Get Paid to Click: A Beginner's Guide to UX Testing Websites and Apps

Companies spend millions on User Experience (UX) to ensure their websites and apps are intuitive. They pay people like you to try out their products, perform specific tasks, and simply talk out loud about your experience.

UX testing (or usability testing) is one of the easiest ways to earn supplemental income online. It requires no technical background, just a computer, a microphone, and the ability to articulate your honest thoughts.

Step 1: Get the Right Equipment

The platforms require you to record your screen and voice simultaneously. Quality audio is non-negotiable.

• **Computer:** A modern PC or Mac (or a recent smartphone/tablet for app testing).
• **Microphone:** A simple headset mic or a desktop USB microphone (like a Blue Yeti) ensures clear audio without echo.
• **Internet:** A stable broadband connection to upload the screen-recorded video file.

Step 2: Sign Up and Pass the Qualification Test

The highest-paying platforms include UserTesting, Userfeel, and Trymata. Your process starts the same way on most of them:

1. **Fill Out Your Profile:** Be honest and detailed about your demographics, hobbies, and devices, as these filter you into relevant paid tests (screeners).
2. **Take a Practice/Qualification Test:** You'll complete a mock task while recording your screen and voice. The platform reviews this to ensure you speak clearly and follow instructions. You must pass this to get approved for paid work.

Step 3: Mastering the Art of "Thinking Out Loud"

Clients are paying for your thought process, not just task completion. A good tester constantly vocalizes:

• **Expectations:** "I expect the pricing to be under this menu..."
• **Confusion:** "I'm lost. I don't see the button I need. Where should I be clicking?"
• **Feelings:** "This animation is distracting," or "I really like how simple this checkout page is."

Payment Structure: Most unmoderated tests (10-20 minutes) pay around **$10 USD** via PayPal, with moderated interviews (30-90 minutes with a researcher) paying significantly more ($30-$60+).

Tests are typically first-come, first-served. Keep the platform apps open and respond to notifications quickly to secure the tests that fit your profile.