Testing Products

Do you have a keen eye that likes to explore the intricacies of various tools and products? Allow me to tell you that you can monetize that skill.

With a critical mind and thorough research, you can start testing products for money. Utilize that talent of yours and turn it into a lucrative side hustle today!

An Overview of Testing Products: A Primer

The ultimate goal of any company is to know how the general public will perceive its products. We all know feedback is the best way to improve.

That’s why firms hire people to test these products, offering first-hand insights into what a regular consumer would think. You can assess anything: Medical products, baby products, cosmetics, and more.

Product tests usually go as follows: Once you receive an item, you examine whether it offers any value based on specific criteria. These metrics are usually based on the company’s goals and consumers’ needs.

Don’t worry. You can be as objective as you want. Manufacturers want your honest review.

Valuable feedback helps in the product development process. Companies receive the necessary feedback to develop a product that provides a friendly user experience for potential customers.

How Much Can Testing Products Earn You?

The product testing market has witnessed a global boom these past few years. It’s become one of the most lucrative side hustles out there. While some can take it as a way to make extra money in their spare time, others earn enough to make it their full-time job.

Unfortunately, I can’t specify how much you’d make, as it depends on your approach to the market. If you’re offering your services on freelance websites, you can set the prices that fit you.

If you seek product testing companies or online survey sites, you’ll be limited by what they offer. Some of them can pay $10 for an assessment. Others can go as far as $100. If you participate in paid clinical trials, you can earn $500-1500.

According to Ziprecruiter, most product testers earn $80,500-117,500 a year. Top earners can make up to $128,500.  

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Side Hustle Testing Products?

As with any other gig, becoming a product tester won’t be easy. You might need to invest in a few tools to help you stay ahead of the competition.

Product Testing Courses

I know the idea of getting paid to test products makes you want to drop everything and apply to product testing sites. Do you know what the testing process is like, though? Do you also know what type of product testing you want to do?

You probably don’t. Taking a product testing course would be a good first step. For less than $11, Mike Fin’s product testing course will cover the necessary fundamentals.

Electronic Gadgets

As a product reviewer, you need a proper phone or laptop, especially if you decide to work for a fashion brand. You’ll be taking photos of the clothes and beauty products you assess.

Some brands can even use these photos on their product review pages. A phone with a good camera would make your job easier. That could cost $450-1000.

Where Can You Find Product Testing Gigs?

You can find several platforms for product reviews with a quick Google search. Unfortunately, though, it’s hard to differentiate between the legit ones and the scams.

Don’t worry. I’ll cover all the websites and platforms that offer legitimate product review jobs so you don’t waste too much time.

Where to Independently Find Product Testing Gigs

Approaching big companies isn’t the only way to get product testing gigs. It’s a big market. If you offer your services on a freelance website, you’ll get a few clients sooner or later.

Upwork

Upwork is one of the biggest online work marketplaces in the world. It offers you a chance to communicate with the biggest brands on the market and get a high-paying product testing opportunity.

The interface is intuitive, making the job hunt process easier. The only downside is that the platform is quite competitive. You want to learn how to make your profile stand out.

Gig Economy Companies That Offer Product Testing Gigs

I understand that freelancing doesn’t always pay out. There’s nothing better than seeking a gig with guaranteed payment. That’s why I took it upon myself to cover the best product testing websites on the internet.

uTest

If you’re tech-savvy, uTest is the perfect platform for you. Say goodbye to physical products, as the website specializes in software testing gigs.

Your job is to test different apps and identify all the issues that make for a bad user experience. It’s a great chance to connect you with quality assurance professionals from all over the world.

Shein

As a global fashion brand, Shein managers want to ensure the company only offers high-quality clothing items. They hire testers to give them a first-hand experience review.

While you won’t get financial compensation for your assessment, you get to keep the items you review.

LifePoints

LifePoints is a simple program, but it’s a jack of all trades. You get to test products, answer online surveys, and vote on polls in exchange for points.

Once your score builds up, you can trade these points for gift cards, cash rewards, or charitable donations.

Why You Should Consider Testing Products as a Side Hustle

I understand if you’re still hesitant. How about I tell you the perks of becoming a product tester? Yes, there’s more to it than the extra cash.

• Flexibility: Unlike classic 9-5 jobs, you can work in the comfort of your home, cafés, coworking spaces, etc. You can also start working whenever you want, making it a convenient hustle for night owls.
• Luxury products: Not only do you get early access to luxurious items, but you also receive money for your honest feedback. If employers won’t pay you, they’ll at least let you keep the product.
• Improving the market: By pointing out where future products fall short, you’re gradually creating a market that provides high-quality services for consumers.

Problems With Testing Products

Nothing is perfect. This gig has so much to offer testers. It’s only natural it’d have a few flaws. You can’t get into that industry before knowing what these flaws are.

• It’s complicated: Whether you decide to take courses or not, testing products isn’t easy. You have to understand the purpose of the product, know what to look for, and identify all its strengths and weaknesses.
• Unstable income: Different companies offer different rates. You can earn $100 in one job and $20 in another. Keep in mind that companies like Shein don’t even offer money in exchange for reviews.
• Boredom: When you pick a specific niche, you’ll go through the same process, testing similar products, pointing out the same issues, etc. Ultimately, your work life will become monotonous.

Frequently Asked Questions

Now, you have a good idea of the product testing market. That doesn’t mean you don’t have any questions, though. Let me answer a few common ones to help you develop a clear idea.