Compare debt avalanche (highest APR first) vs snowball (smallest balance first) on two debts with the same monthly budget—months to debt-free and total interest side by side.
How it works
With the same total monthly payment, avalanche puts extra cash toward the highest APR first (mathematically cheapest), while snowball kills the smallest balance first (quick wins). Example: $4,200 at 24.9% plus $9,800 at 14.5%, paying $450/month—avalanche typically finishes in similar months but saves hundreds in interest versus snowball because the expensive card gets attacked first.
Frequently asked questions
Which method gets me debt-free faster?
Timeline is often nearly identical when both debts get the same total payment—the difference is interest paid, not always months. Avalanche wins on cost; snowball can feel faster because one balance hits zero sooner even if total freedom takes the same time.
Do I still pay minimums on both debts?
Yes—this model assumes your total monthly payment covers at least minimum interest on both balances, with all extra going to the priority debt under each strategy. If $450 is below combined minimums, increase the payment or the calculator may not reach payoff.
I have more than two debts—does this still help?
Use this to see the trade-off on a simplified pair—often a high-APR card plus a larger lower-rate loan. For three or more balances, the same logic applies: avalanche always targets highest APR with extra payments; snowball targets smallest balance.