There’s a common belief that all hosting affiliate programs pay the same. I decided to test it.
I took three popular programs in Russia — Beget, Timeweb, and REG.RU — and calculated the real earnings from each with identical traffic.
Methodology
For a fair experiment, I used the following assumptions:
- 100 visits per month
- 5% conversion (5 signups)
- Each referred client pays for at least 3 months
- No special conditions or bonuses
Beget
The program runs directly. Rate — up to 40% of the client’s payments every month. At a 350₽/month plan:
5 clients × 350₽ × 40% × 3 months = 2,100₽
They keep paying as long as the client stays. After a year, those same 5 clients will bring in 8,400₽.
Downside — you need a contract. Upside — the highest rate.
Timeweb
Through Admitad — fixed 700₽ per signup. One-time payout:
5 clients × 700₽ = 3,500₽
Higher than Beget for 3 months. But it’s one-time. Refer a client → get paid → forget.
REG.RU
Domains are bought more often than hosting. 250-400₽ per signup. Conversion is higher — 7-8% instead of 5%.
With 8 clients and an average rate of 350₽: 2,800₽
Bottom line numbers
| Program | Over 3 months | Over 1 year | Contract needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beget | 2,100₽ | 8,400₽ | Yes |
| Timeweb | 3,500₽ | 3,500₽ | No |
| REG.RU | 2,800₽ | 2,800₽ | No |
Timeweb gives more money upfront — ideal for starting out. Beget — if you’re in it for the long haul. REG.RU — for quick domain money.
My subjective choice: start with Timeweb, then when you have a steady flow — add Beget under contract.
Official websites: