Best App To Earn Gift Cards Playing Games
Imagine turning your gaming time into real rewards like Amazon or Walmart gift cards. Sounds fun, right? Today, it’s easier than ever. The best apps to earn gift cards playing games have transformed casual gaming into a simple side hustle you can enjoy from your couch or while waiting in line.
These apps don’t just hand out points for playing—they make the experience rewarding. From trying new titles to hitting daily milestones, you can watch your balance grow while doing something you love. Whether you’re a mobile gamer on the go or prefer PC and console adventures, there’s an app that fits your style.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top apps that actually pay, how they work, and the smartest ways to cash out for maximum value. Ready to game for gift cards? Let’s dive in and find the perfect app to make your free time pay off.
Can You Really Earn Gift Cards by Playing Games?
Turning gameplay into real rewards sounds exciting, but is it actually possible? The short answer is yes—if you know what to expect. Let’s look at how these apps work in real life and what you should keep in mind before diving in.
How It Works in Practice
Most apps pay you in points, coins, or credits as you play. These can be exchanged for gift cards from popular retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or Starbucks. Some apps reward you for reaching milestones, while others pay based on time spent playing. The more consistent you are, the faster your balance grows.
What to Expect in Earnings
You won’t replace a full-time income, but you can definitely earn enough to cover small expenses or treat yourself. Think coffee runs, streaming subscriptions, or discounts on bigger purchases. Apps with low cash-out thresholds let you see results faster, keeping the process fun and motivating.
Why People Love This Side Hustle
The appeal goes beyond free rewards. You get to discover new games, break up a long day with something fun, and turn downtime into a little extra spending power. For many players, the mix of entertainment and small but steady rewards makes this side hustle worth it.
Best Apps to Earn Gift Cards by Playing Mobile Games (Android & iOS)
Now that you know what’s possible, let’s explore the heart of the guide—the best app to earn gift cards playing games on your phone. Whether you’re on Android or iOS, these apps reward your playtime with gift cards to your favorite stores.
1. Mistplay (Android and iOS)
Mistplay is a fan favorite for good reason. You choose from a curated list of games, play, and earn “units,” which you can swap for gift cards like Amazon, Target, and Google Play. With its recent iOS launch, Mistplay is now accessible to a much wider audience. Low cash-out thresholds mean you can see rewards faster.
2. Rewarded Play (Android)
Rewarded Play focuses on giving you points for playing popular games and completing milestones. It’s perfect for gamers who like variety, with options from puzzle games to strategy titles. Payouts start as low as $5, making it easy to redeem Amazon, Walmart, or Starbucks gift cards without a long wait.
3. Cash ‘Em All (Android)
If you enjoy discovering new games, Cash ‘Em All is built for you. It rewards you with coins for the time you spend playing, so the longer you play, the more you earn. Many users love its flexible redemption options, from Amazon gift cards to PayPal cash, and its quick $1 minimum payout.
4. Cash Giraffe (Android)
Cash Giraffe lets you earn gems by reaching game levels or completing challenges. The gems add up quickly and can be exchanged for Amazon, Google Play, or other popular gift cards. It’s especially appealing to players who enjoy steady progress and frequent small wins.
5. Money Well (Android)
Money Well combines gaming with occasional survey offers to help you earn faster. You’ll receive tickets and coins as you play, which can be turned into a variety of gift cards. Its lower minimum cash-out threshold makes it a strong choice for those who want quick, tangible results.
6. Cashyy (Android)
Cashyy stands out for its beginner-friendly approach. You earn coins for every minute of gameplay, and new users can cash out small amounts almost immediately. It’s perfect if you’re looking for quick motivation while exploring a wide range of casual and strategy games.
7. JustPlay, AppStation, and Fitplay (Android)
These apps work similarly by rewarding you for time spent playing and completing in-game achievements. Whether you prefer action, puzzles, or role-playing games, you’ll find titles that keep you entertained while stacking up gift cards from Amazon, Google Play, or Xbox.
8. AppNana, FeaturePoints, and Boodle (Android and iOS)
If you like variety, these apps mix gaming with other activities like downloading apps or completing small tasks. They reward you with points or coins that can be redeemed for gift cards or PayPal cash. Their flexible earning options make them a solid pick for anyone who wants multiple ways to boost rewards.
9. Swagbucks, InboxDollars, and MyPoints (Android and iOS)
These multi-tasking platforms are more than just gaming apps. Along with games, they pay you for activities like surveys, watching videos, or shopping online. Their gift card options are broad—think Amazon, Walmart, or even PayPal—making them ideal if you like earning rewards through different channels.
These mobile gaming apps prove that a little playtime can lead to real-world perks. Next, we’ll look at how PC and console players can get in on the action too.
Best Ways to Earn Gift Cards by Playing on PC & Console
Not every gamer prefers mobile screens. If you spend more time on a computer or gaming console, you can still turn your play into valuable rewards. These platforms give PC and console players a way to earn gift cards without changing how they enjoy games.
1. Buff
Buff runs quietly in the background while you play popular PC or console games like Valorant, League of Legends, or Fortnite. You earn Buff points simply by playing, and these points can be redeemed for Amazon, Steam, or Xbox gift cards. It’s ideal for dedicated gamers who log long hours and want passive rewards.
2. Gamehag
Gamehag lets you complete missions such as reaching certain levels, trying new titles, or writing game reviews. Each activity earns “soul gems,” which you can trade for gift cards, Steam keys, or even in-game items. It’s perfect for players who enjoy exploring different games and like a mix of tasks to stay engaged.
3. Microsoft and Xbox Rewards
If you already play on Xbox or Windows PC, Microsoft Rewards is a natural fit. You can earn points by completing daily challenges, playing featured games, or even using Bing search. Points are redeemable for Xbox gift cards, Game Pass subscriptions, and other digital rewards, making it an effortless add-on to your usual gaming routine.
These PC and console options are great for gamers who prefer larger screens or competitive titles. Next, we’ll look at rewards apps that mix gaming with other everyday activities for even more earning potential.
Cashback and Rewards Apps with Gaming Sections
Some rewards apps weren’t built purely for gaming but still let you earn gift cards through games. These platforms are perfect if you like combining gaming with everyday tasks like shopping or scanning receipts. They give you more ways to rack up points without sticking to one type of activity.
1. Drop
Drop is best known as a shopping rewards app, but it also includes a gaming section that’s worth exploring. After linking your credit or debit card, you earn points when you shop and when you play select games inside the app. Those points can be redeemed for gift cards to stores like Starbucks, Amazon, and Netflix.
2. Fetch Play
Fetch Play takes the popular receipt-scanning app Fetch to another level by adding games into the mix. You can continue earning points for scanning grocery receipts while gaining extra rewards from playing featured games. These points convert into gift cards for a wide range of retailers, making Fetch Play a smart option for multitaskers.
These hybrid apps are great if you want to earn gift cards without relying only on gaming. Up next, let’s talk about how to redeem your rewards cleverly to get the most value for every minute you play.
Smart Redeeming: Minimums, Best Value and Payout Speeds
Earning points is exciting, but how you redeem them can make a big difference in value. Understanding cash-out rules, minimum thresholds, and payout times helps you turn your gaming effort into rewards that stretch further.
Know the Minimum Cash-Out Limits
Each app sets its own minimum for gift card redemption. Some, like Cash ’Em All, let you cash out with as little as $1, while others may require $5 or even $10. Knowing these limits helps you plan when to redeem and avoid frustration if you’re close to your goal.
Choose Gift Cards with the Best Conversion Rate
Not all gift cards give equal value. Some apps offer slightly better rates for certain retailers or denominations. For example, larger Amazon gift cards might cost fewer points per dollar than smaller ones. Check the app’s payout chart before redeeming to get the most value for your efforts.
Consider Payout Speed and Method
Processing times vary. Instant digital gift cards are common, but some apps may take a few days to deliver codes. If you need fast access to funds, look for platforms known for quick processing or ones that offer instant PayPal or direct-to-email gift cards.
By redeeming strategically, you’ll make your earned rewards go further and enjoy the full benefit of your gaming time. Next, we’ll look at ways to maximize how much you earn in the first place.
How to Maximize Earnings (No Hype, Just Tactics)
Earning gift cards from gaming isn’t just about playing longer—it’s about playing smarter. With the right habits and strategies, you can grow your rewards faster and make every session count.
1. Play Consistently
Regular play keeps your earnings steady. Even short daily sessions can add up to big rewards over time. Many apps offer streak bonuses or daily check-in points, so making gameplay part of your routine ensures you don’t miss easy wins.
2. Use Multiple Apps
Don’t limit yourself to a single platform. Different apps feature different games, bonuses, and payout rates. By rotating between a few favorites, you can take advantage of new offers and avoid diminishing returns on one app.
3. Jump on Promotions and New-User Bonuses
Apps often launch limited-time deals like double points or bonus coins for trying new games. Turn on notifications so you can catch these opportunities. Taking advantage of early-user or promotional rewards can quickly boost your balance.
4. Optimize Redemptions
Think strategically about how you cash out. Larger gift card amounts may offer better point-to-dollar value. Also, check whether certain gift cards come with bonus credit or lower fees. Waiting until you hit a higher redemption tier can be worth it.
5. Manage Data and Battery Settings
These apps often run in the background to track playtime. Keep your device charged and on a reliable Wi-Fi connection to avoid interruptions. Adjust your phone’s battery saver or background app settings so your sessions are accurately counted.
Final Thoughts
Earning gift cards by playing games is no longer just a fun idea—it’s a real way to add extra value to your free time. Whether you choose a dedicated gaming app like Mistplay, a multitasking platform like Swagbucks, or a console-friendly option like Buff, there’s an opportunity that fits every gaming style.
The key is to focus on consistency and smart strategies. Play regularly, use multiple apps to keep your earning potential high, and redeem rewards wisely to stretch every point or coin. A few small habits can turn casual gaming sessions into meaningful gift card balances.
Most importantly, treat it as a rewarding side activity, not a full-time income. When you approach it with realistic expectations and a bit of planning, the best apps to earn gift cards playing games can turn everyday gaming into something even more exciting—rewards you can actually use.
