Factsheet: Earning Money by Testing Mobile Games

Side Hustle Type

Gig Economy Side Hustle
(This side hustle involves completing tasks or projects on a flexible, on-demand basis.)

Quick Summary

Love gaming? You can earn extra income by testing mobile games!

Platforms like Testerup.com pay you to play and provide feedback on games before they’re released.

It’s a fun and flexible way to make money in your spare time.

Earnings Potential

  • Part-Time (Approx. 10 Hours/Week):

    • Total Weekly Income: £50–£75/week.

    • Total Annual Income: £2,600–£3,900/year (before expenses).

  • Full-Time (Approx. 30 Hours/Week):

    • Total Weekly Income: £150–£225/week.

    • Total Annual Income: £7,800–£11,700/year (before expenses).

1. Overview

Testing mobile games involves playing and reviewing games to ensure they’re fun, functional, and free of bugs.

It’s ideal for tech-savvy individuals who enjoy gaming and can provide clear feedback.

Why Test Mobile Games?

  • Flexible hours that fit around your schedule.

  • Low start-up costs—you only need a smartphone or tablet.

  • A fun way to earn money doing something you love.

2. Initial Start-Up Costs

  • Smartphone or Tablet: Free if you already own one; otherwise, costs vary.

  • High-Speed Internet: Essential for downloading games and submitting feedback.

  • Optional Accessories: Gaming headphones or a stylus for enhanced gameplay (approx. £20–£50).

Total Estimated Cost: Minimal if you already have the required tech.

3. Training or Qualifications

  • Required: None! Most platforms provide clear instructions for each task.

  • Recommended: Basic understanding of gaming terminology and good communication skills.

4. Rate of Pay

  • Payment varies depending on the platform and the complexity of the tasks. Typical rates range from £5–£10 per task.

  • Some platforms offer bonuses for completing high-value tasks or providing detailed feedback.

5. How to Make Money

  1. Sign Up on Platforms: Start with trusted sites like Testerup or PlaytestCloud.

  2. Create a Detailed Profile: Highlight your gaming experience and attention to detail.

  3. Respond Quickly: Accept tasks as soon as they’re available to secure consistent work.

  4. Deliver High-Quality Feedback: Write clear, actionable insights to impress clients and earn repeat opportunities.

6. Tools & Equipment Needed

  • Smartphone or Tablet: Ensure it meets the technical requirements of the platforms.

  • High-Speed Internet: Reliable connection for downloading games and submitting feedback.

  • Screen Recorder (Optional): Some platforms may ask for recorded gameplay. Try AZ Screen Recorder (free).

7. Legal & Compliance

  • Register as Self-Employed: If you earn over £1,000 in a Tax Year, you need to declare this by registering with HMRC Self-Employment.

  • Taxes: Declare your earnings as additional income during tax filing.

8. Day-to-Day Operations

  • Accept Tasks: Log into your chosen platform regularly to grab new opportunities.

  • Play and Review: Follow the task instructions carefully and take notes as you play.

  • Submit Feedback: Ensure your feedback is clear, detailed, and submitted on time.

9. Challenges to Consider and Solutions

  • Task Availability: Platforms may have limited tasks depending on demand. Solution: Sign up for multiple platforms to increase opportunities.

  • Monotony: Testing similar types of games can feel repetitive. Solution: Mix in tasks from different genres to keep things fresh.

  • Technical Issues: Ensure your device’s software is up-to-date to avoid compatibility problems.

10. Tips for Success

  • Sign up for multiple platforms to maximize your task options.

  • Be thorough in your feedback—platforms value quality over speed.

  • Set daily or weekly goals to track your earnings and productivity.

  • Engage with online communities or forums for game testers to learn tips and tricks.