How to Get Paid to Test Websites and Apps: A Beginner’s Guide

Testing websites and apps is one of the easiest ways to earn extra income online. Companies are constantly seeking feedback from real users to ensure their digital products function smoothly and provide a positive user experience. As a beginner, getting paid to test websites and apps is an accessible and flexible side hustle that allows you to work from the comfort of your home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to start, what platforms to join, and tips for maximizing your earnings.

What Is Website and App Testing?

Website and app testing involves using and reviewing websites, mobile apps, or software, then providing feedback on the experience. This feedback may cover:

• Functionality: Are there any broken links, bugs, or technical issues?
• Usability: Is the website or app easy to navigate?
• Design: Does the layout, color scheme, and overall design make sense?
• Performance: How fast do the pages load? Are there any delays or lags?

Companies pay for this valuable insight because it helps them fix issues before launching a new product or making updates. This, in turn, leads to a better experience for their users.

How Does Website and App Testing Work?

Once you sign up to a platform that offers paid testing opportunities, you’ll receive tasks or projects via email or notifications on the platform. Here’s what a typical testing process might look like:

1. Receive the Assignment: You’ll be given access to a website or app to test. Sometimes, you may need specific devices (e.g., smartphone, tablet) depending on the project requirements.
2. Follow Instructions: You’ll receive a set of instructions or specific tasks, such as “Find the contact page” or “Purchase an item using the shopping cart.”
3. Provide Feedback: After completing the tasks, you’ll typically answer questions or provide feedback in writing or record a video of yourself speaking about your experience.
4. Submit Your Work: Once your feedback is complete, you submit your report or video. Payments are processed according to the platform’s guidelines.

Platforms to Get Started

Here are some of the top platforms where you can sign up to begin testing websites and apps. These platforms offer paid opportunities and are user-friendly for beginners:

1. UserTesting

UserTesting is one of the most popular platforms for getting paid to test websites and apps. After completing a sample test, you can receive invitations to take part in real tests. The pay typically ranges from $10 to $60 per test, depending on the complexity.

2. TryMyUI

TryMyUI allows users to earn by testing websites and apps while recording their thoughts. You’ll get paid around $10 per test, and most tests take 20 minutes to complete.

3. UserFeel

UserFeel is a great platform for both beginners and experienced testers. It pays around $10 for each test, which involves navigating a website or app while providing your thoughts via a microphone or written feedback.

4. Testbirds

Testbirds focuses on testing websites, apps, and software for usability, bugs, and functionality. The pay varies depending on the scope of the test, but experienced testers can earn up to $50 per project.

5. Validately

Validately offers paid website and app testing opportunities that range from shorter 5-minute tests to longer studies. Earnings can vary, but testers can make $10 to $100 depending on the length and complexity of the study.

What Skills Do You Need?

While you don’t need formal qualifications to become a website or app tester, there are a few skills that can help you succeed:

• Attention to Detail: Testers must spot issues, bugs, and glitches that could affect user experience.
• Communication Skills: Clear, concise feedback is essential. You need to articulate your thoughts well, especially when recording videos or answering written questions.
• Basic Technical Knowledge: While you don’t need to be tech-savvy, familiarity with different devices (desktop, mobile, tablet) and browsers is helpful.
• Reliability: Many platforms expect testers to complete assignments within a set timeframe. Being punctual and reliable will help you get more tests in the future.

How Much Can You Earn?

The earnings for website and app testing vary based on the platform, the length of the test, and the complexity of the task. On average, you can expect to earn:

• $5 to $20 for basic 15-20 minute tests
• $30 to $100 for more advanced tests, such as longer usability studies or tests requiring specific skills or devices

Testers who take on multiple tasks per day can potentially make $50 to $200 per month as a side income. Some dedicated testers may even surpass this, but the availability of tests depends on your demographics and platform activity.

Tips to Maximize Your Earnings as a Tester

1. Sign Up for Multiple Platforms: Don’t limit yourself to one website. By registering with multiple platforms, you’ll increase your chances of getting consistent assignments.
2. Respond Quickly: Testing opportunities can fill up fast, so act quickly when you receive notifications for a new test.
3. Use Multiple Devices: Some platforms will offer higher pay for tests done on mobile devices or tablets. Make sure you have access to a variety of devices to take advantage of these opportunities.
4. Provide High-Quality Feedback: Thorough, thoughtful feedback can help you receive more tests. Companies want testers who provide detailed and actionable insights.
5. Stay Active: Regularly logging into platforms and updating your profile with accurate demographic information will help match you with more tests.

Conclusion

For beginners looking to earn extra income, testing websites and apps offers a flexible and accessible opportunity. It’s a low-barrier side hustle that doesn’t require technical expertise, just your honest feedback. By joining multiple platforms and staying consistent, you can generate a steady stream of side income while helping companies improve their digital products.