In today’s digital age, making extra money online has become increasingly accessible. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income, save for a vacation, or pay off debt, side gigs have become a popular choice for many. Among the vast array of side hustles available, paid surveys and other online gigs are some of the most popular options. Both have their pros and cons, and it’s essential to understand which one might be the better fit for your goals, schedule, and skills.
In this article, we’ll compare paid surveys to other common side gigs, such as freelancing, gig economy jobs, and selling products online, to help you determine which is better suited for your situation.
What Are Paid Surveys?
Paid surveys are a straightforward way for individuals to make money online by answering questionnaires for companies and market research firms. These surveys help businesses gather consumer insights, which they use to improve their products, services, and marketing strategies. Paid survey platforms or survey apps act as intermediaries, connecting users with these market research opportunities.
In return for your time and opinions, you can earn small amounts of cash, gift cards, or other rewards. The beauty of paid surveys is that anyone with an internet connection can participate, making it accessible to almost everyone.
However, the question remains: is completing paid surveys more beneficial than other side gigs? Let’s break down the comparison.
1. Earning Potential: Paid Surveys vs. Other Side Gigs
Paid Surveys
The earning potential with paid surveys is typically modest. Most surveys pay between $0.50 to $5 per survey, depending on the length and complexity of the questions. Occasionally, you may find surveys that pay more, but these are rare. To make any significant income, you would need to complete many surveys daily, which can be time-consuming.
Survey apps like Swagbucks, InboxDollars, or Toluna allow users to earn points or small amounts of cash for surveys, but you shouldn’t expect to make a full-time income from these platforms. Paid surveys are best for individuals looking to make a little extra pocket money or earn rewards for their opinions.
Other Side Gigs
On the other hand, many side gigs can provide significantly higher earning potential. For instance, freelancing platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer allow users to offer services ranging from writing, graphic design, and programming to digital marketing. These gigs often have much higher payouts, with freelancers charging anywhere from $20 to $100 per hour or more, depending on their skill level.
Similarly, gig economy jobs, such as driving for Uber or delivering food with DoorDash, offer higher earning potential compared to paid surveys. You can earn between $10 and $25 per hour, depending on your location, demand, and time invested. Selling products online through platforms like Etsy or eBay can also provide a steady income stream if you have the right product and marketing strategy.
Winner: Other Side Gigs
Other side gigs typically offer more substantial earning potential than paid surveys, making them a better option for those who want to make significant income on the side.
2. Time Investment: Paid Surveys vs. Other Side Gigs
Paid Surveys
Paid surveys have the advantage of requiring very little time investment upfront. You can sign up for survey apps within minutes, and there’s no need for any special skills or training. Each survey typically takes 10 to 30 minutes to complete, making them an excellent option for individuals who want to earn money during short breaks or in their free time. The flexibility of survey apps allows users to participate from anywhere, whether they’re waiting for an appointment or relaxing at home.
However, the downside is that you will need to spend a significant amount of time completing multiple surveys to make a noticeable amount of money. Additionally, not all surveys will be available to you, as many are targeted to specific demographics.
Other Side Gigs
Other side gigs often require a larger time investment to get started. For example, freelancers need to build portfolios, apply for jobs, and communicate with clients, which can take time. Gig economy jobs such as Uber or DoorDash require users to be actively driving or delivering, which limits flexibility compared to surveys. Selling products online also demands time spent sourcing, listing, and shipping items, as well as handling customer service.
While other side gigs might require more upfront time investment, they typically offer higher hourly earnings once you’re established. Freelancing, in particular, offers the potential to set your own hours, but success often depends on how much time and effort you can invest.
Winner: Paid Surveys
Paid surveys win in terms of minimal time investment and flexibility. You can start immediately, work at your own pace, and don’t need any special skills or preparation.
3. Skill Requirements: Paid Surveys vs. Other Side Gigs
Paid Surveys
One of the biggest advantages of paid surveys is that there are no skills required. As long as you can answer basic questions about your shopping habits, lifestyle, or opinions, you can participate. This makes paid surveys accessible to anyone, regardless of education or experience.
Other Side Gigs
In contrast, many other side gigs require specific skills or training to get started. Freelancers, for example, need to have marketable skills like writing, graphic design, or programming. Gig economy jobs might require driving experience or special licenses. Selling products online demands an understanding of e-commerce platforms, product sourcing, and marketing.
That said, the skill requirements for other side gigs often come with higher earning potential. The more specialized your skills are, the more you can charge for your services. While this can be a barrier for some, others may see it as an opportunity to turn their expertise into profit.
Winner: Paid Surveys
Paid surveys take the lead here, as they are open to anyone without the need for specialized skills, making them an easy entry point for beginners.
4. Flexibility and Freedom: Paid Surveys vs. Other Side Gigs
Paid Surveys
Paid surveys offer an incredible amount of flexibility. You can complete surveys at any time of day or night and from virtually anywhere, as long as you have internet access. This makes them ideal for individuals who have irregular schedules or want to work in their spare time. Survey apps are typically mobile-friendly, so you can complete surveys while commuting, waiting in line, or relaxing at home.
Other Side Gigs
Other side gigs can also offer flexibility, but this varies depending on the type of work. Freelancers often have the freedom to choose their own clients and set their schedules, making freelancing one of the most flexible side gigs. Gig economy jobs like Uber or DoorDash allow you to work when you want, but they require you to be physically present for shifts, limiting your ability to earn passively or on-the-go. Selling products online offers some flexibility, but it requires more consistent attention, especially when managing inventory and customer orders.
Winner: Paid Surveys
Paid surveys win in terms of ultimate flexibility. You can complete them whenever and wherever you want without any long-term commitments or physical presence required.
5. Scalability and Growth: Paid Surveys vs. Other Side Gigs
Paid Surveys
The earning potential from paid surveys is not scalable. No matter how many surveys you complete, the payout remains relatively low, and there are limited ways to grow your earnings over time. You can’t really expand your work with paid surveys, making it difficult to use them as a long-term or substantial income source.
Other Side Gigs
Other side gigs, however, offer much more scalability. Freelancers can gradually increase their rates as they gain more experience and develop a client base. Selling products online can turn into a full-time business if you find a profitable niche. Even gig economy jobs can lead to higher earnings with bonuses, incentives, or increased demand in certain areas. While it may take more effort, these side gigs allow for income growth over time.
Winner: Other Side Gigs
For those looking for long-term income growth or the ability to scale their side hustle, other side gigs provide more opportunities to expand and earn more over time.
Conclusion: Which Side Gig is Better?
Ultimately, the decision between paid surveys and other side gigs depends on your goals and preferences.
- Choose Paid Surveys if you’re looking for a low-effort, low-skill side gig that offers flexibility and the ability to work in your spare time. Paid surveys are perfect for making a little extra cash with minimal commitment, but they are not a path to significant income.
- Choose Other Side Gigs if you’re looking for a higher earning potential, scalability, and are willing to invest more time and effort upfront. Side gigs like freelancing, gig economy jobs, and selling products online can provide long-term growth and flexibility, but they often require specific skills or more time commitment.
By evaluating your available time, skills, and financial goals, you can choose the side gig that best fits your needs. Whether you decide to start with paid surveys or explore other opportunities, there are plenty of ways to earn extra money in today’s digital economy.
