Is Swagbucks Legit? 8 Things You Need to Know! (2023)

by | Updated Sep 20, 2023 | 28 comments

We’ve all been told, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” And with the buzz around Swagbucks as a quick cash opportunity, it’s natural to have questions:

  • Is Swagbucks genuinely legit?
  • How exactly does it function?
  • Can I earn without a catch?

Dive into this in-depth Swagbucks review, and let’s uncover the truth behind this popular online earning platform.

1. What Exactly is Swagbucks?

Have you ever wondered about the magic behind Swagbucks?

Let’s break it down.

Swagbucks at a Glance:

  • Origin: Launched in 2008 by Prodege, LLC.
  • Purpose: An online hub that rewards you for everyday activities. Think of searching the web, participating in surveys, shopping sprees, or diving into new games and apps.
  • Currency: Earn ‘Swag Bucks’ (SB) for completing online tasks. Rack up enough, and voilà, redeem them for real money!
  • Value: 100 SBs? That’s a neat $1 in your pocket.

🎥 Check out their intro video:

Now, I sense the skepticism.

“Get rewarded for simple tasks? There’s got to be a catch!”

But here’s the inside scoop:

They are being paid to host advertisements or conduct market research.

So:

They pass a portion of those payments on to you when you view them, participate in market research, or buy or use something associated with the site.

2. So, Is Swagbucks Legit?

Yes, it is a legitimate platform.

This is one of the infrequent instances in which something “too good to be true” is semi-true.

Here’s why:

  • Track Record: Since its inception in 2008, Swagbucks has been a daily go-to for thousands, helping them earn a little extra. Whether it’s answering polls or simply using the Swagbucks search engine instead of the usual suspects like Google or Bing, users have found value.
  • Parent Company: Behind Swagbucks is Prodege, LLC. They’re open about their operations, have transparent contact methods, and have an active support team.
  • Rave Reviews: Check out the App Store, Play Store, TrustPilot, SiteJabber, BBB, or even Reddit, and you’ll find a sea of positive feedback from satisfied Swagbucks users.
  • Buzzing Social Presence: Swagbucks is active and thrives on social media. Whether it’s Instagram, X(Twitter), Facebook, or Pinterest, they constantly engage with their community and share updates.
  • Proof in the Pudding: Numerous users have showcased their earnings over the years, vouching for legitimacy.
  • Transparent Domain Registration: A quick check confirms that the swagbucks.com domain is registered transparently; there are no hidden proxies here.
Swagbucks domain information

Of course, the platform isn’t perfect!

You don’t make Swag Bucks with every search you run; sometimes, the polls or surveys you are considered “qualified” to answer are already complete.

That doesn’t mean, however, that this website is a scam.

3. How Does It Work?

Step 1: Register

Begin your journey by signing up for a free account. 

Sign up form

Step 2: Set the Stage

Once registered, you should take the initial steps, like verifying your email and completing your profile. This sets you up and earns you your first set of Swag Bucks. 

Verify your email popup

Step 3: Explore & Earn

With your account all set, you’re ushered into your dashboard. This is your gateway to various earning opportunities.

Swagbucks dashboard - Discover

Step 4: Cash In Your Rewards

Once you’ve amassed a minimum of 100 SBs, you can redeem them via PayPal cash, gift cards, or Visa cards.

Swagbucks redemption methods

4. Main Ways to Earn Money on Swagbucks

Swagbucks provides a variety of methods to accumulate SBs, which can subsequently be exchanged for cash. Here’s a breakdown of the primary avenues:

Paid Surveys

You can earn cash rewards by answering surveys and sharing your opinion.

Companies value consumer feedback and collaborate with survey sites like Swagbucks to gather insights, allocating a portion of their advertising budget.

Swagbucks Search Win

You can earn SBs daily by using the Swagbucks search. If you make it your default search engine, you can earn a few cents while browsing the internet.

Periodically, you might receive bonus rewards ranging from 1SB to 1000SB during your searches. While some users in places like this Reddit thread advocate for specific search terms, the official website suggests these bonuses are dispensed randomly.

Swagbucks Discover

Engage with new games and applications to earn rewards.

Playing Games

You can play selected games and achieve specific milestones to earn SBs.

For example, you can accumulate 1200 SBs by reaching level 21 in the ‘Klonde’ game within a 19-day window. However, achieving this might be challenging and time-consuming.

Playing Klondike

Sign-Up and Earn

Sign up for promoted software or services to earn rewards.

Discover - Sign up And Earn

An example: Subscribing to Express VPN, which costs approximately $100, can yield 4000 SBs, equivalent to $40. Not bad if you need a VPN.

Swagbutton

The Swagbutton is a browser extension designed to provide cashback and rewards during regular online shopping sessions.

Additionally, it notifies users of available coupons for products of interest.

Online Shopping

Purchase from partnered brands and receive SBs as cashback for eligible items.

Referral Program

Introduce Swagbucks to friends and acquaintances to receive 10% of their lifetime earnings when they join and earn.

5. Redemption Process for Swag Bucks (SBs)

After gathering at least 100 SBs, equivalent to $1, you can convert these into tangible rewards.

Redeeming methods include PayPal, pre-paid Visa cards, and various Gift Cards. It’s worth noting that processing these requests might require up to 10 days.

6. Pros and Cons of Swagbucks

Pros

  • It’s free
  • No previous knowledge is required
  • The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate
  • It’s a legitimate platform to earn some extra cash
  • Offers a variety of reward options

Cons

  • Limited earning opportunity
  • Slow to earn Swag bucks
  • Some tasks demand considerable effort for minimal points
  • There have been reports of extended wait times for payments

7. Swagbucks Reviews And Complaints

  • SiteJabber: Swagbucks boasts over 9,000 reviews with an average rating of 4.3/5.
  • Trustpilot: The platform has garnered more than 34,000 reviews, holding an average score of 4.2/5.
  • Better Business Bureau (BBB): With over 400 reviews, Swagbucks has an average rating of 3.1/5. Despite its B rating and over 3,300 complaints, it’s noteworthy that the company actively addresses and resolves these concerns.
  • App Store: The Swagbucks app is well-received, with over 100,000 reviews, averaging a 4.4/5.
  • Google Play Store: Android users have shared their positive experiences, with over 120,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.3/5.

8. Alternatives to Swagbucks

While Swagbucks is a popular choice for many looking to earn online, several other platforms offer similar opportunities.

Here are a few notable alternatives:

InboxDollars

Much like Swagbucks, InboxDollars rewards users for various online activities. This includes reading emails, taking surveys, playing games, and shopping online. One of its unique features is that it gives users a small cash bonus just for signing up. Read my InboxDollars review.

SurveyJunkie

As the name suggests, SurveyJunkie is primarily focused on surveys. Users can earn points by providing their opinions on various topics. These points can then be redeemed for cash or gift cards. It’s known for its user-friendly interface and various survey topics. Read my SurveyJunkie review.

OneOpinion

OneOpinion offers users the chance to earn by taking surveys. What sets it apart is its fast payout system. Once users reach the minimum threshold, they can redeem their points for cash or gift cards. Additionally, if a user is disqualified from a survey, they still receive a few moments as compensation. Read my OneOpinion review.

Pinecone Research

A trusted name in the online survey industry, Pinecone Research offers users the chance to earn by providing product feedback before they hit the market. Read my Pinecone Research review.

Branded Surveys

As the name suggests, Branded Surveys is all about surveys. Users earn points for every survey they complete, which can be redeemed for cash or gift cards.

Ipsos i-Say

A well-established name in the market research industry, Ipsos i-Say offers users the chance to earn by surveying a wide range of topics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Swagbucks

Who is the ideal user for Swagbucks?

Swagbucks caters to anyone looking to earn some extra money online.

Whether browsing the internet, watching videos, taking online surveys, or engaging in other routine computer activities, Swagbucks offers opportunities to earn.

Are there restrictions on who can join Swagbucks?

Swagbucks isn’t globally accessible. However, if you’re at least 13 years old and reside in the following countries, you’re eligible:

  • United States (including its territories)
  • Ireland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • India
  • Canada
  • Spain
  • Portugal
  • United Kingdom

Can teenagers benefit from Swagbucks?

Absolutely. As long as you’re 13 or older, you can join and earn on Swagbucks.

Is there any truth to the Swagbucks scam rumors?

Rest assured, Swagbucks is a legitimate platform. Operated by a recognized company, it has been a trusted name since 2008. The myriad of positive reviews across various platforms further solidifies its reputation.

Does Swagbucks offer PayPal as a redemption option?

Yes, users can opt for PayPal when redeeming their rewards.

Swagbucks Review: Wrapping Up

Swagbucks stands out as a genuine platform, allowing users to earn rewards for straightforward online tasks.

Whether you’re on the go with their app (available for both Android and iOS) or browsing on your laptop, the platform is accessible and user-friendly.

Swagbucks might be a top pick for those who appreciate cashback opportunities or seek to pocket extra cash during their spare time.

However, a word of caution:

While Swagbucks offers various earning avenues, the earning opportunity is small.

The platform isn’t a substitute for a full-time income. Most days, you’ll find that your earnings are modest, less than a few dollars.

That said, Swagbucks does provide a swift avenue for a few more bucks from your online activities.

That said:

It is worth exploring other avenues to generate a substantial online income.

Consider delving into online business ventures, affiliate marketing, video promotions, tutoring, or freelancing, to name a few.

These paths often offer more significant earning potential and can be tailored to your skills and interests.

Your Take on Swagbucks?

I’m eager to know your perspective on Swagbucks.

  • Have you tried it out?
  • What was your experience like?
  • Is there something crucial you believe I overlooked in this review?

Your insights are invaluable. Please share your stories and experiences. I look forward to our continued conversation!


swagbucks-logo

Name: Swagbucks Website: https://swagbucks.com Key People: Josef Gorowitz, Scott Dudelson, Chuck Davis, Eron Zehavi Costs: Free

LEI Rating: 4 out of 5      |      Scam or Legit: Legit      |      Is it recommended? Yes!


28 Comments

28 Comments

  1. Emily

    Thank you for this, I had been wondering about the earning potential on Swagbucks. Sounds like a neat little way to generate a little bit of extra cash if you have some free time.
    For those wanting to earn an income, however, your top recommendation of Wealthy Affiliate sounds like a more profitable choice in the long run.

    Reply
    • Ash

      Thanks for stopping by. That’s right, earning potential is limited with Swagbucks, but it is kind of an immediate source of earning some extra cash. On the other hand, Wealthy Affiliate is a source of passive income and can be a good alternative for 9 to 5 jobs but it requires learning the basics and building the foundation first.

      Reply
  2. Monkey Man

    Swagbucks may be legit but no real money is to be made. Thanks for pointing it out and not making it seem like you can get rich off of it. I would definitely prefer to put my energy into a solid program like Wealthy Affiliate where there’s an opportunity to make some real money. Good review nonetheless.

    Reply
    • Ash

      It is absolutely legit and it is possible to make a few dollars in your spare time, but it can’t be considered as a reliable source of income. To be honest, it is not possible to generate an income with any similar product because the profit can be generated only to the extent of the value you provide for the market and you can not create much value with these kinds of products.

      Wealthy Affiliate, however, teaches the fundamentals of starting an online business and there is no limit for the value you can create with an online business.

      Reply
  3. Chris

    I was ( and still am probably – I haven’t checked! ) a member of Swagbucks about a year back and most of their earning platforms are really positive.
    I found the most success through their video offers – I just used to keep them rolling all day and tot up the swagbucks!
    Great article – you reminded me that I am still ( probably ) a member!

    Reply
    • Ash

      They have various offers and video offers are good ones. Great that you noticed you’re still a member, we appreciate it if you share your future experiences with us in case you use your account again 🙂

      Reply
  4. Igor

    hi, I heard a lot about swagbucks, but I never actually try to use it. The stories about swagbucks looked like “too good to be true” 🙂 In addition to that I also heard that search engine isn’t so good. Thank you for the review, it makes things more clearly now. Regards. Igor

    Reply
    • Ash

      If you look at it as source of living it sounds too good to be true cause it’s not and the average person never can make a living using this kind of programs but if you look at it as an opportunity for making a little extra bucks while having fun, it is true and it is a legit way to do that.

      Reply
  5. Fidel

    This is a thorough review of swagbucks

    And just like you said the notion behind their business sounds too good to be true. But i like how you took your time to decipher all the scam ideas that most people have and had about this program

    You did well to make known further the pros and cons of this program

    Reply
    • Ash

      We did our best to provide a detailed article and to give a realistic insight about this program. As you said it is not a scam and it is totally legit with some pros and cons. Although the earning potential is limited with it, it can be fun for people who want to earn a little extra money in their spare time.

      Reply
  6. Marcus

    Yes, absolutely. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Maybe not all the time, but often this is true

    But actually, I have read other reviews where people say that Swagbucks is actually genuine. Whether or not I would use it myself is another matter, but at least we know it is not a total scam. Unfortunately, I don’t think it is the way forward for people who want to build up a big long-term income. I think Wealthy Affiliate is better for that. What do you think?

    Reply
    • Ash

      That’s right Marcus, It sure is genuine and in the conclusion of this review I’ve said it is legit and it does what it promises. The point is that it can not be a source of income because of its nature, but it can be used for making a little extra money online in your free time.

      My point of view is that WA is neither better or worst than Swagbucks, it is totally different in its core. WA teaches how to start an online business whereas Swagbucks lets you earn money for doing simple things online. I prefer to invest my time into building a solid business with potential positive income like what WA teaches, but if you want to have fun while earning a couple of bucks online, Swagbucks is a good way to do that and I suggest you to give it a shot.

      Reply
  7. Riaz Shah

    Hey Ash,
    Great review man! I’ve heard of Swagbucks and totally agree that it is one of the few programs out there that are legitimate and can make you some money. However the income potential is extremely low and you can’t live off from the revenue you earn solely from there. Its more of a side petty cash kind of thing rather than a business you can focus so it’s worth thinking twice on

    Reply
    • Ash

      You’re absolutely right Riaz. It’s the nature of this kind of product that your earning potential is not much for your work. Thank you for taking your time and commenting.

      Reply
  8. Neil

    I do believe that Swagbucks is a good way to earn some rewards from having fun online. However, it’s never going to create a longterm online income but is great for a few rewards.

    Thanks for a great review on Swagbucks, and I will be looking into your #1 recommendation.

    Neil

    Reply
    • Ash

      Absolutely Neil! That’s exactly the point of view of this review. Swagbucks is fun, but it can not be a main source of income. If you had any questions regard to my #1 recommendation, let me know!

      Reply
  9. Lynne

    I believe this is legit, I have tried it out. The only problem I have with Swagbucks is that you can’t make a lot of money from this. I was looking for a way to really earn good money and this is not it. This is more something for teenagers keen to make some extra income for messing around online, not for people wanting to earn an income.
    Can you suggest anything that is more geared towards actually making good money?

    Reply
    • Ash

      Thanks for sharing your Swagbucks experience with us Lynne! My suggestion to you is our #1 recommended program. It’s a place where you can learn how to start your own online business and earn passive income online. If you had any further questions, let me know.

      Reply
  10. Lynne

    Thank you so much for your recommendation, I nearly forgot to pop back in to check for your reply!
    Your suggestion of Wealthy Affiliate really looks much more like the type of thing I have been searching for!
    Swagbucks is nice yes, but it is nothing more than a silly time wasting venture for a few cents.
    I want to build a money making machine of a business!

    Reply
    • Ash

      It’s my pleasure, Lynne. Thanks for coming back and replying. I absolutely agree with you that if you want to build an online business and earn passive income, Swagbucks is not an option! Like you said it’s a place to earn some money while having fun surfing the web.

      Reply
  11. Viljoen

    I have to agree with you on this one. Swagbucks is legit and you can earn an income from it, but it is very hard to scale your income with survey panels.

    Swagbucks is one of the best panels and if you are very interested on doing surveys and completing offers, then it might work for you.

    Reply
    • Ash

      Your point of view is very close to mine Viljoen. Thanks for taking time to share your opinion with us.

      Reply
  12. Jake

    Another brilliant product/service review, all the information a potential user might need is there.
    It is all easily digestible and easy to understand.
    I also really liked the way you laid out the pros and cons of the Swagbucks service. It gives the reader a broken down view of what can be expected if they were to use the service.
    Well done on a really well written article.

    Reply
    • Ash

      Hello, Jake, I’m glad that you liked the review and I hope it helped you made the right decision. I put a lot of effort into every article/review I put on this website and every feedback, positive or negative, is really appreciated. Thanks for your feedback.

      Reply
  13. Mark

    Great work buddy. It’s so important that we have people like you guiding us through the jungle that is online scamming. This swagbucks reminds me of something else that’s very similar. I think the only difference is that with every search you generate money for good causes. You should find out what that one is called and review that. Also I think they have apps now where you can generate money simply by clicking away at its functions. One app claims to provide food aid relief to displaced people/refugees. I would love to see more people reviewing these wonderful games so they can really make the world a better place. I hope you or someone else takes up the challenge. Good luck

    Reply
    • Ash

      Finding a legit product in internet marketing industry is hard these days with lots of scams reaching us everyday.

      There are a couple of other products that are similar to Swagbucks. I’m not sure if I have the one you mentioned on my list or not but I’m about to review similar products in the near future.

      Reply
  14. Bruno

    Hello Ash. You have said it right. The site is not the best place to earn enough money to cater for your bills but its good for free time. Your review is honest and I would recommend it to anyone. Keep us more updated on the online business work.
    Thanks

    Reply
    • Ash

      Thank you for the kind words, Bruno! My first recommendation is to invest your time on learning how to build a long-term online business and earning passive income.

      This way, you can definitely earn enough money to cater for the bills and much more. Yet, many like to have fun while earning a few dollars for their free time and in that case, SwagBucks can be the perfect choice.

      Reply

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