Zip - Shop Now, Pay Later

You can generate a one-time virtual card number in the Zip app and use it at any online checkout, even if the store doesn't natively support Zip. Once you enter the card details, Zip automatically splits the total into four bi-weekly payments charged to your linked debit card.

Yes, you can use Zip in-store by opening the app and showing the generated barcode at checkout. This is handy when you need to cover an unexpected expense, like household supplies, and want to pay over time without interest.

Zip will send a late fee reminder, but the app's notifications could be more prominent. To avoid fees, make sure your bank transfer is scheduled a few days before the due date, especially if a payment falls on a weekend or holiday when transfers may be delayed.

Paying off a purchase early is easy—just open the transaction in the app and tap to pay off the remaining balance. This immediately frees up that portion of your spending limit for future purchases.

Both offer four interest-free installments, but Zip's virtual card gives you more flexibility to shop at any online retailer, not just those with direct integrations. Afterpay is more limited to partnered stores, making Zip a better choice if you want to use it anywhere a credit card is accepted.