If you're looking for apps like Klarna to split your shopping payments into interest-free installments with no hidden fees, you have several strong options that work similarly. These buy-now-pay-later services let you pay over time without the high interest of a credit card, though each has different rules on credit checks, late fees, and payment flexibility.
What to look for in apps like Klarna
When comparing Klarna alternatives, focus on four key features. First, look for interest-free periods, most top apps offer four payments over six weeks with zero interest if you pay on time. Second, check the payment schedule: some require the first payment at checkout, others spread installments weekly or monthly. Third, understand the credit check policy, some apps run soft or hard checks that can affect your credit score, while others skip them entirely. Finally, compare late fee policies, as some apps charge fees for missed payments while others do not. Klarna imposes a spending limit based on real-time credit decision data to promote good spending practices; approval is not guaranteed if orders exceed what the app deems ethical spending.
1. Afterpay
Afterpay splits purchases into four interest-free payments over six weeks, with the first payment due at the time of purchase. For larger purchases, Afterpay also offers Pay Monthly plans that spread the cost over 3, 6, 12, or 24 months, though interest may apply on those longer plans. You can use Afterpay online and in-store through a digital Afterpay Card added to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. As long as you pay on time, there are no fees or interest, making it a straightforward choice for everyday shopping.
2. Affirm
Affirm offers Pay in 4 interest-free payments as well as longer monthly installment plans ranging from 3 to 60 months, which may include interest. Affirm does not charge late fees, prepayment fees, annual fees, or fees to open or close an account. However, Affirm conducts a credit check, and the interest rate for monthly plans can vary based on creditworthiness and the merchant, potentially up to 36% APR. This makes Affirm ideal for shoppers who want flexible repayment terms and zero penalty for late payments.
3. Sezzle
What sets Sezzle apart is that it allows users to reschedule a payment up to three times per order, giving you breathing room if your budget gets tight. Sezzle also offers a virtual card for online and in-store purchases, making it easy to use wherever you shop. Sezzle may not be supported by some banks, so users should check with their bank before using it.
4. PayPal Pay in 4
PayPal Pay in 4 lets eligible customers split purchases between $30 and $1,500 (US) into four interest-free payments over six weeks. The first payment is due at the time of purchase, with subsequent payments automatically deducted every two weeks. If you already have a PayPal account, there's no new app to download or account to create, it integrates directly with your existing payment methods.
5. Zip
Zip splits purchases into four payments over six weeks, requiring a 25% upfront payment at checkout. Zip is accepted anywhere Visa is accepted, both online and in-store, giving you broad shopping flexibility. The app promises no hidden fees and no APR, making it a transparent option for short-term interest-free splitting.
6. Splitit
Splitit enables customers to use their existing credit card to split purchases into monthly installments without applying for a new loan or undergoing a credit check. Splitit places a temporary authorization hold on the full purchase amount on your credit card, which shrinks as installments are paid. Splitit does not charge interest or fees, but standard credit card terms and conditions still apply, your credit card issuer may charge interest if you carry a balance. This is the best option if you want to avoid new loan applications and already have a credit card with available credit.
7. Laybuy
Laybuy divides the full price of an item into 6 installments in five weeks, with the first 1/6 of the cost charged upon checkout. The app offers zero-interest 6-week payment installments with no signup fees. You can use Laybuy online and in-store, though it requires a credit card check during application which might affect your overall credit score.
8. Zebit
Zebit offers interest-free credit up to $2,500, split over six months with an adjustable payment schedule. The platform aims to give its customers an inclusive shopping experience with no hidden charges and no impact on credit scores. As long as you pay your dues on time, you don't have to worry about additional fees and interest.
9. FuturePay
FuturePay pays for the full cost of an item upfront instead of charging a certain percentage per purchase, then charges the customer for the cost in installments. The app supports flexible payment plans over multiple months with no credit limit and an easy set-up process, making it a great option for emergency purchases when you don't have the cash ready yet.
10. Perpay
Perpay determines your starting spending limit when you sign up, which increases gradually as you use the platform. The app requires a direct payroll deposit and deducts payments from your paychecks, so you cannot use a credit card. This approach means you don't have to worry about your credit scores, and you can spend your credits on items in their marketplace with easy installment plans.
How to choose the right Klarna alternative for your shopping
To pick the best app for your needs, consider these factors:
- Credit check requirements: If you want to avoid credit checks entirely, choose Splitit (uses your existing credit card) or Afterpay (soft check only). Affirm conducts a credit check that can affect your score.
- Late fee policies: Affirm charges no late fees at all. Afterpay and Sezzle charge late fees if you miss payments. Zip and PayPal Pay in 4 also have late fee policies.
- Payment flexibility: Sezzle allows you to reschedule payments up to three times. Affirm offers longer 3-60 month plans. Afterpay has both four-payment and Pay Monthly options. Laybuy divides the full price into 6 installments in five weeks, with the first 1/6 charged at checkout. Perpay determines a starting spending limit that increases gradually, requires a direct payroll deposit, and deducts payments from paychecks. FuturePay pays the full cost of an item upfront and then charges the customer in installments, supporting flexible payment schedules over multiple months.
- Purchase limits: PayPal Pay in 4 requires purchases between $30 and $1,500. Afterpay and Zip have no stated minimum but limits vary by merchant. Affirm limits depend on creditworthiness.
If you shop across many stores, including those that sell carriers and plans, check which apps are accepted at your preferred retailers before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do any of these apps charge interest on the four-payment plans?
No, Afterpay, Sezzle, Zip, and PayPal Pay in 4 all offer interest-free four-payment plans as long as you pay on time. Affirm's Pay in 4 is also interest-free. Only longer-term plans from Afterpay and Affirm may include interest.
Can I use these apps in physical stores?
Yes, Afterpay offers a digital card for Apple Wallet and Google Wallet, Sezzle offers a virtual card, and Zip is accepted anywhere Visa is accepted. Splitit works with any merchant that accepts your existing credit card.
What happens if I miss a payment?
Policies vary. Affirm does not charge late fees at all. Afterpay and Sezzle charge late fees for missed payments. PayPal Pay in 4 and Zip also have late fee policies.
Will using these apps hurt my credit score?
Only Affirm conducts a credit check that may affect your score. Afterpay, Sezzle, Zip, and PayPal Pay in 4 typically use soft checks that do not impact credit. Splitit does not perform any credit check since it uses your existing credit card.
For the wider topic, see carriers and plans.
