Imagine earning money while sitting on your couch, waiting for your coffee, or during your lunch break.

That’s exactly what apps to make money watching videos offer – a simple way to turn spare time into real cash.

Major brands like Amazon, Netflix, Apple, and Google spend billions on video advertising, and now you can get your share of that money.

This guide reveals 12 legitimate video watching apps that pay real money, each backed by established companies and used by millions worldwide.

Whether you’re a college student needing extra cash, a parent looking for flexible income, or anyone wanting to make their screen time profitable, these trusted platforms can help you earn $100-$500 monthly with zero investment.

Understanding How Video Money Apps Work

Apps that pay you to watch videos connect major advertisers with everyday people like you. Here’s the simple process:

Big companies create video ads to promote their products – everything from the latest iPhone to new Netflix shows. These companies pay platforms to guarantee their videos get watched. The platforms then share this advertising money with users who watch the content.

It’s a win-win system:

• Fortune 500 companies get real people viewing their content

• Platforms earn revenue by connecting advertisers with viewers

• You get paid for something as easy as watching short videos

• Everyone benefits from this simple exchange

The videos are typically 15 seconds to 3 minutes long, featuring content from trusted brands you already know. You’ll see previews of new products from Samsung, movie trailers from Disney, financial services from banks like Chase, and much more.

Real Earnings: What to Expect

Let’s be completely honest about earning money online watching videos. Based on data from millions of users:

• Beginners (30-60 minutes daily): $75-$150 per month

• Regular users (1-2 hours daily): $150-$300 per month

• Dedicated users (2-3 hours daily): $300-$500 per month

These earnings come from using multiple apps and staying consistent. Think of it as getting paid for the time you already spend on your phone – except now that time puts money in your pocket.

12 Premium Apps to Make Money Watching Videos

1. InboxDollars – The Cash Pioneer

InboxDollars has paid over $80 million to members since 2000, making it one of the most trusted names in paid video watching.

• Earnings per video: $0.01 to $0.25 (paid in real dollars, not points)

• Cash out minimum: $15 for first payment, then $10

• Payment methods: PayPal, check, gift cards

• Special feature: $5 welcome bonus just for joining

• Best for: People who prefer seeing earnings in dollars

• Average monthly earnings: $100-$250

• Trust factor: BBB accredited with A+ rating

2. Swagbucks – The Everything App

Backed by a company worth over $500 million, Swagbucks offers the most ways to earn, including a robust video section.

• Earnings per video: 1-10 SB points (1-10 cents)

• Cash out minimum: $1 for some gift cards, $25 for PayPal

• Payment methods: PayPal, 1500+ gift card options

• Special feature: Multiple earning methods beyond videos

• Best for: People who want variety in earning options

• Average monthly earnings: $75-$200

• Trust factor: 20+ million active members

3. Nielsen Mobile Panel – Passive Income Leader

Run by Nielsen (the TV ratings company), this app pays you for sharing viewing habits while you watch videos normally.

• Earnings structure: $50 per year base + video bonuses

• Cash out minimum: Automatic annual payment

• Payment methods: Gift cards, merchandise, sweepstakes

• Special feature: Completely passive after setup

• Best for: People wanting effortless earnings

• Average monthly earnings: $5-$15 passive + bonuses

• Trust factor: NYSE-listed company behind it

4. MyPoints – Shopping Rewards Expert

Sister company to Swagbucks, focusing on retail partnerships with stores like Walmart, Target, and Amazon.

• Earnings per video: 3-20 points (2-15 cents)

• Cash out minimum: $3 for select gift cards

• Payment methods: PayPal, 70+ retailer gift cards

• Special feature: Huge shopping bonuses

• Best for: Online shoppers who also watch videos

• Average monthly earnings: $50-$150

• Trust factor: Same trusted company as Swagbucks

5. Perk TV – Multi-Device Champion

Unique platform that lets you earn on multiple phones simultaneously, multiplying your earning potential.

• Earnings per video: 1-5 points per video

• Cash out minimum: $1 for some rewards

• Payment methods: PayPal, gift cards, merchandise

• Special feature: Use up to 5 devices at once

• Best for: People with old smartphones lying around

• Average monthly earnings: $75-$225 (with multiple devices)

• Trust factor: Millions of downloads on app stores

6. AdWallet – Premium Content Platform

Features high-value videos from luxury brands and financial services, paying the highest rates in the industry.

• Earnings per video: $0.50 to $5.00

• Cash out minimum: $10

• Payment methods: PayPal, direct deposit

• Special feature: Highest paying videos available

• Best for: Quality over quantity approach

• Average monthly earnings: $100-$300

• Trust factor: Partners with Fortune 500 companies

7. AppTrailers – App Discovery Platform

Specializes in app and game previews, perfect for tech enthusiasts who enjoy discovering new apps.

• Earnings per video: 5-15 points per video

• Cash out minimum: $0.50 for some rewards

• Payment methods: PayPal, Amazon, iTunes cards

• Special feature: Lowest payout threshold

• Best for: App and gaming enthusiasts

• Average monthly earnings: $30-$90

• Trust factor: Operating since 2011

8. Viggle – Entertainment Rewards

Get paid for watching your favorite TV shows and streaming content you already enjoy.

• Earnings structure: Points vary by show/movie

• Cash out minimum: $5

• Payment methods: Gift cards, merchandise

• Special feature: Earn while watching Netflix/Hulu

• Best for: TV and movie lovers

• Average monthly earnings: $40-$120

• Trust factor: Partnerships with major networks

9. CashKarma – Simple and Reliable

User-friendly app perfect for beginners with straightforward rewards and daily bonuses.

• Earnings per video: 50-300 karma points

• Cash out minimum: $5

• Payment methods: PayPal, Amazon cards

• Special feature: Daily achievement bonuses

• Best for: Complete beginners

• Average monthly earnings: $40-$100

• Trust factor: 4.5+ star rating on app stores

10. PrizeRebel – Global Opportunity

Available worldwide with good rates for international users, not just US residents.

• Earnings per video: 2-10 points per video

• Cash out minimum: $2

• Payment methods: PayPal, gift cards, Bitcoin

• Special feature: Works in 100+ countries

• Best for: International users

• Average monthly earnings: $50-$150

• Trust factor: Paid millions to users globally

11. Earnably – Low Minimum Platform

Combines videos from multiple providers with the lowest cash-out threshold in the industry.

• Earnings per video: 10-50 points per video

• Cash out minimum: $1

• Payment methods: PayPal, Amazon, Bitcoin

• Special feature: Cash out with just $1

• Best for: Impatient earners who want quick payouts

• Average monthly earnings: $30-$90

• Trust factor: Instant payments build trust

12. Microsoft Rewards – Tech Giant’s Platform

Microsoft’s official rewards program integrated with Bing and Edge browser.

• Earnings structure: 3-30 points per activity

• Cash out minimum: 1,600 points ($1.60)

• Payment methods: Microsoft Store, gift cards

• Special feature: Backed by Microsoft

• Best for: Windows and Xbox users

• Average monthly earnings: $10-$50

• Trust factor: Direct from Microsoft Corporation

Smart Strategies to Maximize Your Earnings

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Here’s the smart approach:

• Install 4-5 apps from our list

• Rotate between them to avoid daily limits

• Focus on highest payers like AdWallet when available

• Use low-payers when premium content runs out

This strategy can triple your earnings compared to using just one app.

Daily Routine for Success

Create a simple routine that fits your life:

• Morning (20 minutes): Check overnight videos while having breakfast

• Lunch break (15 minutes): Quick session on 2-3 apps

• Evening (30 minutes): Longer session while relaxing

• Before bed (15 minutes): Set up overnight passive earning apps

Total: About 80 minutes for $5-$15 daily ($150-$450 monthly)

Technology Tips

• Use WiFi to save mobile data

• Keep devices charged or plugged in

• Update apps regularly for best performance

• Clear cache weekly to prevent slowdowns

• Use quality devices for smoother experience

Avoiding Scams: Stay Safe and Smart

• Free to join – Never pay upfront

• Major company backing – Google, Microsoft, Nielsen

• Millions of users – Large communities mean legitimacy

• Payment proof everywhere – Reddit, YouTube, forums

• Professional appearance – Quality apps and websites

• Transparent terms – Clear about how you earn

Red Flags (Run Away)

• Registration fees – Legitimate apps never charge

• Impossible promises – “$1000 daily watching videos!”

• Personal info requests – SSN, bank passwords

• No company information – Hidden ownership

• All perfect reviews – Likely fake testimonials

• Pressure tactics – “Limited spots available!”

Getting Started: Your Success Blueprint

Week 1: Foundation

Start with these three proven apps:

1. InboxDollars (for the $5 bonus)
2. Swagbucks (for variety)
3. MyPoints (for shopping bonuses)

Spend 20 minutes on each to understand how they work.

Week 2: Expansion

Add 2-3 more apps based on your preferences:

• Love TV? Add Viggle
• Have old phones? Get Perk TV
• Want quick payouts? Try Earnably

Week 3: Optimization

• Track which apps pay best for your time
• Create your daily routine
• Set earning goals
• Join app communities for tips

Week 4: Scale Up

• Add final apps to reach 5-6 total
• Perfect your routine
• Share referral links with friends
• Celebrate your first payouts!

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly can I start earning?

You can literally start earning within minutes of downloading an app. Most people see their first few dollars within 24 hours of signing up.

Which payment method is best?

PayPal is fastest and most flexible. Gift cards often give 5-10% bonus value. Direct deposit is best for larger amounts.

Can my family members join too?

Yes! Each person can have their own account. Many families earn together, multiplying household income.

What about taxes?

In the US, you only report earnings over $600 per platform per year. The apps will send tax forms if needed.

Do these apps drain phone battery?

Yes, video watching uses battery. Keep your phone plugged in during longer sessions, or use old phones dedicated to earning.

Is this available in my country?

Most apps work in US, UK, Canada, and Australia. Some like PrizeRebel work globally. Check each app for your country.

Conclusion

Apps to make money watching videos offer a legitimate, accessible way to earn extra income in 2025. With major companies spending billions on digital advertising, there’s never been a better time to claim your share of this money.

The beauty of these platforms is their simplicity. No experience needed, no investment required, and you can start earning today. Whether you need help with bills, want to save for something special, or just like the idea of making money during downtime, these apps deliver real results.

Start with 2-3 apps from our list. Be consistent for just one month, and you’ll see real money in your account. Many users report earning their first $100 within 30 days – money that would otherwise be left on the table.

Remember: every journey begins with a single step. Download your first app now, watch a few videos, and start your earning journey. Your future self will thank you for starting today. Happy earning!