Updated: Mar 26, 2025

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) plans offer a way to spread the high cost of new devices over time, making smartphones more accessible without requiring a large upfront payment. With a variety of BNPL providers and smartphone options available, finding an affordable device with a manageable payment plan is easier than ever.

How Buy Now, Pay Later Works for Smartphones

Buy Now, Pay Later services allow consumers to purchase a smartphone immediately and pay for it over time in smaller installments. Unlike traditional financing options or credit cards, many BNPL providers offer interest-free plans if payments are made on time. These services are available through smartphone manufacturers, wireless carriers, and third-party BNPL platforms, making it possible to find an installment plan that fits different budgets and needs.

When purchasing a smartphone with BNPL, buyers typically choose a repayment schedule at checkout. Payments may be due weekly, biweekly, or monthly, depending on the provider. Some BNPL plans require a soft credit check, while others approve customers instantly with no credit check at all. The flexibility of these plans makes them an appealing option for those who may not qualify for traditional financing or prefer not to use a credit card.

Best BNPL Providers for Affordable Smartphones

Several BNPL providers offer financing for smartphones, either through direct partnerships with retailers or as standalone payment services. Each provider has its own terms and conditions, so it’s important to compare options before making a decision.

Apple offers a BNPL option called Apple Card Monthly Installments, which allows customers to purchase iPhones and other Apple products and pay over time with zero interest. This plan is available to those who qualify for an Apple Card, and payments are automatically deducted from the linked account each month. Samsung provides a similar financing option through Samsung Financing, offering installment plans for its Galaxy smartphones with the possibility of 0% APR if paid on time. These plans are managed by TD Bank and can be accessed directly through Samsung’s website.

Wireless carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile also provide BNPL-style financing for customers who prefer to pay for their smartphones in monthly installments. These plans typically last 24 to 36 months and often require a credit check. While they don’t always advertise themselves as BNPL services, they work in a similar way by allowing customers to spread out the cost of a new phone without interest.

For those looking to buy a smartphone from a third-party retailer, BNPL services like Affirm, Klarna, and PayPal Pay in 4 are popular options. These providers partner with major electronics retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Amazon to offer installment plans for smartphone purchases. Affirm, for example, provides flexible payment terms ranging from a few weeks to several months, with interest rates varying based on creditworthiness. Klarna and PayPal Pay in 4 allow customers to split their purchases into four interest-free payments, making them a good option for those who want a short-term financing solution.

Most Affordable Smartphones Available with BNPL

There are many budget-friendly smartphones available for those who want a reliable device without spending a fortune. With BNPL financing, it’s possible to get a high-quality phone without paying the full price upfront.

One of the best affordable smartphones currently available is the Apple iPhone SE. This device offers many of the features found in higher-end iPhones, including Apple’s powerful A15 Bionic chip and a high-quality camera, but at a much lower price. It is available through Apple Card Monthly Installments, wireless carriers, and BNPL services like Affirm and Klarna.

For Android users, the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G is a great budget-friendly option. It provides a large display, long battery life, and 5G connectivity at an affordable price. Samsung Financing offers BNPL plans for this model, and it is also available with installment payments through carriers and retailers that accept third-party BNPL providers.

Google’s Pixel 6a is another excellent choice for those looking for an affordable smartphone with strong performance and a great camera. This phone is often available with BNPL financing through Google’s store, major carriers, and retailers like Best Buy and Amazon.

For even lower-priced options, Motorola’s Moto G Power and OnePlus Nord N300 offer solid performance at budget-friendly prices. These devices are frequently available with BNPL financing through various online retailers and wireless carriers.

What to Consider When Choosing a BNPL Smartphone

While BNPL plans make it easier to afford a new smartphone, it’s important to carefully review the terms before making a purchase. One of the biggest factors to consider is whether the BNPL plan includes interest or fees. Some providers offer zero-interest financing, but others may charge high interest rates if payments are not made on time. Understanding the full cost of the phone, including any potential fees, is crucial before committing to a BNPL plan.

It’s also important to check the repayment schedule and ensure it fits within the budget. Missing a payment can result in late fees and could negatively impact credit scores if the provider reports missed payments to credit bureaus. Setting up automatic payments or reminders can help avoid these issues and keep the repayment process smooth.

Another key consideration is whether the phone will be unlocked or tied to a specific carrier. Some BNPL options, especially those offered through wireless carriers, may require the phone to remain on the carrier’s network for the duration of the installment plan. If flexibility to switch carriers is important, buying an unlocked phone through a manufacturer or retailer with BNPL financing may be the better choice.

Alternatives to BNPL for Affordable Smartphones

For those who want to avoid BNPL financing, there are other ways to get an affordable smartphone. Trade-in programs can significantly reduce the cost of a new phone by allowing customers to exchange their old device for credit. Apple, Samsung, and most major carriers offer trade-in deals that can lower the price of a new phone by hundreds of dollars.

Refurbished smartphones are another cost-effective option. Many manufacturers and retailers sell certified refurbished devices at lower prices, often with warranties included. Apple and Samsung both have official refurbished stores, and retailers like Best Buy and Amazon also offer certified pre-owned devices with financing options.

Credit cards with a 0% APR introductory period can provide another financing alternative. Some credit cards offer interest-free financing for a certain number of months, allowing buyers to spread out payments without incurring interest as long as the balance is paid in full before the promotional period ends.

Final Thoughts

Buy Now, Pay Later plans make it possible to afford a high-quality smartphone without a large upfront payment. With options available through manufacturers, wireless carriers, and third-party BNPL providers, consumers have more choices than ever when it comes to financing a smartphone purchase. However, it’s essential to carefully review the terms, compare different BNPL plans, and ensure the payment schedule aligns with personal finances. For those who prefer to avoid BNPL financing, trade-in programs, refurbished devices, and 0% APR credit cards can provide alternative ways to get an affordable smartphone. By exploring all available options and making an informed decision, it’s possible to find a budget-friendly smartphone that meets both financial and technological needs.