Alternatives
AI TrainingAlternatives to Consider
While AI Training offers unique opportunities, several alternative sidegigs share similar characteristics but with different advantages. Consider these options based on your skills and preferences:
| Sidegig | Earnings Potential | Barriers to Entry | Flexibility | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AI Training | $3-25/hour | Low (basic computer skills) | High (24/7 access, work anywhere) | Detail-oriented people seeking completely flexible work |
| Transcription | $5-25/hour | Medium (typing speed, language skills) | High (choose projects, flexible schedule) | Fast typists with excellent listening skills |
| User Testing | $10-60/hour (project-based) | Medium (articulate feedback, tech comfort) | Medium (scheduled tests, quick response needed) | Communicative people who can think critically |
Transcription Work
Key Differences:
- More predictable earnings once you develop speed
- Longer continuous tasks rather than microtasks
- Clearer skill progression path
- More specialized platforms (Rev, TranscribeMe, GoTranscript)
Consider this instead if: You have excellent typing skills (65+ WPM), prefer focusing on one task for longer periods, and want more predictable work volume. Transcription is also better for those who find the stop-and-start nature of AI training frustrating.
User Testing
Key Differences:
- Higher pay per task ($10-60 per test)
- Requires speaking thoughts aloud and screen recording
- Less consistent availability but more engaging work
- Popular platforms include UserTesting, TryMyUI, and Userlytics
Consider this instead if: You're articulate, comfortable with being recorded, and prefer more interesting, varied tasks. User testing pays better per hour but offers fewer total hours of work compared to AI training.
When Alternatives Might Be Better
Consider alternatives to AI Training when you:
- Need more predictable earnings (transcription offers more consistent work volume)
- Prefer fewer, higher-paying tasks over many small tasks (user testing)
- Find repetitive microtasks mentally draining
- Want to develop more transferable skills for traditional employment
- Prefer verbal communication over written evaluation (user testing)