Microsoft Rewards vs YouGov Surveys

When it comes to earning a little extra online, two names that often pop up are Microsoft Rewards and YouGov Surveys. Both promise some form of reward in exchange for your time — but they work very differently. Over the years, I’ve tried both, and I’ve learned that what makes one better than the other depends entirely on what you value more: time, effort, or rewards.

So, if you’ve ever wondered which platform gives you better value, this post breaks it all down in a simple, honest way — how they work, what you actually earn, and what to expect from each.

What Is Microsoft Rewards?

Microsoft Rewards is a free loyalty program created by Microsoft that lets you earn points for doing everyday online activities — like searching on Bing, taking quizzes, or shopping in the Microsoft Store.

Every action gives you points. For example, you might earn 5 points for a Bing search, 100 points for completing a daily challenge, or 500 points for buying something from the Microsoft Store.

Over time, those points can be redeemed for things like:

• Gift cards (Amazon, Starbucks, Xbox, etc.)

• Microsoft subscriptions (like Game Pass or Microsoft 365)

• Donations to charities

It’s one of those programs that runs quietly in the background — you don’t have to “sit down and work” at it. You just use Bing instead of Google, click a few quizzes during your coffee break, and the points slowly build up.

How It Works

1. Sign up with your Microsoft account.

2. Earn points by searching, completing daily sets, or shopping.

3. Redeem your points for rewards once you hit the required threshold.

You can do this from your desktop or the Microsoft Edge browser, and the process is completely free.

What are YouGov Surveys?

YouGov is a global market research platform that pays you for sharing your opinions on politics, brands, media, and social issues.

Companies, governments, and organizations use YouGov’s data to understand public sentiment — and you’re rewarded for being part of it.

When you sign up, you’ll start receiving surveys through email or their mobile app. These surveys typically take 5–15 minutes and pay you in points.

Once you reach a certain number of points (which varies depending on your country), you can redeem them for cash or gift cards.

Here’s a quick look at what that’s like in practice:

• A 10-minute survey might pay 250 points.

• You need around 5,000 points for a $50 (or £50) reward.

• Surveys are limited — you might only get a few each week.

YouGov’s real strength lies in its credibility and relevance. Their surveys are often cited by major media outlets and policymakers, so your input genuinely contributes to meaningful discussions.

Microsoft Rewards vs YouGov Surveys: Key Differences

Let’s look at how these two platforms compare in some of the most important categories.

Earning Potential: What Can You Realistically Make?

Let’s be honest: neither of these will make you rich. They’re both side activities, not income sources. But the difference lies in how much effort you’re willing to put in.

Microsoft Rewards: Passive and Predictable

If you’re consistent — say, doing searches every day, completing the daily set, and a few quizzes — you can easily earn around 9,000–12,000 points a month. That’s roughly equivalent to $10–$15 in gift cards.

It’s not a fortune, but considering you’re earning while doing what you’d already do (browse the web), it’s one of the most effortless reward systems out there.

YouGov: Slower but More Rewarding (Sometimes)

YouGov surveys take more time and attention, and the payout isn’t quick. It can take several months to reach the cash-out level because surveys are sent based on your demographic and location.

However, once you qualify and stay active, you might earn $50–$100 a year in cash or gift cards.

So the tradeoff is this:

• Microsoft Rewards = Small but steady gains.

• YouGov = Larger but slower rewards.

Ease of Use and Experience

One of the reasons I personally lean toward Microsoft Rewards is how seamless it feels. I don’t have to stop what I’m doing or think too hard about it. Bing becomes your earning tool without interrupting your day.

YouGov, on the other hand, requires focus. You need to read, think, and answer thoughtfully — which makes sense because their data matters. It’s not hard work, but it’s deliberate work.

If you like giving opinions or you’re into current affairs, YouGov might even feel enjoyable. But if you want “set it and forget it” simplicity, Microsoft Rewards wins easily.

Trust and Transparency

Both platforms are legitimate — they’ve been around for years and have millions of users.

• Microsoft Rewards is backed by one of the biggest tech companies in the world, so there’s no question about credibility.

• YouGov has a strong reputation in market research and is often featured in major news outlets like BBC, Reuters, and The Guardian.

Both keep your data secure, though YouGov collects more personal information since they tailor surveys based on demographics and opinions.

Which Is Better for You?

Here’s how I’d sum it up:

Choose Microsoft Rewards if…

You want a simple, no-effort way to earn small rewards while you go about your normal online routine. It’s perfect if you already use Microsoft products or don’t mind switching your default search engine to Bing.

Choose YouGov Surveys if…

You enjoy sharing your opinions, want to contribute to research, and don’t mind waiting longer to see real payouts. It’s more for people who find surveys interesting and want to earn something in return for their time.

Honestly, no rule says you can’t use both. I do. I keep Microsoft Rewards running daily, and when YouGov sends me a survey email, I take a few minutes to fill it out. Between the two, I get small rewards more often without feeling like I’m wasting time.

FAQs

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

Yes, absolutely. They don’t conflict with each other. In fact, that’s a great way to maximize small online earnings without adding stress.

Do either of them cost money to join?

No. Both platforms are completely free to join.

Which pays faster?

Microsoft Rewards pays faster since you can redeem gift cards with as little as 5,000–6,000 points. YouGov takes longer because surveys are limited and payouts are higher-value.

Is it safe to share personal information with YouGov?

Yes, YouGov is transparent about data use. They anonymize your responses and never share your personal information directly with clients.

What’s the best way to earn faster on Microsoft Rewards?

Log in daily, use Bing for all your searches, complete the “Daily Set” of quizzes, and check the bonus point offers each week. Consistency is key.

Final Thoughts: So, Who Wins?

If we’re comparing pure efficiency, Microsoft Rewards wins hands down for ease and consistency. It doesn’t ask for your time, just your routine.

But if you prefer purpose-driven participation — something that makes your opinions matter — YouGov Surveys might feel more fulfilling.

In the end, it’s less about which pays more and more about which feels more rewarding for you personally.

So, let me ask:
Would you rather earn passively while you browse, or take an active role in shaping real-world insights — and get paid for it?