How X ‘s Monetization Issue is Frustrating Creators
When Elon Musk rebranded Twitter as X, the platform introduced sweeping changes, including its Premium subscription service. Promising features like monetization, advanced analytics, and boosted visibility, X Premium (formerly Twitter Blue) seemed like a dream for creators. But many users are finding the reality of monetization far from what was promised.
This article explores the X (formerly Twitter) monetization issue, examining why ad revenue thresholds are so difficult to meet, how analytics restrictions are frustrating non-paying users, and why reading the fine print is essential before subscribing to Premium.
The X (formerly Twitter) Monetization Issue
Monetization through ad revenue sharing is one of the flagship features of X Premium. In theory, it allows creators to earn a share of the ad revenue generated from replies to their posts. However, the strict eligibility criteria have made this feature inaccessible to most users.
High Barriers to Entry
To qualify for monetization, you must meet the following requirements:
- 5 Million Monthly Impressions: Over three consecutive months.
- Verified Followers: A minimum of 500 verified followers.
- Active X Premium Subscription: Monetization is only available to paying subscribers.
Achieving 5 million impressions per month is a daunting task. For most creators, even those with thousands of followers, hitting this level of engagement requires consistently viral posts and relentless activity.
Why It’s Frustrating
The monetization model has been widely criticized for its exclusivity. While X markets this feature as an opportunity for creators to earn money, the reality is that only a small percentage of users—primarily celebrities, influencers, or established brands—will ever qualify.
Analytics Paywall: Another Layer of Frustration
For creators serious about growing their presence on X, analytics are vital. Understanding impressions, audience demographics, and engagement trends can help refine content strategies and boost performance. However, these insights are locked behind X Premium’s paywall.
Limited Data for Non-Premium Users
Without a subscription, you can see basic metrics like likes, reposts, and comments. But crucial data, such as impressions, is only available to Premium users. This lack of transparency leaves non-paying users in the dark about their content’s performance.
Creators Speak Out
Many users argue that impression data should be freely accessible, as it’s fundamental to measuring reach. By withholding this information, X nudges creators toward subscribing, further amplifying the X Twitter monetization issue.
Premium Features: Useful, But Limited
As an X Premium subscriber myself, I’ve experienced some of the advertised perks firsthand. The extended character limit (up to 25,000 characters) is a game-changer for sharing long-form content without splitting it into threads. The post editing feature has also been helpful for correcting errors after publishing.
The Visibility Bubble
One of Premium’s most advertised benefits is boosted visibility. Posts from Premium subscribers are given priority in replies, mentions, and search results. However, as more users sign up for Premium, this feature seems to create a “visibility bubble,” where your boosted posts are primarily seen by other Premium users. While impressions may increase, the reach often feels limited to a smaller pool of paid subscribers.
User Complaints About X Premium
The X (formerly Twitter) monetization issue isn’t the only source of frustration. Many Premium users have reported a disconnect between what was promised and what’s delivered.
Common Complaints
- Unrealistic Monetization Requirements: Most users cannot meet the 5-million-impressions threshold.
- Minimal Visibility Gains: Priority placement doesn’t always translate to meaningful engagement.
- Opaque Policies: The lack of clear information about how features like ad revenue sharing work has left many feeling deceived.
These challenges highlight the need for users to carefully evaluate X Premium before subscribing.
Should You Subscribe to X Premium?
If you’re considering X Premium, ask yourself these questions:
When It Might Be Worth It
- Do you regularly post long-form content that benefits from the extended character limit?
- Do you rely on X for business or professional branding purposes?
- Are you close to the monetization thresholds and need the extra tools to push you over the edge?
If you are interested in X Premium, sign up here.
When It’s Probably Not Worth It
- Are you a casual user who tweets infrequently?
- Are you far from achieving the 5 million impressions per month required for monetization?
- Are you expecting instant results or guaranteed visibility?
Final Thoughts: Read the Fine Print
The X (formerly Twitter) monetization issue has left many users questioning whether Premium is worth it. While features like extended character limits and post editing are useful, the platform’s restrictive monetization and analytics model make it less appealing for casual or small-scale users.
If you’re considering X Premium, make sure to read the fine print. Take time to understand the limitations of monetization, the restrictions on analytics, and the true value of visibility boosts.
Remember, paying for Premium doesn’t guarantee success—it only opens the door to tools that may or may not work in your favor.
