Making money online has become one of the most searched topics in recent years, and for good reason. With flexible schedules and endless opportunities, people are always on the lookout for side hustles that don’t require a lot of skill or upfront investment. One of the easiest and most popular options is getting paid to watch videos online.
This is not a get-rich-quick scheme. Watching videos won’t replace a full-time job, but it can help you earn some extra pocket money while commuting, relaxing, or during your free time. For students, stay-at-home parents, or anyone looking for simple ways to supplement their income, this can be a fun and effortless option.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to make money watching videos online, the most trusted platforms, how much you can realistically earn, and tips to maximize your efforts. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to start and how to turn your screen time into extra income.
How Watching Videos Online Pays You?
At first glance, the idea of earning money by simply watching videos can feel too good to be true. But when you look at how the system works, it actually makes sense. Companies are constantly investing in advertising, consumer engagement, and data collection. Platforms that pay you to watch videos are essentially sharing a small portion of this revenue with you in exchange for your attention.
Here’s how it works in practice:
- Ad Revenue Sharing: Brands pay platforms to show their ads. Instead of keeping all the money, platforms reward viewers with points, credits, or small payments for completing the task.
- Market Research & Feedback: Some videos are shown to collect viewer opinions. Your feedback helps brands improve their content, trailers, or products before launch.
- Engagement Boosting: Platforms and content creators benefit when people watch their videos for longer. Paying users encourages more traffic and better engagement rates.
- Promotional Offers: Free trials, app downloads, and product demos often come bundled with video ads. By participating, you generate value for the advertiser, and in return, you get paid.
In short, you’re being rewarded because your time and attention have value in the digital economy. While the payouts are small, this system is completely legitimate and widely used by major reward platforms.
Best 12 Platforms to Make Money Watching Videos Online
There are plenty of platforms and apps that let you earn rewards for watching videos, from short ads to movie trailers. Below are some of the most trusted options:
1. Swagbucks
One of the most popular platforms worldwide, Swagbucks allows you to earn “SB points” for watching videos, completing surveys, shopping, or even playing games. Points can be redeemed for PayPal cash or gift cards from top retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
- Payout Options: PayPal, Gift Cards
- Earning Potential: Up to $50–$100 per month if combined with other tasks
- Why Try It: Flexible, beginner-friendly, multiple earning streams
2. ySense
A global rewards platform where you can earn by watching videos, taking surveys, and completing micro tasks. Known for having a wide reach across many countries.
- Payout Options: PayPal, Skrill, Gift Cards
- Earning Potential: $20–$50/month, depending on activity
- Why Try It: Great international coverage and trusted history
3. PrizeRebel
PrizeRebel offers video-watching opportunities through its “Offer Walls.” Apart from videos, you can complete surveys and small online tasks. They also run promotions and referral bonuses that boost your earnings.
- Payout Options: PayPal, Gift Cards
- Earning Potential: $10–$30 per month
- Why Try It: Flexible, extra referral income potential
4. JumpTask
JumpTask is a mobile-first platform where you can earn cryptocurrency ($JMPT tokens) for watching YouTube clips, ads, and reels. Each task shows the payout upfront, making it transparent.
- Payout Options: Cryptocurrency ($JMPT → cash)
- Earning Potential: $10–$40 per month, depending on usage
- Why Try It: Transparent payments, great for crypto-savvy users
5. InboxDollars / InboxPounds (UK)
InboxDollars rewards you for watching videos, trying new apps, reading emails, and completing surveys. In the UK, the same platform operates as InboxPounds. New users often get a small sign-up bonus, and the payout system is simple.
- Payout Options: PayPal, Gift Cards
- Earning Potential: $20–$40 per month
- Why Try It: Multiple income streams, easy to use, and sign-up bonuses
6. MyPoints
Similar to Swagbucks, MyPoints lets you earn rewards by watching short videos, shopping, and completing daily tasks. Points can be exchanged for cash or gift cards.
- Payout Options: PayPal, Gift Cards
- Earning Potential: $20–$50 per month, depending on activity
- Why Try It: Reliable, trusted by millions of users
7. WeAre8
A socially conscious app that pays you to watch ads. You can either keep the money via PayPal (as little as £1 minimum) or donate it to charity. Users typically earn 6p to 20p per ad.
- Payout Options: PayPal, Charity Donations
- Earning Potential: £5–£20 per month
- Why Try It: Earn while supporting social causes
8. Earnably
Earn rewards by watching videos, completing offers, and using partner sites. Points are redeemable for instant PayPal cash or gift cards.
- Payout Options: PayPal, Gift Cards
- Earning Potential: $10–$25/month
- Why Try It: Instant PayPal option, flexible cash-out
9. Slicethepie
This platform pays you to write short reviews of videos, music, and fashion items. Although video review tasks are less frequent, it’s an interesting way to combine watching with giving feedback.
- Payout Options: PayPal
- Earning Potential: $10–$20 per month if consistent
- Why Try It: Engaging and feedback-based earning option
10. Current Rewards / Mode Earn App
Available as a mobile app, Current Rewards lets you earn not just by watching videos but also by listening to music, completing surveys, and downloading apps.
- Payout Options: PayPal, Gift Cards, Crypto
- Earning Potential: $20–$50 per month with regular use
- Why Try It: Multi-tasking app with multiple reward streams
11. FusionCash
FusionCash allows you to earn cash by watching ads, taking surveys, and completing offers. It’s available only in the US and pays directly in dollars.
- Payout Options: Direct Deposit, PayPal, Checks
- Earning Potential: $20–$30 per month
- Why Try It: Trusted US-based platform with cash payouts
12. iRazoo
iRazoo provides points for watching videos, completing offers, and playing games. Points can be redeemed for PayPal cash or gift cards.
- Payout Options: PayPal, Gift Cards
- Earning Potential: $10–$20 per month
- Why Try It: Simple, entry-level platform for beginners
✅ Pro Tip: Instead of sticking to just one site, combine at least 3–4 platforms. This way, you’ll maximize your chances of hitting payout thresholds faster and make your screen time more profitable.
Types of Videos You Can Get Paid to Watch
Not all paid videos are the same. Different platforms offer a range of content depending on their advertisers, partners, or goals. Here are the most common types you’ll come across:
Advertisements
These are short ads for products, services, or events. They might appear before or during other clips. Since advertisers pay heavily for exposure, you get rewarded for watching them.
Product Trailers (Movies, Games, Apps)
Many companies release trailers for films, mobile games, or new apps. Platforms pay you to watch these so they can measure consumer interest and reach more audiences.
Short Clips or Curated Playlists
Some platforms bundle clips into playlists—ranging from news snippets to lifestyle videos. You watch the playlist and earn points once it’s completed.
Sponsored Content & Branded Videos
These are promotional videos created by brands. The goal is to boost awareness, and you’re rewarded for watching the full video.
User Testing / Feedback Videos
Certain platforms let you watch a video and then share your opinion. For example, you may rate how engaging a commercial was or comment on whether a trailer made you interested in a product.
Each category is fairly simple, and most don’t require active participation unless feedback is requested. This makes it an easy way to monetize idle time.
How Much Can You Really Earn Watching Videos Online?
This is the question most people ask first. The honest answer: You can make extra cash, but not a full salary.
On average, platforms pay anywhere from a few cents to $5 per day, depending on the type of task and how much time you’re willing to put in. If you use multiple apps consistently, you could realistically earn:
- Daily: $1–$5
- Weekly: $10–$25
- Monthly: $20–$100
For most users, the earnings cover small expenses like streaming subscriptions, online shopping, or a few meals. Some people also treat it as “bonus money” for treating themselves without dipping into their main income.
👉 It’s important to set realistic expectations. Watching videos online will not replace your job or make you rich. Instead, think of it as a low-effort side hustle—something you can do during breaks, commuting, or in the background while multitasking.
Tips to Maximize Your Earnings
Making money from watching videos is simple, but you can earn more if you use the right approach. Here are some practical tips:
- Sign up for multiple platforms – Don’t limit yourself to just one site. Using 3–4 platforms ensures a steady flow of videos and higher earnings.
- Take advantage of bonus offers – Many apps give sign-up bonuses, daily streak rewards, or extra points for completing certain tasks.
- Combine with other micro-tasks – Platforms often include surveys, cashback shopping, or playing games. Mixing tasks can increase your daily income.
- Use referral programs – Invite friends and earn a percentage of their earnings. This is one of the easiest ways to boost your payouts over time.
- Watch during idle time – Use breaks, commutes, or downtime to watch videos so you earn without affecting your main work schedule.
Payment Options
One of the best things about these platforms is the flexibility in how you get paid. Common payout methods include:
- PayPal cash – Direct deposit to your PayPal account is the most popular and convenient option.
- Gift cards – Amazon, Walmart, Starbucks, and other big brands are common payout partners.
- Cryptocurrency – Some newer platforms allow payments in Bitcoin or Ethereum.
- Prepaid Visa/Mastercard cards – Handy if you prefer a card that works like cash.
Each platform has different payout thresholds (usually between $5 and $25), so it’s good to check before signing up.
Legit vs. Scam Platforms
While there are many genuine sites, scams also exist in this space. Here’s how to spot the difference:
Red flags of scams:
- Unrealistic promises like “earn $500 a day.”
- Asking for upfront payments or bank details.
- No clear payout system or proof of payments.
How to stay safe:
- Stick to well-known platforms with good reviews.
- Check for verified payment histories online.
- Avoid shady apps that don’t list clear terms.
Legit sites like Swagbucks, InboxDollars, and ySense have been operating for years and have millions of active users.
Who Should Try This Side Hustle?
Watching videos online for money isn’t for everyone. It works best for:
- Students – Earn pocket money without needing a full-time job.
- Stay-at-home parents – A flexible way to earn during downtime.
- People with extra idle time – Turn waiting, commuting, or relaxing into cash.
- Anyone looking for small passive income – Ideal for side earnings, not a main salary.
If you enjoy watching short clips or testing new content, this is a fun and easy side hustle.
Read: Top Part-Time Jobs for College Students
Alternative Easy Side Hustles (Related Ideas)
If you enjoy the idea of making money from watching videos, you might also want to explore other simple online side hustles. Many of these can be combined with video-watching platforms to boost your earnings.
- Taking surveys online – Sites like Survey Junkie and Toluna pay users for sharing opinions on products, brands, and services.
- Cashback & shopping rewards apps – Apps like Rakuten and Honey give you cashback or discounts when you shop online.
- Playing games for money – Certain platforms reward you for testing new mobile games or reaching specific levels.
- Testing websites/apps – Platforms such as UserTesting pay you to review websites and apps while giving feedback on usability.
- Micro-tasking – Sites like Amazon MTurk, Clickworker, and Appen pay for small tasks like data entry, categorizing content, or simple research jobs.
These options may not make you rich, but when combined, they can provide a steady trickle of extra income each month.
Read: Top Online Jobs from Home
Conclusion
Making money by watching videos online is one of the easiest side hustles available today. While the income isn’t huge, it can add up to $20–$100 per month if you stay consistent and use multiple platforms.
The key is to set realistic expectations. Think of it as bonus cash rather than a replacement for a regular income.
If you combine video-watching with other simple online hustles—like surveys, cashback apps, or micro-tasks—you can create a more reliable side income stream without much effort.
In short, watching videos online won’t make you rich, but it’s a fun and flexible way to earn a little extra money in your spare time.
FAQs on Make Money Watching Videos Online
Can I really make money by just watching videos online?
Yes, you can. Many legitimate platforms reward users for watching ads, trailers, or short video clips. While the pay is usually small, it’s a genuine way to earn extra income.
How much money can I expect to earn?
Earnings vary depending on the platform and time spent. On average, you can make anywhere between $20 to $100 per month if you are consistent and use multiple apps.
Which platforms are the most trusted?
Some of the most reliable platforms include Swagbucks, ySense, InboxDollars, MyPoints, PrizeRebel, and Current Rewards App. These have been around for years and have verified payment histories.
How do these platforms pay me?
Most platforms pay through PayPal cash, Amazon/Walmart gift cards, prepaid Visa cards, or sometimes cryptocurrency. Each site has different payout options and thresholds.
Do I need special skills or equipment?
No. All you need is a smartphone, tablet, or computer with an internet connection. No special skills are required.
Are these Platforms available worldwide?
Some platforms are available globally, while others are limited to the US, UK, or Canada. Always check availability in your country before signing up.
Are there any scams I should watch out for?
Yes. Be cautious of websites that ask for upfront payments, promise unrealistic earnings, or don’t provide clear payout details. Stick to well-reviewed, established platforms.
Can I use this as a full-time income source?
No. Watching videos online should be treated as a side hustle or a way to make pocket money. It’s not meant to replace a full-time job.
Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.