[REVIEW] Survey Program Pinecone Research
As you probably already know, I am a fan of survey programs to earn some side rewards. My survey hobby started back in 2011, when I wanted to keep certain reward accounts active. Certain programs offer members the ability to survey currency, which can later be converted to airline frequent flyer or hotel loyalty programs. Such an activity helps keep those accounts active.
Eventually, I grew to enjoy surveys just as a side hobby to pass the time, especially whenever I wanted to do something simple to rest my mind, but also be productive at the same time. I treat surveys as an alternative to watching TV or playing videos, which is why I find it fun.
Today, I would like to do a review of Pinecone Research (sign up here). I’ve been using them for over 5 years now and very happy with the return. My only wish is that receive more surveys that I currently do (more details below).
Earning Rewards
Each completed survey takes about 10 minutes to complete and earns 300 points. Some surveys offer points, along with sending you free samples of their new product (usually food or beverage) to test. These free items lead to more surveys and more rewards.
Unfortunately, no points are awarded for incomplete or disqualified surveys.
Rewards
In terms of what we can redeem with our points? Pinecone offers a wide variety of rewards to choose from. Some of the more popular gift cards include:
- Starbucks.ca
- Gap eGift Card
- Best Buy eGift Card
- Jack Astor’s Bar and Grill eGift Card
They also offer a wide variety of merchandise to redeem points for. Personally, I redeem my points for straight up cash. Every 300 points converts into $3 in cash.
Personal Experience
I’m not going to tell you that I get rich doing these surveys. I may get 1 survey every 2 months, so that’s anywhere between 6-7 per year, which nets me 1,800 – 2,100 points per year (6 x 300 or 7 x 300). That’s good for $18-$21 or so of cash for about 1 hour of work per year (10 minutes x 6 surveys = 60 minutes). It is not a lot of money, but I will take it.
Thoughts
Like I said, we are not going to be rich doing surveys. If we treat this like a one off, then for sure it may not feel like it’s worth the effort. However, when you compound this with other survey programs, it starts adding up.
Basically, if you have fun doing survey and enjoy testing out new products in the comforts of your own home, this is a great way to get compensated for those trials.