Over the past few years, people’s shopping and money management habits have significantly changed. A significant change has been the increase of “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) services, and Afterpay came out on top. This feature lets customers easily pay their bills in several instalments, so they don’t have to worry about a heavy burden or high interest rates. Nonetheless, there are other choices besides Afterpay. Now, many users are considering other platforms with the same type of deals, more flexibility, additional stores to buy from, or different types of payment plans.
More individuals are choosing these alternatives since they want to decide when and how they manage their payments. You will find BNPL options that comply with your intended spending—even if paying with credit cards or using credit card payment apps isn’t your thing. There are benefits to each service, so some, for example, offer long payment periods or partner with certain retailers. In 2025, the worldwide BNPL market achieved about US$ $560 billion, saw annual growth of 13.7%, and is expected to go up to $912 billion by 2030.
You should pick a BNPL service that fits your spending patterns, life aims, and shopping trips. The article looks into the most popular Afterpay alternatives to help you select the one you prefer for flexible and fair payment options.
Why There Is a Trend of Shoppers Dropping Afterpay
Even though Afterpay is still one of the leading BNPL brands, people are now checking out other similar services. Factors pushing this trend include managing finances, user satisfaction, and what merchants choose. Allow me to explain the top reasons why people leave Afterpay for different BNPL services.
- Limited stores available: Certain people have trouble finding shops where Afterpay is recognised. Set Spending Limits: Spending limits are usually set for those trying Afterpay for the first time. Creditworthiness can allow borrowers through Affirm or Klarna to get higher limits.
- Fixed Terms for Loan Repayment: Afterpay is designed to allow customers to pay in four instalments. However, some services may lengthen the repayment period if users prefer that.
- Improving User Experience Elsewhere: Some people claim that other BNPL apps make it easier to use, check out products, and even integrate with efficient customer service software for better support.
- Unexpected Fees: Even though Afterpay is known as interest-free, not paying on time can lead to extra charges. Certain altcoins have better and more precise terms for their users.
- Credit Reporting Problems: A good option for those who want to avoid reporting to credit bureaus is using BNPL products that don’t affect their score or boost their positive credit record.
- Better Transparent Conditions: Several platforms provide details about the amount owed, the interest, and additional charges, making it easier for users to choose wisely.
- Global Availability: Some Afterpay users like to buy or travel overseas and notice that Klarna or Zip offers more useful international support.
List of Top Afterpay Alternatives
1. Sezzle
When customers use Sezzle, their purchases can be made in four instalments, paid every two weeks with no interest. As a popular alternative to Afterpay, it is used by over 11.9 million people and has alliances with major brands such as Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Airbnb, making Sezzle one of the top BNPL providers in the U.S. and abroad.
Approval is instant and does not involve a strict check of your credit; over 88% of users find it successful. Sezzle provides different payment plans, such as Pay in 2, Pay in 4, and instalments made over time for bigger purchases. In pursuit of its mission, the platform works to help the next generation become financially empowered as shoppers worldwide.
Key Features:
- You get an instant decision, which will not harm your credit standing.
- Making purchases is simple. You may pay immediately, split purchase fees over two pay periods, or opt for monthly financing (within 3–48 months).
- Working together with over 350 popular brands, including Nike, eBay, Lyft, and Shein
Availability:
- USA and Canada
- You can publish on the iOS and Android mobile platforms.
2. Openpay
Openpay differs from other BNPL companies because it focuses on healthcare, auto repair, and education. As one of the notable Afterpay alternatives, the company’s range of instalment plans is from 2 to 24 months, ensuring high-cost services get the support they need. People and companies use Openpay to arrange oversized budget items with transparent and straightforward payments.
You do not have to pay compound interest, and the terms for repaying the loan are given. You can use Openpay’s dashboard to manage all your accounts, affect changes in a payment schedule, and monitor your commitments. This form of insurance is helpful for those who wish for flexibility in planning for critical financial expenses months or years down the road.
Key Features:
- Plans to pay back loans over 2 months up to 24 months are available
- It is beneficial in healthcare, education, and auto repair.
- They make payments and fees easy to understand and do not charge compound interest.
- Business and consumer websites
- Securing the way invoices are issued
- The company allows for rescheduling.
- Tips and advice for buying significant products
Availability:
- Australia, UK
3. LazyPay
LazyPay is the top BNPL service in India, offering two main products called “Pay Later” and “EMI.” Using Pay Later, users can buy several items and settle their bills every 15 days. LazyPay lets you choose the preferred term and get quick approval when making big purchases.
Registering on the app is straightforward; all that is needed is a mobile number and your Aadhaar. Indian sites and apps such as Swiggy, BookMyShow, and Zomato team up with LazyPay, so it becomes an easy-to-use service. Without unexpected charges and several easy ways to pay, including UPI and credit cards, LazyPay matches the tastes of Indian consumers who like short-term credit.
Key Features:
- You can pay your bill using EMI in a flash
- The option to use UPI and cards
- Collaborates with some of the most prominent Indian companies
- Steps to be approved are simple and are done quickly
- You can pay within the Pro app and get practical reminders
Availability:
- India
Also Read: Payability Alternatives
4. Klarna
Klarna is recognised everywhere as a BNPL system that lets consumers pay for their purchases in flexible instalments. It helps customers buy now and defer the payments over four instalments of the same amount due every two weeks. Customers also have the option to pick a 30-day “pay later” choice or a loan that lasts for up to 36 months.
Global retailers choose to work with Klarna because the platform provides the same easy experience for users who are shopping both in stores and on their phones. The WorthIt app makes shopping easier with the option to track orders, handle returns, view new deals, and get assistance with shopping.
Because Klarna is open with its information, users won’t be surprised by additional costs. Shopping is simple with Klarna, given the straightforward registration and soft credit check that help people get loan options suited to what they can pay back.
Key Features:
- The option to pay later is available within 30 days.
- Money that you can borrow for a period of up to 36 months
- There is tracking for your orders, and also the option for returns
- Buying items inside the mobile app and checking for discounts
- A soft credit check is conducted for this purpose.
- All of their fees are clear and openly stated
- It is sold in shops all around the world.
Availability:
- USA, UK, Australia, Germany, Sweden and Canada.
5. Zilch
Zilch differs from other BNPL solutions and Afterpay alternatives because it provides a special cashback scheme. Individuals can be rewarded for every purchase, whether they pay immediately or over time.
Borrowing from Zilch doesn’t involve extra interest or late charges, and the checks on your credit are soft. Zilch is a good choice for those who want to stick to their budgets because it has limits and alerts.
Key Features:
- You do not have to worry about being charged interest or extra late fees
- Virtual Mastercard can be used for safe online shopping.
- Get rewards and cashback when you buy with your card
- Having a plan for your expenses
- No strict checks on your credit ratings
- These cards are valid in every place where Mastercard works.
Availability:
- UK, USA
6. Simpl
Simpl is a quick and easy BNBL service that caters to people in India. All users can gather all their payments from linked partners onto one bill and pay every 15 days. Unlike other apps, Simpl focuses on easy payments for necessities such as food deliveries and travel plans. No charges are involved, and you’ll receive a fast decision after applying.
Because Simpl doesn’t use OTPs, the checkout is free from any hassle. Simpl lets you view your expenses and reminds you to make payments, which helps maintain financial discipline very simply. It is excellent for those who need to use their card often but lack long-term cash flexibility.
Key Features:
- This country issues bills in 15-day periods.
- No need to wait for long before you can use the service
- The loan is offered without any interest or unpleasant surprises
- It is ideal if you want to make many small, regular purchases.
- Make transactions from your wallet using just a button.
- Zomato, BigBasket, and several similar companies use its services.
- Managing and watching your spending
- Special rewards from merchants
Availability:
- India
7. Affirm
Users of Affirm can pay for goods by instalments, as the company offers transparent and flexible payment plans, plus there are no late fees or surprises. While other BNPL companies only have quick-payment options, Affirm is suited for ordering furniture, gear, and travel since it can spread the costs over three to 36 months. It’s also a great alternative to Afterpay, especially for those seeking longer-term financing options.
Your credit score won’t be affected by the checks used by the platform, and it explains how much you will have to pay upfront, together with any interest. Several merchants give customers access to Affirm’s 0% APR promotions.
With the mobile app, people can pay debts, check what bills are coming up, and shop through various merchants. Since the card stands out for being transparent, fair, and without hidden fees, it is a good fit for people who want to use flexible payment solutions to avoid traditional credit card debt.
Key Features:
- Plans that allow you to pay monthly from 3 to 36 months
- You will not be charged fees after you get your bills
- An interest rate that is clearly explained
- Some retailers offer 0% APR.
- Best for buying expensive things.
- First, figure out how much you are approved for before you look for a new home
Availability:
- First, it was in the USA, and later, Canada.
8. Splitit
People can pay for purchases using their existing credit cards, meaning there is no need to open new credit accounts or get loans. You will not be charged any interest, nor will your credit score be harmed. Splitit freezes your payment on your credit card and distributes it over the months of repayment.
This option suits people with credit and wishes for more convenient terms. Many global retailers depend on Splitit, which supports major furniture, electronics, and appliance purchases. People drawn to the platform usually want something easy, clear, and simple to handle their money.
Key Features:
- There is no part of the admission process that requires approval.
- Has no impact on the credit score
- A payment gateway that works across the globe
- Particularly, if you want to buy something big.
- You get a monthly advance instead of a loan
- Credit history does not have to be checked
Availability:
- The countries in the USA, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Australia are included.
9. Humm
Humm is an uncommon Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) company that serves small and big one-time purchases, providing point-of-sale credit in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. The peculiar feature of Humm is the two-tier system: “Little Things” (smaller, daily purchases of up to several hundred dollars) and “Big Things” (larger purchases of up to 30,000 dollars with a long repayment period of up to 24 months). This flexibility turns it into something that can be used in most of the requirements one may have- retail therapy, dental procedures, home repairs and technology upgrade.
Having no upfront deposits in most cases, and being able to use it online and in-store alike, Humm makes the access to the goods and services simple and affordable. Industry-specific BNPL integrations also provide benefits to businesses, which is why Humm is a clever choice in industries such as healthcare, education, and lifestyle. It also has great customer service and the interface of its app is convenient.
Key Features:
- Small Interest Free Purchases Smallinterestfree purchases are planned as Little Things.
- Big Things” plan with extended terms of payment and interest optional Payments.
- Many items have no deposit option.
- In store and online usability
- Quick sign up and easy to use application
- High borrowing limits (up to 30 000 dollars).
- Can be used both on personal and business occasions
Availability: New Zealand, Australia, United Kingdom
10. Tabby
The Tabby BNPL solution from the Middle East allows users to make purchases by splitting or deferring payments. As one of the popular Afterpay alternatives, the company is associated with thousands of fashion, electronics, and beauty shops.
The app has salient features, such as promotional offers, tools for budgeting, and management of payment lists. It is well-liked in the UAE and Saudi Arabia as it offers a unique and comfortable solution compared to the world’s other BNPL companies.
Key Features:
- You can get approval instantly.
- Collaborated with well-known brands at the local and global level
- There was a simple mobile app that anyone could use.
- Records where you can track how much you’ve paid
- There are special deals available within the app.
- The game can be played in Arabic and English.
Availability:
UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
How to Pick the Proper Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) Provider
When there are many BNPL choices, you should consider how much you pay, if you pay on time, what you mainly shop for, and which offer suits you best. This summary will help you see what makes one brand a better fit than the other.
- Being able to pay as you like: A few financing apps provide instant four-part instalments, whereas others do long-term financing.
- Charge Payment for Using the Card: Choose credit companies that do not charge any fees for missed payments (for example, Sezzle and PayPal Pay in 4). It’s essential to look closely at the critical details.
- Impacts on Your Credit Score: You won’t need a harsh credit check, so your rating is protected.
- Where products are sold: Find platforms listed on your favourite shopping destinations. Klarna and Affirm have many combined solutions.
- Building up Credit: To build credit, you should try platforms like Perpay or Sezzle Up because these services inform credit bureaus.
- The location of stores: Ensure the platform offers services in your area.
- User Experience: When an app is clean, secure, reminds you, and helps you budget, it becomes beneficial.
Conclusion
With Buy Now, Pay Later, people can buy what they need when they want and pay for it bit by bit without interest. Afterpay is a well-known company, yet Klarna, Affirm, Zip, and Sezzle have unique features that can help different people and shoppers looking for Afterpay alternatives.
Whether you seek improved credit building, a broader place to shop, or less money spent on fees, a BNPL option is out there for you. Always check what you are being offered and use these services whenever they benefit you.
FAQs
1. What is the most excellent option besides Afterpay?
It is widely believed that Klarna is the top alternative to Afterpay because of its many payment plans and wide availability.
2. Could borrowing with BNPL services affect my credit score?
Most people check their credit information regularly, but some will forward data to bureaus when they miss or stop making payments.
3. Is there no interest involved with these alternatives?
Most lenders offer interest-free options if you pay your bill before the due date, so check the conditions.
4. Is it possible to use BNPL while buying items in stores?
You can get a virtual card to use when you shop in-store using platforms such as Zip and Klarna.
