viewing these trailers and can redeem their accumulated points for gift cards or cash through PayPal. It’s a quick and easy way to discover new apps while earning rewards.
How It Works: Download the AppTrailers app and watch trailers for apps and games to earn points.
Earnings: $0.005–$0.05 per video, redeemable for gift cards or PayPal cash.
6. Viggle
Viggle is an entertainment rewards app that allows users to earn points by engaging with their favorite media. By checking into live TV shows, movies, or streaming content from platforms like Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu, users accumulate Perk Points.
How It Works: Download the Viggle app, check in to TV shows, movies, or streaming content using audio recognition to earn points.
Earnings: $0.50–$2 per hour of watching, redeemable for gift cards or merchandise.
7. TimeBucks
TimeBucks is a versatile rewards platform that allows users to earn real cash by engaging in various online activities. One of the simplest ways to earn is by watching short video clips, including ads, entertainment content, and app trailers.
How It Works: Sign up for TimeBucks and watch videos, ads, or content slideshows through the platform’s video-watching tasks.
Earnings: $0.01–$0.05 per video, paid via PayPal, Bitcoin, Skrill, or other global payment methods.
8. PrizeRebel
PrizeRebel is a reputable rewards platform that allows users to earn points by completing various online tasks, including watching videos. These points can be redeemed for a wide array of rewards such as PayPal cash, gift cards, and even cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin
How It Works: Register for PrizeRebel and watch videos on topics like viral content, travel, or tech to earn points.
Earnings: $0.51 per hour on average, with 500 points ($5) as the minimum cashout via PayPal or gift cards.
9. Kashkick
KashKick is a popular rewards platform where users can earn cash by completing simple tasks like watching videos, taking surveys, and trying offers. By engaging with these activities, users accumulate earnings that can be redeemed via PayPal.
How It Works: Sign up for Kashkick and watch videos, ads, or promotional content to earn rewards.
Earnings: $0.50–$2 per hour, with a $10 minimum cashout via PayPal. Includes a $1 sign-up bonus.
10. WeAre8
WeAre8 is a unique social media platform that empowers users to earn money by watching ads and engaging with positive content. Unlike traditional platforms driven by algorithms, WeAre8 shares 60% of its advertising revenue with users, allowing them to earn between 6p and 20p per ad viewed.
How It Works: Join WeAre8 and watch video ads to earn money, with the option to donate earnings to charity.
Earnings: About 8p per ad, totaling around $12 per month with regular activity. Minimum withdrawal is $1 via cash or bill credits.
11. Earnably
Earnably lets you earn real rewards by completing simple tasks online. Whether it’s watching videos, taking surveys, or trying out new apps, Earnably pays you for your time and effort. With a wide range of easy activities, you can start earning points that convert into gift cards or cash quickly and effortlessly.
How It Works: Sign up for Earnably and watch videos with ads to earn points through their platform or linked with Hideout.tv.
Earnings: 10,000 points equal $1, redeemable via PayPal or gift cards. Earnings are modest, typically $0.10–$0.50 per hour.
12. InstaGC
InstaGC rewards you for completing everyday online tasks like taking surveys, watching videos, and shopping. Every task earns you points that you can quickly redeem for gift cards or cash. With a user-friendly platform and plenty of earning options, InstaGC makes it easy to turn your free time into real rewards
How It Works: Register for InstaGC, create an account with Hideout.tv, and watch videos to earn points.
Earnings: $0.10–$0.50 per hour, with a $1 minimum cashout for gift cards, PayPal, or Bitcoin.
13. ySense
ySense offers an easy way to earn money online by completing simple tasks like surveys, offers, and watching videos. With a variety of opportunities and fast payouts, ySense helps you make the most of your spare time. Whether you want gift cards or cash, ySense rewards your effort quickly and reliably
How It Works: Sign up for ySense and watch videos through the “ySense Watch” section, selecting from various topics or channels (U.S.-only for video tasks).
Earnings: $0.10–$0.50 per video series, paid via PayPal, Amazon gift cards, or Steam gift cards with a $10 minimum.
14. FusionCash
FusionCash lets you earn real cash by completing simple online tasks like taking surveys, watching videos, and signing up for offers. With daily opportunities and fast payouts, FusionCash makes it easy to turn your free time into extra income.
How It Works: Join FusionCash and watch videos across various genres to earn cash rewards.
Earnings: $0.01–$0.02 per video, with a $25 minimum cashout. Includes a $5 sign-up bonus.
15. ZoomBucks
ZoomBucks pays you to complete simple online tasks like taking surveys, watching videos, and trying new offers. With a variety of ways to earn and fast payouts, ZoomBucks helps you turn your spare time into real cash or gift cards.
How It Works: Sign up for ZoomBucks and watch videos or ads to earn points through their rewards platform.
Earnings: $0.50–$2 per hour, redeemable for PayPal cash or gift cards with a low cashout threshold.
16. GrabPoints
GrabPoints rewards you for completing simple online activities like watching videos, taking surveys, and shopping. Earn points that can be redeemed for cash or gift cards, making it easy to turn your free time into real rewards. With plenty of earning options and quick payouts, GrabPoints is a smart way to get paid for your time online.
How It Works: Register for GrabPoints and watch videos to accumulate points, often linked with third-party video providers.
Earnings: $0.10–$0.50 per hour, redeemable for cash via PayPal or gift cards.
Tips for Maximizing Your Earnings
While getting paid to watch videos can be a fun side hustle, managing your expectations and optimizing your approach is crucial.
Diversify Your Platforms: Don’t rely on just one site. Sign up for multiple legitimate platforms to increase your earning opportunities and access a wider variety of videos.
Consistency is Key: Earnings per video are often small. Consistent daily engagement across platforms will help you accumulate more significant rewards over time.
Understand Payout Thresholds: Be aware of each platform’s minimum payout threshold before you can withdraw your earnings. Plan your activity accordingly.
Referral Programs: Many GPT sites offer referral bonuses. Share your referral link with friends and family to earn extra points or cash when they sign up and become active.
Combine with Other Tasks: On GPT sites, watching videos often complements other earning activities like surveys, online shopping, or playing games. Combining these can boost your overall income.
Watch for Bonuses and Promotions: Platforms often have special bonus periods or promotions that offer higher rewards for specific video content or increased activity.
Read Reviews: Before committing to a new platform, always check reviews from other users to ensure its legitimacy and reliable payout history.
Manage Your Time: While it’s tempting to watch videos all day, treat it like any other side hustle. Set aside dedicated time to maximize your efficiency without getting overwhelmed.
Things to Be Aware Of: Red Flags and Realities
While legitimate opportunities exist, it’s essential to be cautious.
Unrealistic Promises: Be wary of platforms promising incredibly high earnings for minimal effort. “Get rich quick” schemes are almost always scams.
Requiring Upfront Payments: Legitimate platforms that pay you to watch videos will never ask for money to join or access opportunities.
Suspicious Download Requests: Only download apps or software from trusted sources (official app stores or well-known websites). Avoid clicking on suspicious links.
Low Payouts (Initially): Understand that for most casual video-watching gigs, the earnings per hour are relatively low compared to traditional employment. It’s more about accumulating small amounts over time.
Ad Volume Fluctuation: The availability of videos to watch can fluctuate depending on advertiser demand, so earnings may not always be consistent.
Things to Watch Out For
While there are many legit ways to get paid for watching videos, scams are prevalent. Here’s how to stay safe:
Avoid Upfront Fees: Legitimate platforms don’t charge you to join or access tasks.
Check Reviews: Research platforms on sites like Trustpilot or Reddit to ensure they’re trustworthy.
Protect Your Data: Only share personal information with verified platforms, and use a dedicated email for sign-ups.
Be Realistic: If a platform promises thousands of dollars for minimal effort, it’s likely a scam.
Is Getting Paid to Watch Videos Worth It?
Getting paid to watch videos is a legit way to earn extra money, but it’s not a get-rich-quick scheme. Most platforms offer modest earnings, ranging from a few cents to a few dollars per hour. However, it’s an excellent option for those looking for a low-effort side hustle that fits into their daily routine. By combining multiple platforms and tasks, you can increase your earnings and make the most of your time.
Conclusion
Getting paid to watch videos is a genuine way to leverage your screen time and earn some extra cash or valuable rewards. Whether you’re a student, stay-at-home parent, or just want extra cash, these platforms offer a real way to make your screen time work for you. By staying consistent, using trusted platforms, and avoiding scams, you can turn your video-watching habit into a small but steady income stream. Start exploring these opportunities today and see how much you can earn.
FAQ's - Get Paid for Watching Videos
Ans: Yes, many legitimate platforms pay users to watch videos, such as ads, trailers, or entertainment content. Earnings are typically small, ranging from a few cents to a few dollars per hour, but it’s a low-effort way to make extra money.
Ans: Earnings vary by platform, but most pay $0.01–$0.10 per video or $0.50–$2 per hour. Combining multiple platforms and tasks like surveys can increase your income to $5–$20 monthly with consistent effort.
Ans: Reputable platforms like Swagbucks, InboxDollars, and Nielsen are safe, but always research before joining. Avoid sites requiring upfront fees or excessive personal information, and check reviews on Trustpilot or Reddit.
Ans: No special skills are required. You need a smartphone, computer, or tablet with an internet connection. Some platforms, like Nielsen, require app installation, while others work directly in a browser.
Ans: Most platforms offer cashouts via PayPal, gift cards (e.g., Amazon, Walmart), or bank transfers. Minimum thresholds vary, typically $1–$30, depending on the platform.
Ans: Yes, most platforms, like AppTrailers, Viggle, and WeAre8, offer mobile apps, making it easy to earn money on your smartphone during downtime.
Ans: Most platforms require users to be at least 18 (or 13 with parental consent) and are available in the U.S., U.K., Canada, and other countries. Some, like ySense’s video tasks, are U.S.-only. Check each platform’s terms for eligibility.
Ans: Stick to well-known platforms, avoid paying to join, and never share sensitive information like bank details. Research platforms on trusted review sites and be wary of promises of unrealistic earnings.
