Game apps that claim to pay real money get mixed reviews. Payouts are often small and can take a long time. Before you start playing, here are some important things to know.

Playing games for money sounds great, but how do these apps actually pay you? In most cases, they make money from ads and surveys that you complete while playing. Your earnings may only be a few cents per day, and you usually need to reach a minimum balance—often $5—before cashing out. According to many app reviews, even reaching that amount can take a while.

What Are Game Apps That Pay Real Money?

We looked into some of the most well-known apps in the “play games for money” category. The results were mixed—some players were happy, while others had complaints.

Popular apps like Solitaire Cube, Swagbucks, InboxDollars, and Cash Giraffe claim to pay players in cash. However, most of these apps require users to complete surveys, watch videos, and play games to earn rewards. If you’re hoping to play uninterrupted, you might be disappointed.

Some apps, like Mistplay, allow users to earn points that can be redeemed for gift cards. These apps offer various games, including card games, slot games, and battle games. Some even have chat functions to connect with other players. Solitaire Cube, for example, lets users compete against others.

Are These Apps Worth It?

Reviews for these pay-to-play apps vary widely. Some users report earning only small amounts—or nothing at all.

One Swagbucks reviewer wrote, “I used this app for years, but the surveys always took longer than they claimed, and sometimes they’d disqualify me after answering for 20 minutes. Most of the time, I only got a few cents for my effort.”

Others enjoy the app despite some frustrations. Another Swagbucks user said, “There are lots of ways to earn points for gift cards. Some are really easy, while others are nearly impossible, but overall, it’s worth it.”

Opinions on InboxDollars are also divided. Some Google Play users call it a “total scam,” while others give it five-star ratings.

One reviewer shared, “This app is actually pretty cool. I made $103 in 10 days by completing offers, playing games, and taking surveys.”

If you have time and patience, these apps can help you earn extra money. But if you’re looking for quick cash, you may want to consider other options.

What to Watch Out for Before Playing

Game apps that promise money might sound too good to be true—and sometimes, they are. Some apps delay payouts by making it hard to reach the cash-out limit. Others have suddenly shut down, leaving players without their winnings.

Many users complain about long wait times for payouts or having to play for hours to earn just a few dollars. Before downloading an app, read reviews to see if others have had trouble getting paid.

To protect yourself, don’t rely on winnings—think of them as a bonus rather than guaranteed income. Avoid giving out personal information beyond what’s needed to set up an account. It’s also best to choose apps that offer payments through email gift cards or PayPal to keep your financial details secure.

Lastly, check if cash payouts are legal in your area. Read the app’s terms and conditions and research your local laws before signing up.