PlaytestCloud Review, Earning Guide, and Stats (In-Depth)

PlaytestCloud offers the opportunity for users to get paid to test mobile games. But is it legit, safe, and worth the time?

In this PlaytestCloud review, we'll break everything down, including how the site works, who can join, whether it's safe and legit, how much it pays, and more — with in-depth research along with reviews, insights, and data from real PlaytestCloud users.

What is PlaytestCloud?

PlaytestCloud is a mobile game testing company. They connect game developers with “playtesters” (i.e. users that get paid to test games) and make it easy for them to get honest, accurate feedback on their games. Playtesters are paid a flat rate per completed game test.

About the Company

• Founded: October 1, 2012.
• Parent company: PlaytestCloud GmbH.
• Located: Otto-Suhr-Allee 145, 10585 Berlin, Germany
• Founder(s): Christian Ress | Marvin Killing
• Socials: LinkedIn | Twitter
• Contact details: on-site chat | hello@playtestcloud.com | help@playtestcloud.com

Is PlaytestCloud Legit?

Yes, PlaytestCloud is legit. Here are some details to support that claim:

• They have valid terms of service and privacy policy pages
• It's free to get started as a playtester
• They're very honest and straightforward about how playtesting works and how much you can expect to earn
• It's easy to find the team behind PlaytestCloud (source) – they even list contact details for the founders
• They pay multiple times a week via PayPal, with no minimum cash out requirements (more details below)
• There are plenty of reviews online from happy PlaytestCloud users

Have proof that shows otherwise? Leave a comment or contact us.

Related: How to Spot Survey Scams & GPT Scams (in 10 Steps)

Payment Proof

To further show that PlaytestCloud is legit, here's a payment proof from our reviewer:

Who Can Join? (Requirements)

• Age requirement: None mentioned on the site, but you need to be 18 years old to have a PayPal account, which is the only payment method offered at the moment. If you're under 18, your parent/guardian can add you to their account to be eligible for paid game tests designed for kids.
• Country requirements: Worldwide, although the majority of tests go to users in the United Kingdom, United States, and Canada.
• Device requirements: iOS (iPhone 5s or newer, iPad mini 2 or newer, iPad Air or newer), Android (5.0 or newer) (full list). You'll also need headphones, a microphone (can be built into the headphones), and a stable internet connection.
• Payout requirements: Must have a PayPal account.
• Other requirements: Must be fluent in English as most tests are conducted in English. Should also be good at speaking out loud as most tests require it.

Safety Inspection

Conducted on August 10, 2021.

• SSL certificate? Yes.
• Privacy policy: Here.
• Terms of Use: For Game Developers | For Playtesters.
• Personal data collected from PlaytestCloud playtesters:
  • For account creation: email, full name, games you play, gaming devices, country, gender, date of birth.
  • For test invitations, payments, account validation, and related activities: address, contact information, demographic information, playtesting history, payment history, tester notes, gaming habits, children demographics (if you've added a child to your account), devices.
  • When taking tests: You may be asked to record your screen, voice, and sometimes face.
  • Child demographics include: first name, gender, date of birth, favorite games. (first names of children are not shared with PlaytestCloud clients)
  • Automatically collected: IP address, device ID, operating system, browser data.
• Do they share user data? Yes, certain information from your profile will be shared with game developers. This includes your unique PlaytestCloud identifier, first name, country, nationality, age, gender, list of games you play, and your average number of hours playing games per week.
• Do they sell user data? No. Data is only shared for the purpose of connecting you with paid game tests. PlaytestCloud never sells user info to 3rd parties.
• Can you opt out? Yes, you can withdraw your consent for data processing by contacting PlaytestCloud.
• Do they protect user data? Yes, from their privacy policy: “The Owner takes appropriate security measures to prevent unauthorized access, disclosure, modification, or unauthorized destruction of the Data.”
• Can you delete your account and data? Yes, contact help@playtestcloud.com.

Is PlaytestCloud Safe?

PlaytestCloud seems generally safe to use. They don't ask for much personal information from playtesters and they're very clear on what information game developers will see when they receive a completed playtest from your account. This includes your first name, country, age, gender, list of games you play, and average time playing games each week — all non-sensitive data that couldn't be used to identify you personally.

On top of that, PlaytestCloud mentions in their privacy policy how they keep data secure, and how users can limit what they share or even delete their data completely.

Of course, when you're testing a game on your phone, in most cases, you'll have to record your screen and voice. And in some cases, you may also be asked to record your face. This may be a concern for some, but you can easily turn down tests with requirements that make you uncomfortable.

Also, the playtest screen recorder will only record while in-game (i.e. it doesn't capture any other data on your device) (source).

Tip: Turn off your phone's notifications when conducting tests to avoid anything private being recorded.

Keep in mind, the games/versions of games you test through PlaytestCloud are generally unreleased. Because of this, you may get a warning on your phone when you download them (source). This happens with any apps that are downloaded outside of the app store.

One concern I have with this is whether or not PlaytestCloud vets their game developers/games to ensure no malicious software could be installed on playtester devices. I couldn't find any information about this on their website. Fortunately, I haven't read any reports online of playtesters claiming to have received viruses or similar from PlaytestCloud, so this may just be my paranoid brain speaking.

All in all, I'd say PlaytestCloud is safe to use as they've been in business for a while now and seem trustworthy, and they work with reputable game developers. But, I am curious how they vet games before sending them to users for testing.

Obligatory disclaimer: Nothing on the internet is 100% safe or private. The above are opinions based on our independent research. Please take caution and do your own due diligence.

Related: For more info + tips on how to stay safe on sites like PlaytestCloud, read this guide.

PlaytestCloud Support Quality

Out of the 1 playtester we have surveyed, no support inquiries were made. So, I made my own. I contacted the support team with a few different questions. Here's what I asked:

• What's the pay rate for tests? On one part of your site I see it saying around $10 each test, and in another it says $7 per 15 minute test.
• Continuing from above, what are the lengths of tests? Like, minimum length and max length?
• What type of tests are there? On your site I could see iOS, Android, and web-based mobile games. Is that all? 
• Are there other ways to earn other than recorded game tests? I noticed surveys were mentioned on the site, but couldn't find much information on those. 

I sent this at around 9pm, and Bridget, PlaytestCloud's community manager, got back to me 4 hours later, which is a lot faster than I expected. (I sent a follow-up email as well, and got a response in 16 hours).

Here was her response, which I'd say answered most of my questions:

Hi Dylan,

Thanks for getting in touch about this! Keep in mind that being a playtester is not a full time job but more of a fun way to make some money on the side. On average, most of our playtesters will receive a new playtest invitation every other week.

The reward payment for each playtest can vary depending on the tasks required during the playtests and the length of the playtest itself. But we will always let you know how much the reward payment is in the invitation email we send you. All payments are made through PayPal.

Generally, a 15 minute playtest and survey will have a reward of $7 USD but if you are ever unsure, please check the invitation email for the playtest.

Most playtests will involve speaking while you play and surveys do not occur often. We have decided to discontinue browser or console playtests as most of our paid game tests are for mobile devices.

You also cannot use Bluestacks or other emulator software. You can take a look at all the devices we test on here.

Let me know if we can help you with anything else.

Happy gaming,
Bridget

Now, of course, this doesn't exactly emulate a true support inquiry if you were having problems with a game or with receiving payment. Still, it shows that the support team is active, quick, and helpful.

Have experience with PlaytestCloud support? Leave a review below.

How Does PlaytestCloud Work?

PlaytestCloud facilitates the connection between mobile game developers and game testers. They enable game developers to get their mobile games tested by everyday gamers who fit particular profiles, and gamers to earn extra cash on the side by testing new or unreleased iOS and Android mobile games.

As an example, a game developer might be looking to test their new mobile game with iPhone users who are 20-30 years old, male, and have experience playing games like Candy Crush. Using PlaytestCloud, they can set up a test to easily do just that.

Once the test is ready, PlaytestCloud deploys it to testers who fit the game developer's desired profile. Select testers then play the game while their screen, voice, and, in some cases, face (depending on the developer's requirements) are recorded automatically.

During the test, testers are typically required to speak out loud while playing the game in order to give the developer their in-the-moment thoughts and feedback.

After finishing the test and closing the game, the recording will stop and be automatically uploaded to PlaytestCloud servers.

Playtesters who complete a game test will be paid anywhere from $7-$15 USD, with tests typically taking 10-15 minutes each. Longer tests = higher pay.

The number of tests you'll receive as a playtester will vary depending on your demographics and profile information, but PlaytestCloud says the average user receives a test invite every other week (source). It's important to keep your profile up-to-date with your list of active devices and games you have experience with in order to increase your chances of receiving playtest invitations.

How does PlaytestCloud make money?

PlaytestCloud gets paid by developers who need their games tested, and they share a part of the profits with you for providing testing services as an independent contractor.

PlaytestCloud Earning Potential

Based on 1 PlaytestCloud user that we've surveyed so far, here are the stats we gathered on PlaytestCloud's earning potential:

• Avg. $/hour: $15
• Highest $/hour: $15
• Lowest $/hour: $15
• Avg. $/month: $0.55
• Highest $/month: $0.55

As you can see, the average hourly rate from PlaytestCloud is great. But, our reviewer only received one test invite over the span of 27 months, which is why the avg. monthly earnings are so low.

Note: These numbers are updated regularly as we survey more users. Sign up here to stay up to date + receive exclusive content.

How Often Is Work Available?

The amount of work you receive from PlaytestCloud will depend on your demographics, devices, and gaming history.

The 1 user we surveyed was a PlaytestCloud tester for 27 months and had only received one test during that time. This is mainly because this particular user is in Kenya, which isn't a primary location requested by PlaytestCloud game developers. If they were in the US, UK, or Canada, they'd most likely receive more test invites.

In the PlaytestCloud FAQ, they say the average user receives a test invite every other week. That would provide better average monthly earnings of around $14-$30.

• Bottom line? Don't expect PlaytestCloud to replace your full-time job! This is an opportunity for side cash.
• Want to share your experience? Leave a comment!

PlaytestCloud Review and Rating Breakdown

Ways to Earn on PlaytestCloud + Tips

There are 2 main ways to earn money on PlaytestCloud:

1. Testing Mobile Games

Testing mobile games is the main way to earn money on PlaytestCloud. These tests typically pay anywhere from $7-$15 USD and take around 15 minutes each to complete.

Here's a quick breakdown of how these tests work:

1. After you complete your qualification test and are approved to work on PlaytestCloud (more details on this below), you'll be able to start receiving paid test invites to your email
2. When you receive a test invite to your email (example pictured above), open it and follow the instructions to download the game. The email will tell you how much you'll earn, and other important information about the test.
3. Play the game while following the instructions. Your recording will start when the game is launched and will be uploaded automatically once you're done
4. Answer the post-test survey. Provide helpful answers in order to secure your payment.
5. You're done! The payment should be added to your account right away, and paid out in a few days

2. Surveys

PlaytestCloud mentions the opportunity of standalone surveys on their website, although our reviewer had no experience with these. They don't seem very common.

Related: Best Survey Sites & Apps (Ultimate Paid Surveys Guide 2021)

How to Cash Out on PlaytestCloud

1. PayPal

At the time of writing, PlaytestCloud only offers PayPal payments as a cash-out option for playtesters. Payments are sent automatically 3 times/week, so you don't have to worry about requesting a cashout. Just make sure you submit your PayPal email on your profile, and you're good to go.

Note: If you're in the UK, you'll receive your payments in GBP. If you're outside the UK, payments will be sent as USD.

Additional Tips, Notes, and Features

• You can only have 1 tester account. Opening multiple accounts will get all your accounts terminated.
• Only you can use your tester account – You can't let other people do game tests on your account, and you can't talk to other people during testing.
• Sharing details about the games you test is prohibited
• PlaytestCloud has a useful FAQ page for testers – Check it out here.
• Don't use an emulator – Using Bluestacks or another piece of software to emulate a device for playtests is against the rules and will most likely get your account suspended. Real devices only.

PlaytestCloud Reviews From Real Users

Here are some reviews of PlaytestCloud from verified users that we personally surveyed. Each reviewer was given a small incentive for providing their unbiased thoughts and feedback.

See more reviews in the comments or leave your own!

PlaytestCloud Pros and Cons

Is PlaytestCloud Worth It?

If you enjoy playing mobile games, have some extra time in your days to complete a test here and there, and don't mind recording your voice during tests, I'd say that PlaytestCloud is worth trying out. It's easy money, you get to play new games, the pay rate is good, and payments are sent quickly.

Just don't expect this to be a consistent earner. It's best to pair with other side hustles if you want to maximize the amount of extra money you're making outside of your main job.

How to Get Started on PlaytestCloud

The initial sign-up process for PlaytestCloud testers is quite straightforward.

Step 1. Complete the signup form

You can sign up here. Here's a preview of the form:

Fill in your email address, full name, games that you play frequently, gaming devices, country, gender, and birthdate. Fill things out as fully as possible to be considered for more playtests!

Step 2. Complete the unpaid qualification test

After the initial setup, you'll receive a confirmation email (pictured below) with a set of instructions that will direct you to download a mobile game that's aimed at teaching you how to properly conduct playtests.

To get started, download the game, start it up, and allow it to record your screen.

As with every playtest you complete, your sound quality needs to be clear without any outside noise so find a quiet place and use headphones to record.

Once you're done, close the game and allow the recording to upload. This unpaid test will take 5-10 minutes total.

Afterward, the team should respond shortly (within a couple of days) with the results of your recording. From there, if you did a good job, you'll start receiving paid tests to your email.

If you get the news that you didn't pass the test, no worries. The PlaytestCloud team will give you some feedback and you can try again.

Step 3. Wait and Earn!

Once you're accepted into the platform as a playtester, all that's left to do is wait for a paid test invite. Check your email daily to stay up to date and once you receive an invite, try to start the test as soon as you can.

Also, remember to keep your profile up to date with your devices and the games you're playing.

PlaytestCloud Alternatives

• UserTesting – UserTesting offers paid usability tests for websites and mobile apps (not exclusively games like PlaytestCloud). Similarly to PlaytestCloud, you'll have to speak aloud while conducting tests. Read our UserTesting review to learn more.
• TryMyUI – This is another site similar to UserTesting with paid usability tests that require you to speak aloud. Read our TryMyUI review to learn more.
• Swagbucks – Swagbucks has some fun little minigames on the site that pay very small amounts, along with paid game offers that require you to reach certain milestones. Read our Swagbucks review to learn more.
• GG2U – GG2U has a variety of paid gaming offers available that involve downloading a game and reaching certain milestones.
• Qmee – Another GPT site with paid game download offers. Read our Qmee review to learn more.
• Treasure Trooper – TreasureTrooper is another GPT site that is very game-like. You can get paid to breed dragons and do other minigames. Read our Treasure Trooper review to learn more.
• Toluna – Toluna has occasionally minigames that pay small amounts at a time. Read our Toluna review to learn more.
• For more PlaytestCloud alternatives, check out these sites that pay you test websites and apps and these GPT sites that offer paid gaming opportunities.

For similar money-making ideas and opportunities, check out these guides:

• Focus groups – These are essentially higher-paying surveys. Try Respoindent.io or User Interviews.
• Micro job sites – Micro jobs can include paid surveys and many other types of short tasks (e.g. data entry, transcription, AI training, etc.).
• Ways to make extra money
• Ways for teens to make money
• How to start working from home

Final Thoughts

Hope you found this review of PlaytestCloud helpful! If you did, please consider sharing it to spread the word — one share helps more than you know!

• Are you a PlaytestCloud tester? Click here to leave your own short PlaytestCloud review below.
• Have questions or feedback? Leave a comment or contact us.