In a world where digital activity is part of everyday life, tech giants are finding new ways to engage users and reward them for their loyalty. Microsoft, one of the world’s leading technology companies, has created a unique and rewarding loyalty program: Microsoft Rewards. This program allows users to earn points for doing things they already do online—searching the web, shopping, playing games, and more. In this detailed article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Microsoft Rewards, including how it works, how to earn and redeem points, and tips to maximize your earnings.
What is Microsoft Rewards?
Microsoft Rewards is a free program launched by Microsoft to reward users for engaging with its services and products. Unlike many loyalty programs that require purchases to earn points, Microsoft Rewards allows users to accumulate points through everyday digital activities. Whether you are browsing with Bing, making purchases on the Microsoft Store, or completing simple quizzes, you’re rewarded.
The concept behind Microsoft Rewards is to incentivize users to stay within the Microsoft ecosystem—using Bing instead of Google, buying games or software from the Microsoft Store, and more. In return, users can redeem their accumulated points for real-world benefits like gift cards, sweepstakes entries, and donations to charity.
How to Join Microsoft Rewards
Joining Microsoft Rewards is simple and completely free. Here’s how:
- Create a Microsoft Account: If you don’t already have one, go to account.microsoft.com to sign up.
- Enroll in Microsoft Rewards: Visit rewards.microsoft.com and sign up with your Microsoft account.
- Start Earning Points: You can begin earning points right away by completing activities like searching on Bing or completing daily quizzes.
Microsoft Rewards is available in several countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, France, Germany, and others. Features and redemption options may vary by region.
How to Earn Microsoft Rewards Points
Microsoft Rewards offers various ways to earn points. These are categorized into two levels—Level 1 and Level 2—based on your activity.
1. Bing Searches
One of the easiest and most consistent ways to earn points is by using Bing as your search engine:
- Level 1 Users: Can earn up to 5 points per search for a daily maximum of 50 points.
- Level 2 Users: Can earn up to 250 points per day from searches (150 on PC and 100 on mobile).
To reach Level 2, you need to earn 500 points in a month. Once you’re at Level 2, you also get access to better rewards and exclusive promotions.
2. Microsoft Edge Browsing
Using the Microsoft Edge browser to perform searches through Bing earns additional points. Typically, you can earn up to 20 points per day by using Edge to search the web.
3. Microsoft Store Purchases
Earn 1 point per dollar (or local equivalent) spent at the Microsoft Store when signed into your Microsoft account. This applies to physical products, apps, games, and digital media.
4. Xbox and Game Pass Activities
- Completing Xbox Game Pass Quests (daily, weekly, monthly challenges) can net hundreds of points.
- Buying games or subscriptions via your Xbox account also adds points.
5. Daily Sets and Streak Bonuses
The Daily Set is a trio of activities (trivia, polls, and a daily search) that can be completed to earn 30+ points per day. Maintaining a daily streak earns bonus points:
- 3-day streak: +45 bonus points
- 7-day streak: +105 bonus points
- 10-day streak: +250 bonus points (varies during promotions)
6. Quizzes, Polls, and Offers
Microsoft frequently features themed quizzes, polls, and special offers. These can range from 10 to 100+ points each, especially during holidays or product launches.
7. Referrals and Promotions
Microsoft sometimes runs referral campaigns, giving users the chance to earn points by inviting friends. Seasonal promotions may also award points for trying new features or services.
How to Redeem Microsoft Rewards Points
After accumulating points, the next step is turning them into real rewards. Redemption options are generous and diverse:
1. Gift Cards
Redeem your points for gift cards from popular brands such as:
- Microsoft Store (use for games, devices, or apps)
- Amazon
- Walmart
- Target
- Starbucks
- Xbox Live or Game Pass
Typical conversion rate:
1,500 points ≈ $1.50 USD, but this can vary based on the reward and your level.
2. Sweepstakes Entries
Use your points to enter sweepstakes for items like Surface laptops, Xbox consoles, and large gift cards. Entries usually cost around 200-500 points each, with better odds during limited-time events.
3. Charitable Donations
If you want to support causes you care about, you can redeem points for donations to organizations like:
- UNICEF
- World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
- Special Olympics
- Code.org
4. Subscriptions and Discounts
Points can be used to get discounts on services like Xbox Game Pass, Microsoft 365, or even to extend your subscription for free.
Microsoft Rewards Tiers: Level 1 vs Level 2
Understanding the two-tier system is key to maximizing benefits:
| Feature | Level 1 | Level 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Bing Points (PC) | 5 pts/search, up to 50 | 5 pts/search, up to 150 |
| Bing Points (Mobile) | Not available | 5 pts/search, up to 100 |
| Edge Bonus | Limited | 20 pts/day |
| Microsoft Store Bonus | Standard | Increased earn rate |
| Exclusive Deals | No | Yes |
| Requirement to Qualify | None | Earn 500 pts/month |
Reaching Level 2 takes just a few days of activity and dramatically increases your earning potential.
Tips for Maximizing Microsoft Rewards
Here are some tips to help you earn the most points in the least amount of time:
Set Bing as Your Default Search Engine: Use Bing through Microsoft Edge for your everyday searches to earn the most points. Make it your default browser and search engine.
Complete the Daily Set: These daily tasks take less than 5 minutes and can net 30–60 points consistently. Maintaining a streak also brings in bonus points.
Take Advantage of Weekly Quizzes and Challenges: Special events and trivia quizzes often offer 100+ points. You can even look up the answers if you’re stuck—many communities share them online.
Use Xbox Game Pass Quests: If you own an Xbox and have Game Pass, doing quests (like playing certain games or achieving in-game objectives) can earn you hundreds of points a month.
Check the Rewards Dashboard Regularly: Visit rewards.microsoft.com to view available offers and limited-time promotions. New offers are added regularly.
Automate and Organize: Set daily reminders or install the Microsoft Rewards extension in Edge to never miss a chance to earn.
Is Microsoft Rewards Worth It?
Yes, absolutely—especially for people already using Microsoft products. Since it costs nothing to join, any reward you earn is a net gain. Over the course of a year, dedicated users can earn:
- $100–$200 in gift cards
- Several months of Xbox Game Pass or Microsoft 365
- Sweepstakes wins (though odds vary)
- Meaningful donations to charity
Even casual users can benefit from occasional redemptions just by using Bing and completing quizzes.
FAQs About Microsoft Rewards
Do Points Expire?
Yes, if there is no earning activity on your account for 18 months, your points will expire. Stay active to keep your points.
Can You Transfer Points Between Accounts?
No, points are non-transferable and tied to your Microsoft account.
Is It Safe?
Yes. Microsoft Rewards is run by Microsoft, and your data is treated in accordance with their privacy policies.
Are There Mobile Apps?
Yes, the Microsoft Bing app on Android and iOS allows you to search and earn points on the go.
Conclusion
Microsoft Rewards is a powerful and underrated tool for users who want to make the most of their digital habits. By simply searching the web, shopping online, or playing Xbox games, users can accumulate points that translate into real-world rewards—from gift cards to charitable donations. Best of all, it’s completely free to join.
With just a few minutes each day, you can earn enough points to make a meaningful impact—whether it’s covering your next Starbucks coffee, supporting a cause you care about, or saving up for that new Xbox controller. If you haven’t joined yet, now’s the perfect time to sign up and start turning your digital activity into real rewards.
