Ever visited a website or used an app and thought, "This is confusing!" or "Wouldn't it be better if..."? Companies value this kind of feedback immensely, and many will actually pay you to share your thoughts as you test their digital products before they go live or after updates. Website and app testing can be an interesting and reasonably well-paid way to earn some extra money from home, provided you have the right basic equipment and are comfortable sharing your opinions aloud.
How Does Website/App Testing Work?
The process typically involves these steps:
- Sign Up: Register with user testing platforms. Popular names include UserTesting, Userlytics, Respondent, and TestingTime.
- Profile & Screeners: Fill out your profile with demographic details. You'll then receive invitations or see available 'screener' questionnaires on your dashboard. These short surveys determine if you match the target audience for a specific test (e.g., based on age, tech usage, shopping habits).
- Practice Test: Most platforms require you to complete an unpaid practice test when you first sign up. This involves using their recording software and demonstrating your ability to follow instructions and 'think aloud' clearly.
- Take a Test: If you pass a screener, you'll be invited to take the test. This usually involves:
- Following a set of instructions (e.g., "Find a specific product," "Try to sign up for the newsletter," "Give your first impressions of the homepage").
- Navigating the website or app as instructed.
- Speaking your thoughts, opinions, and any points of confusion clearly into your microphone as you go. Your screen and voice are recorded.
- Some tests are 'unmoderated' (you do them alone), while others are 'moderated' live sessions with a researcher via video call, which usually pay more.
- Test Length: Standard unmoderated tests typically take 10-25 minutes. Moderated interviews can last 30-60 minutes or longer.
- Get Paid: After completing the test, the client reviews your recording. Once approved, you receive a fixed payment for the test.
Top UK-Relevant Testing Platforms
Here are some platforms commonly used by UK testers:
- UserTesting: One of the biggest names in the field, often with the most test opportunities. Typically pays $10 USD (around £8) for a standard 20-minute test, with higher rates for live moderated interviews. Payout is via PayPal, usually 7 days after completion. The main challenge is qualifying through screeners, as competition is high.
- Userlytics: Offers tests paying between $5-$20 USD, often ~£8.50 for 10-20 minute tests, with potential for higher-paying tasks up to $90. Includes live conversation tests. Payment is reported as within 7 days or twice monthly.
- Respondent: Focuses more on higher-paying, often moderated, 1-on-1 research interviews and focus groups rather than quick website tests. It can pay very well, often targeting specific professionals or demographics. Requires applying for studies that match your profile.
- TestingTime: Specialises in moderated live tests conducted over video calls (like Skype). Pay varies based on test length. Payout around 14 days after completion.
- PlayTestCloud: Specifically for testing mobile games. Pays £4-£7 for 15-30 minutes of gameplay and feedback. Fast payout via PayPal (1-3 days).
Other platforms available to UK users include Trymata, Userfeel , Userbrain and BetaTesting.
Realistic Earning Potential & Time Commitment
- Pay Per Test: The rate per individual test is quite good for the time involved – typically £5-£15 for a standard 15-25 minute unmoderated recording. Moderated interviews pay significantly more, often £30-£100+ for 30-60 minutes.
- Frequency is Key: The main limitation isn't the pay per test, but how many tests you actually qualify for. You won't match the demographic for every available screener.
- Monthly Earnings: This makes income highly unpredictable. Some months you might earn nothing, while other months you might get lucky and earn £100-£150+ if you qualify for several tests or a high-paying moderated study. Don't rely on this for regular income.
- Time Commitment: Testing itself is flexible – you do tests when they become available and you qualify. However, you need to be quick to respond to screener notifications, as test slots often fill up within minutes. You also need to factor in the time spent completing unpaid screeners.
Skills & Resources Needed
- Equipment: A computer (desktop or laptop) with a reliable internet connection. A decent quality microphone (a headset with a mic is often recommended) is essential for clear audio. A webcam is sometimes needed for identity verification or moderated tests. A smartphone or tablet is required for mobile app testing.
- Skills: Ability to speak your thoughts clearly and fluently in English. Ability to follow instructions precisely. Basic computer and internet literacy. Comfort with having your screen and voice recorded.
Potential Considerations
- Need to Be Quick: Tests are often first-come, first-served.
- Privacy: You are sharing your screen activity and voice recordings. Moderated tests involve video interaction.
Getting Started: Practical Steps
- Sign Up: Register with 2-3 major platforms like UserTesting, Intellizoom, and Userlytics to maximise your chances. Consider Respondent if interested in higher-paying interviews.
- Complete Profiles: Fill out your profile details accurately and fully.
- Practice Test: Take the initial practice test seriously to ensure you get approved. Focus on speaking clearly and continuously.
- Check Regularly: Monitor your email and platform dashboards frequently for new screener opportunities.
- Respond Quickly: Answer screeners as soon as you see them.
- Test Environment: When taking a test, ensure you're in a quiet place with minimal background noise and use a good microphone.
Conclusion
Website and app testing can be an interesting and relatively well-paid side hustle for the time invested per test. It offers flexibility and the chance to influence product development. However, the inconsistent nature of test availability and the need to pass screeners mean it's best viewed as a source of occasional extra income rather than a reliable earner. If you're comfortable with the technology and sharing your thoughts aloud, it's definitely worth exploring a few platforms.
