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Avalanche vs Snowball

Avalanche pays the highest APR first and saves the most interest mathematically; snowball pays the smallest balance first for quick wins. Both beat minimum payments.

更新 2026-10-31 · 公式可核验

Avalanche

Sort by APR high to low, pay minimums on the rest and put extra money on the highest APR.

Saves the most interest but the first payoff may take months.

Snowball

Sort by balance low to high and clear the smallest first.

May cost more interest but gives fast feedback and is easier to sustain.

FAQ

Which is better?

The one you stick with; mathematically avalanche is slightly better.

Should I use emergency savings to pay debt?

Keep a small buffer, then pay high-interest debt to avoid relying on cards again.

Sources

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