As we dive into the more advanced form of the digital era, there are numerous ways to make money online, including side hustle. Forget the day of needing a physical office or expensive equipment.
In 2024, your smartphone is all you need to get into the world of income opportunities. From creating engaging content to finding micro-tasks, and even making investments, you can tackle straight from your phone.
In this blog, we will explore the 12 best side hustles you can execute using your smartphone, all with the potential to earn $500 or more daily. Without further ado, let’s get started.
Table of Contents
TikTok Shop Affiliate Program
TikTok has become one of the most popular social media platforms globally, particularly in the category of entertainment. Not only entertainment, this platform has opened lucrative ways to earn a good amount of money online.
TikTok offers an affiliate marketing program in which you can sign up, get approved, and earn a commission by selling products listed on the platform. For instance, you can share affiliate product links on your TikTok videos, captions, or bio and whenever someone clicks your unique affiliate link and makes a purchase, you earn a commission on the sale.
Here are the key steps to join and earn money with the Affiliate Program.
- Become an Affiliate: You’ll need to sign up for the program through the TikTok Shop Seller Center.
- Find Products to Promote: Sellers on TikTok Shop list their products and offer commission rates for affiliates who drive sales. You can browse products that align with your interests and audience.
- Promote with a Unique Link: The program provides you with unique tracking links for each product. Share these links in your TikTok videos, captions, or bio.
- Earn Commissions: Whenever someone clicks your unique link and makes a purchase, you earn a commission on the sale.
The key benefits of the TikTok Shop Affiliate program include passive income potential, flexible promotion, and huge audience reach. To maximize your earnings, you need to choose products wisely, create compelling content, utilize TikTok features, engage with your audience, and regularly track performance.
EARNING POTENTIAL
Earning through the TikTok Shop Affiliate Program depends on the products you promote. The commission rates set by the sellers on this platform typically lie between 5% and 20% of the sale price. You can earn more than $1,000 daily but it requires consistent and smart work.
Pros
- Low barrier to entry
- Potential for high earnings
- Flexible schedule
- Leverage your creativity
- Large and engaged audience
Cons
- Competition is fierce
- Building an audience takes time
- Requires ongoing content creation
Earning with Medium Blog
Medium has emerged as a popular platform for writers, bloggers, and content creators to share their thoughts, insights, and expertise with a global audience.
With its user-friendly interface and built-in monetization options, Medium offers an excellent opportunity for individuals to earn money by publishing articles on topics they’re passionate about.
Once you start gaining good views on your medium blog, you can apply for the monetization feature on the platform. At the time of writing this blog, Medium only offers monetization services to users from limited countries.
Here is how it works:
1. Become a Medium Member: Sign up for a free Medium account or consider a paid membership for additional features like ad-free reading and the ability to directly earn from your writing.
2. Find Your Niche: Choose a topic you’re knowledgeable and passionate about. Whether it’s cooking, travel, self-improvement, or anything else under the sun, there’s an audience for it on Medium.
3. Craft Engaging Content: Write high-quality, informative, and engaging blog posts that resonate with your target audience.
4. Monetize Your Writing: Join the Medium Partner Program (free to enroll) to earn money based on how much Medium members read your stories. The more engaged readers you have, the higher your earning potential.
EARNING POTENTIAL
Medium Partner Program (MPP): This is Medium’s built-in monetization system where readers give your articles “claps” that translate to a portion of their membership fee. There’s no set rate, but estimates suggest it’s around $3-$13 per 1,000 claps (which can be roughly equivalent to 1,000 views). You can earn more than $1,000 every month after gaining momentum.
Pros
- Easy Setup and Use
- Built-in Audience
- Monetization Options
- Community and Support
- Focus on Writing
Cons
- Limited Ownership
- Limited Customization
- SEO Limitations
- Not Building Your Own Audience
Honeygain
Honeygain is one of the laziest ways of making money online as it allows you to earn by sharing your internet bandwidth while you are busy with other work on your smartphone, laptop, or other devices.
This app lets you earn money by sharing your unused internet bandwidth. You won’t earn a lot with Honeygain however, it can be a nice way to monetize your unused internet. You can maximize your earnings on this platform by referring Honeygain to your friends, or online communities.
In addition, you can also increase earnings by running Honeygain on multiple devices, optimizing settings, and staying active.
Here is how it works:
- Download the App: Install the Honeygain app on your phone (or computer).
- Share Your Bandwidth: When you’re not actively using your phone’s internet, Honeygain can route some of that unused data through its secure network. This allows businesses to perform tasks like market research or content delivery more efficiently.
- Earn Credits: Honeygain rewards you with credits for every megabyte of data shared.
- Cash Out: Accumulate credits and then cash out through PayPal or convert them to cryptocurrency through the JumpTask platform.
EARNINGS POTENTIAL
Honeygain pays out in credits, with 1 credit roughly equivalent to $0.01 USD. Estimates suggest earnings range from $0.10 to $0.20 per day per device, depending on factors like location and internet traffic demand.
Pros
- Passive Income
- Easy to Use
- Globally Available
- Multiple Devices
- Referral Program
Cons
- Low Earnings Potential
- Reliant on Internet Usage
- Minimal Control
- Privacy Concerns
Influence – Paid Video Surveys
Influence is one of the unique side hustles that lets you earn money through paid video surveys. You can express your opinions using a smartphone, and earn some cash on this platform.
To get started, you need to download the Influence App (available on both iOS, and Android), and create a free account. Once you complete your profile by submitting basic information, you will be ready to participate in surveys available on the application.
Influence offers a stream of available surveys that target specific demographics. As you find a survey that interests you, simply record, and share your honest opinion on camera. Each survey on this platform comes with a time limit (typically between 15 and 60 seconds).
You’ll earn a pre-determined amount if your video response fulfills the requirements of the survey.
Influence is a great option for those who enjoy sharing their opinions and want a flexible way to earn some extra cash. It won’t make you a fortune, but it can be a fun and engaging way to boost your income with your phone.
EARNING POTENTIAL
Surveys on Influence can pay anywhere from a few dollars to over $50. However, surveys with much higher payouts are likely less common. Surveys that take 10-20 minutes and pay $10-$20 are more likely what you’ll encounter regularly.
Pros
- Flexible Schedule
- Potential for Good Earnings
- Work from Home
- Low Barrier to Entry
- Variety of Topics
Cons
- Inconsistent Availability
- Technical Issues
- Privacy Concerns
Selling Photos and Videos on Foap
Are you a photographer, videographer, or someone who loves taking stunning photos and videos? If so, there is a platform called Foap that can turn your passion into a lucrative side hustle.
Foap offers an online marketplace where users can upload, and sell their photos and videos to customers, brands, agencies, and anyone seeking high-quality visual content.
You don’t have to be a professional photographer, or videographer to get started. You can easily begin your journey as an amateur and eventually progress.
First of all, you need to download the Foap App on your iOS or Android device and create a free account by submitting the required details. Once approved on the platform, you can start uploading your best photos, and videos that could be related to travel, natural scenes, lifestyle imagery, product photos, and so on.
Foap App allows you to allocate the price for each photo or video, and the minimum price allocation is $10. You can set your price above $10. It is recommended to write compelling descriptions and add relevant tags to your uploads.
You earn a commission whenever a buyer purchases your content. The commission is typically 50% of the selling price.
EARNING POTENTIAL
Foap offers a 50% commission on sales, but the base price is set by the seller. Photos are typically priced between $5 and $10, meaning you’d earn $2.50 to $5 per sale after Foap’s commission.
Pros
- Passive Income Potential
- Low Barrier to Entry
- Global Marketplace
- Variety of Content
- Easy Uploading
Cons
- High Competition
- Limited Control over Pricing
Offering UGC Content for Brands
Have you scrolled through social media, and seen captivating as well as authentic videos promoting a product or service? That’s the power of User-Generated Content (UGC).
You can create appealing video content for businesses, and brands that represent their products, or services in real-life scenarios. Businesses are constantly looking for fresh, and creative video content so, you can fulfill this demand, and make money as a lucrative side hustle.
To get started, you can visit various gig economy platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or Freelancer to find projects related to UGC. Showcase your skills highlighting your video creation abilities, and previous experiences (if any), then pitch your ideas to receive projects.
You can use your smartphone to film high-quality videos adhering to the brand’s guidelines, and creative direction. As you fulfill the demand of the brand, you will receive payment as per the agreed terms.
Beyond gig platforms, you can promote your work, and get clients through direct brand outreach, and social media platforms.
EARNING POTENTIAL
This is a common model where you receive a set fee for each piece of content you create (e.g., photo, video, story). Rates can range from $25 to $500+ per piece, depending on the complexity, brand size, and your reach.
Pros
- Flexible Schedule
- Potential for Creativity
- Monetization Options
- Build Your Portfolio
- Grow Your Audience
Cons
- Competition is High
- Inconsistent Income
- Time Commitment
Google Opinion Reward
Google has developed a platform that allows you to earn rewards by participating in surveys and providing valuable feedback to brands, and businesses. The platform is Google Opinion Rewards!
With just a smartphone and a few minutes of your time, you can contribute your opinions on various topics, and earn credits. Your earned credits can be redeemed for cash or other rewards.
First of all, install the Google Opinion Rewards on your iOS or Android device, and sign up with the required information.
Occasionally, you might get short surveys with just a few questions about different things. They could ask about your recent shopping trips, where you’ve been, or what you like as a shopper.
For each completed survey, you’ll be compensated with Google Play Credit (on Android), or cash via PayPal (depending on your location). The reward amount depends on the survey length, and complexity (ranges from a few cents to a dollar).
Google Opinion Rewards is a great option for those who want a hassle-free way to earn a little extra. It won’t replace your day job, but it’s a convenient way to accumulate some Play credit or cash for in-app purchases or other uses.
EARNING POTENTIAL
Surveys typically offer rewards in the range of cents to a dollar or two (USD) for completion. The number of surveys you receive can vary greatly depending on your location, demographics, and Google’s needs. Some users might get a few surveys a week, while others might see them less frequently.
Pros
- Easy and Accessible
- Wide Range of Uses
- No Upfront Cost
- Low Barrier to Entry
Cons
- Inconsistent Availability
- Limited Use of Credits
- Data Collection Concerns
Getting Paid to Tweet on X.com
X.com (previously Twitter) is a platform that connects brands with influencers, and individuals who are seeking brand promotion, and services through social media channels. So, how can you make money with X?
Well, X.com offers an opportunity to earn money by just tweeting. This works by sharing sponsored tweets with followers. Brands are willing to pay for exposure to your audience, and X.com facilitates this process by matching influencers with relevant sponsorship opportunities.
However, there are certain eligibility requirements to earn with tweeting. You need to subscribe to Twitter X Premium (Previously Blue) by paying a monthly fee. X may require a minimum follower threshold so, you need to first grow your account, and engagement metrics to ensure brand reach. Likewise, you also need to maintain a clean record by adhering to X’s User Agreement, and Content Monetization Standards.
You earn revenue through Ad Revenue Sharing and Sponsored Tweets. Ads displayed alongside your tweets will let you generate revenue on an ad revenue-sharing model whereas brands might directly approach you to create sponsored tweets. Sponsored Tweets payment could be a flat fee or performance-based payment such as Pay Per Click (PPC), or Cost Per Action (CPA).
EARNING POTENTIAL
Earning per tweet on X can range from a few dollars to more than $100, depending on factors like your follower count, engagement rate, and the campaign budget. Established X account holders earn more than $1,000 per tweet.
Pros
- Good Earning Potential
- Flexible Schedule
- Build an Audience
- Exposure to New Brands/Products
- Remote Work
Cons
- Platform Dependence
- Unclear Regulations
Amazon Flex Driver
If you enjoy driving and want to generate extra cash flexibly, becoming an Amazon Flex Driver could be a perfect side hustle for you. You can earn a good income by delivering Amazon packages to customers in your designated area.
This opportunity allows drivers to leverage their vehicles and smartphones to complete deliveries in their local area, making it an ideal side hustle for those looking to earn extra income.
To get started, you need to visit the Amazon Flex website and check if the program is available in your area. If it is available, sign up and complete the application process. Once you are approved on the platform, you’ll go through training sessions that cover delivery procedures, safety protocols, and using the Flex app.
After completion of basic training, you can start scheduling blocks and delivering packages.
A flexible schedule is the key benefit of becoming an Amazon Flex Driver. You can work when you want, as much or as little as you want. That’s why it is a great side hustle for busy schedules. In addition, Amazon Flex offers competitive pay rates per delivery block.
Amazon Flex offers a flexible and potentially rewarding way to earn extra income. It’s a good fit for those who enjoy driving and want to control their work schedule. However, keep in mind the car requirements, gas expenses, and physical aspects involved.
EARNING POTENTIAL
Amazon advertises that most Flex drivers earn between $18 and $25 per hour. This is an estimate and doesn’t guarantee your specific earnings. Pay rates can differ based on your city or region. Major metro areas might offer higher rates compared to rural locations.
Pros
- Flexible Schedule
- Potential for Good Hourly Pay
- Use Your Own Vehicle
- Low Barrier to Entry
- No Boss to Report To
Cons
- Wear and Tear on Vehicle
- Not Available Everywhere
Creating a Faceless YouTube Shorts Channel
Creating a faceless YouTube shorts channel is a great way to increase subscribers quickly, and potentially earn good income without ever showing your face.
YouTube shorts have emerged as a popular platform for short-form video content offering creators the opportunity to reach a wider audience.
Regarding faceless shorts, creators can produce, and share short videos without showing faces on camera. Instead, they can leverage the use of AI voiceovers, text overlays, animations, or footage to convey their message or story.
First things first, deciding on a niche for the faceless channel is the major step to be taken. Always choose a niche that aligns with your interests, expertise, or audience preferences. Once you have finalized your niche, you can create a YouTube channel, and start publishing high-quality short-form video content that captures viewers’ attention and provides value or entertainment.
There are various ways to monetize YouTube shorts including YouTube Partner Program, Brand Partnerships, Sponsorships, Merchandise Sales, Affiliate Marketing, Fan Donations, and Memberships.
EARNING POTENTIAL
Ad revenue on Shorts is generally lower compared to regular YouTube videos due to their short format. However, you can make good revenue from sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and selling merchandise.
Pros
- Low Barrier to Entry
- Flexible Schedule
- Potential for High Engagement
- Various Monetization Options
- Creative Outlet
Cons
- Algorithm Dependence
- Unpredictable Income
Copy Trading
Copy Trading is gaining popularity as a passive investment strategy that allows individuals to replicate the trades of experienced, and successful traders. However, this side hustle can come with certain risks.
You can use various copy trading platforms, and tools to potentially generate profits without needing to actively manage portfolios.
The concept involves mimicking experienced traders, known as “signal providers,” whose trading methods match your preferences. Through a platform, their trades are automatically replicated in your account according to the funds you have available.
This means that if the signal provider makes successful trades, you could see profits in your account, but you also bear the risk of any losses they experience.
To get started, you can choose among various online platforms that offer copy trading services. Go through features, fee comparisons, and the pool of available signal providers before selecting one.
To start copy trading, platforms offer tools to help you find signal providers matching your preferences in terms of performance, trading style, and risk. Once you’ve chosen, allocate the amount of money you’re okay with risking to your selected signal provider(s).
EARNING POTENTIAL
There is no guaranteed earning potential with copy trading as it relies on various factors including the performance of the copied trader, the amount invested, market fluctuations, and copy trading fees.
Pros
- Passive Income Potential
- Learn from Experienced Traders
- Diversification
- Accessibility for Beginners
- Low Barrier to Entry
Cons
- Risk of Loss
- Fees for Copy Trading Platforms
- Limited Control
Selling Print On Demand Mugs on TikTok
TikTok is not only the land of viral dances, funny skits, or entertainment content, it is also a goldmine for creative entrepreneurs. Selling Print-on-demand (POD) mugs on TikTok is one of the lucrative opportunities to earn good revenue.
TikTok content creators can produce engaging content formats to promote and sell custom-designed merchandise. With TikTok’s expansive user base and viral potential, entrepreneurs can showcase their mugs and creative designs to a global audience, driving sales and generating income.
Here are the steps to get started:
- Create Appealing Videos: Produce Engaging TikTok videos showcasing your print-on-demand mugs in a visually appealing, and captivating way.
- Highlight Unique Designs: Represent the unique designs, and customizable options available for your print-on-demand mugs.
- Present your story: In your TikTok videos, weave storytelling elements to forge an emotional bond with your audience. Share the stories behind your mug designs, anecdotes relevant to your brand or niche, or customer testimonials. This personal touch humanizes your brand and helps you connect with potential customers on a deeper level.
- Leverage TikTok features such as utilizing hashtags/trends, engaging with TikTok Community, and TikTok Ads to maximize reach and conversions.
EARNING POTENTIAL
Let’s say your POD service charges $3 per mug, and you sell a mug for $15 through TikTok Shop (which takes a 5% commission). Your profit per mug would be $15 – $3 (POD) – ($15 * 0.05 commission) = $7.
Pros
- Leverage of TikTok’s Reach
- Visually Appealing Product
- Trendjacking Potential
- Low Barrier to Entry
- Creative Outlet
Cons
- Organic Reach Challenges
- Time Commitment
Final Takeaway
While earning $500+ a day might not be typical for every single one of these side hustles, the beauty lies in their flexibility and accessibility. With just your phone and a little dedication, you can unlock a world of earning potential. Remember, consistency is key.
Don’t be afraid to experiment, find what works for you, and watch your side hustle blossom into a source of income and personal satisfaction. So, what are you waiting for?