Feeling frustrated when you’re out of PokeCoins and can’t buy that last Raid Pass or extra storage space? Many trainers want to know how to get free PokeCoins in Pokémon GO without spending a fortune. It’s a common challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. We’ve compiled a complete guide on how to get PokeCoins, from earning them for free to smart strategies for trainers who want to buy PokeCoins cheaper.

Earning Free PokeCoins in Gyms
The most reliable way to earn free PokeCoins is by defending Gyms. When you place a Pokémon in a Gym controlled by your team, you’ll earn PokeCoins based on how long it stays there.

- How it Works: You get 1 PokeCoin for every 10 minutes your Pokémon defends a Gym.
- Daily Cap: The maximum you can earn is 50 PokeCoins per day. This limit applies even if you have multiple Pokémon in different Gyms. For example, if two of your Pokémon return from Gyms on the same day, you’ll still only get 50 coins total.
- The Catch: You don’t receive your coins until your Pokémon is knocked out of the Gym and returns to you.
To maximize your earnings, aim to place Pokémon in Gyms that are less contested. Rural or low-traffic areas can be great spots for your Pokémon to stay for a full 8 hours and 20 minutes to hit that daily cap.
Using Google Opinion Rewards for Free PokeCoins
If defending Gyms isn’t enough, you can still get free PokeCoins by using Google Opinion Rewards. This method doesn’t directly give you coins, but it provides the currency you need to buy them.

- How it Works: Google Opinion Rewards is an app that gives you Google Play credit for completing short surveys. These surveys are often quick and easy, asking about your online habits or recent purchases.
- Getting Started: Simply download the Google Opinion Rewards app and complete the setup. Over time, you’ll get notifications for new surveys.
- Buying PokeCoins: Once you have enough Google Play credit, you can use it as payment in the Pokémon GO app to purchase PokeCoins from the shop.
While this method requires patience, it’s a completely free and official way to supplement your PokeCoins supply without fighting for Gyms.
Smart Ways to Buy Cheap PokeCoins
For trainers who need more PokeCoins quickly, purchasing them is the fastest option. But what if there was a way to get even more for your money? Prices for PokeCoins can vary by region, and with the right tools, you can save even more.
Here’s a breakdown of the standard in-game prices and the value you get per dollar.
PokeCoin Amount | Price (USD) | Value per Dollar |
---|---|---|
100 PokeCoins | $0.99 | 101 Coins / $ |
550 PokeCoins | $4.99 | 110 Coins / $ |
1,200 PokeCoins | $9.99 | 120 Coins / $ |
2,500 PokeCoins | $19.99 | 125 Coins / $ |
5,200 PokeCoins | $39.99 | 130 Coins / $ |
14,500 PokeCoins | $99.99 | 145 Coins / $ (Best Value!) |
Buying in bulk provides the best value. But there’s an even smarter way to get a discount.
Bonus Tip: How to Get Cheaper PokeCoins with LocaRun (Save up to 60%)
Prices for PokeCoins can be much cheaper in certain regions due to economic differences. For example, the same PokeCoin bundle might cost significantly less in a country like Argentina than in the U.S.
LocaRun is a powerful location changer app that allows you to safely adjust your phone’s GPS location. By using it to teleport to a region with lower prices, you can access those local rates and save money on PokeCoin purchases.

Here’s an example of how much you can save:
- US Price: 550 Coins = $4.99 USD
- Argentina Price (via LocaRun): 550 Coins ≈ $1.99 USD
- Key Benefits: LocaRun not only helps you get cheaper PokeCoins, but it also has features like a joystick for easy in-game movement. This makes it easier to visit distant Gyms and PokeStops, helping you get more free items and complete your daily tasks. LocaRun also helps you participate in exclusive regional events and raids that are otherwise inaccessible.
Always follow the official guidelines and use trusted tools like LocaRun to ensure your account remains safe.
FAQs on Getting PokeCoins
Final Thoughts
Getting PokeCoins in Pokémon GO is all about strategy. By consistently placing Pokémon in Gyms and using a tool like Google Opinion Rewards, you can earn a steady supply of free coins. And for those who need more, smart purchasing with a location changer like LocaRun is the most cost-effective solution.
Ready to boost your PokeCoins? Try LocaRun today and start saving money while enjoying Pokémon GO to the fullest.
Level up your game with these advanced guides:
- How to Get Lucky Pokémon in Pokémon GO (2025 Updated Guide)
- New York Pokémon GO Coordinates: Best Spots to Play in NYC (2025)
- Pokémon GO XL Candy Guide: Best Ways to Get & Use XL Candies
- 6 Best Pokémon GO Joysticks for iOS & Android (2025)
- How to Get More Pokeballs in Pokemon GO (2025): Your Ultimate Trainer’s Guide

Hi, I’m Danny, a cybersecurity expert with 15+ years in digital privacy. I lead Locarun’s technical content on geolocation security solutions. My industry background helps me translate complex privacy technologies into practical strategies for protecting your online identity. I’m dedicated to empowering users with effective tools to control their digital footprint through our GPS location changer.