Microsoft Rewards vs Amazon Shopper Panel

If you’re like me, you probably don’t mind earning a few extra perks for things you already do online — whether that’s searching the web, shopping, or sharing your opinions.

Two popular programs that make this possible are Microsoft Rewards and the Amazon Shopper Panel.

Both claim to reward you for simple, everyday activities, but the big question is: which one gives you the best value for your time?

I’ve used both, and while they might seem similar at first glance, they’re actually quite different in how they work, how they reward you, and how much effort they require. So, let’s break it all down in plain language.

What Is Microsoft Rewards?

Microsoft Rewards is a free loyalty program run by Microsoft. It lets you earn points for using Microsoft’s ecosystem — things like:

• Searching with Bing (Microsoft’s search engine)

• Shopping in the Microsoft Store

• Playing games or completing activities on Xbox

• Taking quizzes, polls, or daily challenges on the Rewards Dashboard

You then redeem those points for gift cards (Amazon, Starbucks, or Xbox), entries into sweepstakes, or even charitable donations.

The cool part? You earn rewards just by doing stuff you might already be doing — like searching the web. You don’t have to buy anything to start earning, which makes it appealing if you want a zero-investment way to earn small rewards over time.

What Is Amazon Shopper Panel?

Amazon Shopper Panel is Amazon’s invite-only program that pays users for sharing information about their purchases and completing short surveys.

You can earn:

• $10 every month for uploading up to 10 eligible receipts (from purchases made outside of Amazon)

• Extra money for answering surveys occasionally

You get paid in Amazon balance (not cash), but if you shop on Amazon often, that’s almost as good as cash.

It’s a passive, data-sharing-based program — you’re essentially being paid to help Amazon understand shopping behavior outside its platform.

Microsoft Rewards vs Amazon Shopper Panel: Key Differences

Let’s compare the two based on how they work, how much you can earn, and how much effort they take.

Earning Potential: How Much Can You Actually Make?

Here’s where expectations matter. Neither program will make you rich — they’re designed as small incentives, not side hustles.

With Microsoft Rewards, I typically earn around $5–$10 a month when I stay consistent — that means doing my daily Bing searches, taking quizzes, and checking in on streak bonuses. It takes a little effort but adds up over time.

With Amazon Shopper Panel, the earnings are more predictable. You can earn a guaranteed $10 every month if you upload 10 receipts, and sometimes an extra few dollars from short surveys. It’s simple and reliable — no daily tasks, no streaks to maintain.

So, if consistency isn’t your thing, Amazon Shopper Panel might be easier. But if you like interactive, gamified experiences, Microsoft Rewards gives you more to do (and more to enjoy).

Privacy and Data Sharing: What You Should Know

This is an important part that people sometimes overlook.

With Microsoft Rewards, the data shared is minimal — mostly tied to your Microsoft account usage (like Bing searches and store purchases). You’re already doing that if you use Windows or Edge, so it doesn’t feel intrusive.

With Amazon Shopper Panel, you’re sharing more sensitive data — your shopping receipts from other retailers, which helps Amazon learn about consumer habits beyond its own platform.

The company says all data is anonymized and used only for research purposes, but if you’re privacy-conscious, it’s worth considering before signing up.

Personally, I’m comfortable with both because I know what I’m sharing, but I’d still recommend reading the privacy policies before you start.

Ease of Use and Experience

Microsoft Rewards has a fun, game-like setup. You get daily “sets” — like quizzes, polls, and bonus streaks — that make earning points a little addictive. It’s also well-integrated across Microsoft’s ecosystem, especially if you use Windows, Xbox, or Edge.

On the other hand, Amazon Shopper Panel is pure simplicity. You open the app, snap photos of your receipts (or forward email receipts), and you’re done. It takes maybe 5 minutes a month. There’s no daily engagement, no quizzes, no extra steps.

If you like quick, passive earnings — Amazon’s method wins.
If you like interactive, routine-based earning, Microsoft Rewards is more engaging.

Which One Gives Better Value?

If we’re talking effort-to-reward ratio, Amazon Shopper Panel is the clear winner. Ten receipts = $10, every time. That’s easy money for minimal effort.

But in terms of flexibility and availability, Microsoft Rewards takes the lead. It’s open to everyone (no waiting for an invite), and you can redeem points for a wider range of gift cards — not just Amazon credit.

So, the “better” one really depends on what you value more:

• Simplicity and guaranteed payouts → Amazon Shopper Panel

• More activities and variety → Microsoft Rewards

My Personal Take

I use both — but for different reasons.

Microsoft Rewards fits into my daily browsing habits. I use Bing for searches, complete quick quizzes, and slowly rack up points that turn into small gift cards or Xbox credits. It’s a fun little bonus for doing things I’d be doing anyway.

Amazon Shopper Panel, though, is a true “set it and forget it” program. I upload receipts once a month and collect my $10 in Amazon credit. It feels more like a loyalty bonus than an active reward system.

If I had to choose just one, I’d probably go with Amazon Shopper Panel because it’s more time-efficient and consistent — but if you’re someone who enjoys challenges and daily engagement, Microsoft Rewards will likely feel more rewarding overall.

FAQs

Can I use both programs at the same time?

Yes, absolutely. They don’t conflict in any way. You can use Microsoft Rewards for your browsing and Amazon Shopper Panel for your receipt uploads — and double your benefits.

How do I join the Amazon Shopper Panel?

It’s currently invite-only. You can download the app and join the waitlist. If you’re accepted, Amazon will notify you via email.

How do I get the most out of Microsoft Rewards?

Do your daily Bing searches, complete quizzes, and check in on streak bonuses. The more consistent you are, the faster your points grow.

Are these programs safe?

Both are legitimate and run by trusted companies. Microsoft Rewards is widely available and integrated into your Microsoft account, while Amazon Shopper Panel is a controlled, privacy-compliant research program.

Do they pay in cash?

Not directly. Microsoft Rewards gives you gift cards, and Amazon Shopper Panel gives you Amazon balance. But since those can be used for everyday purchases, it’s almost as good as cash.

Final Thoughts

Both Microsoft Rewards and Amazon Shopper Panel make it easy to earn small rewards for things you already do — browsing, shopping, or sharing receipts.

They’re not full-blown income sources, but they’re great for passive, guilt-free perks that add up over time.

If you prefer hands-off, guaranteed rewards, go with Amazon Shopper Panel.
If you enjoy interactive challenges and don’t mind daily engagement, Microsoft Rewards might suit you better.

Either way, they’re both proof that small actions online can still earn you something tangible.

So, which one fits your lifestyle better — the gamified fun of Microsoft Rewards or the effortless consistency of Amazon Shopper Panel?