The names vary between platforms, but almost every cam site offers some mix of four ways to watch a paid show. The main differences are how many people are watching, whether you can talk, and how much it costs a minute.
The four types at a glance
| Type | Who's there | Can you chat? | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spy show | You, watching someone else's private | No | $1 to $3 a minute |
| Group show | Several paying viewers | Yes, shared | $1 to $3 a minute each |
| Private show | You and the performer, possibly spies | Yes | $2 to $6 a minute |
| Exclusive show | You and the performer only | Yes | $3 to $10 a minute |
These are rough ranges. Every performer sets their own price and the site shows it before you start.
Spy shows
When another viewer has taken a performer into a private show, some sites let others “spy” for a smaller fee. You see the show, but you can’t type and you don’t influence what happens. The viewer who booked the private can’t see you, and you can’t see them.
It’s the cheapest way to find out what a private show is like. The downside is obvious: it’s someone else’s conversation and someone else’s requests. 
Chaturbate and 
Stripchat both offer spying on many private shows. We explain the Chaturbate version in how to get a private show on Chaturbate.
Group shows
A group show is a paid show shared by several viewers who each pay a smaller rate. On some sites the performer sets a minimum number of viewers before it starts. Everyone can usually chat, so it feels a bit like a small dinner party rather than a crowded bar.
ImLive is known for multi-viewer shows that cut the cost per minute. Stripchat has ticket shows, where you buy a ticket at a set price to join.
Private shows
One-to-one with the performer. You can talk, ask for what you’d like and steer the conversation. On some sites other users may spy, though they can’t chat or see you. Most private shows have a minimum length, often a few minutes.
This is the most popular paid format and the one most people mean when they talk about cam sites. Our guide to your first private show covers what to expect.
Exclusive or “true private” shows
Same as a private show, but nobody else can watch. Sites call it exclusive, true private or something similar. It costs more, often a third to double the private rate.
If privacy is the whole point for you, it’s worth the extra. 
LiveJasmin’s private sessions are popular with people who want a calm one-to-one atmosphere.
Which one should you choose?
If you’re curious but cautious, spy first. A few minutes costs a couple of dollars and shows you how a paid show works.
If you want to take part without the full price, look for a group show.
If you’ve found someone you enjoy talking to, book a short private show. Five minutes is plenty for a first one.
And if you’d feel uncomfortable knowing others might watch, pay the extra for an exclusive session.
For prices by platform, see our token prices by platform table.