EarnStar is a rewards app for Android and iOS that pays users to answer surveys, play sponsored mobile games, and test new services. It advertises “no minimum cash‑out”, near‑instant PayPal payouts, and dozens of popular gift‑card options. In this updated 2025 review you’ll learn how the app really works, where it excels, where it stumbles, and how it compares with stalwarts like Swagbucks, Mistplay, and InboxDollars.
Bottom line upfront: EarnStar is legitimate—thousands of users confirm receiving cash and gift cards—but its earning potential is modest and offer‑tracking glitches remain a pain point. Treat it as a coffee‑money side hustle, not a part‑time job.
| Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|
|
|
Launched in early 2025 by U.S.-based Earn Star LLC (part of Prime Insights Group), EarnStar acts as a middleman between advertisers/market‑research firms and everyday smartphone users. Complete a task → EarnStar gets paid → you pocket a slice as cash or gift cards.
The app has grown quickly, holding a 4.4★ rating on Google Play (12,000+ reviews) and 4.6★ on the Apple App Store. Reviewers highlight the intuitive design and the fact that rewards are listed in real currency, not points.
Expect payouts of $0.50–$1.50 for 8‑ to 20‑minute surveys—competitively higher than many GPT apps. The in‑app browser loads questionnaires smoothly and sometimes credits small consolations for late‑stage disqualifications. Beware a common pattern: after one to two weeks of smooth sailing, screen‑outs may spike dramatically, reducing your hourly rate.
These one‑off tasks are where the eye‑popping numbers live—reaching level 100 in a puzzle game might advertise a $75 reward. Reality check:
Pro tip: Screenshot key milestones and keep transactional proof in case you need to dispute an uncredited offer.
Share your invite code to earn a lifetime 10 % commission on friends’ earnings. Helpful but modest unless you can recruit dozens of active users.
Log‑in streak bonuses, random prize draws, and leaderboard contests add a few cents here and there—nice garnish, not game‑changers.
Payout reliability is solid—once money appears in your balance. The main risk is getting that credit, especially on high‑value offers.
| Feature | EarnStar | Swagbucks | Mistplay | InboxDollars |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Surveys + game offers | Surveys, shopping, videos | Mobile‑game time rewards | Surveys, emails, offers |
| Cash‑Out Minimum | $5 first, then $1 (PayPal) | $25 (PayPal) or $1–$3 gift card sales | $5 gift cards | $15 first, then $30 |
| Payout Speed | Within 24–48 h | 2–5 days | 24–48 h | Up to 2 weeks |
| Earning Potential | $25–$50 / month typical | $20–$60 / month with heavy use | $10–$20 / month casual play | $15–$50 / month |
| Interface Clutter | Minimal ads | High (banner & video ads) | Moderate | High (emails, promos) |
The takeaway: EarnStar wins on sleek design, low recurring cash‑out, and occasional big game offers. Swagbucks offers broader earning avenues but slower PayPal payouts. Mistplay is steadier for gamers but pays less per minute. InboxDollars is proven but clunky and cash‑out thresholds are higher.
Legit. The parent company is a registered U.S. market‑research firm, and thousands of users have documented payouts. Issues arise from offer‑tracking hiccups and anti‑fraud filters—not from an intent to steal money outright. Use real info, avoid VPNs/emulators, and cash out early to lower risk.
For 2025, EarnStar earns a cautious 4 / 5 on the side‑hustle scale:
Approach big game offers as lottery tickets—great when they hit, but not guaranteed. Stick to small, verified tasks, cash out often, and EarnStar can reliably cover a few streaming‑service bills or weekly treat runs. As with any GPT app, manage expectations and the experience stays positive.
Happy earning—and remember, no mobile reward app is a substitute for a steady paycheck.
Last updated: August 6, 2025
