Cash Giraffe

Estimated reading time: 22 minutes

Play-and-earn apps are one of the most fun ways to earn a little extra cash or gift cards in your spare time — especially if you already enjoy mobile games. Apps like Cash Giraffe make it simple: play games you like, earn points, and redeem them for real rewards like PayPal cash or Amazon vouchers.

In this guide, we’ll show you how do play and earn apps work in reality, why people love them, and what makes Cash Giraffe a standout option. Whether you’re looking to make idle time a bit more rewarding or just curious how it all works, here’s everything you need to know.

What Are Play-and-Earn Apps (And How Do They Work)?

Play-and-earn apps (also known as play-to-earn or games that pay you) are mobile applications that give users rewards for playing games. Below, we’ll take a closer look at how play and earn apps work and why they’ve gained such popularity.

The rewards offered by games are usually real-world payouts, such as PayPal cash, Amazon or Walmart gift cards, coupons, or other vouchers. Instead of just playing a game for fun or high scores, you’re also accumulating points or virtual currency that can be redeemed for something of monetary value.

Why People Use Play-and-Earn Apps (And Love Them)

Play-and-earn apps have grown massively in popularity for a simple reason: they let you earn while having fun. Millions of users around the world are now using apps like Cash Giraffe to:

• 🎮 Get rewarded for playing casual mobile games (no competitive skill needed)
• 💸 Redeem points for real money or gift cards
• 🕹️ Discover new games without searching or paying
• ⏳ Turn downtime into something productive, like earning coffee money while you wait in line
• 🔒 Enjoy zero-risk fun — no fees, no purchases, just free games and real rewards

Cash Giraffe, for example, is free to download, easy to use, and doesn’t interrupt your play with constant ads like many competitors. It’s designed to reward your time — not waste it.

So, let’s dive in. To understand how play and earn apps work, it’s important to know where the money comes from.

How can these apps afford to pay you for playing?

In most cases, you are helping them make money while you play. The apps often earn revenue through advertising, sponsorships, and market research. For example, many reward apps show video ads or offer surveys between game levels.

The advertisers pay the app for your engagement, and the app passes a slice of that revenue back to you as a reward. Additionally, game developers partner with these platforms to promote their new games. They pay the platform for each user who downloads and plays, and in turn you get a portion of that as your “earnings.”

In short, your playtime and attention are the product. The app monetizes it and shares some of the profit with you as an incentive.

Typical Rewarded App workflow

You install a play-and-earn app and browse a list of mobile games or tasks offered within it. When you download and play a featured game via the app, you start earning points (often called gems, coins, or units) based on your playtime, progress, or achievements. Some apps also reward other actions, such as trying new non-game apps, completing specific levels, or taking quick surveys.

Once you accumulate enough points, you can redeem them in the app’s reward store. Typically, a $5 minimum is required to cash out (for example, 1,500 points might earn a $5 gift card). Payouts are typically delivered via email (digital gift card codes) or online payment platforms, such as PayPal, rather than direct bank deposits, for security and convenience.

Already using Cash Giraffe? Learn how to maximise your earnings in our 7 Tips to Earn Rewards Faster with the Cash Giraffe App.

Example: Cash Giraffe. Cash Giraffe is a strong example of how play and earn apps work: you play, they track your engagement, and you get rewarded. It lets you install it for free, then pick from a list of games. As you play those games, you earn “gems” for every minute of gameplay, and you can exchange these gems for PayPal cash or gift cards to retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Bonus: The big difference with Cash Giraffe? There are no ads in it, unlike many of its competitors.

Are Purchases Required?

There are no entry fees or in-app purchases required – the app generates revenue from partners and ads, not by charging the player. Many other apps follow this model of free-to-play, offering rewards for time spent. Although, some rewarded apps will reward you if you make in-app purchases on any games you downloaded from them.

Types of Play-and-Earn Apps

It’s worth noting that there are a few different categories of “play and earn” apps out there:

Reward Apps for Trying New Games

These are the most common. Apps like Mistplay, Cash Giraffe, Swagbucks (which has a gaming section), or InboxDollars reward you for playing various featured games and completing offers. They operate on a points system redeemable for gift cards or PayPal. Mistplay, for instance, awards loyalty points called “units” for every minute you play, which can be redeemed for gift cards. The platform has paid out over $150 million in rewards to date.

Want a curated list of the best platforms? Don’t miss our Top 5 Play-and-Earn Apps for 2026, including options for both Android and iPhone users.

Real-Money Skill Game Apps

These involve head-to-head or tournament play in specific games (like solitaire, bingo, or trivia) where you can win cash prizes. Examples include Solitaire Cube, Bingo Cash, or Blackout Bingo. Typically, these competitions require a small entry fee to participate, and the winner earns the prize pool (minus the app’s cut). They do pay “real money” to winners, but because they border on online skill-based gambling, the earnings are not guaranteed (you can also lose money if you don’t win) and may be restricted in some U.S. states. These differ from the reward apps because you must be good at the game to profit, whereas reward apps pay out simply for participation.

Blockchain/NFT Play-to-Earn Games

In recent years, some games (like Axie Infinity) reward players with cryptocurrency or NFT items that can be sold for money. These are usually on PC or console (sometimes mobile) and often require an upfront investment (buying characters or tokens). They represent a distinct trend in the gaming world. While they also carry the “play-to-earn” label, most mainstream mobile play-and-earn apps do not require any crypto or investment – they pay in regular currency or gift cards, making them far more accessible to the average user.

No matter the type, legitimate play-and-earn apps will be free to download and use, with no subscription or purchase necessary. If an app asks you to pay for the privilege of earning, that’s a red flag. The real ones make their money from advertisers and sponsors, not from players.

How Much Money Can You Really Make?

It’s crucial to set expectations around how play and earn apps work when it comes to actual payouts. One thing to keep in mind is that playing games for money is not a path to riches – it’s more like earning a bit of pocket change or fun money on the side. The rewards are generally small and accumulate slowly, especially after you’ve exhausted any sign-up bonuses or initial easy tasks. Here’s what to expect in terms of earnings:

💸 Small Payouts and Time Investment

Most play-and-earn apps require a minimum threshold (usually around $5) before you can cash out. Reaching that can take a few hours or days, depending on your playtime and the app’s payout rates. After early bonuses, rewards often slow down significantly. Many users report earning just $10–$25 per month with regular use — which breaks down to about $1–$2 per hour of gameplay. It’s more pocket money than profit, so manage your expectations accordingly.

⚡ Quick Initial Bonuses

Many apps entice new users with a fast first payout. For example, an app might offer a bonus for your first game or have a lower cash-out threshold initially. One Reddit analysis noted some apps offer relatively quick initial earnings – you might earn a few dollars worth in the first day or two. This is often because early levels or achievements yield one-time bonuses, or there are sign-up rewards. However, once those are done, you settle into the normal earning rate.

📉 A Ceiling on Earnings

Because the overall earning potential is low, these apps won’t replace your day job (and they’re not meant to). Even the most avid players usually max out at a modest sum. For instance, a FinanceBuzz reviewer who tested Cash Giraffe for over five hours calculated an effective rate of about $1.44 per hour, noting that it could be higher (perhaps up to $7 per hour) only by cherry-picking the highest-paying offers and focusing intensively. Meanwhile, more casual usage might net just a few cents or a couple of dimes per play session. In other words, expect coffee money, not rent money.

📣 Outliers and Testimonials

You may encounter some exaggerated testimonials or reviews claiming higher earnings. For example, one user review of InboxDollars said: “This app is actually pretty cool. I made $103 in 10 days!”. Take such reports with a grain of salt – these usually involve completing numerous high-paying offers (such as signing up for services, which require more effort) or an unusually intense level of activity. They’re exceptions rather than the norm. Most users will find it takes significant time to accumulate even $20. Remember, apps will happily showcase the best-case scenarios, but your results will vary.

⏱️ Payment Speed

Once you do request a payout, the wait isn’t too long in most cases. Many apps process rewards within a few days. Some boast even faster turnaround – for instance, users of Cash ’Em All (a similar app) often receive their PayPal cash or gift card codes within 48 hours of cashing out. Cash Giraffe itself notes that rewards are typically processed quickly and should arrive within about 7 business days at most. In the FinanceBuzz test, a gift card reward arrived within 24 hours. So, while earning the reward might be slow, getting the money after cash-out is usually pretty fast with reputable apps.

✅ Bottom Line: Set Realistic Expectations

You can make real money by playing these games, but think of it as a fun side activity that gives a little extra “fun money.” As one reviewer put it, it won’t replace your day job or make you a millionaire, but it’s not fake – the cash is real.

Go in with realistic expectations that you’re being paid (a small amount) for your time and attention. If you’re looking to earn serious income, these apps alone won’t cut it – they’re more for entertainment with benefits.

New to all of this? Check out our Beginner’s Guide to Earning Money Playing Mobile Games for a simple walkthrough of how to get started and what to expect.

Pros of Using Play-and-Earn Apps

Despite the modest earnings, millions of people enjoy play-and-earn apps. Here are some of the advantages and reasons people use them:

No Special Skills Needed

You don’t have to be a pro gamer to earn rewards. Unlike competitive gaming, these apps reward time spent over skill level. Whether you’re great at the game or just a beginner, you’ll earn points as long as you play. This makes it very accessible – anyone can do it, and it’s an easy, no-stress side hustle.

Free and Easy to Start

Legitimate play-and-earn apps are completely free to download and use – no entry fees, subscriptions, or purchases required. You can install an app and start earning within minutes. There’s very little setup or commitment; you can play whenever you want. It’s essentially making a bit of money off a hobby you might do anyway.

Discover New Games

These platforms often introduce you to new games you might actually enjoy. The apps curate a selection of mobile games (puzzle, strategy, arcade, etc.) for you to try. Many users like the variety – if you get bored with one game, you can switch to another and still earn rewards. It’s a way to find fun apps you wouldn’t have found otherwise, with the added motivation of rewards for trying them.

Earn During Idle Time

One big perk is turning idle time into something productive. You can earn rewards during your commute, in queues, or on the couch—turning mindless scrolling into small progress toward a gift card.

Convenience

Many play-and-earn apps let you earn rewards on the go during spare moments. Since they’re mobile-based, you can play a few minutes here and there – on the bus, during TV commercials, or any time you have a little lull. Over time, those minutes add up to real rewards. The flexibility to earn on your own schedule is a big plus.

Small but Sure Rewards

In contrast to something like lottery tickets or competitive cash tournaments (where there’s uncertainty if you’ll win), these apps provide a sense of guaranteed progress. Every minute or task usually earns some points, even if they are small. You steadily build toward a payout and receive the gratification of cashing out. Many users find it satisfying to see points accumulate and to receive actual gift cards or PayPal cash for their efforts. It can feel like a mini-achievement.

Community and Social Features

Some apps incorporate social elements – for instance, some apps feature a chat function to communicate with fellow players, while others include friend referral systems or leaderboards. While not a feature of every app, these can make the experience more enjoyable and communal. Referring friends often gives bonus points to both you and your friend, which is a nice perk if you know others who’d enjoy this hobby.

No Risk (for Reward Apps)

Unlike stock trading or even certain competitive gaming apps, here you never risk your own money. The only thing you’re spending is time. If you decide it’s not worth it, you can walk away without having lost any cash. This low-risk nature makes play-and-earn apps an appealing, low-pressure side activity.

Cons and Caveats to Consider

Before you dive in, be aware of the downsides and limitations of play-and-earn apps. They’re not all fun and games – here are some common complaints and issues:

1. Low Earning Rate

The biggest drawback is simply that you won’t earn much relative to the time you put in. As discussed, the hourly rate often works out to well below minimum wage – maybe a dollar or two per hour of play, if that. If you’re looking to maximize your income, these apps are one of the slower ways to do it. It takes patience to see meaningful rewards.

2. Time-Consuming

Earning those small rewards can require time investment. You may need to play for some time to reach a $5 or $10 payout. If you have a busy schedule, grinding for points might not work all the time, hence why they’re most enjoyed during the morning commute.

3. Repetitive or Boring Tasks

Let’s be honest – not every game or task offered will be fun. Some apps might prompt you to play very simple games (like rudimentary puzzle or solitaire clones) that can get boring quickly. Others lean heavily on surveys or watching ads, which many people find dull or frustrating. For example, some Swagbucks users complain that the surveys disqualify them after wasting 20 minutes, yielding almost nothing.

4. Numerous Advertisements

Many play-and-earn apps are heavily reliant on advertisements. Don’t be surprised if every couple of minutes of gameplay, you’re interrupted by an ad, or asked to watch a video to earn bonus points. Remember, the ads are part of how you “pay” for the reward. But this can detract from the gaming experience. If you expect to play uninterrupted games, you will be disappointed – the app’s primary goal is to encourage you to engage with offers and ads, rather than providing you with free entertainment indefinitely.

6. Potential for Scams or Non-Payment

Unfortunately, the space has had some bad actors. Some unscrupulous apps have postponed or avoided payoffs – for instance, by conveniently “freezing” or resetting your progress right before you hit the cash-out threshold, or by shutting down suddenly without paying users. There have been a few high-profile cases where a popular money-paying game app shut down, leaving users unable to redeem their accumulated points. This is why it’s essential to select well-known, highly reviewed apps. If an offer sounds too good to be true (like a game promising hundreds of dollars for minimal effort), be sceptical.

7. Limited Selection or Niche Games

Each category represents a slightly different model for how play-and-earn apps work, ranging from simple engagement rewards to skill-based earnings. Depending on the app, the variety of games might not always suit your taste. Some apps only offer specific genres (e.g., numerous puzzle and word games). If you only enjoy a specific type of game that isn’t widely available in these apps, you might not have fun with the options. Additionally, some apps eventually run out of new games to recommend, especially if you’ve tried everything on their list. At that point, continuing to earn rewards may require completing other tasks, such as surveys, which you may not enjoy.

8. Device and Platform Restrictions

Nearly all play-and-earn apps run on mobile devices – typically Android phones – and an increasing number also run on iOS (iPhone). If you prefer PC gaming, these apps may not be compatible with your computer (although a few reward platforms offer web versions). Also, a given app might not be available in all countries or on all devices. For a long time, some apps, such as Cash Giraffe or Mistplay, were Android-only; however, many have since expanded to iOS. Still, if you use an older device or a Kindle tablet, you may encounter compatibility issues.

In short, temper your expectations. The apps are legitimate in many cases, but the experience often involves a high volume of ads and repetitive tasks. If you have free time and enjoy simple mobile games, you might not mind. But if you value your time highly or hate repetitive tasks, you could quickly feel the cons outweigh the pros.

Still not sure which apps to trust? We break it all down in Are Play-and-Earn Apps Legit or Scams?, including red flags to watch out for.

Tips for Using Play-and-Earn Apps Safely and Efficiently

If you decide to jump into the world of play-to-earn gaming, here are some tips to get the most out of it while staying safe:

1. Choose Reputable, Legit Apps

Start with apps that have a proven track record of paying users and positive reviews. Avoid any brand-new or obscure apps that promise unusually high rewards. Established names like Cash Giraffe have millions of downloads and reviews that you can scan. For example, Cash Giraffe is rated ~4.3/5 on Google Play with over 10 million installs, indicating it’s a legit app (not a scam) according to reviewers. Do a quick search for “[App Name] legit or scam” and see what the community says. Red flags include consistent reports of not receiving payments or having accounts mysteriously banned before payout.

2. Protect Your Personal Information

Never give an app more personal data than it truly needs to function. It’s normal for these apps to ask for certain phone permissions (like usage tracking to measure your playtime), and sometimes an email (especially if that’s how you receive gift cards). However, be wary if an app asks for sensitive information, such as your social security number, credit card details, or bank account information for direct deposit. There’s no reason a game app should require those. In general, it’s safest to cash out via PayPal or digital gift cards – methods that don’t require exposing your bank account routing number. This way, if an app were ever compromised by hackers, your primary financial info isn’t directly at risk. Stick to trusted payment methods that offer a buffer between the app and your money.

3. Check Legality in Your Region

While reward apps are usually not considered gambling (since you’re not wagering your own money), certain game types like sweepstakes, bingo, or other cash competitions can be restricted depending on local laws. Some states in the U.S. have regulations that limit or ban cash prize games (even skill-based ones). Generally, if an app is listed in your country’s Google Play or App Store, it’s allowed – but if you travel or use a workaround to install an app not officially in your region, double-check that you’re not violating any rules. The onus is on you to read the app’s terms and conditions regarding location eligibility and ensure you’re in the clear.

4. Use Referral and Bonus Opportunities

To maximize your earnings, take advantage of any bonus features the app offers. Many apps have a referral program – you earn extra points if your friend joins using your invite link (and sometimes your friend receives a bonus as well). This can give your balance a nice boost. Also, keep an eye out for special events or multipliers; for instance, Cash Giraffe periodically offers “Double Rewards Weekend”, where you earn 2x gems on new games, and even a daily 3x booster for one hour of play. Participating in these promos will accelerate your earnings. Some apps also have daily check-in rewards or streak bonuses for logging in each day – easy free points if you remember to do it.

5. Play Smart, Not Hard

Since your time is the limiting factor, be strategic. If the app shows that some games or tasks pay more points per minute, focus on those, especially if you find them tolerable to play. You don’t have to play a game you dislike – you can pick the most rewarding ones that you enjoy.

Additionally, set small goals to keep yourself motivated (e.g., “I’ll play until I hit 2,000 points today” or “I want to cash out $10 this month”). This helps avoid burnout. Once you reach a goal or notice diminishing returns, give yourself a break. The games should remain fun!

6. Watch Out for Red Flags

Understanding how play and earn apps work can help you recognize when something isn’t right. Legitimate apps are upfront about how they track and reward users, and they have a lot of user feedback to vouch for them. Always check recent user reviews in the app store; if you see a wave of complaints about non-payment or account issues, it might be time to quit that app and move on. If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your instincts.

7. Keep Earnings in Perspective (Tax and Budget)

Any money you earn from these apps is typically considered taxable income (yes, even gift cards are technically income in many jurisdictions). Now, realistically, if you’re making small amounts, it may not even be enough to report, but if you do end up accumulating significant rewards (for example, if you somehow earn hundreds of dollars in a year across apps), be aware of potential tax obligations. The companies probably won’t send you a 1099 form unless you cross a certain high threshold, but the responsibility to report side income is still on you. At the very least, keep a simple record of what you cashed out.

On the flip side, since earnings are small, it’s smart to decide how you’ll use these rewards – maybe you funnel all your gift cards into an Amazon balance for holiday shopping, or use PayPal cash from gaming to treat yourself to coffee. Since it’s easy to squander small bits of money, having a plan (even if it’s “this is fun money for movie tickets”) can make the effort feel more worthwhile.

By following these tips, you can enjoy play-and-earn apps while minimizing risks and frustrations. Millions of users have successfully redeemed rewards (the fact that Mistplay alone paid out over $150 million shows these apps do pay).

Final Thoughts: Are Play-and-Earn Apps Worth It?

Play-and-earn mobile apps offer a novel way to make a little extra cash in your spare time by doing something fun – playing games. They have opened up a small but genuine income stream for everyday people: instead of games only taking your money (via in-app purchases), these let you earn a bit back. For casual gamers or anyone with idle time and a smartphone, it can be a rewarding hobby. Users often say they enjoy discovering new games and derive satisfaction from collecting points and redeeming a gift card to treat themselves.

Set the Right Expectations

It’s crucial to approach these apps with the right mindset. Understanding how play and earn apps work helps you use them wisely and avoid disappointment. You won’t get rich, and you shouldn’t depend on these earnings for any serious financial needs. Think of it like a modern twist on a loyalty program or a rebate – you’re getting rewarded for an activity you like.

Use Your Time Wisely

If you have free time to kill and would otherwise be gaming or scrolling anyway, why not earn a few bucks from it? On the other hand, if you find yourself stressing over points or grinding away at boring tasks solely for the money, it may not be worth the opportunity cost.

Know When They Make Sense

In summary, play-and-earn apps are legitimate (at least the well-known ones are) and can earn you some extra money or gift cards. They’re best suited for those who enjoy mobile games and view the rewards as a bonus, rather than for those seeking high-paying side jobs. As one analysis concluded, if you have the time, energy, and interest, these apps can be a fun little side hustle – “if you think you’ll be too impatient, there are other ways to make fast cash.”

Final Word

So, if you’re curious, give one a try — just go in with realistic expectations, follow the safety tips, and enjoy the games. You might not finance your next vacation this way, but hey, a free gift card for doing some gaming on the couch isn’t a bad deal for a bit of casual fun. Happy playing and (hopefully) earning!

Sources: Play-and-earn app overviews and user reviews, expert analyses of pros/cons, and official app information from Cash Giraffe and Mistplay, which confirm how these reward systems work and pay out. All insights point to the same conclusion – yes, these apps do pay, but in small amounts, and they require time and patience to see rewards. Use them wisely, and they can be a fun way to get a little something back from your gaming habit.