The buy now, pay later revolution has transformed how millions shop online and in-store. As consumer adoption soars in 2025, we’ve tested the leading BNPL apps to help you choose the right payment solution. Whether you’re splitting a $50 purchase or financing a $1,000 laptop, these apps offer flexible payment options without traditional credit cards.
1. Klarna 
4.8/5
Best for: Fashion and lifestyle shopping Payment
Options: Pay in 4, Pay in 30 days, Financing up to 36 months
Credit Check: Soft inquiry only
Klarna dominates with 150 million users globally and partnerships with over 500,000 retailers. The app’s shopping browser lets you split payments at any online store, even those without official Klarna integration. The 2025 update introduced AI-powered budget tracking that warns you before overspending.
Pros: Massive merchant network, flexible payment terms, excellent app interface, no interest on pay-in-4 Cons: Late fees can accumulate quickly, credit score impact if you miss payments
2. Afterpay 4.7/5
Best for: Young shoppers and impulse purchases
Payment Options: Pay in 4 installments over 6 weeks
Credit Check: None for approval
Afterpay’s straightforward approach appeals to Gen Z shoppers. Pay 25% upfront, then three more payments every two weeks. The spending limit increases as you build payment history, and the Pulse rewards program offers exclusive deals
Pros: No credit check, simple payment structure, strong retail partnerships, builds spending limits Cons: Limited to 6-week terms, $10 late fees, smaller purchase limits than competitors
3. Affirm 4.6/5
Best for: Large purchases and transparent financing
Payment Options: 3, 6, 12, or 36-month plans Credit
Check: Soft inquiry for decisions
Affirm stands out with complete transparency—you see the total cost upfront with no hidden fees. Their Adaptive Checkout shows personalized payment options based on your purchase. Popular for electronics, furniture, and travel bookings
Pros: 0% APR available on select purchases, no late fees, clear terms, Affirm Card for anywhere Cons: Interest rates up to 36% on some plans, hard credit check for certain purchases
4. PayPal Pay in 4 4.5/5
Best for: Existing PayPal users seeking convenience
Payment Options: Pay in 4 bi-weekly payments
Credit Check: Soft inquiry
PayPal’s BNPL service integrates seamlessly if you already use PayPal for online shopping. Automatic payments from your PayPal balance or linked bank account make it effortless. Works at millions of merchants accepting PayPal
Pros: Huge merchant acceptance, easy integration, no fees when paid on time, trusted brand Cons: Limited to $1,500 per purchase, fewer features than dedicated BNPL apps
5. Zip (formerly Quadpay) 4.4/5
Best for: Everyday purchases and budget management
Payment Options: Pay in 4 or monthly installments
Credit Check: Soft inquiry only
Zip offers a unique “Tap to Pay” feature that works in-store without merchant integration. Create a single-use card for any purchase and split it automatically. The spending tracker helps manage multiple payment plan
Pros: Works virtually anywhere, good budget tools, rewards program, no interest on standard plans Cons: Lower spending limits initially, fewer retail partnerships than leaders
6. Sezzle 4.3/5
Best for: Smaller purchases and building payment history
Payment Options: Pay in 4 bi-weekly payments
Credit Check: Soft inquiry only
Sezzle targets budget-conscious shoppers with its Sezzle Up program that reports positive payment history to credit bureaus. The virtual card works at non-partner merchants, expanding flexibility beyond their 47,000 retail partners
Pros: Helps build credit history, reschedule payments feature, no hard credit pulls, growing merchant network Cons: Lower purchase limits, limited to 6-week terms, smaller brand recognition
What to Consider Before Using BNPL Apps
Financial Impact:
- BNPL doesn’t build credit like traditional loans (except Sezzle Up and some Affirm plans)
- Multiple BNPL loans can strain budgets if not tracked carefully
- Late payments may trigger fees and hurt credit scores
Smart Usage Tips:
- Never exceed 30% of your monthly income in BNPL commitments
- Set calendar reminders for payment dates
- Use BNPL for needs, not impulse wants
- Read terms carefully—interest rates vary significantly
Our Verdict
For versatility and features, Klarna leads the pack with the most merchant partnerships and flexible terms. Affirm wins for large purchases requiring transparent financing. Afterpay remains the simplest option for quick, smaller purchases
Choose based on your needs:
- Frequent online shopper: Klarna
- Large one-time purchase: Affirm
- Building credit history: Sezzle
- PayPal user: PayPal Pay in 4
- In-store flexibility: Zip
Remember: BNPL apps are tools for cash flow management, not free money. Use them responsibly to enhance your purchasing power without compromising financial health.