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Sweepstakes and Freebies - What's the Difference?

By , About.com Guide

Question: Sweepstakes and Freebies - What's the Difference?

Sweepstakes and freebies are the same thing, right? With both of them you can get something for nothing. So what are the differences between sweepstakes and freebies?

Answer:

The Differences Between Sweepstakes and Freebies

Sweepstakes and freebies are both methods that advertisers use to spread the word about their products and services. Sweepstakes are usually used to generate excitement and reinforce branding -- in other words, to put the company's names on the lips of as many people as possible. The prizes in sweepstakes may or may not have anything to do with the sponsor's company.

Freebies, on the other hand, are generally samples of new or popular products. The sponsor's idea is that once you try a product sample, you'll love it so much that you'll continue buying it. Freebies could also be promotional items that have the company's name, logo, phone number, or website branded on them. By seeing that information over and over again, people might be more likely to use the company.

Another difference between freebies and sweepstakes is the likelihood of actually receiving a product. By sending away for freebies, you're guaranteed to get something, as long as the supply of free items has not run out. With sweepstakes, your chances of winning are lower -- but sweepstakes oftentimes offer much larger prizes. The likelihood of a sponsor offering cash or cars as a freebie is kind of low.

Freebies Sound Like Fun! Where Can I Find Them?

The best way to find out about free offers is to head over to the About.com Guide to Freebies, which is run by my friend Lee Seats. Lee has been spreading the word about freebie offers for many years, and he's a master at ferreting out good deals for you.

To keep up to date with freebie offers, you might want to sign up for Lee's Free Freebies Newsletter. You might also be interested in some of his articles, such as:

Can I Enter Both Sweepstakes and Freebies?

Of course! If you'd like to find more sources of sweepstakes, you might enjoy my free sweepstakes newsletter. You might also enjoy these articles: Entering both sweepstakes and freebies is a fun way to try out new products and have incredible experiences, all without paying a dime for the pleasure! Freebies can also be a great way to keep your enthusiasm up when it's been a long time between wins, since you'll be getting a fun surprise at your door.
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