Microsoft Rewards vs Swagbucks: Best Platform to Earn Gift Cards

If you’re like me, you probably spend a good chunk of your time online—searching, shopping, streaming, or just scrolling through random stuff.

So, why not get something back for it? That’s where platforms like Microsoft Rewards and Swagbucks come in.

Both let you earn points for everyday activities and redeem them for gift cards or other rewards. But the big question is: which one actually gives you more value for your time?

I’ve spent a lot of time using both platforms, and in this post, I’ll walk you through how they work, how they differ, and which one might be the better fit depending on what you’re after.

What Is Microsoft Rewards?

Microsoft Rewards is Microsoft’s official loyalty program. You earn points mainly by using Bing as your search engine, completing quizzes, and making purchases through the Microsoft Store.

You don’t need to install anything extra—just log in with your Microsoft account and start earning. Points can be redeemed for gift cards (like Amazon, Starbucks, or Xbox), donations, or even entries into sweepstakes for larger prizes.

Here’s what you can typically do to earn:

• Search on Bing: You earn points for each search, up to a daily limit.

• Complete quizzes and polls: Fun daily challenges, trivia, and short tasks often appear on the rewards dashboard.

• Shop on Microsoft Store: Buying apps, games, or devices gives you points back.

• Daily streak bonuses: Logging in consistently earns you bonus points over time.

It’s one of those “set it and forget it” systems. You just use Bing instead of Google, and points quietly build up in the background.

What Is Swagbucks?

Swagbucks (SB) has been around longer and is more of a full-blown rewards hub. It offers dozens of ways to earn points (called “SB”)—from surveys and watching videos to shopping online or testing new apps.

You can cash out your SB points for PayPal money or gift cards from major retailers like Amazon, Target, or Walmart.

Ways to earn include:

• Online surveys: Share your opinions for points (though some can be time-consuming).

• Shopping through Swagbucks: Earn cashback-style rewards for purchases at partnered stores.

• Watching videos: Get SB points for watching short clips or ads.

• Playing games or trying apps: Earn points for downloading and engaging with featured apps or games.

• Daily polls and tasks: Quick and easy ways to grab small amounts of points.

Swagbucks feels more active—it requires participation—but that also means you have more control over how fast you earn.

Comparing the Two: Microsoft Rewards vs Swagbucks

Let’s break it down into a few key areas that actually matter.

1. Ease of Use

• Microsoft Rewards: Extremely simple. You earn by doing what you already do—searching or shopping. There’s little effort required.

• Swagbucks: Offers more earning options, but it’s more time-intensive. You have to click around, qualify for surveys, and actively participate.

If you want hands-off earning, Microsoft Rewards wins. If you enjoy engaging tasks and flexibility, Swagbucks has more to offer.

2. Earning Potential

• Microsoft Rewards: You can realistically earn a few dollars’ worth of gift cards each month by just using Bing and completing daily tasks.

• Swagbucks: If you’re consistent, you can earn much more—some users report $20–$50 a month or higher. But that depends on your time and patience with surveys and offers.

So, Microsoft Rewards = low effort, low payout.
Swagbucks = higher effort, higher payout.

3. Rewards Variety

Both platforms offer plenty of options, but Swagbucks has a slight edge here.

• Microsoft Rewards: Gift cards for Xbox, Amazon, Starbucks, and charity donations.

• Swagbucks: Amazon, PayPal, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Google Play, and many more.

Swagbucks wins in terms of sheer variety and the ability to get cash via PayPal—something Microsoft Rewards doesn’t directly offer.

4. Trust and Reliability

Both are 100% legitimate and have been around for years.

• Microsoft Rewards comes straight from Microsoft—so you know your points and data are safe.

• Swagbucks is owned by Prodege, a well-known company that’s paid out hundreds of millions to users since 2008.

I’ve personally redeemed multiple gift cards from both without issues.

5. Accessibility

• Microsoft Rewards: Works best for Windows users, Xbox owners, and people already tied into the Microsoft ecosystem.

• Swagbucks: Works for anyone, regardless of device or platform. You just need an internet connection.

If you’re on Chrome, macOS, or Android, Swagbucks feels more universal.

My Experience with Both

Here’s the truth: I use both, but for different reasons.

Microsoft Rewards is perfect for passive earning. I set Bing as my search engine, do the quick daily tasks, and that’s it. It’s simple and satisfying to occasionally redeem a Starbucks or Xbox card without lifting a finger.

Swagbucks, on the other hand, is my go-to for more active earning. When I have a bit of free time—maybe while watching a show—I’ll do a few surveys or browse for cashback deals. It feels more “involved,” but also more rewarding financially.

If I had to choose just one, I’d probably pick Swagbucks for flexibility and higher earnings potential. But if your time is limited and you just want something easy, Microsoft Rewards is a perfect background earner.

Which Is Better for You?

Here’s a quick summary table to help decide:

In short:

• Use Microsoft Rewards if you want something quick, safe, and effortless.

• Use Swagbucks if you don’t mind spending a little time for bigger returns.

FAQs

Can I use both Microsoft Rewards and Swagbucks at the same time?

Absolutely. There’s no rule against it. You can earn passively with Microsoft Rewards while doing surveys or shopping through Swagbucks for extra rewards.

Do these platforms really pay out?

Yes, both are legitimate. I’ve personally redeemed multiple gift cards from each. Swagbucks even allows PayPal cash-outs once you hit a minimum balance.

How long does it take to earn a gift card?

• On Microsoft Rewards, you can typically earn a $5 card in a few weeks of regular use.

• On Swagbucks, it varies based on activity. Surveys and cashback offers can get you there faster.

Are there any risks?

Not really. Just make sure you’re logging into the official sites—rewards.microsoft.com and swagbucks.com—and not look-alike scams.

Do they work outside the U.S.?

Microsoft Rewards is available in multiple countries but not everywhere. Swagbucks supports many regions too, though reward options may differ by location.

Final Thoughts

Both Microsoft Rewards and Swagbucks make it surprisingly easy to turn your online activity into real-world perks.

It’s not going to replace your income, but it’s a nice way to earn free coffee, gift cards, or even cash for things you already do.

Personally, I think Swagbucks offers more earning flexibility and better reward options, while Microsoft Rewards wins for convenience and simplicity.

If you’re curious about trying either one, my advice is simple: start small, set realistic expectations, and let your points accumulate naturally.

After all, it’s pretty satisfying when that first gift card lands in your inbox—just for doing things you were already doing anyway.

So tell me—which one do you think fits your style better: the effortless simplicity of Microsoft Rewards or the hands-on potential of Swagbucks?