Thanks for stopping by to check out my UserTesting review.
It's challenging… stressing about money. Not having time to do what you love. To spend time with the people you love.
Maybe you're unable to work or just trying to escape a job you don't like.
I get it, and you're not alone. So many people are struggling with those same frustrations. Feeling trapped with no way out.
Work at home companies like UserTesting hopes to help. But are they legit?
As a freelancer who works from home, I'm always looking for new ways to make money. Sometimes I need a break from writing.
UserTesting seemed like an exciting way to earn a few extra bucks.
In this review, I will go over who UserTesting is, what they do, and how they work. I'll also discuss the benefits, drawbacks, requirements, application process, and other important information you should know.
Here's an overview of the main topics I will cover:
- What is UserTesting.com?
- Is UserTesting.com Legit?
- How Does UserTesting Work?
- UserTesting Reviews and Complaints
- What I Like About UserTesting
- What I Don't Like
- Where Do You Go From Here?
Disclaimer:
Please note, I am not an affiliate for UserTesting (UserTesting.com). This review has been researched with information and/or testimonials that are available online in the public domain. Any recommendations and/or conclusions are strictly opinions and may not apply to, or agree with, all persons or situations. See full disclaimer for more info
What Is UserTesting.com?
UserTesting is a research platform that hires user testers (or panelists) to do various tests and tasks for third-party clients.
What kind of tests and tasks, you ask?
Great question…
As a user tester, you'll have an opportunity to test websites, eCommerce businesses, video games, mobile apps, software, etc. And for your feedback, UserTesting will pay you.
Of course, it's a little more nuanced than that, but I'll explain how UserTesting works and what you can expect in a moment.
Keep in mind this is a freelance gig, not a job. So things you might expect as an employee like benefits, steady work, and competitive pay are not found here.
However, as an independent contractor of sorts, you can work as little or as often as you like, which is what most people are looking for from platforms like these.
Headquartered in San Fransisco, UserTesting lists four locations. In addition to their main office, they have remote branches in Mountain View, CA, Chamblee, Georgia, and Edinburgh, Scotland.
It was founded in 2007 to give companies real feedback on their products. They refer to themselves as an on-demand human insight platform. The ultimate objective is to help companies find overlooked faults and make practical improvements.
Over the years, UserTesting has worked with recognizable brands such as Adobe, Alaska Airlines, Dominos, Facebook, Ford, Grammarly, Lowes, Samsung, and Walmart.
Is UserTesting.com Legit?
If you've read this far, you'll know UserTesting is legit. If you're just skimming quickly to find out though, as I often do, let's discuss it.
In short, you're reading this review to find out if you can make extra money with UserTesting. You want to know if UserTesting is worth it.
Yes, you can make money with UserTesting, and they are legit. However, whether they are worth it depends on your financial needs and situation.
As I mentioned above, UserTesting dates back to 2007, which is a long time in internet years.
Since that time, there are have been countless companies that offer similar work, whether it be user testing, surveys, or even micro-jobs like taking photos and checking local prices.
With so many companies providing these services to third parties though, it's become highly competitive, which drives the price down. That, in turn, causes the pay rate for user testers like you and me to go down.
So, if you have little time and your financial needs are relatively high, UserTesting may not be worth it.
There are also concerns people have. For example, UserTesting (and, to be fair, similar companies like Trymata, and UserFeel) are regularly accused of being a scam.
I'll discuss specific complaints further below, but first, go over some evidence in support of UserTesting not being a scam.
UserTesting Is “Old” (By Internet Standards)
Most scams collapse within a few months. Some might survive a year or two. At least their brand collapses.
The scheme survives, but the scammers are usually found out, so they rework it and change the name.
UserTesting has always been UserTesting for what is quickly coming up on two decades (at least it feels that way at my age).
Strong Social Presence
In addition to their age, UserTesting.com also has a strong social presence. They currently have nearly 80,000 followers on Facebook and 43,000 followers on Twitter.
They also have a significant following on platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn.
Physical Location and Phone Number
Probably the most significant evidence that UserTesting is real is that they have a physical location…
They also list three other remote locations. Two of them may be leased co-working spaces, but their branch in Chamblee, Georgia, can be seen in this Google image below. The UserTesting decal on the door is partially blurred, but still easy to make out…
While I understand some members' frustrations and worries about things like data harvesting, UserTesting as a company is legit.
If you're concerned with privacy, as you should be, and you come across a question you're not comfortable asking, there are alternatives…
While survey sites like Survey Junkie and Inbox Dollars also ask questions, you may find that they don't dig as deep. Of course, it depends on the individual test and survey, which is why it's good to have alternatives. Especially if you've developed a habit of receiving that extra spending money each month.
Market research and product testing sites can also be a stepping stone to something more serious like an online business.
You may be at home because of difficulties with your health or taking care of children and other dependents…
If that’s the case and a full-time income online is what you want, knowing how and where to get started is what you need in order to get what you want.
Now, I'm going to give you a free step by step beginner's guide to making money online and you can get it by Clicking Here
How Does UserTesting Work?
UserTesting is similar to a focus group, but you do it online rather than sitting in a room with a group of people. For regular tests, no one is asking questions in a live setting.
It's also not moderated like a typical focus group, so you won't find any one-way mirrors with marketing executives hiding behind them.
Instead, you will follow on-screen instructions and get paid to test things like websites, software, games, and mobile apps.
With that said, UserTesting does conduct live interviews that pay well, but those are likely to be more infrequent than regular tests.
As a company or organization with a product that requires testing, you can request a trial and create a test plan to ask testers questions. In addition, you can target users by employing UserTesting's Contributor Network or designate your own audiences.
UserTesting Basic Requirements
To get accepted in UserTesting, you need to meet the following requirements:
- At least 18 years old.
- Able to speak English.
- UserTesting's screen/voice recorder software (must be downloaded).
- PC or Mac
- Stable internet connection.
- Internal or external microphone.
- PayPal account (if you want to get paid)
- Below is a screenshot of UserTesting's device requirements (from their FAQ page)…
Getting Paid to Test
While there are many companies and organizations that will benefit from UserTesting's services, I suspect that's not what you're here for.
You're here because you want to get paid to test.
Here's a quick step-by-step overview:
- Join UserTesting's global network of contributors by submitting your email address and taking a quick practice test.
- Receive test opportunities after answering a series of screening questions. They release new tests frequently.
- Help brands improve their products and services by testing and sharing your opinion. For this, you are required to download a screen and voice recorder software so that you can record your observations.
- Get paid $4 USD per five-minute test, $10 USD per twenty-minute test, or $30 – $120 USD for live interviews. Note: submissions must be approved before payments are released.
UserTesting Registration
To register, you must provide UserTesting with your email. You will receive a confirmation email thanking you for applying to what is referred to as The UserTesting Contributor Network.
Click the link that says “Complete Your Application.”
You will then be met with an introductory video showing a contributor testing a website, recording her screen, describing the experience, and answering questions.
This is followed by a video that offers tips for being a good contributor.
UserTesting Contributor Tips
Tip 1: Be sure to record in a quiet distraction-free place
Tip 2: Adopt the mindset of the scenario
Tip 3: Complete each task before moving on.
Tip 4: Speak your thoughts out loud.
Tip 5: Ask questions and add comments
Next, you will be asked to take a practice test. Your screen and voice will be recorded, so it's critical to close all windows and tabs you don't want UserTesing to see.
You must also make sure you have time for the test and allow up to 48 hours for approval. Once approved, you can begin taking tests.
Does UserTesting record your face?
A common question I get about user testing sites, which you will likely have at this point during your registration, is whether they record your face.
No, UserTesting does not record your face. They do, however, record your voice and your screen. If you have any personal information on your screen or anything you just want to keep private, make sure to hide it or close it before taking tests.
Taking Tests
New tests are posted daily. You can read through the descriptions and take a screener for the ones you find most suitable.
Steps to follow:
- View available tests in your account dashboard
- There will be screening questions for every available test to determine your eligibility
- After qualifying, you will record your voice and screen for the company (or brand) while following their instructions.
- Upload your video once you're done.
- If approved, payments will be made to PayPal seven days after submitting your recording.
UserTesting App
In addition to PC and Mac, UserTesting is available for mobile devices on IOS and Android.
So if you rely on public computers or share one with your family, you can still do tests with their quick and easy UserTesting app.
And let's be honest, getting up off the couch is not always easy (or is that just me?). I mean… call me crazy, but if I can make money from a phone while my favorite “end-of-day cushions” coddle me, I'm going to do it. 😀
UserTesting.com Supported Countries
UserTesting.com is currently accepting applicants from the following countries:
- US
- Canada
- Europe
- Latin America and the Caribbean
- Asia Pacific
- Africa, Middle East, and India
UserTesting Jobs
UserTesting jobs basically fall under one category – user tester (referred to as a Contributor). For example, you may work as a site tester, mobile app tester, program tester, game tester, etc.
There are generally no specific qualifications as far as training or education. However, you must qualify for individual tests.
User testing is similar to online surveys because both involve screenings and questionnaires.
These “pre-tests”, called screeners, are a series of questions intended to determine your suitability for a test. And they don't always do it in a straightforward way.
For example, a UserTesting client with a parenting website will understandably want parents with infants and young children to test it. It only makes sense because that's who the website is for.
In a perfect world, only those who meet that criteria will apply. But unfortunately, the world is not perfect, and many non-parents will also apply. Some will even lie about having children so they can still do the test.
The purpose of a screener is to determine who is being truthful and who is not.
There are many complaints about these screener tests, but it's important to know that UserTesting DOES NOT create them. Instead, they are made by the client.
Another example would be a game developer looking for game testers. If the last video game you played was 1985's Super Mario Bros., you're probably not a good candidate for that test.
On the other hand, you may be asked to test a generic shopping site that appeals to a wide range of users.
So UserTesting jobs range from specific demographics to general audiences.
Does UserTesting.com do Surveys?
Yes, UserTesting.com conducts surveys. However, unlike most online survey sites, UserTesting surveys are used in combination with usability tests for a more complete picture of the user experience.
Pre-test Surveys
Pre-test surveys, or recruiting surveys, help UserTesting determine suitability. The UserTest survey questions, in this case, might include:
- Age
- Gender
- Profession
- Hobbies
- Marital Status
- Income
- Do you rent or own your home, etc…
There will also be specific questions related to the product you are testing. These are usually multiple-choice, and examples would be:
- Which activities do you use the product for?
- What features do you use most?
- Do you use the product for personal use or business purposes?
- How do you use the product?
- Why did you start using the product?
- Do others in your household or team use the product?
- Where did you learn about the product, and why did you choose it over others?
These are obviously generic questions because we're not referring to any particular product. However, if the product was tax software (just as an example), you may be asked about your bookkeeping methods along with questions to determine the complexity of your tax returns.
If you were testing productivity software, you might be asked how you communicate with team members or the number of hours per day you use it.
Post-Test Surveys
Once you have completed your test, there may be a follow-up survey. The purpose of these UserTesing survey questions is to verify or expand on specific insights you may have mentioned during the test. Examples include:
- Your level of frustration with a particular feature.
- What you consider to be the product's best or most useful feature.
- Your overall opinion of the product.
- How you would improve the product.
UserTesting surveys may direct you to a third-party research platform such as SurveyMonkey.
Can You Really Make Money with UserTesting?
Yes, you can really make money with UserTesting. However, it is not likely to replace your job.
To be fair, UserTesting does not claim to be a full-time job or that it will make you rich. They are realistic about your potential earnings. If you're looking for a few extra dollars in your pocket, it might be the right site for you.
However, user testing is not for everybody. Like typical survey sites, you will often answer screener questions and get turned down. This can be time-consuming and redundant.
Another challenge you may face is a low number of testing opportunities. UserTesting's pay rates are decent, but if you're only qualifying for a few tests per week (or longer), it's not going to add up to a significant income if that's what you're looking for.
But you're not signing an “Exclusive Deal” with UserTesting, which means you don't have to wait around for tests. There are other ways to make money when UserTesting is slow.
Legit survey sites like surveyjunkie.com and inboxdollars.com will also pay you for your opinion. They probably won't pay as UserTesting does per test or survey, but they’re a good way to pass the time (and good first step to making money online).
They can also be a stepping stone to something more serious like an online business.
You may be at home because of difficulties with your health, young ones running around the house, or maybe you're just looking for an more income.
If that’s the case and a full-time income online is what you want, knowing how and where to get started is what you need in order to get what you want.
Now, I'm going to give you a free step by step beginner's guide to making money online and you can get it by Clicking Here
Regarding UserTesting and the number of testing opportunities you qualify for, it mostly depends on your demographics and overall rating (yes, clients can rate you).
The contributor rating system is similar to other gigs like Uber. Clients rate you 1 to 5 stars as a tester and the better your rating, the more testing opportunities you will get.
How Much Do You Make on User Testing?
UserTesting currently pays $4 USD for a 5-minute recording or $10 USD for a 20-minute video recording, often including 4-ish written follow-up questions.
From time to time, you may be offered a live interview, which pays between $30 USD and $120 USD.
UserTesting Payment Methods
Earning money online is one thing. How you get paid is another.
So, how does UserTesting Pay?
They currently pay via PayPal (my preferred method of payment), which is their only payment method at this time. That makes a PayPal account mandatory if you want to be paid.
Payments are released daily, and there is no minimum threshold. That doesn't mean you are paid immediately for each test though. Once approved, you should see your earnings within 7 days of your test.
My Experience User Testing
As a freelance writer, my primary source of income is, of course, writing. But as I mentioned earlier, it's nice to take a break from writing every now and then and do something like user testing.
What I like most about user testing is that it doesn't feel like work. I also enjoy the opportunity to try things I wouldn't have otherwise tried.
However, like most who do user testing (as well as online surveys, etc.), it's frustrating when I don't qualify or when there are no tests to do.
It would also be nice if they paid more, but I understand the economics of providing these tasks. I don't have any particular skill that would set me apart from the millions of other user testers.
Therefore, I never count on usertesting as an income source when budgeting.
UserTesting Reviews and Complaints
UserTesting is a great way to earn extra money, but it's not smooth sailing for everyone. There are a significant number of negative reviews and complaints.
Having said that, I'd like to point out that the ratio of positive to negative reviews is often skewed.
On one hand, people are more likely to leave a negative review. If they've been ripped off or feel wronged in some way, they are going to express it.
On the other hand, many companies bribe customers for positive reviews by offering things like gifts, rebates, and discounts.
So, it's important to understand that overall star ratings ONLY represent the average rating of reviews. They DO NOT represent the average rating of customers (or users, members, etc.) because not every customer is represented.
That doesn't mean you should ignore reviews though. It just means you should take them with a grain of salt. They should inform your decision, not necessarily determine it.
With that said, some of the complaints about UserTesting include:
- Account deactivated when it was time to get paid.
- There is no way to tell a client that their site, program, idea, etc. is terrible without risking a low rating, thus reducing your chances of getting more tests.
- UserTesting is disrespectful and cares very little about testers.
- Getting spam emails related to some of the survey questions
Some other “interesting” although not very good, issues that some users mention are:
- Customer service takes weeks or months to get back to you.
- No work and no clients.
- Payments not received.
- Don't qualify for 90% of the tests.
- Suspicious of UserTesting gathering personal information for their own purposes (data mining).
Those are some of the negative comments and complaints, but to be fair, there are some positive ones as well.
- One member claims to have earned $500 – $1500 per year for the last four years. Another claims to make $200 per week (although admits the screeners are annoying).
- It's a better way to make money than Uber or Instacart.
- Payments made on time.
- Work you can do from home, even while in bed.
Interestingly, the reviews on TrustPilot are significantly more optimistic than they are on similar review sites. Some of the positive points made by testers are:
- Tests are interesting, easy, and short.
- Gain experience testing products.
- Good pay.
- Great feedback and response time.
Clearly, there are some contradictory reviews. For example, some experience quick response times, while others claim it takes weeks or months.
One thing I did notice is that even among positive reviews, users talk about taking a lot of qualifier tests.
One five-star reviewer even agrees you will likely only qualify for 10% of the tests, but the screeners are only a few questions and 15 seconds long.
Having read what seems like hundreds of reviews, it's clear that your experience depends a lot on your expectations and perspective.
I don't doubt that many of the complaints are legitimate, but I also can't say for sure which ones are accurate and which ones are embellished or explicitly written to damage UserTesting.
There are two sides to every story, and all we can do is speculate.
I don't say that to defend UserTesting. Indeed, the number of complaints is overwhelming. All I'm saying is that we only see one side and simply don't have all of the information.
What I Like About UserTesting
- UserTesting is free to join.
- Payments are automatically released within seven days.
- Good pay for an unskilled task-based online gig.
- Payments are processed through PayPal, which is my preferred payment method.
- Easy and interesting work.
- Work when and where you want.
- Low barrier to entry. You don't need a trade, degree, or experience in any particular area.
What I Don't Like
- The overwhelming number of complaints is concerning.
- Having to share an uncomfortable amount of personal information.
- A high percentage of screener disqualifications.
- No passive income potential (you are still trading minutes for dollars).
- Not able to replace your job income.
Where Do You Go From Here?
You'd love to make money from home, and user testing can be a great way to do it.
The biggest drawback (and risk) is sharing your personal information. Because of that, I can't recommend it to everyone. If privacy is a concern, UserTesting might not be for you.
On the other hand, it's free to join. So if you're okay with sharing some basic information, it might be what you're looking for. Especially if you've got bills piling up and debt weighing you down.
You might be a student in school or a single parent at home. You may have health challenges that make regular work difficult, or maybe you just hate your job and you’re desperate for a way out.
If that's the case, and a more substantial income is what you want, an online business may be your best option.
With all the scams and schemes out there though, knowing how and where to get started the right way is what you need in order to get what you want.
Now, I'm going to give you a free step by step beginner's guide to making money online and you can get it by Clicking Here
If you're just looking for a simple way to make some pocket money though, in addition to UserTesting, online survey and get-paid-to sites are another good way to get started.
Sites like Survey Junkie will pay you for your opinion and Inbox Dollars offers rewards for doing things like watching videos, visiting websites and searching the web.
Like other task-based sites, they won't make you rich. If you've never made money online before though, they can be a good first step.
I hope my UserTesting review has been helpful. Please share in the comments section below if you have any comments, questions, or experience with UserTesting.com.
thank you very much for your sharing. UserTesting.com
I’m new on this platform I need your more guidance how I can make this earning possible. Due to heart related health issues I can’t afford work in filed and I don’t have more options.
Plz contact me and guide and support me
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this is very good website many rating i like it so much ifeel no scam
This is great