Side Hustle Diary-Top 5 Usertesting Sites
Top 5 User Testing Websites from a Tester’s Perspective
Having worked as a tester on various user testing platforms, I’ve gained firsthand insights into how these sites operate and what they offer testers. If you’re curious about diving into user testing or just want to know what these platforms are like from the inside, here’s my take on the top five options. UserTesting and Validately come out on top for their exceptional user experience and opportunities for testers.
1. UserTesting — A Tester’s Dream
Why It Stands Out: As a tester, UserTesting has been one of the most rewarding platforms to work on. It provides clear instructions, and the variety of tests keeps things interesting. I’ve worked on tasks ranging from reviewing mobile apps to giving feedback on website prototypes. Payments are fair and prompt, which is always a plus.
What I Loved:
- Access to diverse testing opportunities.
- Straightforward tasks with excellent guidance.
- Quick payment turnaround.
Challenges: Occasionally, competition for tests can be high, especially for unmoderated tasks.
2. Validately — Simple and Straightforward
Why It Stands Out: Validately is a great platform for testers who prefer a straightforward approach. The tasks are often shorter and more focused, which means you can complete multiple tests in a single session. I’ve found their user interface intuitive, and they make it easy to understand what’s expected.
What I Loved:
- Easy-to-follow instructions.
- Tests that are typically quick to complete.
- Flexible scheduling for moderated sessions.
Challenges: You’ll need to qualify for tests through screener questions, which can sometimes be tricky.
3. TryMyUI — Great for Beginners
Why It Stands Out: TryMyUI was one of the first platforms I joined, and it’s a great entry point for new testers. The tasks are affordable and relatively simple, making it an excellent way to learn the ropes. Their tests often involve recording your screen and voice, which helps improve your communication skills over time.
What I Loved:
- Beginner-friendly environment.
- Clear instructions and feedback requests.
- Opportunities to work on interesting websites and apps.
Challenges: The pay is lower compared to platforms like UserTesting, but it’s still a good place to start.
4. Userlytics — Diverse Opportunities
Why It Stands Out: Userlytics offers tests from a wide range of industries, which makes it a versatile platform for testers. I’ve worked on tasks involving different languages and cultural contexts, which was both challenging and rewarding. Their dashboard is user-friendly, and the payment structure is competitive.
What I Loved:
- Variety of test scenarios, including international ones.
- Simple platform navigation.
- Competitive pay for specialized tasks.
Challenges: Some tests require specific demographics, which can limit your options.
5. uTest — A Community-Focused Platform
Why It Stands Out: uTest has a strong community feel, which I appreciated as a tester. It’s more focused on QA and bug testing, so if you’re detail-oriented, this is the platform for you. I’ve participated in tasks that required testing specific devices, which added a level of precision to the work.
What I Loved:
- Access to a global community of testers.
- Detailed and device-specific tasks.
- Supportive forums for sharing tips and advice.
Challenges: Tasks can be more technical and time-consuming, which might not suit everyone.
Final Thoughts
From my experience, UserTesting is the best overall platform for testers due to its variety and ease of use. Validately is a close second, offering straightforward tasks with flexible scheduling. If you’re just starting, TryMyUI is an excellent choice, while Userlytics and uTest provide unique opportunities for specialized tasks. Each platform has its strengths and challenges, but they all offer valuable experiences for anyone interested in user testing.
