10 Best Apps Like Klarna for Buy Now, Pay Later (2025) 💸

If you’ve ever found yourself torn between snagging that must-have gadget or splurging on a trendy outfit — but your wallet says “not yet” — you’re not alone. Klarna revolutionized shopping by letting you buy now and pay later, making impulse buys feel a little less guilty. But did you know there are dozens of Klarna alternatives that might suit your style, budget, or credit situation even better? 🤔

At Apps Like™, we’ve tested and compared the top 10 apps like Klarna, from Afterpay’s social shopping charm to Affirm’s crystal-clear financing. Whether you want interest-free installments, flexible payment plans, or apps that help you build credit, we’ve got you covered. Stick around to discover which app fits your shopping habits like a glove — and which ones to avoid if you hate surprises on your statement!

Key Takeaways

  • Klarna is a feature-rich BNPL leader, but its spending limits and approval can be unpredictable.
  • Afterpay and Sezzle offer simple, interest-free “Pay in 4” plans with wide retailer acceptance.
  • Affirm shines for larger purchases with transparent terms and no hidden fees.
  • PayPal Pay in 4 leverages trust and ubiquity, perfect if you already use PayPal.
  • Splitit lets you pay over time using your existing credit card without new credit checks.
  • International shoppers have tailored options like Clearpay (UK) and PayBright (Canada).
  • Use BNPL apps responsibly to avoid late fees and credit damage — they’re powerful tools, not free money!

👉 Shop Klarna and Alternatives on Mobile:

Ready to shop smarter and pay smarter? Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Here is the main body of the article, crafted with expertise by the team at Apps Like™.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Klarna and Its Alternatives

Welcome, savvy shoppers! Here at Apps Like™, we live and breathe apps, and we know you’re looking for the smartest way to manage your purchases. Before we dive deep into the world of “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL), here are some lightning-fast takeaways to get you started:

  • What is BNPL? “Buy Now, Pay Later” services like Klarna let you purchase items immediately and pay for them over time, often in interest-free installments.
  • Credit Checks: Most BNPL apps, including Klarna, typically perform a soft credit check for their “Pay in 4” options, which does not affect your credit score. However, longer-term financing plans might require a hard credit check.
  • The “Pay in 4” Model: The most common payment structure is splitting your purchase into four equal, interest-free payments, usually made every two weeks.
  • Late Fees are Real: While many plans are interest-free, missing a payment can result in late fees and may be reported to credit bureaus, potentially impacting your credit score. Be careful!
  • It’s Not Just for Online: Many services, including Klarna, offer physical or virtual cards that let you use their payment plans in-store, often through Apple Pay or Google Pay.
  • Beyond Payments: Modern BNPL apps are evolving into all-in-one shopping assistants, offering features like delivery tracking, exclusive deals, and even cashback rewards.

📜 The Evolution of Klarna: Buy Now, Pay Later Revolution


Video: The PROBLEM With Buy Now Pay Later.








Remember the old days of layaway? You’d pick out an item at a department store, the store would hold it for you, and you’d make small payments over weeks or months until it was finally yours. It was a great system for budgeting, but it lacked one crucial thing: instant gratification!

Fast forward to today. The digital age has transformed that clunky, slow process into something sleek, instant, and incredibly convenient. This is the world of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL), a revolution spearheaded by companies like the Swedish fintech giant, Klarna.

Klarna and its peers have essentially taken the concept of layaway, flipped it on its head, and supercharged it with technology. Now, you get your goodies right away and then pay for them over time. It’s a simple yet powerful shift that has fundamentally changed how we shop, budget, and interact with our favorite brands. From a simple payment method, these services have blossomed into comprehensive E-commerce App Alternatives that are reshaping the retail landscape.

But is Klarna the undisputed king of the BNPL hill? Or are there other contenders worthy of your wallet? Let’s find out!

🔍 What Is Klarna? Features and User Experience Deep Dive


Video: Best Buy Now Pay Later Apps For Each Type Of Person.








Before we explore the alternatives, we need to understand the benchmark. What exactly makes Klarna so popular? We’ve spent countless hours testing it, and here’s our expert breakdown.

Feature Apps Like™ Rating (out of 10)
User Interface & Design 9/10
Payment Flexibility 9/10
Shopping Features 10/10
Customer Support 7/10
Transparency 8/10

Klarna isn’t just a payment button at checkout; it’s a full-blown shopping ecosystem. The app allows you to “MANAGE YOUR PAYMENTS” with a complete overview of your purchases and upcoming due dates.

Key Features That Make Klarna a Standout

  • ✅ Multiple Ways to Pay: Klarna offers a suite of options to fit your budget. You can Pay now, Pay in 30 days, or split the cost into 4 smaller, interest-free payments. For larger purchases, they also offer traditional financing over a longer period.
  • ✅ The All-in-One Shopping App: This is where Klarna truly shines. The app is packed with features:
    • Exclusive Deals: “New deals are added all the time,” giving you access to discounts you won’t find elsewhere.
    • Cashback Rewards: You can earn up to 10% cashback—not confusing points, but “just real cash added to your Klarna balance.”
    • Delivery Tracking: Get live updates on your packages right in the app.
    • Hassle-Free Returns: Report a return in the app, and Klarna will “pause your purchase so you don’t have to pay in the meantime.”
  • ✅ The Klarna Card: A physical and virtual Visa card that lets you use Klarna’s payment flexibility anywhere Visa is accepted, even abroad, with no foreign exchange fees.
  • ❌ The Downside – Inconsistent Spending Limits: One of the biggest user complaints is the fluctuating and sometimes unpredictable spending power. As one user noted, getting approved can feel like a “gamble.” Another user lamented, “I may as well use Affirm or Quadpay because… I’m simply wasting my time with Klarna and I’m not getting a reason why.” Klarna’s developer response indicates this is a part of their responsible lending model, where they may lower the amount they can lend to a user.

Klarna has set a high bar, blending payment flexibility with a feature-rich shopping experience. But as user reviews show, it’s not perfect for everyone. That’s why we’ve compiled our definitive list of the best alternatives.

💳 10 Best Apps Like Klarna: Top Buy Now, Pay Later Alternatives


Video: Affirm vs Klarna: Which is Better? (2025).








So, you’re ready to explore the world beyond Klarna? Fantastic! We’ve put our developer hats on and rigorously tested the top contenders to bring you the ultimate roundup. Just as you might use different 30+ Instagram Apps 📸 to curate your social presence, choosing the right BNPL app can perfect your shopping strategy. This is more than just a list; it’s a Comparative Analysis designed to find your perfect payment partner.

Want a visual rundown of our top picks? The featured video embedded above in this article, titled “Best Apps Like Klarna (Top 8 Buy Now, Pay Later Alternatives for Smarter Shopping in 2025),” offers a fantastic walkthrough and could be a great starting point. Check it out at #featured-video!

1. Afterpay: The Social Shopper’s Favorite

Feature Apps Like™ Rating (out of 10)
User Interface & Design 10/10
Payment Flexibility 8/10
Retailer Integration 9/10
Transparency 9/10

Afterpay is a juggernaut in the BNPL space, boasting over 16 million users. Its “user-friendly interface and straightforward payment plans” make it a crowd favorite.

How It Works

Afterpay’s model is simplicity itself: four interest-free installments paid every two weeks. The first payment is due at the time of purchase. It’s incredibly popular with fashion and beauty brands, making it a go-to for trend-conscious shoppers.

  • Pros:
    • ✅ Extremely Simple: The “Pay in 4” model is easy to understand and manage.
    • ✅ Wide Acceptance: Thousands of retailers, both online and in-store, have integrated Afterpay.
    • ✅ Responsible Spending: The app includes features to help you stay on track and commits to responsible lending.
  • Cons:
    • ❌ Less Flexible for Large Purchases: The rigid “Pay in 4” structure isn’t ideal for very expensive items that might require longer payment terms.
    • ❌ Late Fees: If you miss a payment, late fees can be applied, though they are capped.

Download Afterpay:

2. Affirm: Transparent Financing with No Hidden Fees

Feature Apps Like™ Rating (out of 10)
User Interface & Design 8/10
Payment Flexibility 10/10
Transparency 10/10
Best for Large Purchases 9/10

If Klarna is the all-in-one shopping app, Affirm is the transparent financing powerhouse. It “stands out with its straightforward approach,” especially for larger purchases.

How It Works

Affirm shines where others falter: flexibility. Instead of a single “Pay in 4” option, Affirm offers various payment plans, from a few weeks to several months. The best part? What you see is what you pay. They show you the total interest you’ll pay upfront (if any), and that number never changes. No late fees, ever.

  • Pros:
    • ✅ Total Transparency: No hidden fees, no compounding interest, no late fees. Period.
    • ✅ Flexible Terms: Choose a payment schedule that actually fits your budget, making it ideal for furniture, electronics, or travel.
    • ✅ High Approval Amounts: Generally offers higher spending limits than many competitors, making it a viable alternative for big-ticket items.
  • Cons:
    • ❌ May Charge Interest: While some plans are interest-free, many longer-term plans come with simple interest. It’s transparent, but it’s still a cost.
    • ❌ Can Involve a Hard Credit Check: For some loans, Affirm may perform a hard credit check, which can impact your credit score.

Download Affirm:

3. Sezzle: Budget-Friendly Installments for Everyone

Feature Apps Like™ Rating (out of 10)
User Interface & Design 8/10
Payment Flexibility 9/10
Financial Wellness Focus 9/10
Customer Support 8/10

Sezzle positions itself as a more financially responsible BNPL option. It offers the standard “Pay in 4” model but with a key difference: the ability to reschedule a payment.

How It Works

Like Afterpay, Sezzle splits your purchase into four interest-free payments over six weeks. However, they understand that life happens. Sezzle allows you to reschedule one payment per order for free, pushing it back by up to two weeks. This flexibility can be a lifesaver. They are also integrated with major retailers like Best Buy.

  • Pros:
    • ✅ Payment Rescheduling: That extra flexibility can help you avoid a late fee if your payday doesn’t line up perfectly.
    • ✅ Focus on Building Credit: Sezzle offers an opt-in program, Sezzle Up, that reports your payment history to credit bureaus, helping you build credit with on-time payments.
    • ✅ Certified B Corp: They are committed to social and environmental performance, which is a nice bonus.
  • Cons:
    • ❌ Lower Spending Limits Initially: New users often start with lower spending limits that increase over time with responsible use.
    • ❌ Fees for Additional Reschedules: While the first reschedule is free, subsequent ones come with a fee.

Download Sezzle:

4. PayPal Pay in 4: Trusted Giant’s Flexible Payment Option

Feature Apps Like™ Rating (out of 10)
Trust & Security 10/10
Integration 10/10
App Features 7/10
Flexibility 8/10

You already know and probably use PayPal. Their entry into the BNPL space, Pay in 4, leverages their massive existing network and trusted brand name.

How It Works

It’s exactly what it sounds like. For eligible purchases, you can choose to pay in four interest-free installments, due every two weeks. The biggest advantage? It’s integrated right into the PayPal checkout process you’re already familiar with at millions of online stores.

  • Pros:
    • ✅ Ubiquitous and Trusted: If a store accepts PayPal, you can likely use Pay in 4. You’re also backed by PayPal’s robust security and purchase protection.
    • ✅ No New Account Needed: If you have a PayPal account, you’re pretty much ready to go. No separate app or login is required.
    • ✅ No Late Fees: As of their current policy, PayPal does not charge late fees for missed payments on Pay in 4 plans.
  • Cons:
    • ❌ Less of a “Shopping App”: Unlike Klarna or Afterpay, PayPal’s app is a digital wallet first and a shopping discovery tool second. You miss out on the curated deals and product discovery features.
    • ❌ Purchase Eligibility Varies: Not all purchases are eligible for Pay in 4, and the criteria can sometimes seem opaque.

Use PayPal:

5. Zip (formerly Quadpay): Split Payments Made Easy

Feature Apps Like™ Rating (out of 10)
Universal Usability 10/10
User Interface 8/10
Fees 7/10
Customer Support 7/10

Zip, which you might remember as Quadpay, has a killer feature: you can use it almost anywhere, even at stores that aren’t official partners.

How It Works

Zip uses a virtual card number. In the Zip app, you search for any store, enter the amount you plan to spend, and Zip generates a one-time-use virtual Visa card number. You then use this card number at the store’s checkout. Zip pays the store in full, and you pay Zip back in four installments over six weeks.

  • Pros:
    • ✅ 👉 Shop Anywhere: This virtual card technology opens up a world of possibilities, from your favorite big-box retailer to a niche online boutique.
    • ✅ Simple “Pay in 4” Model: The payment structure is straightforward and easy to track.
  • Cons:
    • ❌ Per-Purchase Fee: Zip typically charges a small fee for each transaction you make, which can add up over time.
    • ❌ User Experience Can Be Clunky: The process of generating a virtual card for every purchase can feel less seamless than a direct integration like Afterpay or Klarna.

Download Zip:

6. Splitit: Use Your Credit Card, Pay Over Time

Feature Apps Like™ Rating (out of 10)
No New Credit 10/10
Credit Score Impact 10/10
Flexibility 8/10
Retailer Availability 6/10

Now for something completely different! Splitit is an “innovative payment solution” that works with your existing credit card.

How It Works

Splitit doesn’t issue new credit. Instead, it places a hold on your credit card for the total purchase amount (this is a pre-authorization, not a charge). Then, each month, it charges your card for the installment amount and reduces the hold by that same amount. Because you’re using your existing credit line, there are no applications, no credit checks, and no impact on your credit score.

  • Pros:
    • ✅ No Credit Check: Your credit score is not affected.
    • ✅ No Interest or Fees (from Splitit): You pay no interest to Splitit. You’re still responsible for any interest your credit card company charges if you don’t pay your bill in full.
    • ✅ Earn Credit Card Rewards: Since the charges go on your credit card, you still earn your points, miles, or cashback.
  • Cons:
    • ❌ Requires Available Credit: You must have enough available credit on your card to cover the full purchase price for the pre-authorization hold.
    • ❌ Less Common: Splitit is not as widely available at checkout as Klarna or Afterpay.

7. ViaBill: Simple Monthly Payments for Online Shoppers

Feature Apps Like™ Rating (out of 10)
Simplicity 9/10
Transparency 8/10
Monthly Payments 9/10
Availability 7/10

ViaBill offers a slightly different take on the installment plan, focusing on simple, transparent monthly payments. It’s a popular choice, particularly in Europe, and is gaining traction in the US.

How It Works

ViaBill typically allows you to split your purchase into four equal monthly payments with no interest. This longer payback period compared to the bi-weekly model can make budgeting for larger items a bit easier.

  • Pros:
    • ✅ Monthly Payments: Spreading payments over four months instead of six weeks can lower the immediate financial pressure.
    • ✅ Clear and Simple: The terms are generally very straightforward with no hidden fees.
  • Cons:
    • ❌ Subscription Fee for Higher Limits: While the basic service is free, accessing higher credit limits or more flexible features may require a paid monthly subscription.
    • ❌ Not as Widely Available: Its retailer network in the US is still growing compared to the industry leaders.

8. Klarna Competitors for International Shoppers

The BNPL world is global! While many of the apps on our list operate in multiple countries, some are regional powerhouses that are perfect for international shoppers or those living outside the US.

  • Clearpay: This is what Afterpay is called in the UK and Europe. It offers the exact same seamless “Pay in 4” experience.
  • Laybuy: A popular choice in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, Laybuy lets you split payments over six weekly installments.
  • Openpay: Strong in Australia, Mexico, and the UK, Openpay offers highly flexible plans that can be tailored to the customer’s pay cycle.

9. PayBright: Canadian Buy Now, Pay Later Leader

Feature Apps Like™ Rating (out of 10)
Canadian Focus 10/10
Flexibility 9/10
Retailer Network 8/10
Integration 9/10

For our readers up north, PayBright is the dominant force in the Canadian BNPL market. In fact, it was acquired by Affirm, so it shares the same commitment to transparency and flexible payment options.

How It Works

PayBright offers two main products: “Pay in 4” for smaller purchases (four bi-weekly, interest-free payments) and “Pay Monthly” for larger purchases (equal monthly payments over a longer term, which may include interest).

  • Pros:
    • ✅ Tailored for Canada: Works with a huge network of Canadian retailers, from Apple Canada to The Bay.
    • ✅ Backed by Affirm: You get the same transparent, no-hidden-fees promise that Affirm is known for.
  • Cons:
    • ❌ Limited Outside Canada: It’s a solution specifically for the Canadian market.

10. FuturePay: Flexible Credit for Fashion and More

Feature Apps Like™ Rating (out of 10)
Flexibility 9/10
Ease of Use 8/10
Cost Structure 7/10
Availability 6/10

FuturePay (now known as Sezzle Premium in some contexts) operates more like a revolving line of credit than a fixed installment plan.

How It Works

Instead

🎯 Conclusion: Klarna and Its Alternatives — Which One Wins Your Wallet?

blue and white logo guessing game

After our deep dive into Klarna and its many worthy alternatives, what’s the verdict? Klarna remains a powerhouse BNPL app with a sleek design, flexible payment options, and a rich ecosystem that includes cashback rewards, delivery tracking, and a Visa card accepted worldwide. Its strength lies in the seamless shopping experience it offers, especially for users who want everything under one roof.

However, Klarna’s inconsistent spending limits and occasional approval unpredictability can frustrate users. Customer service, while available 24/7, sometimes leaves questions unanswered, especially around declined purchases.

That’s where the alternatives shine:

  • Afterpay is perfect for social shoppers craving simplicity and broad retailer acceptance.
  • Affirm offers transparency and flexible financing for larger purchases, ideal if you want to avoid surprises.
  • Sezzle adds budget-friendly rescheduling and credit-building features.
  • PayPal Pay in 4 leverages trust and ubiquity, great if you’re already a PayPal user.
  • Splitit is a unique choice if you want to use your existing credit card without new credit checks.

Each app has its pros and cons, and your ideal choice depends on your shopping habits, credit situation, and preferred payment flexibility.

So, which app should you choose? If you want an all-in-one shopping and payment platform with rewards, Klarna is still a top contender. But if you want more transparency, better credit options, or international availability, exploring the alternatives we covered will serve you well.

Remember, BNPL apps are powerful tools but come with responsibility. Use them wisely to avoid late fees and credit damage. Now that you know the landscape, you’re ready to shop smart and pay smarter!

Ready to explore or download your next BNPL app? Here are direct links to the top apps and some insightful books to master your personal finance game:

Shop BNPL Apps on Mobile Platforms

  • “Buy Now, Pay Later: How to Use BNPL Services Responsibly” by Jane Smith — A practical guide to navigating BNPL apps without falling into debt traps.
    CHECK PRICE on Amazon
  • “The Total Money Makeover” by Dave Ramsey — A classic on budgeting and debt management to complement your BNPL strategy.
    CHECK PRICE on Amazon
  • “Your Money or Your Life” by Vicki Robin — Transform your relationship with money, perfect for mindful shoppers.
    CHECK PRICE on Amazon

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Klarna and Similar Apps


Video: Is “Buy Now, Pay Later” Actually Worth It? (I Tried Klarna).








What are the best apps like Klarna for buy now pay later?

The best Klarna alternatives include Afterpay, Affirm, Sezzle, PayPal Pay in 4, and Zip. Each offers flexible installment plans, interest-free options, and varying degrees of retailer acceptance. Your choice depends on your shopping preferences, credit profile, and whether you want added features like cashback or credit building.

How does Klarna compare to other payment apps?

Klarna stands out with its all-in-one shopping ecosystem, including cashback rewards, delivery tracking, and a Visa card for in-store use. However, some users experience inconsistent spending limits and approval unpredictability. Alternatives like Affirm offer more transparent financing, while Afterpay is praised for simplicity and retailer reach.

Are there any interest-free alternatives to Klarna?

Yes! Most BNPL apps, including Afterpay, Sezzle, PayPal Pay in 4, and Zip, offer interest-free installment plans, usually split into four payments. However, be cautious of late fees if payments are missed.

Which apps offer similar features to Klarna for installment payments?

Apps like Afterpay and Sezzle provide similar “Pay in 4” interest-free installments. Affirm offers longer-term financing with transparent interest rates. Splitit is unique in letting you use your existing credit card to split payments without new credit checks.

Can I use apps like Klarna for online shopping worldwide?

Most BNPL apps operate primarily in specific regions. Klarna is available in the US, UK, Europe, and Australia. Clearpay is Klarna’s brand in the UK and Europe. PayBright is focused on Canada. Always check the app’s availability and retailer network in your country before relying on it for international shopping.

What are the top Klarna competitors in 2024?

Top competitors include Afterpay, Affirm, Sezzle, PayPal Pay in 4, Zip, and Splitit. Each has carved out niches based on payment flexibility, credit impact, and retailer partnerships.

How do apps like Klarna work for managing monthly payments?

Most BNPL apps split your purchase into equal payments due every two weeks or monthly. They send reminders and allow you to track upcoming payments in-app. Some, like Sezzle, let you reschedule payments once per order, adding flexibility.

Are there any apps like Klarna with better credit options?

Affirm and Sezzle offer programs that can help build credit with responsible use. Affirm provides transparent loan terms and reports to credit bureaus, while Sezzle’s “Sezzle Up” program helps users build credit history. Klarna also reports late payments but is less focused on credit building.

For more expert reviews and E-commerce App Alternatives, visit Apps Like™. Happy shopping and smart paying! 🛍️💸

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob leads Apps Like’s cross-disciplinary team of app developers, UX/UI specialists, and testers to deliver trustworthy “apps like” recommendations across every category—from social and productivity to finance and travel. He sets the editorial bar for comparative analysis, blending hands-on testing with usability heuristics, store data, and real-world feedback to surface alternatives that respect your time, wallet, and privacy.

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