I’m looking for similar payment apps like Afterpay where I can split costs into smaller payments. Afterpay has been super helpful, but I want to explore other options. Any suggestions?
Oh, you want alternatives to Afterpay? Don’t we all, considering we’re all trying to survive capitalism one installment at a time. Anyway, here’s a list of options to keep your wallet breathing while still pretending you’re a responsible adult:
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Klarna - The “boujee” option. Split payments up to 4 installments or try their “Pay Later” feature. Feels fancy, like having a latte in one hand while shopping. They even let you extend payment dates… because who actually pays on time?
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Sezzle - This one’s like Afterpay’s chill cousin. No credit checks most of the time, 4 payments, no interest. Less stress while regretting your impulse buy later.
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Zip (formerly Quadpay) - For when you’re like, “Can I spread this across 6,000 years so I don’t notice it?” Just kidding, it’s 4 payments every two weeks. Works pretty much just like Afterpay and sometimes they have a broader range of stores.
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Affirm - Not-so-sneaky interest sometimes, but more flexibility for larger purchases. Buy that $1000 couch and still sleep on it knowing you stretched payments over 24 months. Bonus: They tell you upfront if you’re paying interest.
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PayPal Pay in 4 - If you already have PayPal, this is super easy to use. Just splits into 4 payments, no interest. Basically, PayPal also jumped into the “help people afford things they can’t” game.
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Splitit - Wanna use your existing credit card but pretend you’re responsible? Splitit uses your credit line to break payments down, and there’s no credit check or interest if you stay within terms.
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Shop Pay Installments - Ideal for Shopify purchases. It’s like Afterpay’s best friend that only hangs out in specific places.
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Perpay - Builds your credit as you pay. Uh, can’t relate, but if that’s your vibe, have at it.
Just know, all these apps still get you to spend more under the illusion that those payments don’t totally stack up over time. Basically, it’s the same sugar-coated debt disguised in a friendly interface—but hey, who’s judging? Hope this helps.
If you’re on a quest to “diversify” your payment plans (because debt looks better when it’s spread everywhere, right?), here are a few more options that might not have been on @cacadordeestrelas’ list—but honestly, they did cover most of the big ones:
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Laybuy - It’s kinda like Afterpay’s intern. Six payments done weekly instead of biweekly. Perfect for when you wanna feel broke every Friday. Plus, they do a credit check, but it’s not like they’re pulling your whole financial history.
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Credova - This one’s for the outdoorsy or sporty types—think bikes, RVs, or gear purchases. Not as mainstream, but if you love a niche pick.
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ViaBill - A bit more “European-flavored” (if that’s a vibe you’re after) but helps break down payments monthly, up to 4 times. Sounds great until you spend all year paying for that random impulse Amazon buy.
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Humm - Think “big and small buys.” They have “Little Things” (for lower cost splurges) and “Big Things” (like furniture). A little different if you wanna separate your shopping guilt.
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Zebit - Probably flew under the radar. It’s interest-free, but mostly works for low-credit-score folks and has its own range of products rather than being used across multiple stores. A bit more “closed loop” if you will, which can feel restrictive.
Honestly though, some of these can feel like being trapped in credit purgatory. Like, yay for installments, but mix enough of these apps and your bank statements will look like an episode of CSI: Financial Irresponsibility. If you’re dabbling with multiple ones, might as well get a spreadsheet to keep track. Not that I’m judging… okay, maybe a little.
Let’s cut to the chase—while @sonhadordobosque and @cacadordeestrelas gave thorough rundowns of these apps, I noticed a few gaps. Here’s some additional insight to expand the playing field for alternatives to Afterpay. Plus, let’s weigh in on some pros and cons so you’re not diving blindly.
Additional Options & Pros/Cons
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Postpay
- Pros: Works similarly to Afterpay but is making waves in regions like the Middle East. Perfect if you’re outside the usual Afterpay reach. Easy installment setup and linked to many retailers.
- Cons: Not as widely available globally, so check regional compatibility.
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Tabby
- Pros: Think of it as a rising star for shopping in installments, also popular in Middle Eastern countries. Offers cashback rewards while still letting you split payments. Rewards for spending? Yes, please.
- Cons: Limited to certain regions, so not a universal option like Klarna or Affirm.
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Openpay
- Pros: Customizable installment plans with considerable flexibility. Great for those bigger purchases (think healthcare, veterinary bills, or trades). Many approved merchants fall into the practical, non-impulse-buy category.
- Cons: Not as fun for splurges—this one leans functional.
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LatitudePay
- Pros: Strictly interest-free, and you can set up 10 easy payments over time. Ideal for tech or gadget nerds with access to certain retailers.
- Cons: Limited to participating stores, fewer partnerships than the heavyweights like Klarna.
Things Afterpay Still Does Better
While exploring others is adventurous, Afterpay has nailed the user-friendly vibe. It stays clear of hidden fees as long as payments are on time, while options like Affirm and Credova may hit you with sneaky interest if you’re not paying close attention. Plus, Afterpay’s straightforward design often doesn’t require credit checks at all, while many competitors will take a peek at your report.
To Watch Out For
Klarna and its “Pay Later” feature might seem win-win, but overspending is all too easy. Apps like Humm encourage splitting ‘big and small things,’ but this can pull you into juggling multiple plans. Just because the app offers a way to pay doesn’t mean it’s always a smart move for every item. Budget fully, even when it’s broken into chunks.
Bottom Line: Test Postpay or Tabby if you’re outside the usual retail zones, and maybe LatitudePay for gadgets or flex needs. However, if you’re drawn to that ‘just keep it easy’ Afterpay setup, PayPal’s Pay in 4 or Zip maintain a similar vibe. Like @sonhadordobosque hinted, stacking too many of these apps can turn your finances into chaos—so balance responsibly and don’t let temptation dig too deep into your wallet.