Textbroker: Scam or Legit? An Honest Review for Freelance Writers
If you’ve ever searched for ways to make money writing online, chances are you’ve come across Textbroker. It’s a content mill that connects freelance writers with clients who need everything from blog posts to product descriptions. But as with many gig economy platforms, there’s a lingering question: Is Textbroker a scam or a legitimate opportunity for writers?
Let’s break it down.
What is Textbroker?
Textbroker is an online content marketplace founded in 2005. It allows clients to submit writing assignments and freelancers to complete them for payment. Writers are rated on a scale (usually from 2 to 5 stars), and this rating determines which jobs they can access and how much they get paid per word.
How Does It Work?
- Sign-Up & Verification: Writers create a profile and submit a writing sample.
- Rating & Approval: The Textbroker team evaluates your sample and assigns a rating.
- Job Board Access: Based on your rating, you get access to a pool of writing assignments.
- Write & Get Paid: Submit completed articles, get reviewed, and receive payment.
Sounds simple, right? But here’s where it gets nuanced.
Pros of Textbroker
✅ Legit Payouts
Textbroker does pay its writers. Payments are typically issued weekly via Payoneer or bank transfer, depending on your country.
✅ Low Barrier to Entry
You don’t need a degree, portfolio, or years of experience. This makes it a great starting point for new writers.
✅ Flexible Work
Write as much or as little as you want. You can take on assignments when it suits you.
✅ Reliable Platform
With nearly two decades in business, Textbroker isn’t a fly-by-night operation. It’s a real company with a large client base.
Cons of Textbroker
❌ Low Pay (Especially at Lower Tiers)
Writers at the 2-star level earn as little as 0.7 cents per word. Even at 4 stars, you might only earn 1.4 cents per word, which translates to $7–$14 per 1,000 words.
❌ Inconsistent Quality of Assignments
You may find great topics one day and be scraping the barrel the next. There’s also the risk of picky clients and revision requests.
❌ Limited Growth Opportunity
Unless you’re accepted into the higher-paying “Team Orders” or “Direct Orders,” your earning ceiling remains fairly low.
❌ You Don’t Own the Work
Everything you write is ghostwritten. There’s no byline, no portfolio credit, and no visibility.
So, Is Textbroker a Scam?
No, Textbroker is not a scam. It is a legitimate content writing platform that pays writers consistently and has operated transparently for years. However, it’s important to understand that it’s not meant to make you rich — it’s more of a stepping stone than a sustainable long-term career solution.
Who Should Use Textbroker?
- Beginner Writers looking to build experience.
- Students or Part-Time Freelancers wanting flexible income.
- Writers in Low-Cost Living Areas where the pay may go further.
Final Verdict
Textbroker is legit — but it’s not for everyone.
If you’re just getting started and need a risk-free way to break into freelance writing, Textbroker is worth a try. Just keep your expectations in check. Use it to practice, earn a little money, and then move on to higher-paying opportunities as your skills and confidence grow.