Not sure how to monetize Pinterest as a new creator?
You’re not alone. Most people start posting, hear about having to choose between affiliate marketing vs digital products for new creators, and immediately get confused not knowing what’s the better option , trust me we definitely were.
Both can work but the best Pinterest monetization strategy depends on your content, your time, and how fast you want to grow. This quick breakdown will help you choose the right income stream based on your goals.
Why It’s So Hard to Pick a Monetization Path on Pinterest
If you’re deciding between affiliate marketing on Pinterest for new creators or trying to sell digital products on Pinterest, here’s what you’re really asking:
- Can I monetize without a website?
- Do I have time to create products?
- Which strategy works best without a big following?
- Can I make low-effort Pinterest income as a faceless creator?
The main problem with most new Pinterest creators they never fully commit to a single niche and stay stuck in the “content but no money” phase. This post is here to fix that.
Affiliate Marketing vs Digital Products: Key Differences
Affiliate Marketing on Pinterest for New Creators Explained
- Add affiliate links to your pins or blog
- Promote tools, platforms, or programs you already use
- Earn a small % commission per sale (passive potential)
- Requires clear targeting, not a big audience
Selling Digital Products on Pinterest As a New Creator
- Create your own product (eBook, template, Notion planner, etc.)
- Higher payout per sale, more control
- More upfront effort (design, host, sell)
- Builds brand equity over time
Both can be used with faceless strategies. But affiliate marketing is usually faster to start.
Real Case: How One Creator Chose the Right Lane
One of our Pinterest creators used both for 60 days.
She had:
- 0 email list
- 3K Impressions
- 3 blog posts live
She made $72 from affiliate links in 30 days by promoting tools.
Her digital product didn’t sell at all because she haven’t built any brand authority in here niche.
After 60 days, she focused only on affiliate offers until she hit 1,000 monthly sessions.
Pinterest Monetization Checklist (Quick View)
Ask yourself:
- Do I want to make money on Pinterest without a blog?
- Can I create a product I can scale?
- Do I want to promote others or build my own thing?
- Can I commit to learning SEO and Pinterest content that converts?
If the answer is yes, you are ready to begin your Pinterest monetization path and understand what you should do to move forward today to grow your business.
Tool or Product: Which One Fits Your Strategy?
Here’s the real breakdown:
| Strategy | Better for New Creators | Time Required | Income Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Affiliate Marketing | ✅ Yes | Low | $50–$300/month early |
| Selling Digital Products | ⚠️ Not At First | Medium–High | $200–$1,000+ long-term |
| Doing Both | ⚠️ Maybe | High | Depends on traffic |
How to Start Monetizing Pinterest Without Burning Out
- Choose one offer to promote affiliate or product ( I recommend Affliate)
- Make 7–9 Pinterest pins for it daily
- Add them to SEO boards
- Track what gets clicks
- Double down on the winner
Whether you’re selling or affiliating, the key is volume + testing.
FAQ – Affiliate Marketing vs Digital Products on Pinterest
Which Pinterest monetization is easier for new creators?
Affiliate marketing—less setup, faster results, no tech stack required.
Can I sell on Pinterest without a website?
Yes. Use Gumroad, Ko-fi, or Stan Store for digital products or affiliate links.
What are the best passive income ideas on Pinterest?
Affiliate links to useful tools, faceless digital product sales, and niche templates.
Do I need a following to monetize Pinterest?
No. You need strategy, not followers. Pinterest is search, not social.
Is affiliate marketing better than products on Pinterest?
If you’re brand new yes. But products win long-term once you grow traffic.
Try Our Pinterest Monetization Strategy Grader (It’s Free)
Still stuck on the best move?
Try the Pinterest Growth Audit Tool — it scores your content, pin volume, and niche clarity in under 1 minute so you can stop guessing and start earning.
Think of it as your Pinterest strategy template for 2025.