From freelancing and surveys to passive earnings and creative hustles, South Africans now have numerous apps that allow them to make real money—quickly and conveniently.
A global freelancing powerhouse where South Africans offer services like writing, design, programming, and marketing. Secure payouts and a wide client base make it a top choice.
A flexible marketplace to sell "gigs" starting at $5—ranging from graphic design to voice-overs. Earnings can scale quickly as your portfolio grows.
Earn points for completing surveys, watching videos, or shopping online. Points convert to cash or gift cards, making it a versatile income stream.
Earn through surveys, tasks, and even by sharing your internet bandwidth. A hybrid of active and passive income opportunities.
Great for photographers—upload your photos, and earn money each time one is purchased by brands or marketers around the world.
Complete real-world tasks like price checking or reviewing in-store promotions—an easy way to make money during your daily routines.
An ISO-certified survey app with a strong reputation in Africa. Surveys pay via mobile money, airtime, or bank transfers.
Android-only app that lets you earn gift cards by playing mobile games. A fun way to monetize your gaming time.
Earn by reporting everyday life—snapping photos or sharing your thoughts on ads and products. Micro-tasks pay small, consistent cash rewards.
Play games, take surveys, or test services to earn credits redeemable for cash. A flexible, easy-to-use option for side earnings.
App Name | Earning Method | Why It Pays |
---|---|---|
Upwork | Freelance services | High global demand |
Fiverr | Gigs in creative/digital services | Scalable earnings |
Swagbucks | Surveys, videos, shopping | Variety + low payout threshold |
Pawns.app | Surveys + bandwidth sharing | Passive + active income |
Foap | Selling photos | Monetizes creative skills |
Field Agent | Real-world task execution | Pay for simple daily tasks |
SagaPoll | Surveys | Trusted, mobile payout options |
Mistplay | Game-based rewards | Fun and rewarding for gamers |
Streetbees | Daily micro-tasks | Easy, real-life snapshots pay |
Money App | Games, surveys, testing | Versatile earning methods |
One Redditor shared their experience with game-based earnings:
“I found apps like Bingo Cash and Solitaire Cash to be legit, offering real money through skill-based gameplay.”
Whether you’re looking to freelance on Upwork, earn passively with Pawns.app, monetize your hobby on Foap, or get payday while playing games with Mistplay, the opportunities in South Africa’s digital economy are significant. Pick platforms that match your strengths and time, and you can turn everyday activities into income.