Debt Snowball vs. Avalanche Calculator

Compare both payoff strategies side by side — total interest and debt-free date.

Advertisement 728×90 — Leaderboard

Calculate now

Name
Balance
APR %
$
Snowball (smallest first)
Debt-free in
Avalanche (highest rate first)
Debt-free in

Snowball vs. avalanche explained

The debt snowball pays smallest balances first for motivation. The debt avalanche pays highest rates first to minimize interest. Both beat minimum payments dramatically.

What is the debt snowball?
Pays smallest balances first for quick wins. Keeps you motivated with early payoff milestones.
What is the debt avalanche?
Pays highest interest rate first. Always saves the most money mathematically.
Which method is better?
Neither is universally better. The best method is the one you will stick with.
Advertisement 300×250 — Rectangle
Advertisement 300×600 — Half Page
Advertisement 728×90 — Leaderboard