Online Focus Groups.
Online focus groups are moderated sessions with 6–10 participants (or 1‑on‑1 interviews) conducted via video platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Topics range across consumer goods, apps, banking, entertainment, healthcare, and more. They typically last 30 minutes to 2 hours, and participants receive compensation for their feedback.
Expected Pay Rates
You can expect:
- £40‑60 per hour for most online focus groups or interviews
- Up to £120 for 2-hour sessions
- £50‑150+ for certain topics, or longer studies.
- Occasionally higher rates for special panels (e.g. gaming, beauty, finance): up to £200+
Who Can Join
- Residents of the UK aged 16+
- No special qualifications—diverse backgrounds, hobbies, and experiences are valued
- Participants are invited based on profile targeting (age, occupation, interests)
Top Trusted Platforms & Agencies in the UK
Here are reputable platforms you can sign up to join paid studies:
User Interviews / Respondent
- Focus on one-on-one interviews, diary studies, and focus groups via Zoom
- Frequently pays around £40–45/hour, sometimes higher
- Reddit users report average earnings like £45/hr, paid quickly via PayPal, gift card, or bank transfer
- One-time sign-up bonus ~£8 when you complete first study
People for Research
- UK-based research agency offering online group discussions and usability tests
- Payments typically from £50 to £150 per session
Research Opinions
- Covers broad topics (finance, lifestyle, media) on Zoom calls or group chats
- Most sessions pay £50 for one hour; some shorter or longer sessions vary in rate
Angelfish Opinions
- Moderated sessions on media, energy, entertainment, etc.
- Compensation ranges £40 to £200, typically £60 for two-hour groups
Take Part in Research
- Offers both online and in-person groups across the UK
- Payout usually £40–250 per session, depending on length and format
Additional reputable options:
- Indiefield, Code3Research, Market Research 4 U, QMR, Focus4People, TestingTime, Research‑i—each offering online focus group or interview opportunities with £50–150+ payouts
Real Participant Feedback (UK Reddit Reports)
- Many users earned £45/hour or more from User Interviews, often in short blocks of just a few hours per study. One posted: “So far this year… 17 studies over 8 hours and been paid >£40/hour on average.”
- Bonuses (~£8) are typical for first signups, paid in GBP via Reward Link gift cards.
How It Works—Step by Step
- Join one or more panels/platforms via their website. Provide demographic and interest information in your profile.
- Wait for email invites or browse available studies. Fast response is key to securing spots.
- Apply and qualify via short screening questions.
- Attend scheduled sessions (virtual or sometimes in-person) on time with webcam/mic readiness.
- Payment is made within days (or weeks)—via PayPal, bank transfer, or Giftcards. Choice available depends on panel.
Tips to Maximize Earnings
- Join multiple platforms for more opportunity volume.
- Combine general panels (e.g. User Interviews) with niche ones (e.g. Research‑i for gaming).
- Keepprofile up to date and respond quickly to invitations.
- Be honest and detail-oriented during sessions—panels often rank participants.
- Track your time and payments so you can monitor your effective hourly rate.
Things to Watch
- Spaces are competitive—especially for high-paying panels. Not guaranteed regular invites.
- Some short surveys (<10 mins) pay less (e.g. £6–10). They still might count toward eligibility.
- Gift card payouts may have a small conversion fee; bank or PayPal often preferred.
- UK-side hustle income above the £1,000 trading allowance may need to be reported via self-assessment tax return.
Summary Table
| Platform / Agency | Format | Typical Pay | Sign-Up Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|
| User Interviews / Respondent | 1-on-1 & Group online | £40–£60/hour | ~£8 on first study |
| People for Research | Online & occasional UI | £50–£150/session | None stated |
| Research Opinions | Focus groups via Zoom | ~£50/hour | None stated |
| Angelfish Opinions | Group discussions | £40–£200/session | None stated |
| Take Part in Research | Group & one-on-one | £40–£250/session | None stated |
| Others (TestingTime, QMR…) | Mix of formats | £50–150+ | Varies |
