It sounds too good to be true, but you really can make money watching videos — and no, we’re not talking about going viral on TikTok. Whether you want a few extra dollars in your pocket or a simple side hustle during study breaks, there are real platforms that pay you for doing what you’re already doing in your spare time.
We’ve researched the most reliable ways to get paid to watch videos, from ad-viewing apps to reviewing content. Here’s how you can turn screen time into extra cash.
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How to Make Money Watching Videos
1. Earn cash watching ads on Swagbucks
Swagbucks remains one of the most trusted platforms when it comes to watching videos for money. You can earn SB (Swagbucks points) by viewing playlists that include movie trailers, short commercials, and trending videos.
Points can be redeemed for PayPal cash or gift cards. Most video tasks are low-effort and can be done while multitasking.
Average earnings: Up to 300 SB per hour (about £2–£3).
Pro tip: Pair this with survey-taking and cashback offers on the same app to maximize your returns.
Sign up to Swagbucks here »
2. Get paid to view content on InboxPounds
UK-based InboxPounds rewards users for watching short clips, usually advertisements or entertainment previews. Once you sign in, go to the ‘TV’ tab to start earning by watching playlists.
You’ll be credited once the full list is complete — easy passive earning while your tea brews.
Minimum payout: £20 (via bank transfer or gift cards)
Try InboxPounds here »
3. Use WeAre8 to watch ethical ads
If you’d prefer to make an impact and earn money, WeAre8 is a socially driven platform that pays you to view ads from responsible brands. A portion of your earnings can be donated to charity if you choose.
When we tested it, we earned 25p per 30-second ad — and some ads even offered more.
Minimum payout: £1 via PayPal
Download WeAre8 and start earning »
4. Review commercials and music videos on SliceThePie
Love sharing your opinion? SliceThePie pays users to watch music videos, ads, and fashion promos — and rate them. The better your feedback, the more you can earn over time.
Most tasks take just a couple of minutes. You’ll need to write a few lines of honest feedback.
Typical rate: £0.05 to £0.15 per review
Cash out via PayPal once you reach £10.
Sign up to SliceThePie here »
5. Watch and earn with PrizeRebel
PrizeRebel is a global reward site that lets you earn points for watching videos, taking quizzes, and completing surveys. It offers a wide range of payout options including PayPal, Visa cards, and retail gift cards.
Videos are often grouped into 5–15 minute playlists, mostly sponsored content or short films.
Minimum payout: 500 points (~$5)
Join PrizeRebel now »
6. Caption YouTube or social videos as a freelancer
If you want to move beyond passive viewing, writing subtitles for video content can be a rewarding way to earn. Freelance sites like Fiverr and Rev list gigs for captioning videos — especially for YouTube creators and educational brands.
Not only is this a great way to make money watching videos, it also boosts your CV with a useful skill.
Earnings: £5–£25/hour depending on your speed and accuracy
Browse freelance captioning gigs on Fiverr »
7. Get paid to test ads on JumpTask
JumpTask lets you complete microtasks like watching ads, testing apps, or answering short polls. Payments are made in JumpToken (JMPT), a cryptocurrency that you can exchange for other coins or cash.
Think of it as passive engagement with digital marketing content — you watch, and they pay.
Requires crypto wallet for withdrawal
Explore JumpTask here »
8. Pitch your own video reviews or analysis
If you’re confident writing or speaking about movies, shows, or YouTube trends, you can get paid to review videos for blogs or entertainment outlets. Editors at niche blogs are always looking for contributors who can offer fresh takes on new releases.
You can even start your own newsletter or Medium blog.
Potential earnings: £20–£100+ per piece
Tip: Search Twitter and Reddit for “calls for pitches” or write directly to editors with your ideas.
9. Join academic studies about video consumption
Some paid research studies focus on how people interact with digital content — including how you watch and respond to videos. Sites like Prolific and Respondent.io offer paid research tasks that involve watching and answering questions about video clips.
Good option for students or remote workers
Average pay: £6–£25 per hour
Sign up for Prolific here »
Final Thoughts about Make Money Watching Videos
Whether you’re scrolling through trailers or reviewing commercials, there are plenty of legit ways to make money watching videos. While none of these options will replace your day job, they’re perfect for students, freelancers, or anyone looking to monetize their downtime.
From passive viewing on apps like Swagbucks to active gigs like caption writing, there’s something for every type of video watcher. Try combining two or three methods to see which ones suit your style (and screen time habits) best.
FAQs
Can you really make money watching videos?
Yes — many reward platforms and freelance opportunities pay you for watching or reviewing videos. While it won’t make you rich, it’s an easy way to earn extra cash.
How much can I earn watching videos online?
Earnings vary by platform. Expect £0.05–£3/hour on passive platforms like Swagbucks, or up to £25/hour with active gigs like captioning or reviewing.
Bill Foulkes is a business blogger who specializes in writing blog posts for small businesses. He has been blogging for over one year and does not use any ghost writers to help him with his work. Bill enjoys reading books on self-development and entrepreneurship, as well as watching YouTube videos on how to improve your life. When he’s not working, he likes playing video games and hanging out at the movies with friends.