If you’ve ever searched “how to make money online,” you’ve probably seen people recommend using survey apps. They promise easy cash for just answering questions. But is it really that simple or are you just giving away your time for pennies?
I decided to put these apps to the test. Over the past 30 days, I signed up for popular survey platforms and tracked my earnings, time spent, and overall experience. Here's what I discovered.
1. Why Survey Apps Are So Popular
Survey apps appeal to almost everyone because they promise:
- ✅ No skills or experience needed
- ✅ Easy mobile access
- ✅ Flexible work - you can do them while watching Netflix
For many people (especially students or stay-at-home parents), that’s enough reason to try. But convenience doesn’t always equal cash.
2. Top Survey Apps I Tested
I focused on apps available worldwide, with high ratings and low withdrawal thresholds. Here are the main five I tested:
- Swagbucks – Offers surveys, videos, games, and shopping rebates.
- InboxDollars – Similar to Swagbucks but only available in the U.S.
- Poll Pay – Simple interface, fast payouts via PayPal.
- Google Opinion Rewards – Quick surveys with Google Play or PayPal rewards.
- ySense – Pays for tasks, offers, and surveys worldwide.
3. How Much I Actually Earned
Here’s the honest breakdown of my 30-day experience:
- Time Spent: ~45 minutes per day
- Swagbucks: $14.50
- Poll Pay: $9.80
- ySense: $7.60
- InboxDollars: $6.00 (U.S. only)
- Google Opinion Rewards: $2.75
🧮 Total: $40.65 in 30 days - not bad for casual clicking, but far from a full-time income.
4. Are They Really Worth It?
It depends on your expectations. If you're hoping to pay rent with surveys—nope. But if you want to earn small rewards or gift cards during downtime, they’re useful.
The real “cost” is your time. Many surveys disqualify you after a few questions. Others might pay just $0.10 for 15 minutes of clicking. Not all apps are created equal.
5. Tips to Maximize Survey Earnings
- ✅ Fill out your profile honestly to get better-targeted surveys.
- ✅ Use multiple apps to increase your chances of qualifying.
- ✅ Check for new surveys at different times of the day.
- ✅ Cash out as soon as you hit the threshold to avoid surprises.
Final Verdict
So, can you really earn with survey apps? Yes, but with limits.
You won’t get rich, but you can make $1 to $2 per day casually, or maybe more with dedication. That adds up to $30 to $60 a month, enough for subscriptions, snacks, or saving toward something bigger.
For serious money, you’ll need to explore freelance work, content creation, or digital products. But for beginners, survey apps are an easy, risk-free place to start your money-making journey.