Get Paid to Watch Videos: 10 Legit Apps & Strategies

In the ever-evolving landscape of income generation, one trend has been steadily gaining traction: passive income. As finance-savvy individuals and side hustlers continue to seek innovative ways to boost their earnings, the appeal of making money while engaged in seemingly mundane activities, such as watching videos, has surged.

But why the sudden fascination with earning money while multitasking? The answer lies in the growing accessibility and affordability of technology. With smartphones becoming ubiquitous and streaming services becoming more prevalent, consuming content has never been easier. Consequently, the market for passive income opportunities in this space has expanded, opening up a world of possibilities for those eager to capitalize on this trend.

Consider this: According to a recent report by PwC, the global video streaming market is projected to reach $72.2 billion by 2025, up from $42.6 billion in 2019. This exponential growth underscores the immense potential of the video content industry. Therefore, it’s no surprise that numerous platforms have emerged, offering users the chance to earn money simply by watching videos.

However, it’s essential to approach this trend with a critical eye. While the allure of earning money while watching videos is undeniable, it’s crucial to ensure that these opportunities are legitimate and worth your time. In the following sections, we’ll delve into 10 legitimate apps and strategies to help you get paid to watch videos, empowering you to make informed decisions and maximize your earnings.

1. Swagbucks – Watch Videos for Gift Cards

Kicking off our list of legitimate apps to earn money while watching videos is Swagbucks, a well-established platform that’s been around since 2008. Swagbucks, or SB, is a favorite among finance enthusiasts and side hustlers alike, thanks to its user-friendly interface and numerous earning opportunities.

Here’s how you can start earning with Swagbucks:

• Earning SB points by watching videos: Swagbucks offers a feature called ‘Watch,’ where you can earn points by viewing short videos and ads. These videos cover a wide range of topics, from entertainment to news and politics, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

  For instance, watching a 30-second video could earn you around 2-3 SB points, which might not seem like much. However, consistency is key. With just 30 minutes of watching videos daily, you could potentially earn 60-90 SB points, totaling 1800-2700 SB points in a month. At the current conversion rate, that’s approximately $15-$22.50, simply for watching videos in your downtime.

• Redeeming points for gift cards or PayPal cash: Once you’ve accumulated enough SB points, you can redeem them for gift cards to your favorite retailers, or opt for PayPal cash. Gift cards typically require fewer points than PayPal cash, providing a lower threshold for your first redemption.

  For example, a $50 Amazon gift card usually costs 5000 SB points, while $25 PayPal cash might set you back 2500 SB points. This flexibility allows you to choose between treating yourself to something nice or reinvesting your earnings into other financial ventures.

However, it’s essential to be patient. Earning significant money with Swagbucks takes time and dedication. But with a strategic approach and consistent engagement, you could potentially turn your video-watching habit into a steady stream of passive income.

Additionally, consider combining Swagbucks with other apps and strategies mentioned in this guide. By utilizing multiple platforms, you can maximize your earnings and create a diversified income stream.

2. YouTube Partner Program – Monetize Your Channel

Moving on from Swagbucks, let’s explore another lucrative opportunity to monetize your passion for videos – the YouTube Partner Program. Unlike the previous apps that reward you for watching content, this program allows you to earn money by creating and sharing your content. It’s an excellent option for finance enthusiasts looking to build an audience around their financial knowledge and insights.

Here’s how you can get started and grow your earnings:

• Meeting YouTube’s eligibility requirements: Before you can apply for the YouTube Partner Program (YPP), you need to fulfill certain criteria. Currently, YouTube requires creators to have:

  • 4,000 watch hours in the past 12 months
  • A linked YouTube channel with more than 1,000 subscribers
  • Adhere to YouTube’s policies and guidelines

  These requirements might seem challenging, especially for new creators. However, don’t be discouraged. Many successful finance channels started small and grew their audience over time. For instance, Graham Stephan, a popular finance creator, had humble beginnings but now boasts over 1.5 million subscribers.

• Earning money through ad revenue and sponsorships: Once you’re accepted into the YPP, you can start making money through ad revenue and sponsorships. Here’s how:

  • Ad revenue: When viewers watch ads on your videos, YouTube shares a portion of the ad revenue with you. The amount you earn depends on factors like video views, viewer engagement, and ad inventory.

    For example, if you have a video with 100,000 views and an average CPM (cost per thousand impressions) of $5, you would earn $500 from ads alone. Keep in mind that CPMs vary widely, and it can take time to build substantial ad revenue.

  • Sponsorships: As your channel grows, you may attract the attention of brands looking to collaborate on sponsored content. Sponsorships can significantly boost your earnings, as brands often pay more than ad revenue alone.

    For instance, a mid-sized finance channel with 500,000 views per video might command $5,000 – $10,000 per sponsored video. To attract sponsors, focus on creating high-quality content, building your audience, and demonstrating value to potential partners.

While growing your YouTube channel takes time and effort, it’s a long-term investment in your financial future. By sharing your financial knowledge and insights, you can build an audience, generate passive income, and even create new business opportunities.

Additionally, consider using YPP alongside other strategies mentioned in this guide. By diversifying your income streams, you can create a more stable and resilient financial foundation.

3. Vindale Research – Get Paid for Watching Ads

Next up, let’s explore another engaging way to earn money online: the Vindale Research program. Unlike the previous apps that reward you for watching content, this platform pays you for participating in market research activities, including watching sponsored videos. It’s an excellent option for finance enthusiasts looking to supplement their income with flexible tasks.

Here’s how you can start earning with Vindale Research:

• Earning money by watching sponsored videos: Vindale Research pays you for watching short videos, usually between 1-5 minutes long. These videos are typically market research previews of upcoming products or services.

  To earn money, simply watch the video, answer a few related questions, and submit your response. Your earnings will vary depending on the length and complexity of the video, but you can expect to make around $0.50 – $5 per video.

  For example, if you watch 10 videos a day, each paying $2 on average, you’d earn $20 daily. That’s a potential $600 per month, working just a few hours each week.

• Cash rewards for completing offers: In addition to watching videos, Vindale Research offers other paid activities, such as completing online surveys, reading emails, or signing up for trial offers.

  Each offer has a specific cash reward, which you’ll receive once you’ve completed the task. For instance, signing up for a free trial of a financial app might earn you $5 – $10.

  While these offers may require more time or personal information than watching videos, they often come with higher rewards, making them a valuable addition to your earning strategy.

While Vindale Research might not replace your full-time income, it’s an excellent way to earn extra money in your spare time. Additionally, it’s an opportunity to stay informed about new products and services entering the market.

Moreover, combining Vindale Research with other strategies mentioned in this guide, such as the YouTube Partner Program or Swagbucks, can help you diversify your income streams and create a more stable financial foundation.

Remember, every dollar you earn from Vindale Research is a dollar you didn’t have before. That’s the beauty of passive income – it allows you to make money while you sleep, work on other projects, or simply enjoy your free time.

4. InboxDollars – Watch Videos and Take Surveys

Moving on, let’s explore another exciting platform that combines watching videos with earning cash – InboxDollars.

InboxDollars, a well-established online rewards club, offers a unique blend of passive income opportunities. It’s a fantastic option for finance enthusiasts seeking a side hustle or additional income stream. Here’s how you can make money by watching videos and completing surveys:

• Earning cash by watching videos and completing surveys: InboxDollars pays you to watch short, engaging videos from various categories like entertainment, news, and health. Each video is typically around 1-3 minutes long, and you’ll earn a few cents for each one you watch.

  For instance, if you watch 10 videos a day, each paying $0.05 on average, you’d earn $0.50 daily. That’s a potential $15 per month, with just a few minutes of effort each day.

  Moreover, InboxDollars offers paid online surveys, providing another way to earn money. These surveys usually take between 5-25 minutes to complete and pay between $0.25 – $5 each.

  For example, if you complete 2 surveys a day, each paying $1 on average, you’d earn $2 daily. That’s a potential $60 per month, simply by sharing your opinion on various topics.

• Redeeming earnings via check or eCheck: Once you’ve accumulated $30 in your account, you can redeem your earnings via check or eCheck.

  InboxDollars offers a 1099 tax form for users who earn more than $600 in a year, making it easy to file your taxes and track your earnings.

  However, it’s essential to note that InboxDollars’ earnings per task might be lower compared to other platforms. Therefore, to maximize your income, consider combining InboxDollars with other strategies mentioned in this guide, such as watching videos on Swagbucks or completing offers on Vindale Research.

InboxDollars has paid its members over $59 million since its inception, demonstrating its commitment and reliability as a passive income opportunity.

Additionally, InboxDollars’ business model aligns with current market trends, as more companies are turning to digital platforms to gather consumer insights and engage with their audience.

Therefore, by joining InboxDollars, you’re not only earning extra money but also contributing to market research and helping these companies improve their products and services.

Moreover, combining InboxDollars with other passive income strategies mentioned in this guide can create a more diverse income portfolio, providing a solid financial foundation.

Remember, every cent you earn from InboxDollars is a cent you didn’t have before. That’s the power of passive income – it allows you to make money while you’re busy with other tasks or simply enjoying your free time.

So, why not give InboxDollars a try? It’s an excellent way to supplement your income while watching videos and sharing your opinion on various topics.

5. PrizeRebel – Earn Cash Back for Watching Videos

Next, let’s delve into another captivating platform that blends watching videos with earning cash – PrizeRebel.

PrizeRebel, a well-established online rewards site, offers an enticing blend of passive income opportunities. It’s an outstanding choice for finance aficionados seeking a side hustle or supplementary income stream. Here’s how you can make money by watching videos and completing offers:

• Earning points by watching videos and completing offers: PrizeRebel pays you to watch engaging videos from various categories like entertainment, news, and education. Each video is usually around 1-5 minutes long, and you’ll earn points for each one you watch.

  For instance, if you watch 10 videos a day, each awarding 1 point on average, you’d earn 10 points daily. That’s a potential 300 points per month, with just a few minutes of effort each day.

  Moreover, PrizeRebel offers paid offers, providing another way to earn points. These offers usually involve taking short surveys, signing up for services, or downloading apps.

  For example, if you complete 2 offers a day, each awarding 5 points on average, you’d earn 10 points daily. That’s a potential 300 points per month, simply by completing a few tasks.

• Redeeming points for cash or gift cards: Once you’ve accumulated 200 points in your account, you can redeem your points for cash or gift cards.

  PrizeRebel offers a wide range of gift card options, from Amazon to Walmart, providing flexibility in how you spend your earnings.

  However, it’s crucial to note that PrizeRebel’s earnings per task might be lower compared to other platforms. Therefore, to maximize your income, consider combining PrizeRebel with other strategies mentioned in this guide, such as watching videos on Swagbucks or completing offers on Vindale Research.

PrizeRebel has paid its members over $236 million since its inception, demonstrating its commitment and reliability as a passive income opportunity.

Additionally, PrizeRebel’s business model aligns with current market trends, as more companies are turning to digital platforms to gather consumer insights and engage with their audience.

Therefore, by joining PrizeRebel, you’re not only earning extra money but also contributing to market research and helping these companies improve their products and services.

Moreover, combining PrizeRebel with other passive income strategies mentioned in this guide can create a more diverse income portfolio, providing a solid financial foundation.

Remember, every point you earn from PrizeRebel is a point you didn’t have before. That’s the power of passive income – it allows you to make money while you’re busy with other tasks or simply enjoying your free time.

So, why not give PrizeRebel a try? It’s an excellent way to supplement your income while watching videos and completing offers.

However, to make the most of PrizeRebel and other passive income platforms, it’s essential to approach them strategically. This involves dedicating consistent time to these platforms, exploring all earning opportunities, and combining multiple platforms to maximize your earnings.

After all, every dollar you earn from PrizeRebel is a dollar that can be invested, saved, or used to pay off debt. That’s the beauty of passive income – it provides options and empowers you to make informed financial decisions.

6. Netflix – Watch Videos and Save Money

Next, let’s explore another captivating platform that combines watching videos with saving money – Netflix.

Netflix, the world’s leading streaming service, offers more than just entertainment. It’s also an opportunity for finance-savvy individuals to save money or even earn extra income. Here’s how:

• Reducing monthly expenses by sharing Netflix accounts: One of the simplest ways to save money on Netflix is by sharing your account with friends or family. Netflix’s basic plan allows for one screen at a time, while its standard plan allows for two screens simultaneously. This means you can split the cost with someone else and still enjoy your favorite shows.

  For example, if you’re paying $15.49 for the standard plan monthly, sharing it with one other person would reduce your expenses to $7.75 per month – that’s a savings of $7.74 monthly, or $92.88 annually!

  Moreover, Netflix’s premium plan allows for four screens at once, making it an even more attractive option for group sharing.

  However, keep in mind that sharing your Netflix account with too many people can lead to account limitations or even suspension, as Netflix is actively working to prevent password sharing.

• Earning money through referrals: Netflix occasionally offers referral bonuses, allowing you to earn money simply by referring new subscribers.

  For instance, in 2021, Netflix offered a $10 bonus for each successful referral, up to 10 referrals per year. That’s a potential $100 in earnings!

  While Netflix’s referral bonuses aren’t always available, it’s worth keeping an eye on their promotions, as they often offer deals for both new subscribers and existing members.

  Additionally, Netflix’s referral program is an excellent example of how companies are leveraging user networks to drive growth. As more people consume streaming content, referrals have become an essential marketing tool for these services.

Netflix’s success in the streaming market demonstrates the power of subscription-based models. By offering a vast library of content and a seamless viewing experience, Netflix has transformed the way we consume media.

Therefore, by embracing Netflix’s sharing options and keeping an eye on their promotions, you can save money on your entertainment expenses or even earn extra income.

However, to make the most of Netflix and other money-saving strategies, it’s crucial to maintain a holistic approach to your finances. This involves budgeting, investing, and continuously seeking ways to optimize your financial situation.

After all, every dollar you save on Netflix is a dollar you can invest, save, or use to pay off debt. That’s the beauty of money management – it provides options and empowers you to make informed financial decisions.

So, why not give Netflix’s account sharing and referral options a try? It’s an excellent way to save money or earn extra income while enjoying your favorite shows.

Just remember, while Netflix’s account sharing and referral bonuses can be lucrative, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. To truly optimize your finances, consider combining them with other strategies like investing in low-cost index funds, negotiating your salary, or starting a side hustle.

7. Freebird – Get Paid to Watch Videos and Refer Friends

Moving on, let’s delve into an exciting platform that combines watching videos with earning money – Freebird.

Freebird is an innovative app that allows you to earn money simply by watching videos and inviting friends. It’s a fantastic opportunity for finance-savvy individuals to generate passive income with minimal effort.

Earning money by watching videos: Freebird offers a unique way to make money by watching videos. The app pays you to watch short video clips, which are usually 15-30 seconds long. These videos are typically sponsored ads or promotional content from various brands.

Here’s how it works: download the Freebird app, sign up, and start watching videos. Each video watched earns you points. Once you’ve accumulated a certain number of points, you can redeem them for cash via PayPal or gift cards.

For instance, you might earn 2 points for each video watched. To redeem a $5 PayPal cash reward, you’d need around 1,000 points, which could take about a week or two of consistent viewing, depending on your watch time.

Earning passive income from referrals: Freebird also offers an attractive referral program. For each friend you invite to the app, you’ll earn a percentage of their earnings.

Here’s an example: if you invite a friend, and they earn 100 points a day, you’d earn an additional 10 points a day for 30 days. That’s a passive income of 300 points, or around $1.50, just for inviting a friend!

Moreover, Freebird’s referral program has a generous referral chain structure. You can earn from your friends’ referrals too. This means the more people you invite, the more potential earnings you could generate.

However, it’s essential to note that while Freebird’s earnings can be lucrative, they’re just one piece of the puzzle in your financial strategy. To truly optimize your finances, consider combining Freebird with other strategies like investing in low-cost index funds, budgeting, or starting a side hustle.

Therefore, give Freebird a try. It’s an excellent way to earn extra income while watching videos and inviting friends. Plus, it’s an engaging, passive way to boost your earnings.

However, always remember to approach Freebird, and other money-making apps, with a strategic mindset. They’re most effective when integrated into a broader financial plan.

8. Nielsen Computer and Mobile Panel – Get Rewarded for Watching TV

Next up, we have an intriguing platform that blends watching videos with earning money – Nielsen Computer and Mobile Panel.

If you’re a finance enthusiast looking for passive income opportunities, Nielsen’s platform is an interesting option. It offers a unique way to earn money simply by monitoring your screen activity.

Earning money by monitoring your screen activity: Nielsen’s platform pays you for simply having its app installed on your computer or mobile device. The app monitors your screen activity, tracking what you watch on your devices. This data helps Nielsen understand consumer behavior and provides valuable insights to its clients.

Here’s how it works: sign up for Nielsen’s panel, download the app, and keep it running while you use your devices as you normally would. The app tracks your screen activity, and you earn rewards just for having it installed.

For instance, you might earn up to $50 a year just for having the app on your devices. This might not seem like much, but it’s essentially free money for doing nothing – a great way to boost your passive income.

Potential monthly rewards and sweepstakes entries: Additionally, Nielsen offers monthly prize drawings. Each month, you could win cash prizes ranging from $25 to $1,000. The more panels you have installed, the more chances you have to win.

Moreover, Nielsen’s platform is secure and doesn’t collect personal information. It only tracks what apps and websites you use, not what you do within them. This makes it a safe and discreet way to earn passive income.

However, it’s essential to remember that Nielsen’s earnings are passive but modest. To truly optimize your finances, consider combining this strategy with other income streams, such as investing in low-cost index funds, starting a side hustle, or using apps like Swagbucks or Freebird for more active earnings.

Therefore, give Nielsen’s platform a try. It’s an excellent way to earn extra income with minimal effort. Plus, it’s an engaging, passive way to boost your earnings.

However, always approach such opportunities with a strategic mindset. They’re most effective when integrated into a broader financial plan.

Conclusion: Maximize Your Earnings with a Multi-Pronged Approach

Now that we’ve explored various apps to earn money by watching videos, let’s discuss how to maximize your earnings by combining multiple strategies. This multi-pronged approach is a proven tactic among finance enthusiasts and passive income seekers.

Firstly, combining multiple apps and strategies can significantly boost your income. For instance, you could use Swagbucks for watching videos and completing surveys, while also running the Nielsen app in the background on your devices. This way, you’re earning money through both active engagement and passive monitoring.

Additionally, consider diversifying your income streams. While apps like Netflix help you save money, you can also use others like YouTube Partner Program or Vindale Research to make money. This diversity ensures a steady flow of income and reduces the risk of relying on a single source.

However, continuous engagement is key for optimal earnings. Apps like YouTube Partner Program require consistent content creation and audience engagement. Similarly, Swagbucks, InboxDollars, and PrizeRebel need regular participation in offers and surveys.

Moreover, staying updated with market trends and new opportunities can help you discover more ways to earn. For example, the growing trend of influencer marketing could open up new avenues for monetizing your video-watching habits.

Therefore, embrace a strategic mindset when exploring these opportunities. Each app and strategy should complement your overall financial plan. Track your earnings, adjust your approach as needed, and always look for ways to optimize your income.

In conclusion, combining multiple apps and strategies, along with continuous engagement, can help you maximize your earnings in the world of getting paid to watch videos. This multi-pronged approach, backed by a strategic mindset, is the recipe for financial success in this increasingly digital age.