If you’re looking to spread the cost of a purchase without paying interest, 0% credit cards are among the cheapest borrowing options available. This guide breaks down the best 0% purchase credit cards in 2025, helping you find cards with the longest interest-free periods and the best odds of approval, so you can borrow wisely and save money.
What Are 0% Purchase Credit Cards?
0% purchase credit cards allow you to make new purchases without paying any interest for a set introductory period, often up to 24 months. This means you can spread the cost of essential spending without incurring additional charges, potentially saving you hundreds or even thousands of pounds compared to standard credit cards with high interest rates.
Using these cards responsibly means only borrowing what you need and can repay within the 0% period. After the interest-free term ends, any remaining balance will be charged interest at the card’s standard APR, which can be quite high-typically around 25%.
How to Choose the Best 0% Purchase Card
1. Look for the Longest 0% Period
The longer the interest-free period, the more time you have to repay your balance without extra cost. Cards offering 18 to 24 months are ideal for spreading larger purchases.
2. Use an Eligibility Checker Before Applying
Applying blindly can hurt your credit score. Use an eligibility calculator to see which cards you’re likely to be accepted for without affecting your credit rating. Some cards even offer pre-approval.
3. Check Fees and Terms
While many 0% cards have no annual fee, some may charge fees for balance transfers or cash withdrawals. Avoid withdrawing cash on these cards as interest usually applies immediately and fees can be high.
The 0% Purchase Golden Rules
To get the most out of a 0% purchase card, always follow these three rules:
- Make at least the minimum monthly repayments on time. Missing payments can void the 0% deal and lead to fees and higher interest rates.
- Clear your balance before the 0% period ends. Otherwise, interest will be charged on any remaining balance at the standard APR.
- Avoid cash withdrawals. These often incur immediate interest and hefty fees, negating the benefits of the 0% offer.
Top 0% Purchase Credit Cards in 2025
Here are some standout cards offering long 0% purchase periods:
| Card Name | 0% Purchase Period | Annual Fee | Representative APR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barclaycard Platinum 24 Month Purchase Visa | 24 months | £0 | 24.9% (variable) |
| MBNA Limited 22 Month 0% Transfer and Purchase Mastercard | 22 months | £0 | 24.9% (variable) |
| Lloyds Bank Platinum 21 Month 0% Purchase Mastercard | 21 months | £0 | 24.9% (variable) |
These cards combine lengthy interest-free periods with no annual fees, making them excellent choices for spreading the cost of planned purchases.
Alternatives and Additional Tips
If you can’t get a 0% purchase card or need to manage existing debt, consider:
- Balance Transfer Credit Cards: These allow you to move existing debt onto a card with a 0% balance transfer offer, often for 12-33 months, reducing interest charges while you repay.
- Personal Loans: Fixed monthly payments and fixed terms can be easier to manage than revolving credit.
- Overdrafts: Useful for smaller short-term borrowing but often come with high interest rates and fees.
How We Choose the Best Cards
We select Best Buy credit cards based on:
- Length of 0% interest period
- Fees and charges
- Customer satisfaction scores (must be over 70%)
- Credit card provider reputation and service quality
Our recommendations are regularly updated to reflect market changes and user feedback.
Final Thoughts
0% purchase credit cards are a smart way to finance essential spending without paying interest-if used responsibly. Always plan your repayments carefully, avoid unnecessary borrowing, and use eligibility checkers to find the best card for your situation. With the right card, you can save significant money compared to borrowing on standard credit cards.