Debt2 min read · Updated 19 October 2026
Debt avalanche or snowball: which clears debt faster and cheaper
The two common ways to pay off several debts, with a worked example showing time and interest for each.
How each works
Avalanche: pay minimums on everything, put all spare money on the highest interest rate. Snowball: same, but target the smallest balance first. When a debt is cleared, its payment moves to the next.
Worked example
| Plan | Time / interest |
| Minimums only | 7y 7m / £7,151 |
| Avalanche | 2y 4m / £2,250 |
| Snowball | 2y 5m / £2,399 |
Before you start
Look for 0% balance-transfer offers and check you are not paying fees. Never skip minimums, because that adds charges and can hurt your credit file.
Common questions
Is avalanche better than snowball?
It costs less interest. Snowball can keep you motivated.
Should I pay debt or save?
Keep a small emergency fund first, then clear high-rate debt before saving more.