Ever landed on a website and thought, “This is confusing…” or “Why is that button there?”
Turns out, companies want to hear those thoughts—and they’ll pay you for them.
Welcome to the world of user testing: a fast-growing way to earn money from home by reviewing websites and apps.
No experience needed. No tech skills required. And in many cases, no commitment beyond 15–30 minutes at a time.
User testing is when companies pay everyday people to interact with their websites or apps and provide feedback on how easy (or difficult) it is to use them.
Think of it like a virtual focus group—but instead of sitting in a room eating stale donuts, you’re at home in your pajamas, clicking through websites while talking out loud.
Businesses use this feedback to fix confusing layouts, improve navigation, and ensure their platforms make sense to real users.
Here’s how it works…
1. You sign up on a user testing platform.
Popular sites include:
- UserTesting
- Trymata
- UserFeel
- IntelliZoom
After creating an account, you’ll usually complete a sample test to show you can speak clearly and follow instructions.
2. You receive testing invitations based on your profile.
Tests are matched to your demographics—like age, location, hobbies, shopping habits, and more. The more detailed your profile, the better your chances of getting invited.
3. You complete tests by speaking your thoughts out loud.
During each test, your screen and voice are recorded as you navigate a website or app. You’ll be asked to perform simple tasks like:
- Find a product and add it to the cart.
- Search for return policies.
- Describe what you expect a certain button to do.
You don’t need to “get it right.” In fact, struggling or getting confused helps the company learn what needs improvement.
4. You get paid—usually within a few days.
Most platforms pay via PayPal. Tests typically pay between $5 and $60 depending on length and complexity. A 15-minute test might earn you $10. Some longer studies (like live interviews) can pay $60–$120.
And here’s the best part…
- No experience required. You’re not designing or coding—just sharing your honest thoughts.
- Flexible schedule. Take tests when it fits your day.
- Work from anywhere. All you need is a computer, internet connection, and a microphone.
But remember these key tips:
Be detailed. Companies love testers who explain what they’re thinking, even if it seems obvious.
Respond quickly. Testing slots fill up fast. Keep your email notifications on or check the dashboard regularly.
Test during business hours. Most companies post tests between 9am–5pm in their local time zones.
User testing won’t make you rich—but it will put extra cash in your pocket for doing something simple and kind of fun. Whether you’re saving up for something special, covering a few bills, or just curious to try something new, this is one of the easiest side hustles to get started with today.
And who knows? Once you get comfortable, you might find even higher-paying gigs in usability research or digital product testing.
You already have the skills. Now it’s just about putting them to use.
