20 Best Apps and Games That Pay Real Money
In today’s digital age, there are countless opportunities to earn extra income from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re looking to supplement your earnings or find a new way to monetize your free time, apps and games that pay real money can be a great solution. These platforms offer a variety of tasks, from playing games to taking surveys, and reward you with cash, gift cards, or other prizes.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 of the best apps and games that pay real money. Whether you’re a seasoned online earner or just starting out, there’s something here for everyone.
Ways to Get Paid to Play Games
Playing games isn’t just a pastime anymore—it can also be a way to earn real money. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a dedicated enthusiast, there are several ways you can get paid to play games. Here’s a detailed guide on how you can turn your gaming hobby into a source of income.
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Participate in Online Tournaments
Many games, especially competitive ones like Fortnite, League of Legends, and Call of Duty, offer online tournaments where players can compete for cash prizes. Platforms like Skillz and ESL Play host regular tournaments that cater to various skill levels. While top-tier competitions offer substantial rewards, there are also smaller tournaments where you can start and gradually improve your earnings.
Key Tips:
- Focus on a game you’re skilled at.
- Participate in tournaments regularly to increase your chances of winning.
- Join gaming communities to stay updated on upcoming tournaments.
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Stream on Platforms like Twitch or YouTube Gaming
Streaming your gameplay on platforms like Twitch or YouTube Gaming can be a lucrative way to earn money. You can make money through viewer donations, subscriptions, ads, and sponsorships. With a dedicated audience, streamers can earn significant income.
Key Tips:
- Invest in good streaming equipment (camera, microphone, and lighting).
- Engage with your audience by responding to comments and creating interactive content.
- Stream consistently to build a loyal following.
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Become a Game Tester
Game developers need feedback on their games during the development process, and they pay game testers to play their games and provide feedback. Platforms like PlaytestCloud and BetaTesting connect testers with game developers. You’ll get paid to find bugs, suggest improvements, and share your overall experience.
Key Tips:
- Sign up on multiple testing platforms to increase your chances of getting selected.
- Provide detailed and constructive feedback to improve your reputation as a tester.
- Stay patient—testing opportunities can be sporadic.
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Play-to-Earn Games
Play-to-earn (P2E) games are a relatively new phenomenon where players can earn cryptocurrency or NFTs (non-fungible tokens) by playing. Games like Axie Infinity and Decentraland allow players to earn real-world value through in-game activities.
Key Tips:
- Research games to ensure they have a stable economy and reliable payouts.
- Stay updated on the cryptocurrency market as it can affect your earnings.
- Understand the game mechanics thoroughly to maximize your earning potential.
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Use Reward Apps
Apps like Mistplay and Lucktastic reward you for playing games on your phone. These apps often offer points or sweepstakes entries for playing games, which can be redeemed for gift cards, PayPal cash, or other rewards.
Key Tips:
- Play daily to maximize your rewards.
- Focus on games that offer higher points.
- Cash out your rewards regularly to avoid any potential issues.
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Create a YouTube Channel for Game Reviews and Tutorials
If you have expertise in a particular game, creating a YouTube channel where you post reviews, tutorials, or gameplays can generate income. YouTube allows creators to monetize their videos through ads, sponsored content, and affiliate marketing.
Key Tips:
- Focus on a niche or popular game to attract viewers.
- Create high-quality, informative content that provides value to your audience.
- Promote your channel on social media and gaming forums.
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Join an Esports Team
If you’re exceptionally good at a competitive game, consider joining an esports team. Professional gamers can earn money through team salaries, sponsorships, and tournament winnings. Esports is a growing industry, with games like Dota 2, CS: GO, and Overwatch offering significant earnings for top players.
Key Tips:
- Practice consistently to improve your skills.
- Network with other players and teams to get noticed.
- Participate in local and online tournaments to showcase your talent.
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Sell In-Game Items
Some games allow you to sell in-game items for real money. For example, CS: GO has a marketplace where players can sell weapon skins. Similarly, World of Warcraft players can sell gold, and Rocket League players can trade items.
Key Tips:
- Focus on games with active marketplaces.
- Research item values to ensure you’re selling at the best price.
- Avoid any actions that might violate the game’s terms of service.
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Affiliate Marketing for Gaming Products
If you have a strong online presence, you can promote gaming products like hardware, accessories, or even games themselves through affiliate marketing. Amazon Associates and other affiliate networks offer commissions for products sold through your referral links.
Key Tips:
- Choose products that are relevant to your audience.
- Include affiliate links in your game reviews, tutorials, or social media posts.
- Be transparent with your audience about your affiliate partnerships.
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Write or Create Content About Gaming
If you enjoy writing or creating content, consider becoming a gaming journalist or content creator. Websites, blogs, and magazines often pay for articles, guides, and reviews. You can also start your own blog and monetize it through ads, sponsored content, and affiliate marketing.
Key Tips:
- Develop a unique voice or perspective in the gaming industry.
- Stay updated on the latest gaming trends and news.
- Network with other gaming content creators and editors.
Apps and Games That Pay Real Money
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Swagbucks: Earn Rewards for Everyday Activities
Swagbucks is one of the most popular platforms that offer a wide range of earning opportunities. From watching videos to shopping online, Swagbucks lets you accumulate points (called SB) that can be redeemed for cash or gift cards.
Key Features:
- Multiple ways to earn, including surveys, videos, and shopping
- Daily bonuses and challenges
- Easy redemption for PayPal cash or gift cards
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InboxDollars: Cash Rewards for Simple Tasks
InboxDollars rewards you with cash for completing tasks such as reading emails, taking surveys, and playing games. It’s a straightforward platform where you can see your earnings accumulate in real time.
Key Features:
- No points system—earn real cash
- Variety of tasks to choose from
- $5 sign-up bonus for new users
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Mistplay: Get Paid to Play Mobile Games
Mistplay is an app designed for gamers who want to earn rewards while playing. By trying out new games, you can accumulate points that can be exchanged for gift cards or PayPal cash.
Key Features:
- Large selection of mobile games
- Points accumulate quickly with regular gameplay
- Active community and leaderboards
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Skillz: Compete in Skill-Based Games for Cash Prizes
Skillz is a platform that hosts tournaments for skill-based games, where players can compete for real money. It’s ideal for gamers who enjoy a challenge and want to turn their hobby into a side income.
Key Features:
- Real cash prizes in tournaments
- Diverse selection of skill-based games
- Daily cash bonuses and referral rewards
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Survey Junkie: Get Paid for Sharing Your Opinion
Survey Junkie is a survey site that pays users for their opinions on various topics. If you enjoy sharing your thoughts, this is an easy way to earn some extra cash.
Key Features:
- High-paying surveys available regularly
- User-friendly interface
- Points can be redeemed for PayPal cash or gift cards
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Acorns: Invest Your Spare Change Automatically
Acorns is an investing app that helps you grow your savings by rounding up your everyday purchases and investing the spare change. It’s a great way to start building wealth without any effort.
Key Features:
- Automatic round-ups from purchases
- Low-cost investment options
- Referral bonuses for inviting friends
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Dosh: Earn Cash Back on Purchases
Dosh is a cash-back app that rewards you for shopping at partner stores, restaurants, and online retailers. Link your credit or debit card, and Dosh will automatically credit your account with cash back on qualifying purchases.
Key Features:
- Automatic cash back without the need for coupons
- Quick payouts to your bank account or PayPal
- Bonus rewards for referrals
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Ibotta: Grocery Shopping with Cash Back
Ibotta is an app that gives you cash back on everyday grocery purchases. Simply upload your receipt after shopping, and Ibotta will reward you with cash back on eligible items.
Key Features:
- Extensive list of participating retailers and brands
- Easy-to-use app with regular bonuses
- PayPal or gift card cashouts
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Lucktastic: Play Lottery-Style Games for Real Rewards
Lucktastic is a free app that offers scratch card games where you can win real money and prizes. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the thrill of playing the lottery without spending any money.
Key Features:
- Free daily scratch cards
- Real cash prizes and gift cards
- Regular sweepstakes for big rewards
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Field Agent: Get Paid for Completing Local Tasks
Field Agent pays you to complete simple tasks in your local area, such as taking photos of products in stores or providing feedback on service experiences. It’s a great way to earn extra cash while you’re out and about.
Key Features:
- Tasks are often quick and easy
- Payments directly to your bank account or PayPal
- Regular availability of new tasks
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MyPoints: Shop Online and Earn Rewards
MyPoints is a cash-back site that rewards you for shopping online, taking surveys, and watching videos. Points can be redeemed for gift cards or PayPal cash.
Key Features:
- Multiple earning opportunities
- Easy point redemption process
- Regular bonuses and promotions
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Toluna: Share Your Opinions and Get Paid
Toluna is a survey platform where you can earn rewards for participating in surveys, polls, and discussions. It’s an engaging way to share your opinions and get paid for it.
Key Features:
- High frequency of available surveys
- Engaging community features
- Reward options include PayPal cash and gift cards
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Pinecone Research: Exclusive Surveys for High Rewards
Pinecone Research is a premium survey site that pays more for each survey compared to other platforms. It’s a great choice for those who want to maximize their earnings with minimal effort.
Key Features:
- Higher payouts per survey
- Reliable and consistent survey availability
- PayPal, gift card, and check payment options
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Rakuten: Cash Back for Online Shopping
Rakuten, formerly known as Ebates, offers cash back for shopping at hundreds of online retailers. It’s an easy way to earn money while doing something you already do—shopping online.
Key Features:
- High cash-back rates on popular retailers
- Easy-to-use browser extension
- Regular promotions and bonuses
Read more:
How to Make Money on Social Media: Actionable Strategies and Tips
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UserTesting: Get Paid to Test Websites and Apps
UserTesting pays you to test websites and apps, providing feedback on usability and functionality. It’s a simple way to earn money by sharing your user experience.
Key Features:
- High payouts for each test
- Easy-to-use platform
- Quick payments via PayPal
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Slidejoy: Earn Cash for Unlocking Your Phone
Slidejoy is an app that pays you to display ads on your lock screen. You earn points just by unlocking your phone and viewing ads.
Key Features:
- Passive income with minimal effort
- Redeem points for PayPal cash or gift cards
- Customizable ad preferences
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Foap: Sell Your Photos for Cash
Foap is an app that allows you to sell your smartphone photos to brands and individuals. If you have an eye for photography, this is a great way to turn your hobby into an income stream.
Key Features:
- Easy photo uploads and sales process
- Regular “missions” with higher rewards
- Earn up to $5 per photo sold
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Honeygain: Earn Passive Income by Sharing Your Internet Connection
Honeygain is a passive income app that pays you for sharing your internet connection. It’s a simple way to earn money without any active participation.
Key Features:
- Set and forget—earn passively
- Quick payouts via PayPal
- No impact on your internet speed
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Sweatcoin: Get Paid for Staying Active
Sweatcoin is an app that pays you in digital currency for walking and staying active. It’s a great motivator for those looking to improve their health while earning rewards.
Key Features:
- Earn for every step you take
- Spend Sweatcoins on a variety of rewards
- Regular challenges and bonuses
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Qmee: Earn Cash for Searching the Web
Qmee rewards you for searching the web, shopping online, and completing surveys. It’s an easy way to earn cash without changing your daily habits.
Key Features:
- Immediate payouts with no minimum threshold
- Browser extension for seamless earnings
- Regular survey opportunities
FAQs About Apps and Games That Pay Real Money
Are these apps and games that pay real money legitimate?
Yes, all the apps and games mentioned in this article are legitimate and have been verified for paying users. However, it’s always important to read reviews and do your own research before downloading any app.
How much money can I realistically earn?
Earnings vary depending on the app or game, how much time you invest, and the type of tasks or activities you complete. While some apps offer small earnings, others can provide significant income if used consistently.
Do I need to invest money to start earning?
Most of the apps and games listed do not require any investment to start earning. However, some platforms, like investing apps, may require a small initial deposit.
Can I use these apps on both iOS and Android?
Yes, the majority of these apps are available on both iOS and Android devices. Always check the app store description to confirm compatibility with your device.
How do I get paid?
Payment methods vary by app but typically include PayPal, direct bank transfers, gift cards, and in some cases, checks. Each app will have its own payment threshold and processing time.
How much money can I make playing games?
Earnings can vary widely depending on the method you choose. Professional gamers and streamers can earn thousands of dollars a month, while casual players might make a few hundred through apps and small tournaments.
Do I need special equipment to get started?
For streaming or esports, investing in quality equipment is essential. However, for apps and casual gaming, a smartphone or basic PC is sufficient.
Are there risks involved?
Always be cautious about scams. Stick to well-known platforms, and never pay upfront to participate in a tournament or to access a game. For P2E games, be aware of the volatility in cryptocurrency markets.
How do I find legitimate opportunities?
Research is key. Look for reviews, join gaming forums, and ask for recommendations from other gamers. Platforms like Twitch, YouTube Gaming, and Skillz are reputable places to start.
Start Earning with Apps and Games That Pay Real Money
With so many apps and games that pay real money available, there’s no reason not to start earning today. Whether you’re looking to make a little extra cash in your spare time or turn your online activities into a side hustle, these platforms provide a variety of opportunities to fit your lifestyle. Sign up for a few, try them out, and see which ones work best for you!