Pinecone Research has long been considered one of the better online survey panels. This post explains how Pinecone Research works today and what you can expect if you decide to join.
There are lots of survey research panels out there. So many, in fact, that browsing through my survey panels list could make your head spin when trying to decide which ones to join.
Years ago, if you had asked me which single panel to join, I would have recommended Pinecone Research as the top option. It was once a real stand-out compared to others. Today, while still decent, it’s no longer unique in the way it once was. Panels like Paid Viewpoint now compete strongly with it.
What is Pinecone Research?
Pinecone Research is a survey panel run by Nielsen, one of the biggest names in market research. Members are invited to take surveys about products and services and sometimes receive products to test at home.
Surveys typically take around 15 to 20 minutes to complete.
Who Can Sign Up For Pinecone Research?
Pinecone Research is more selective than most survey sites. They look for people in specific demographics at specific times. In the past, you couldn’t sign up unless you were lucky enough to spot one of their banners online.
You can now sign up directly on their website, but acceptance isn’t guaranteed.
Membership is open to people 18 years or older in the United States and a few other countries. Availability varies depending on your location and demographic.
How Much Can You Earn With Pinecone Research?
Historically, Pinecone surveys were known for paying a flat $3 each, which made them stand out. Today, most surveys are still worth around $3 (about 300 points), but the amount isn’t guaranteed, and some users report seeing less consistency.
Occasionally, Pinecone Research also offers product testing opportunities. These come with follow-up surveys that pay in points, and you usually get to keep the products you test.
I was lucky enough to get in on a few of these product tests, and it was worthwhile and fun.
Rewards Offered By Pinecone Research
Pinecone uses a points system (100 points = $1). Rewards can be redeemed for:
- Direct bank transfer (where available)
- Gift cards from popular retailers
- Prepaid virtual or physical cards
- Merchandise from their rewards catalog
PayPal, which Pinecone was once known for, is no longer offered to most members. Payments are still generally processed faster than some other panels, but users say it’s not always as immediate as it once was.
Pros of Pinecone Research
- Long-standing, legitimate panel run by Nielsen
- Faster payments compared to many other survey sites
- Opportunity to test products at home and sometimes keep them
- Lower cash-out threshold than some competitors
Cons of Pinecone Research
- More selective about who can join
- No longer consistently pays a flat $3 per survey
- PayPal payments no longer available for all members
- Users report disqualifications after starting surveys
- Fewer opportunities than in the past
Is Pinecone Research Worth It Anymore For Paid Surveys?
As mentioned above, Pinecone Research was long considered the best survey panel because of its guaranteed pay, fast processing, and lack of disqualifications. That reputation has unfortunately changed in recent years.
While Pinecone is still a solid, legitimate option, many members feel it doesn’t stand out the way it once did. However, if you’re accepted, it’s worth keeping as a backup panel, especially for product testing opportunities.
But if you’re looking for consistent earnings and guaranteed pay, Paid Viewpoint may now be the better choice.
How Do You Sign Up For Pinecone Research?
You can apply directly on their website. Keep in mind they may or may not be actively recruiting people in your specific demographic right now, and not everyone who applies is accepted.
Good luck if you try it!
Featured Image by Arthouse Studios via Pexels
Anna Thurman is a work at home blogger and mom of two. She has been researching and reviewing remote jobs for over 15 years. Her findings are published weekly here at Real Ways to Earn.