Debt Snowball vs. Avalanche: Which Wins?
Both methods work. The difference is whether you optimize for math (avalanche) or motivation (snowball). Here's how to pick.
Avalanche: cheapest by the numbers
The avalanche method targets your highest-interest debt first while paying minimums on the rest. Because it kills the most expensive interest soonest, it always costs the least and clears your debt fastest in total.
Snowball: built for momentum
The snowball method targets your smallest balance first. You clear individual debts quickly, which feels great and keeps many people going. It usually costs a little more interest than avalanche, but the best plan is the one you actually finish.
The rollover is what makes either work
In both methods, when a debt is paid off you roll its payment onto the next one. Each cleared balance frees up more money for the next, so the final debts fall fastest. Add any extra you can to accelerate the whole thing.