Top 15 Buy Now Pay Later Apps Like Affirm for Easy Financing

Many customers want to buy things but do not always have enough money to pay at the moment. Here, the buy now, pay later (BNPL) option helps them. Apps like Affirm offer the same service, where customers can pay in installments later. It makes the shopping experience easy and affordable at any time. Affirm is a leading BNPL app with more than 40 million customers and connections with 245,000 merchants. It has flexible payment plans such as interest-free payments every other week or monthly payments with interest rates between 0% and 36%. Most individuals like using BNPL apps since they do not want to use credit cards for their purchases. The BNPL market is expanding rapidly. In 2025, it will hit 900 million users globally. Klarna, Afterpay, and PayPal are also dominating the market, providing similar services. These apps earn through merchant fees, loan interest, and late payment fees.

Selecting an appropriate BNPL app is based on the interest rates, payment terms, and the availability of merchants. Knowing how they operate enables users to make informed economic choices while they enjoy the advantage of flexible payments. Do you want information about specific apps?

What Is Affirm and How Does It Work?

Affirm is a popular Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) platform that allows consumers to purchase products immediately and pay over time. The service offers flexible repayment terms, ranging from weeks to months, with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. It doesn’t charge late fees and doesn’t require a minimum credit score to get started. By partnering with thousands of merchants, Affirm gives users the ability to split large purchases into smaller installments, making it easier for them to manage their finances without relying on traditional credit cards.

Benefits of Using Apps Like Affirm

Apps like Affirm offer users flexible and accessible financing options that are increasingly replacing traditional credit cards. With their modern approach to installment-based financing, they empower users to make purchases without the burden of upfront payment. These platforms are especially beneficial for younger consumers and budget-conscious shoppers. Here’s a closer look at the key advantages:

Convenience

These apps integrate directly with major retailers, both online and in-store, allowing users to buy what they need instantly and pay over time. The seamless shopping and checkout experiences mean users don’t have to rely on traditional loans or credit cards. It’s a quick and flexible solution that adapts to user lifestyles. These apps allow shoppers to buy products online or in-store and pay later in easy installments. With seamless checkout experiences and integrations with top retailers, they provide unmatched ease of use.

No Hidden Fees

Transparency is a major reason why users prefer apps like Affirm. These services show all charges upfront, eliminating the risk of surprise fees later. Whether it’s interest rates or repayment schedules, everything is communicated clearly, allowing users to make decisions with confidence. Most apps like Affirm disclose all fees upfront or offer interest-free options. This transparency builds trust and helps users make informed financial decisions without worrying about unexpected charges.

Improved Budgeting

With payment breakdowns into smaller, manageable chunks, these apps help users better align purchases with monthly budgets. This financial structure encourages smarter spending and helps prevent debt accumulation that can occur with high-interest credit cards. By splitting large purchases into smaller payments, users can manage their monthly budgets more effectively. This approach helps prevent overspending and supports better financial planning.

No Impact on Credit Score

Many apps like Affirm either perform soft credit checks or don’t require a credit check at all. This makes them ideal for users with limited credit history. Additionally, on-time payments don’t typically affect credit reports, making them a low-risk financing tool. Unlike traditional financing, many of these apps perform soft credit checks or none at all. This means users can access financing without hurting their credit scores.

Instant Approval

The real-time approval process enables shoppers to access financing within seconds. Users simply provide basic information, and the app evaluates eligibility without long waits. This instant decision-making supports faster checkout experiences and boosts user satisfaction. Most apps like Affirm offer quick sign-up processes and real-time approval, making them ideal for users who need immediate purchase power without delays.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Affirm Alternatives

Choosing from the growing pool of Affirm alternatives can be overwhelming. To make the right decision, it’s essential to evaluate each app based on critical factors that influence usability, cost-effectiveness, and long-term reliability. Here’s what you should consider when comparing apps:

Interest Rates

Check if the app offers true interest-free installments or deferred interest plans. Some apps promote zero interest upfront but apply charges after a grace period. Understanding this detail helps avoid unexpected costs. Are they truly interest-free or just deferred interest?

Approval Requirements

Some apps require a soft or hard credit check, while others approve users without evaluating credit history. Knowing the approval process can help users with limited credit choose the right platform. Does the platform require a credit check?

Repayment Flexibility

Look for apps that allow users to choose between weekly, biweekly, or monthly installments. Greater flexibility ensures that repayments fit your income cycle and spending habits. Can you choose between biweekly, monthly, or customized plans?

Merchant Network

A wider network of partner retailers means more choices for users. The best Affirm alternatives are accepted at multiple online and offline stores, making them more practical for daily use. How many retailers are integrated?

User Experience

A clean, intuitive interface with simple navigation can enhance the overall usability of the app. Clear payment terms, transparent charges, and in-app support are vital for a smooth user experience. Is the app user-friendly and transparent?

Security

Choose an app that prioritizes user data protection through encryption, two-factor authentication, and compliance with privacy regulations. Security features safeguard financial information and build trust. Does it protect your data and transactions?

The best Affirm alternative will align with your budget, offer user-friendly features, and provide financial flexibility without exposing you to hidden fees or rigid repayment plans.

Top 15 Apps Like Affirm in 2025

If you’re exploring what other apps are like Affirm, this curated list of the top 15 buy now, pay later services in 2025 will help you find the right solution for your financial needs. Each of these apps offers unique features, repayment options, and user benefits that make them strong Affirm alternatives.

Afterpay

Offers four equal interest-free payments and is accepted by thousands of global retailers. It’s known for its simplicity and fast approval process, making it a go-to choice for users who value short-term, no-interest payment plans. – Known for four interest-free installments and wide retailer network.

Klarna

Provides a variety of options, including Pay in 4, Pay Later, and financing with interest. Its sleek app interface and buyer protection features make it one of the most user-friendly and flexible platforms in the BNPL space. – Offers pay-in-4, financing, and pay-later options with a slick app experience.

Sezzle

Popular for its rescheduling option, Sezzle lets users manage cash flow with interest-free payments over six weeks. It also offers features like credit-building, making it ideal for younger users looking to establish a financial footprint. – Allows users to reschedule payments and offers zero interest.

Zip (formerly Quadpay)

Enables users to split purchases into four payments over six weeks. With a browser extension and mobile app, it enhances online and in-store shopping with real-time approvals and no credit checks. – Lets users split payments into four over six weeks.

PayPal Pay Later

A trusted option that integrates directly into PayPal’s platform, it allows users to split purchases into multiple payments while offering buyer protection and secure transactions backed by one of the largest payment networks. – Backed by PayPal, it offers both short-term and long-term options.

Splitit

Uses your existing credit card to split purchases into manageable installments with no interest. Since there’s no new line of credit, it’s ideal for users who want to keep their current card benefits while managing payments. – Uses your existing credit card to split payments without interest.

Perpay

Designed for those building credit, Perpay offers payroll deduction-based payment plans. It reports positive payment behavior to credit bureaus and is ideal for users seeking long-term credit improvement with BNPL flexibility. – Combines BNPL with credit building.

ViaBill

Specializes in smaller purchases with zero interest. The straightforward structure and lack of hidden fees make it a good choice for users who prioritize transparency and simplicity in financial services. – Ideal for smaller purchases and does not charge interest.

Sunbit

Focused on verticals like automotive and healthcare, Sunbit offers flexible financing for essential services. It provides high approval rates and minimal fees, catering to consumers with moderate credit profiles. – Specializes in automotive and healthcare financing.

Bread Pay

Enables users to select extended installment plans at checkout. Its long-term financing options make it ideal for higher-value purchases such as electronics, appliances, or furniture, often with low to no interest. – Offers customized installment options at checkout.

Laybuy

Breaks payments into six weekly installments with instant approval and no interest. With features like automated deductions and reminders, it supports consistent budgeting and minimizes the risk of late fees. – Allows six weekly payments with instant approval.

Tabby

Widely used in the Middle East, Tabby offers pay-later services that are easy to access via mobile. It works with regional e-commerce giants and supports zero-interest installment plans for local consumers. – Popular in the Middle East, offering pay-later features.

Zebit

Allows users with limited credit to access up to $2,500 in interest-free credit. It doesn’t charge late fees or conduct hard credit checks, making it a strong candidate among affirm alternatives no credit check. – Provides interest-free credit for customers with lower credit scores.

Temporarily

Offers one-time financing options for e-commerce transactions. It’s best for users seeking a simple BNPL service without setting up recurring accounts or credit lines. – Offers pay-later solutions for one-time online purchases.

Humm

Designed for big-ticket purchases, Humm offers both short and long-term installment plans. It supports transactions from $1 to several thousand, with interest-free terms and wide merchant acceptance. – Offers flexible plans and interest-free options for bigger purchases.

These apps like Affirm no down payment capabilities, which has made them particularly appealing to millennials and Gen Z users.

How Apps Like Affirm Make Money

While many BNPL services present themselves as free or low-cost for consumers, they are backed by sustainable business models. Understanding how apps like Affirm make money can help users trust the platforms and make informed financial decisions. Here are the primary revenue streams:

Merchant Fees

Retailers pay a percentage of each transaction to BNPL providers in exchange for higher conversion rates and larger average order values. This revenue model enables platforms to offer interest-free options to consumers without financial loss. ** Retailers pay a percentage of each sale to offer BNPL services.

Interest Charges

Some plans, particularly those with extended repayment terms, come with interest. These interest-bearing plans provide another revenue stream for the provider while still offering flexible options to users who can’t afford upfront payments. Some plans include interest, especially for longer terms.

Late Payment Fees

While not every platform enforces late fees, some do impose small penalties when users miss payment deadlines. These charges not only encourage timely repayment but also contribute to the app’s profitability. While some don’t charge late fees, others do.

Data Monetization

BNPL platforms often collect anonymized data about user spending habits, preferences, and financial behaviors. This data is used to enhance user experience and may also be monetized through partnerships, market analysis, or personalized advertising. User behavior data can be used to improve services or generate ad revenue.

Understanding how payment apps like Affirm earn revenue helps users make informed choices.

How to Choose the Right BNPL App for You

Not all BNPL apps work the same, so choosing the right one depends on your shopping habits and financial goals:

• If you need long-term financing, opt for Klarna or Bread Pay.
• For interest-free short-term purchases, Sezzle or Afterpay may be better.
• Want to build credit? Consider Perpay or Zebit.
• Prefer an app with no credit check? Look for affirm alternatives no credit check for safer options.

Evaluate your budget, repayment preferences, and the type of purchase to find the best match. Other apps like Affirm may cater to niche needs but still offer comparable value.

How to Develop an App Like Affirm

Developing an app like Affirm requires a combination of fintech innovation, user-friendly design, and regulatory compliance. If you aim to build a competitive BNPL solution, follow a structured development approach that ensures secure, scalable, and customer-centric functionality. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Market Research

Start by studying existing BNPL solutions and identifying market gaps. Analyze user pain points, fintech trends, and customer expectations. Research helps define your value proposition and refine your app’s core concept before moving into development. ** Understand competitors, user pain points, and regulatory requirements.

Feature Planning

Outline the features your app will offer, like installment scheduling, interest calculation, merchant onboarding, user dashboards, and soft credit checks. Align features with what modern users expect from affirm like apps, including easy checkout integration and flexible repayment. Include payment schedules, interest options, merchant integrations, credit checks, and user dashboards.

UX/UI Design

Design an intuitive, responsive user interface that simplifies navigation and enhances trust. Focus on clean layouts, transparent terms, and seamless in-app processes for tasks like registration, loan approval, and transaction history tracking. Build an intuitive interface with secure login, clear terms, and easy navigation.

Technology Stack

Choose a scalable backend architecture with secure APIs and real-time payment processing capabilities. Include modules for user management, analytics, encryption, and fraud detection to ensure performance and security. Use a robust tech stack that supports payment gateways, APIs, and real-time data analytics.

Security & Compliance

Ensure your app complies with financial regulations like PCI DSS, GDPR, and KYC/AML standards. Incorporate encryption, multi-factor authentication, and privacy protocols to protect user data and prevent fraud. Implement KYC, encryption, GDPR, and PCI DSS compliance features.

Partnerships

Build relationships with merchants, payment gateways, and financial institutions. Partnering with the right ecosystem players will help drive transactions and build user trust, especially during the early stages. Onboard retailers and financial institutions.

Testing & Deployment

Conduct rigorous testing to validate functionality, UX, and compliance. Use both manual and automated testing methods. After beta testing and user feedback analysis, launch the app across platforms with a phased deployment strategy. Conduct beta testing, integrate user feedback, and launch on multiple platforms.

Building affirm-like apps requires financial expertise, compliance knowledge, and scalable tech solutions.

Cost to Develop an App Like Affirm

The cost to develop an app like Affirm varies based on features, platform, and development model. Here’s a breakdown:

• MVP Version: $30,000–$60,000 (basic features for iOS or Android)
• Full-Scale App: $80,000–$200,000 (multi-platform, merchant panel, analytics, AI features)
• Maintenance & Support: 15–20% of total development cost annually

Partnering with a reliable fintech development team can ensure on-time delivery, compliance readiness, and feature-rich performance.

Why Choose Appquipo to Develop an App Like Affirm

At Appquipo, we specialize in building fintech solutions that are secure, scalable, and user-centric. As a trusted AI development company, we bring advanced technologies into BNPL platforms to deliver smarter, data-driven experiences. With deep expertise in developing payment apps like Affirm, our team understands the complexities of BNPL systems, ranging from merchant integration to compliance and fraud detection. We work closely with our clients to design high-performance platforms tailored to their target audience and business goals.

Whether you’re launching an MVP or building a full-scale Affirm alternative, Appquipo offers end-to-end support—from market research and UX/UI design to tech stack selection, security compliance, and post-launch optimization. Partner with us to turn your BNPL app vision into reality. that are secure, scalable, and user-centric. With deep expertise in developing payment apps like Affirm, our team understands the complexities of BNPL systems, ranging from merchant integration to compliance and fraud detection. We work closely with our clients to design high-performance platforms tailored to their target audience and business goals.

Conclusion

The demand for apps like Affirm is growing as consumers seek smarter, more flexible ways to manage their finances. Whether you’re looking for the best Affirm alternative for no credit check, or want to understand what other apps are like Affirm, there are plenty of options tailored to every need.

From shopping to credit building, Affirm alternatives are empowering users to control their cash flow more effectively. And for fintech companies, developing payment apps like Affirm is a strong opportunity in the ever-evolving BNPL market.

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