There are a few things to consider when looking for the best affiliate programs for beginners. First, the program should be easy to join and have low barriers to entry. Second, it should offer a generous commission structure so that you can earn good money from your sales. Finally, the program should have a wide range of products or services so that you can find something to promote that will interest your audience.
In the modern world, it’s more important than ever to be strategic about how you spend your time and money. With the vast array of best affiliate programs available, it can be hard to know where to start. However, by taking the time to research and compare the different options, you can make an informed decision about which program is best for you.
Furthermore, by understanding the impact that affiliate marketing can have on your business, you can make sure that you are getting the most out of your investment. By taking these steps, you can ensure that you are making the best possible use of your time and resources.
Affiliate Programs vs. Affiliate Networks
What’s the difference? Affiliate programs and affiliate networks are both approaches to marketing that allow you to earn commissions from sales that you drive to the products, programs, or services, but they work in slightly different ways.
Affiliate programs are one of the most effective ways to monetize a website or blog. By promoting products or services from other companies, affiliates can earn a commission on every sale they generate. They are usually run by businesses that have an existing product or service to sell. In order to participate in an affiliate program, website owners must apply to the company and be approved for the program.
Once approved, affiliates will be given a special link (known as an affiliate link) that they can use to promote the company’s products or services. When a customer clicks on an affiliate link and makes a purchase, the affiliate will earn a commission. Affiliate programs are typically free to join, and affiliates can start promoting products or services right away.
Affiliate networks are third-party companies that provide affiliates with a platform to promote multiple brands. Unlike Affiliate Programs, where affiliates only earn commissions on sales they generate, Affiliate Networks offer affiliates a variety of ways to earn money, including pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, cost-per-acquisition (CPA) offers, and more.
These networks also make it easier for affiliates to find high-quality products and services to promote. Joining an affiliate network is usually free, and many networks offer recurring commissions, which means that affiliates can continue to earn money even after customers stop making purchases. However, some networks today require a membership fee to join.
How Do Affiliate Programs Work?
So, how does it work? Basically, they work by letting you create a profile or account on their platform and choosing the brands or products you want to promote; you can then share those brands with a special affiliate link and you’ll earn a commission when someone buys from that link.
By sharing these links on your websites, blog, or even social networks, you increase traffic to the affiliate brand. In exchange, they give you a bit of money from each sale. It can be as little as 1% or it could be much higher. When choosing an affiliate program to work with, it’s important to learn about the commission rate, the products or services they offer, and other details before you sign on.
With these factors in mind, following are some of the best affiliate programs for beginners.
List of 25 Best Affiliate Programs & Networks for Beginners
Let’s dive right in:
1. Amazon Affiliate Program
Amazon Associates is one of the most popular affiliate programs out there, and for good reason. It’s easy to join and there are millions of products available to promote, so you’re sure to find something that interests your audience. Plus, you’ll earn a commission on every sale you make, making it a great way to start earning money as an affiliate.
Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of being an Amazon affiliate and also some other information you need to know.
Pros:
- A trusted and well-known brand
- Wide range of products to consider
- Extended benefits
- Quick and easy sign-up
Cons:
- Low commission rates
- Short cookies (24 hours)
- 60-day payment cycle
Method of Payment:
Check, direct deposit, or Amazon gift card
Payment Threshold:
Must earn a minimum of $10 in order to cash out
2. ShareASale
ShareASale is one of the best affiliate networks available today. They offer high commissions, a wide range of products, and a user-friendly platform. In addition, they provide a variety of tools to help you promote their products and maximize your earnings. And best of all, their team is always available to help you succeed. If you’re looking for an affiliate network that can provide you with a great income stream, then ShareASale is definitely worth checking out.
Pros:
- Large commission payouts
- Over 5,000 different affiliate programs
- Free to sign up
Cons:
- Non-updated user interface
- Approval process sometimes takes a long time
- No longer uses Paypal for payouts
Method of Payment:
Check, direct deposit, Payoneer
Payment Threshold:
$50
3. CJ / Commission Junction
Commission Junction, also known now as just CJ, is one of the best affiliate marketing networks for beginners. They offer a wide variety of affiliate programs to choose from, and they have a very good reputation. They also have a very good commission structure, which makes it one of the best networks for affiliate marketers.
In addition, they offer a wide variety of tools and resources to help you be successful with your affiliate marketing business. Commission Junction is definitely one of the best affiliate networks out there.
Pros:
- Many companies to choose from
- Well-known companies like Trip Advisor, Disney Shops, etc.
- 20 years old
- Great metrics
Cons:
- Brands come and go often
- There’s some learning curve to get started
Method of Payment:
Check, direct deposit, Payoneer
Payment Threshold:
$50 ($100 for checks)
4. Rakuten
Rakuten Marketing is a great choice for affiliates who want to promote physical goods. They are a Japanese affiliate marketing service provider and came onto the scene when they purchased LinkShare in 2005.
This program offers a wide range of product categories to choose from, and you’ll earn a commission on every sale you make. Rakuten Marketing also has a strong reputation for customer service, so you can be sure that your customers will be well taken care of if they make a purchase through your affiliate link.
Pros:
- Interface is similar to other affiliate programs
- Over 1,000 brands to choose from
- A large variety in their merchants
Cons:
- Approval process can be slow
- If you have little traffic, you may not get approved
Method of Payment:
Check, Paypal, Cash Back for Change (donation program)
Payment Threshold:
$50
5. Impact
Impact is not as old as some of the other networks, but it has a lot to offer, and it was founded by the same people who created Commission Junction! It features many well-known brands such as Airbnb, Adidas, AirBnB, McAfee, HSBC, and so many more.
Pros:
- Over 2500 brands to choose from
- Very nice user interface
- Has many instant approvals
Cons:
- Many features that can be overwhelming
Method of Payment:
Paypal for US Citizens, Wire Transfers for Other Countries
Payment Threshold:
Monthly
6. FlexOffers
FlexOffers is one of the best affiliate programs out there. They have a wide range of products and services that you can promote, and they offer great commissions on all sales. FlexOffers also has a very user-friendly interface, making it easy to get started with affiliate marketing. And best of all, they provide all the tools and resources you need to succeed. With over 10,000 affiliate programs for you to choose from, FlexOffers is definitely worth checking out.
Pros:
- Easy sign up and onboarding
- Many offer types
- Rev-share program that lets you earn a cut from people you sign up under you
Cons:
- Limited customer support
Method of Payment:
Check, bank transfer, wire transfer, Paypal
Payment Threshold:
$25
7. MaxBounty
Founded in 2004, MaxBounty has a long history of providing high-quality leads to its advertisers. The Canadian company has a strict screening process for affiliate applications, ensuring that only the most reputable and trustworthy affiliates are accepted into the program. They specialize in CPA offers.
Additionally, MaxBounty offers a wide range of commission structures, giving affiliates the flexibility to choose how they’re compensated for their efforts. As a result of these factors, MaxBounty has built a reputation as a program that delivers quality results for both advertisers and affiliates.
Pros:
- Several offer types – CPA, CPL, and CPI
- Cash bonus offers
- Modern dashboard and friendly interface
Cons:
- Approval process can be difficult
- Application can be difficult
- Lacking in customer support
Method of Payment:
Direct deposit, check, Paypal, Payoneer
Payment Threshold:
$50
8. Ebay Partner Network
The eBay Partner Network offers high commission rates and a wide range of product categories. You can earn up to 70% commission on sales, and there are no limits on how much you can earn. Additionally, the eBay Partner Network provides detailed reporting so that you can track your progress and optimize your campaigns.
There are also a wide range of tools available to help you promote your products, including banner ads and text links. Overall, the eBay Partner Network is an excellent choice for affiliate marketers looking to maximize their earnings. eBay has become a household name over the years, making this one easy.
Pros:
- A trusted name
- High commission ranges of 50-70%
- Great for newbies
- Low barrier to entry
Cons:
- The platform has lots of counterfeit items
- 24-hour cookies
Method of Payment:
Direct deposit, Paypal
Payment Threshold:
10 units of your country’s currency
9. LinkConnector
LinkConnector is one of the best affiliate programs because it allows you to connect with a wide variety of high-quality merchants. It has a nice mix of physical and digital products for you to choose from to promote.
In addition, LinkConnector provides a suite of tools that makes it easy to track your commissions, payments, and so on. Overall, it’s a great way to connect with high-quality merchants and earn commission on sales.
Pros:
- Been around over 10 years
- Has some large brands like Reebok, Deposit Photos and Dockers
- Quick and easy application process
Cons:
- Limited advertisers
- A dated interface
Method of Payment:
Check, Paypal
Payment Threshold:
$100
10. Pepperjam
Pepperjam is an affiliate marketing company that provides technology and services to affiliate programs. The company was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware. They were acquired by eBay in 2009 and later relaunched under the current name in 2016.
Pepperjam offers a variety of affiliate program management services, including program optimization, tracking and reporting, creative development, and payments. In addition, the company provides technology solutions for affiliate marketing, including an affiliate link management platform and an affiliate network. Pepperjam also offers a range of advertising and marketing services, including search engine marketing, display advertising, and email marketing.
Pros:
- An easy-to-use dashboard
- Easy sign-up process
- Email to query advertisers
Cons:
- May be lacking in data
- Has a small number of advertisers
Method of Payment:
Paypal
Payment Threshold:
$25
11. Etsy
Etsy affiliate programs are a great way to earn money while promoting Etsy products. When you join an affiliate program, you will be given a special link to share on your website or blog. When someone clicks on your link and makes a purchase from Etsy, you will earn a commission.
There are many different affiliate programs available, so be sure to choose one that best fits your audience. For example, if you have a blog about handmade jewelry, you may want to join an affiliate program that promotes Etsy jewelry.
By promoting products that your audience is interested in, you will be more likely to make sales and earn commission payments. Joining an Etsy affiliate program is a great way to monetize your website or blog while helping to support Small Business Saturday.
Pros:
- Popular platform
- Promote handmade items and support independent creators
- Clean interface
- Diverse product range
Cons:
- Popular vendors will usually leave the platform
- Algorithm changes can impact results
- Refundable $5 fee to join
Method of Payment:
Check, wire transfer, bank transfer
Payment Threshold:
$50
12. AppSumo
AppSumo is a website that provides discounts on software tools for web development, design, and marketing. It also offers affiliate programs that pay commissions for referrals. The affiliate programs are affiliate-based, which means they pay commissions to people who refer new customers to AppSumo.
The affiliate programs are also performance-based, which means they pay commissions based on the number of sales that are generated by the affiliate’s referrals.
AppSumo offers a wide range of software products at deeply discounted prices, making it an attractive destination for web developers, designers, and marketers. The affiliate programs provide an opportunity for affiliates to earn income by referring new customers to AppSumo.
Pros:
- Quick and easy to sign up
- 30-day cookies
- Cash bonuses for new and returning customers
Cons:
- Just for software tools
Method of Payment:
Paypal, bank transfer
Payment Threshold:
$100
13. Clickbank
ClickBank is another popular affiliate program that offers a wide range of products and services to promote. It’s also one that has been around for a very long time (more than 20 years!). This program also has a very generous commission structure, so you can potentially earn a lot of money from your sales. It’s important to note that ClickBank is mostly geared towards digital products, so if you’re promoting physical goods, you may want to look elsewhere.
Pros:
- Many products to choose from
- Longstanding history
- High commission rates
- Pays out weekly or bi-weekly
Cons:
- Mainly digital products
- Functional but dated marketplace
- Some programs have high refund rates
Method of Payment:
Check, direct deposit, wire transfer, or Payoneer
Payment Threshold:
$50
14. Commission Soup
Commission Soup is another one that has been around over 20 years. It was founded in 2000 and now has a great selection of ad campaigns for affiliates to choose from. They have brands such as Barnes and Noble MasterCard, DIRECTV, T-Mobile and more.
They focus primarily on credit cards and credit accounts. When people are looking for new cards and apply through you, then you get a cut if they are approved. The payouts can be high when people sign up and get approved, depending on which offers you affiliate with.
Pros:
- Great for a credit card reviews site
Cons:
- Very strict process for getting approved
Method of Payment:
Check
Payment Threshold:
$100
15. Fiverr
What could be better than referring others to Fiverr, the world’s largest marketplace for creative and digital services? With the Fiverr affiliate program, you can earn up to $150 per referral, and there is no limit to how much you can earn.
Plus, you’ll get access to exclusive affiliate tools and resources, so you can maximize your earnings potential. So, if you’re looking for a great way to earn some extra cash, sign up for the Fiverr affiliate program today!
Pros:
- Many people use Fiverr already
- It’s a household name and they advertise heavily ‘
- Easy to sign up
- Multiple ways of earning
Cons:
- No pay for sales made to existing customers
- Popular gigs will often move on to their own websites
Method of Payment:
Bank transfer, Paypal, Payoneer
Payment Threshold:
$100
16. Shopify
With Shopify affiliate, you can earn up to $2,000 per sale. That’s a lot of money! And the best part is that you don’t need to have your own website or product to promote. All you need is a link. When someone clicks on your link and makes a purchase, you’ll earn a commission. It’s that simple. So, if you’re looking for an easy way to make money online, consider promoting Shopify affiliate.
Pros:
- $2000 bonus for each “Plus” referral
- Partner support available
- Big commissions possible
Cons:
- Must now register through Impact
- Currently only a 30% acceptance rate on applications
- Lots of competition and hard to rank for
Method of Payment:
Paypal, bank account
Payment Threshold:
$10
17. Canva
Canva affiliate programs are a great way to make money. This is a great tool for small businesses and creatives to easily make the images and graphics they need without being a professional. It’s a popular service with a free plan that basically sells itself. For those who do not have a background in graphic design, they will find Canva easy AND fun to use, as they have hundreds of templates for you to choose from and modify to your needs within minutes.
By referring new users, you can earn up to $36 per person who signs up with your affiliate link. The Canva affiliate program is a great way to make money and help people create beautiful designs.
Pros:
- Popular/ has lots of users
- Easy to promote
- 30-day cookie window
Cons:
- No deep linking
- Non-recurring commission
Method of Payment:
Paypal, bank account
Payment Threshold:
$10
18. SEMRush
SEMRush is an online marketing tool that provides users with insights into their website’s search engine optimization. It also offers affiliate programs that allow users to earn commission by promoting SEMRush products and services, which are something many business owners use every day.
The affiliate program is simple to join and provide a great opportunity to earn extra income. In addition, SEMRush offers a wide range of features and tools that can be used to improve website traffic and search engine ranking. For these reasons, SEMRush is a valuable resource for any marketer.
Pros:
- $200 for every new subscription
- $10 for every new lead
- Account managers to give you support
- 120-day cookies
Cons:
- Must apply through Impact
- A competitive niche to rank for
Method of Payment:
Paypal, bank transfer
Payment Threshold:
$50
19. Elementor
Elementor is a WordPress plugin that enables you to create beautiful, responsive websites with no coding required. And, best of all, it’s plugin is free to use. It’s one of the most popular page builders and with hundreds of satisfied customers.With a commission rate of 50%, you can expect to earn $29.50 on the Essential Plan for their pro version of the plugin.
If you’re looking for a way to earn money online, Elementor affiliate programs could be a great option for you.
Pros:
- Marketing kit provided to help you
- 30-day cookies
- Great product that sells itself.
Cons:
- Higher payment threshold
- Hard to get approved
Method of Payment:
Paypal
Payment Threshold:
$200
20. Teachable
Teachable is a platform that allows people to build and sell their own courses. It’s also a great partner to affiliate with as it has up to 30% commission, and you can send traffic just once and earn over and over. There are many opportunities to work with this course builder because courses can be on all types of topics.
Pros:
- Great support
- Recurring payments
- 90-day cookies
- Up to 50% commission
Cons:
- You don’t get paid for refunds
- There can be some marketing challenges
Method of Payment:
Paypal
21. HostGator
Founded in 2002, HostGator has become one of the most well-known names in hosting. They provide affordable and robust hosting and domain solutions. I have used them for 10 years and think they’re one of the best hosting providers around.
Recommending a hosting company is easy, so if you have a blog about hosting, web design, or search engine optimimzation, you could join the HostGator affiliate program and earn commission from every new customer you refer to us.
Pros:
- Well-known brand
- Many different ways to advertise and promote
- Potential for big earnings
Cons:
- 45-70 day wait before funds released on payout
- Requires sign-up through Impact
Method of Payment:
Bank transfer, Paypal
Payment Threshold:
Depends on the platform you sign up on
22. WP Engine
WP Engine is a powerful web hosting platform that offers affiliate programs to its users. In WP Engine’s case, affiliates can earn money by referring new customers to the platform. WP Engine offers a variety of features that make it an attractive option for web hosting, including unlimited storage, bandwidth, and email accounts.
Affiliates can also take advantage of WP Engine’s generous affiliate program terms, which include a 50% commission on all first-time customers’ monthly payments and a 10% commission on all subsequent payments. By promoting WP Engine through affiliate programs, affiliates can earn significant commissions while providing their audience with a valuable service.
Pros:
- High commissions
- A great core product
- Familiar brand
- Monthly payouts
- Lifetime cookie
Cons:
- Limited audience
Method of Payment:
Bank transfers
Payment Threshold:
$200
23. Freshbooks
Freshbooks affiliate program is great way to earn some extra income while promoting a product that you believe in. With Freshbooks, you can promote their services through your own blog or website and receive a commission for every new customer that you refer. A lot of people are already using FreshBooks and trust the brand, making it easier for you to promote it.
The best part is that you can choose to be paid either monthly or yearly, so you can easily accommodate Freshbooks into your budget. Plus, as an affiliate, you’ll have access to exclusive resources and support from the Freshbooks team. If you’re looking for a way to give your finances a boost, then affiliate marketing with Freshbooks is definitely worth considering.
Pros:
- VIP offers
- Extended cookie time (120 days)
- $5 per free trial signup
- $55 per sale
Cons:
- Very niche target audience
Method of Payment:
Wire transfer, bank transfer, check
Payment Threshold:
$50
24. Ace Hardware
Founded in 1924 by a small group of Chicago hardware storeowners, Ace Hardware is one of the biggest brands known when it comes to hardware goods. ACE Hardware sells supplies ranging from paint, lawn, garden tools and so much more. If you have a blog or site in the home improvement niche, then ACE Hardware’s program may be a good fit. As an affiliate, you can earn commission on every sale that you refer to ACE hardware.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional handyman, ACE hardware affiliate programs offer an excellent opportunity to earn some extra income.
Pros:
- 30-day cookies
- Commission on all products (no gift cards)
- Online resource center available
Cons:
- Compensation only to US residents
- Low commission rates
Method of Payment:
Check
Payment Threshold:
None
25. Cheapflights
heapflights affiliate programs are a great way to earn money while promoting travel. As an affiliate, you can earn commission on every hotel booking that you refer to Cheapflights. In addition, you’ll also be able to access exclusive deals and promotions for your followers.
Best of all, there’s no limit to how much you can earn. They offer high commissions of 65-75% on flights, hotels, and vehicle rentals. So, whether you’re a travel blogger or just looking to make some extra cash, Cheapflights affiliate programs are a great way to do it.
Pros:
- Travel widgets
- Simple integration
- Travel is a HUGE industry
- Great affiliate support
Cons:
- A very competitive niche
Method of Payment:
Bank transfer, direct deposit
Payment Threshold:
None, unless you use an affiliate network with its own payout threshold
Conclusions
There are countless affiliate programs out there, but not all of them are ideal for beginners. Some require a significant amount of traffic or conversions before you can start earning commission, while others have complex sign-up processes that can be difficult to navigate. These might not be ideal to someone who is just starting out.
However, there are a few affiliate programs that are perfect for those just starting out, such as the ones on this list. These programs have simple sign-up processes and low barriers to entry, so you can start earning commission right away. In addition, they offer high commission rates, so you can earn more as you grow your traffic.
And best of all, they provide lots of support and resources to help you succeed. If you’re looking for the best affiliate marketing programs for beginners, here are a few good options to consider.