Get Paid To Test Products: 21 High Paying Companies

Picture this: you’re lounging on your couch, sipping your morning coffee, and getting paid real money to try out cool new gadgets, apps, or even snacks. Sounds too good to be true? Well, buckle up, because I’m about to blow your mind with something that’s been hiding in plain sight.

I’ve been diving deep into the product testing world for the past few years, and let me tell you, this isn’t some get-rich-quick scheme your cousin’s friend told you about on Facebook.

This is legitimate income that companies are throwing at regular people like you and me. Why? Because they desperately need honest feedback before launching their products to the masses.

Here’s the kicker: most people have no clue these opportunities exist. While everyone’s fighting over the same old side hustles, smart folks are quietly banking $50 to $500 per testing session. Ready to join the club?

What Exactly Does A Product Tester Do?

Alright, let’s cut through the fluff. A product tester is basically a professional opinion-giver (and trust me, we all have plenty of those :)). Companies ship you their latest creations, which could be anything from a revolutionary kitchen gadget to a brand-new mobile app, and you put it through its paces.

Your job? Torture test these products and tell them exactly what works, what sucks, and what made you want to throw it out the window. You’re like a quality control detective, hunting down every bug, flaw, or “why-the-heck-did-they-design-it-this-way” moment.

The beautiful part is that companies actually want your brutally honest feedback. They’d rather hear you complain about their product now than have thousands of angry customers roasting them on Amazon reviews later.

Think about it from a financial perspective: if a company spends $2 million developing a product only to discover a major flaw after launch, they’re looking at massive losses. Paying you $100 to catch that issue early? That’s the bargain of the century for them.

How Much Do Product Testers Make?

Now we’re talking my language! Let me break down the real numbers based on what I’ve seen in the market:

Digital Product Testing:

• Website usability tests: $10-$60 per session
• Mobile app testing: $15-$100 per project
• Software beta testing: $25-$200 per assignment

Physical Product Testing:

• Consumer goods: $20-$300 plus free products
• Tech gadgets: $50-$500 per review cycle
• Food and beverage testing: $25-$150 per session

Premium Testing Opportunities:

• Automotive product testing: $100-$1,000+ per project
• Medical device testing: $200-$2,000+ per study
• Pharmaceutical testing: $500-$5,000+ (with medical supervision)

Here’s a reality check from my own experience: I once spent 45 minutes testing a meal delivery app and walked away with $85. Not bad for telling them their checkout process was confusing, right? Another time, I tested a smart home device for two weeks and earned $350, plus got to keep the $200 gadget.

The key is understanding that your time has real market value. Companies aren’t being generous; they’re making smart business decisions.

What Are The Requirements As A Product Tester

Let’s be honest, you don’t need a PhD in rocket science to do this. But you do need some specific skills that separate the pros from the wannabes:

Writing Skill

This one’s non-negotiable. You’ll write detailed feedback reports, and companies need to understand exactly what you’re saying. I’m not talking Shakespeare here, but you need to communicate clearly and professionally.

Pro tip: If writing isn’t your strong suit, start practicing now. Use tools like Grammarly to polish your reviews. Remember, a well-written report can be the difference between getting invited back and being ghosted forever.

Time Management

Ever tried juggling three product tests while maintaining your day job? It’s like playing 3D chess while riding a unicycle. Companies give you deadlines, and missing them is career suicide in this space.

I learned this the hard way when I accepted four testing gigs in one week. Let’s just say that was the week I discovered what “controlled chaos” really meant. Now I use a simple spreadsheet to track deadlines, and it’s been a game-changer.

Flexibility

Sure, you might love testing tech gadgets, but what happens when the only available gig is testing baby formula? (Yes, that’s a real thing, and yes, they pay well.) Flexibility equals more income opportunities.

From a financial planning perspective, diversifying your testing portfolio is like diversifying your investment portfolio; it reduces risk and maximizes earning potential.

Fast Internet

This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about professional credibility. Imagine trying to test a streaming service with an internet that moves slower than molasses. You’ll spend more time buffering than actually testing.

Invest in decent internet, consider it a business expense. The ROI is immediate when you can complete digital tests efficiently and meet tight deadlines.

How To Become A Product Tester

Ready to turn this into your next income stream? Here’s your step-by-step game plan:

Step 1: Find Your Niche Don’t be a jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none. Pick 2-3 categories you’re genuinely interested in. Love skincare? Focus on beauty products. Tech geek? Target software and gadgets. This specialization makes you more valuable to companies.

Step 2: Create Professional Profiles. When you sign up for testing platforms, treat your profile like a resume. Companies review these before selecting testers. Include relevant experience, demographics, and genuine interests.

Step 3: Start Small and Build Reputation. Begin with shorter, simpler tests to build your track record. Companies keep internal ratings for testers, and those ratings determine which high-paying opportunities you’ll see.

Step 4: Follow Instructions Religiously. I can’t stress this enough: companies provide detailed testing protocols for a reason. Following instructions shows professionalism and increases your chances of getting repeat work.

21 Ways To Get Paid To Test Products

Alright, here’s the meat and potatoes: your comprehensive list of legitimate companies that will pay you to test products:

1. Johnson & Johnson

The healthcare giant runs J&J Friends & Neighbors, and they’re seriously generous with compensation. We’re talking about a Fortune 500 company with deep pockets and household brands like Aveeno and Neutrogena.

They pay for product testing, surveys, and focus groups. The screening process is thorough, but once you’re in, you’re golden. I’ve seen payouts ranging from $25 for quick surveys to $200+ for comprehensive product evaluations.

Minimum age: 18 years. Payment method: Cash, gift cards, products. Average earnings: $25-$200 per project

2. UserTesting

UserTesting is the gold standard for digital product testing. They focus exclusively on websites, apps, and software, which means you can work entirely from your computer.

Here’s what I love about UserTesting: they pay exactly seven days after you complete a test. No waiting around for months, wondering if your check got lost in the mail. Their payment system is automated and reliable.

Earnings range: $4-$60 per test (usually 10-20 minutes). Payment method: PayPal Bonus: Some tests pay $120 for live conversations with clients

3. Influenster

With over 6.5 million members, Influenster has turned product testing into a social experience. They send you products in “VoxBoxes” and you test them while sharing your experience on social media.

The catch? You don’t get cash payments; you keep the products. But here’s the thing: some of these products are worth $50-$200. I once received a high-end skincare set worth $150. Not bad for a week of testing and a few Instagram posts!

Payment method: Free products to keep. Product categories: Beauty, health, food, and household items. Requirements: Active social media presence preferred

4. McCormick & Company

Food lovers, this one’s for you! McCormick & Company specializes in spices, seasonings, and food products, and they need people to taste-test their creations.

The sessions can happen at their facilities or at home, depending on the study. The in-person sessions typically pay more; I’ve heard of people earning $100-$300 for a single afternoon of taste-testing. Plus, free food is always a win 🙂

Earnings range: $50-$300 per session Location: Home-based or facility-based Duration: Usually 1-4 hours

5. American Consumer Opinion

American Consumer Opinion operates on a points-based system that’s actually pretty straightforward. You complete surveys about products you’ve used, accumulate points, and cash out when you hit the minimum threshold.

The surveys often focus on packaging design, product preferences, and buying habits. From a market research perspective, this data is incredibly valuable to companies making product decisions.

Minimum payout: 1,000 points ($10). Payment method: PayPal, checks. Survey length: 5-30 minutes, typically

6. Survey Junkie

You’ve probably heard of Survey Junkie; they’re everywhere online. While they’re primarily known for general surveys, they regularly feature product-specific surveys that pay well.

The platform is beginner-friendly and has a lower barrier to entry than some specialized testing sites. Perfect for dipping your toes in the water before diving into more complex testing opportunities.

Minimum payout: $5 Average earnings per survey: $0.50-$3 Time commitment: 3-25 minutes per survey

7. InboxDollars

InboxDollars is like the Swiss Army knife of earning platforms. They offer app testing, product trials, surveys, and even cashback shopping. The variety keeps things interesting, and the payment options are flexible.

They’ve paid out over $80 million to members, which tells you they’re legitimate and have staying power. In this industry, longevity matters; you want platforms that’ll still be around to pay you next year.

Sign-up bonus: $5 Earnings range: $0.50-$20 per activity Payment methods: PayPal, gift cards, checks

8. Branded Surveys

Branded Surveys works with Fortune 500 companies, which means they have serious budgets for market research. They’re particularly good at matching you with products you actually use or care about.

During registration, they ask detailed questions about your lifestyle and preferences. This might seem intrusive, but it actually works in your favor; you’ll get surveys about products you’re familiar with, making the work easier and more enjoyable.

Earnings range: $0.50-$5 per survey Bonus points: Daily poll bonuses Cash out minimum: $5

9. Ipsos i-Say

Ipsos i-Say is part of a global research powerhouse. They conduct studies for major brands worldwide, and their compensation reflects the quality of insights they’re seeking.

What sets them apart is their demographic targeting. They’re excellent at finding the right people for specific products, which means higher completion rates and better pay for qualified participants.

Earnings range: $1-$5 per survey Payment methods: PayPal, gift cards International reach: Available in 100+ countries

10. Swagbucks

Swagbucks is the veteran of the rewards space, and they’ve expanded into product testing over the years. Their “SB” point system makes it easy to track earnings across multiple activities.

The genius of Swagbucks is diversification; if product testing opportunities are slow, you can earn points through other activities. It’s like having multiple income streams within one platform.

Sign-up bonus: Varies (usually $5-$10) Cash out minimum: $3 Payment options: PayPal, gift cards (300+ brands)

11. LifePoints

LifePoints has global reach and works with international brands, which opens up unique testing opportunities you won’t find elsewhere. They’re particularly strong in the consumer goods space.

The point system is transparent, and they’re upfront about how much time each survey will take. No surprises or bait-and-switch tactics, just straightforward earning opportunities.

Points per survey: 10-200 points Cash out minimum: 550 points ($5) Average time: 10-30 minutes per survey

12. BetaTesting

BetaTesting focuses on pre-launch products, which means you’re testing stuff before the general public even knows it exists. Talk about being on the cutting edge!

They work with startups and established companies alike, testing everything from mobile apps to physical products. The pay is solid, and you often get to keep products after testing.

Earnings range: $15-$30 per test Test duration: Usually 1-3 hours Product types: Software, apps, physical products

13. Pinecone Research

Pinecone Research is the exclusive club of product testing. They’re invite-only, which makes acceptance competitive, but the compensation is worth the effort.

They’re owned by Nielsen, the same company that measures TV ratings, so they have serious research credibility. Once you’re accepted, you’ll get regular, well-paid opportunities.

Payment per survey: $3-$5 Invitation method: Invite-only Payment methods: PayPal, checks, gift cards

14. National Consumer Panel

National Consumer Panel has a unique approach; they pay you for your regular shopping habits. You scan everything you buy with their handheld scanner, and they track purchasing trends.

It’s passive income at its finest. You’re shopping anyway, so why not get paid for sharing that data? The scanner becomes second nature after a week or two.

Equipment provided: Handheld scanner Payment method: Visa gift cards Time commitment: Just scan your purchases

15. SheSpeaks

SheSpeaks caters specifically to women and focuses on products that matter to their demographic, beauty, household items, family products, and more.

The community aspect is strong here. You’re not just testing products in isolation; you’re joining conversations with other women about real experiences. It feels less like work and more like chatting with friends who happen to pay you for your opinions.

Target demographic: Women 18+ Payment method: Gift cards, products Community features: Forums, events, giveaways

16. BzzAgent

BzzAgent combines product testing with social media influence. You test products and share your experiences with your network, amplifying the marketing reach for brands.

The social sharing requirement isn’t overwhelming; a few posts about your genuine experience is usually sufficient. If you’re already active on social media, this feels natural and authentic.

Requirements: Social media sharing Compensation: Products to keep, occasional cash Campaign duration: Usually 2-4 weeks

17. TestingTime

TestingTime operates on an invitation basis and focuses on high-quality user research studies. Their clients include major tech companies and Fortune 500 brands.

The screening process is thorough, but approved testers report excellent compensation and professional treatment. They often conduct video calls as part of the testing process, so prepare to be on camera.

Earnings range: $50-$100 per hour Test format: Often includes video calls Invitation-based: Must qualify for specific studies

18. Opinion Outpost

Opinion Outpost maintains a steady flow of product-related surveys and testing opportunities. They’re owned by Dynata, a major market research company, which ensures reliable payments and legitimate opportunities.

The qualification surveys can be tedious, but they serve a purpose, ensuring you’re matched with relevant products. Better matching means higher completion rates and more earnings.

Average earnings: $0.50-$5 per survey Payment threshold: $5 Payment methods: PayPal, gift cards

19. Toluna Influencers

Toluna positions itself as an influencer platform rather than just a survey site. They’re looking for people with social media presence who can amplify product feedback beyond just internal reports.

The community features are robust, including forums, polls, and social elements that make the experience more engaging. If you enjoy networking and social interaction, Toluna offers more than just earning opportunities.

Requirements: Social media presence helpful Earnings range: $1-$5 per activity Community features: Forums, polls, content creation

20. First Opinion

First Opinion offers direct deposit payments, which is refreshing in a space dominated by PayPal and gift cards. They focus on consumer opinions across various product categories.

The social network aspect creates a sense of community among testers. You’re not just submitting reports into the void; you’re participating in discussions that shape product development.

Payment method: Direct deposit (no PayPal required) Platform style: Social network approach Focus: Consumer products and services

21. Product Report Card

Product Report Card is known for premium compensation, and some testing opportunities pay up to $150. The trade-off is a more selective acceptance process and higher expectations for feedback quality.

They work with major brands on significant product launches, which explains the higher compensation. Your feedback directly influences products that millions of people will eventually use.

Earnings range: $10-$150 per project Acceptance rate: Selective screening process Focus: High-stakes product launches

Final Thoughts

Look, try to understand that this product testing isn’t going to replace your day job overnight. But as a legitimate side hustle that fits around your existing schedule? It’s pretty hard to beat.

The financial opportunity is real. I’ve been tracking my earnings for the past year, and I’ve consistently made $300-$800 per month with about 10-15 hours of weekly effort. That’s not life-changing money, but it’s certainly bill-paying money.

From a personal finance perspective, product testing income is perfect for specific financial goals, building an emergency fund, saving for a vacation, or padding your retirement contributions. The irregular payment schedule makes it ideal for windfall savings rather than covering fixed monthly expenses.

Ready to turn your opinions into income? Pick three platforms from this list, set up your profiles tonight, and start testing. Your couch-based career awaits! 🙂