If you love gaming, you'll be happy to know there are a few legitimate ways to get paid to test and play games before they are released to the public.
For most people, this won't replace a full-time income. Opportunities can be sporadic, and many companies only need testers when they are preparing to launch a new title or feature. Still, if you already spend time playing games, it can be an enjoyable way to earn some extra cash.
How Much Can You Earn Testing Games?
The amount you earn depends on the company, the type of game being tested, and how long the test takes.
Most tests pay somewhere between $5 and $15, although some opportunities may pay more depending on the company and the amount of feedback required.
Why Companies Pay People to Test Games
Game developers rely on testers to identify bugs, glitches, confusing mechanics, and other issues before launch. They also want feedback on whether a game is enjoyable, easy to understand, and functioning properly across different devices.
This feedback helps developers improve their games before they reach the public.
Can You Make a Full-Time Income Testing Games?
Usually not.
Most companies do not offer a steady stream of testing opportunities. You may receive several invitations one month and none the next. Because of that, game testing is generally best viewed as a side hustle rather than a primary income source.
If you're interested in other beginner-friendly ways to earn online, you may also want to check out our guide to rewards sites, which includes several platforms that occasionally pay users to try new games.
8 Companies That Pay You to Test Games
1 – PlaytestCloud
PlaytestCloud regularly recruits people to test mobile games before release.
The company accepts testers from many countries worldwide, although opportunities vary by location.
The amount you earn depends on the length of the session and the tasks involved, but the company says many 15-minute playtests that include a follow-up survey pay about $9.
Payments are sent through PayPal, usually within a few days after your test is approved.
Go here to sign up to playtest for PlaytestCloud, or read our PlaytestCloud review first.
2 – GBTN
GBTN (Global Beta Testing Network) lets gamers test titles before release and provide feedback to developers.
You must be at least 18 years old to participate.
GBTN accepts testers from many countries, although available projects depend on your location and gaming profile.
Compensation varies by project. GBTN does not advertise a standard pay rate, and opportunities are offered only when matching tests become available.
Go here to sign up as a playtester for GBTN.
3 – Ubisoft
Ubisoft frequently recruits participants for its user research and playtesting programs.
You can participate in many tests beginning at age 16.
Availability depends on your location. Some opportunities are remote, while others require attendance at Ubisoft testing facilities.
Depending on the project, compensation may include cash payments, free games, merchandise, or other rewards.
Go here to register to playtest for Ubisoft.
4 – All In! Games
All In! Games maintains a database of testers who can be contacted when new playtesting opportunities become available.
Some sessions are conducted remotely while others take place in person.
You must be at least 18 years old to register, and previous game-testing experience is not required.
Availability varies by country and by the specific testing project.
Go here to sign up with All In! Games.
5 – Octappush
Octappush recruits testers to try mobile games before they are publicly released.
The platform accepts testers from multiple countries and focuses primarily on mobile gaming.
According to the company, most tests pay between $5 and $10.
Go here to sign up as a playtester for Octappush.
6 – BetaTesting
BetaTesting pays users to test websites, apps, software, and occasionally video games before public release.
The company accepts testers from many countries, although some projects are limited to specific regions or devices.
Pay varies by project, but many tests pay between $10 and $20, with some paying more.
Go here to sign up with BetaTesting.
7 – Game Tester
Game Tester connects gamers with developers looking for feedback on games before launch.
The platform is available in many countries and offers testing opportunities for PC, mobile, and console games.
Compensation varies. Some tests provide rewards, gift cards, or points that can be redeemed, while others offer direct payment.
Go here to join Game Tester.
8 – EA Playtesting
Electronic Arts occasionally recruits players to test upcoming games through its playtesting program.
Some opportunities are available remotely, while others require attendance at EA facilities.
Availability depends heavily on your location and the specific game being tested.
Compensation varies and may include cash, gift cards, or other rewards depending on the study.
Go here to learn more about EA Playtesting.
Bonus: Other Ways to Get Paid for Playing Games
If you enjoy mobile games, rewards apps may provide more consistent earning opportunities than traditional game-testing platforms.
These sites often pay users to install and reach milestones in sponsored games. While the earnings are generally modest, there are usually more opportunities available.
- Swagbucks – Read our Swagbucks review
- MyPoints
- InboxDollars
If you frequently use rewards sites, keep an eye out for game-related offers because they can sometimes pay more than surveys and other quick online tasks.
Good luck if you try out any of these sites!
Anna Thurman is a work at home blogger and mom of two. She has been researching and reviewing remote jobs for over 15 years. Her findings are published weekly here at Real Ways to Earn.