RevShare vs CPA vs Hybrid: What’s Best for Affiliates?

RevShare, CPA, and Hybrid are the three most common affiliate deal models. The “best” one depends on your traffic source, cashflow needs, and how well the brand retains users.

If you want the full definition first, read:RevShare Meaning (Beginner Guide)https://www.deptowin.com/what-is-revshare-a-beginner-s-guide-to-revenue-share-in-affiliate-marketing

Quick definitions (in plain English)

CPA (Cost Per Acquisition): You get a one-time payout for a qualified action (e.g., first deposit or verified signup).RevShare (Revenue Share): You earn a percentage of the revenue generated by your referred users, often recurring.Hybrid: You get a smaller CPA plus an ongoing RevShare percentage.

More CPA details:https://www.deptowin.com/deptowin-partners-guide-what-is-a-cpa-gambling-affiliate-program

RevShare vs CPA vs Hybrid (comparison table)

Model — How you earn — Best for — Main downside

CPA — One-time payout — Paid traffic testing, fast cashflow — No upside if users become high valueRevShare — % of ongoing revenue — SEO/content, long-term compounding — Slower ramp, depends on retentionHybrid — CPA + RevShare — Balanced strategy — More terms to understand

Simple payout examples

CPA example

• Offer: $250 CPA per FTD

• You refer 4 qualifying FTDsPayout = 4 × $250 = $1,000 (one-time)

RevShare example

• Your RevShare: 25%

• Monthly “revenue base” from your users: $8,000Payout = $8,000 × 0.25 = $2,000 (recurring if revenue continues)

Hybrid example

• Hybrid: $100 CPA + 20% RevShare

• 4 qualifying FTDs → $400 CPA

• Monthly revenue base: $6,000 → $1,200 RevShareTotal (month 1) = $1,600, then recurring RevShare in future months (if users stay active).

Which one should you choose?

Choose CPA if…

• You need predictable cashflow now

• You run paid traffic and need quick ROI signals

• You’re testing offers and want fast feedback

• The program’s revenue base (for RevShare) is unclear

Choose RevShare if…

• You build SEO/content and can wait

• You drive high-intent users (quality traffic)

• The brand retains users well

• You want compounding monthly income

Choose Hybrid if…

• You want a safer middle ground

• You’re scaling but still want some immediate payout

• You want upside without “all-in” RevShare risk

7 questions to ask before you accept any deal

1. What counts as a “qualified CPA” (FTD size, verification, geo rules)?

2. What is the RevShare revenue base (gross, net, NGR, etc.)?

3. What deductions apply (bonuses, chargebacks, fees, fraud)?

4. Is there negative carryover (yes/no)?

5. What’s the attribution window/cookie duration?

6. Payment schedule (Net-15/Net-30) + minimum payout?

7. Any caps, tiers, or traffic restrictions?

FAQ

Is RevShare always better long-term?

Not always. RevShare wins when retention is strong and the revenue base is fair. If users don’t stay active, CPA may outperform.

Can I switch deal models later?

Many programs allow changes, but terms vary. It’s best to agree on your model before you scale.

What’s the safest model for beginners?

If you’re unsure, Hybrid is often a practical starting point—some cashflow plus upside.

Related guides on Deptowin

• RevShare Meaning: https://www.deptowin.com/what-is-revshare-a-beginner-s-guide-to-revenue-share-in-affiliate-marketing

• CPA Guide: https://www.deptowin.com/deptowin-partners-guide-what-is-a-cpa-gambling-affiliate-program

• Affiliate marketing beginner guide: https://www.deptowin.com/affiliate-marketing-in-igaming-a-beginner-s-guide-with-deptowin-partners

• Start with no money: https://www.deptowin.com/how-to-start-affiliate-marketing-with-no-money-igaming-101

• DepToWin Partners: https://www.deptowin.com/deptowin-partners