Are you thinking of buying a new smartphone in 2025 but don’t want to pay everything upfront? Whether you’re eyeing the latest iPhone 15, Samsung Galaxy S24, or an affordable Infinix model, using a credit card with 0% installment is one of the smartest ways to upgrade—especially if it’s your first time buying a phone with a credit card.
In this guide, we’ll help you:
- Discover the best affordable smartphones in the Philippines today
- Understand how credit card installment works in the Philippines
- Learn how to compare credit cards and maximize rewards
- Find the best credit cards for phone purchases
Let’s help you make the smartest choice—both in tech and in spending.
Why Buy a Phone Using a Credit Card?
Using a credit card to buy a smartphone is more popular than ever in the Philippines. With over 12.2 million cardholders and an average monthly spend of ₱10,000, Filipinos are increasingly relying on plastic to buy high-ticket items like phones.
Benefits of using your credit card:
- 💸 0% Installment: Pay monthly over 3, 6, 12, or even 24 months—interest-free.
- 🎁 Cashback or Rewards: Many cards offer 1–2% cashback or reward points per purchase.
- 🛡️ Purchase Protection: Some cards come with extended warranty or even phone insurance.
- 🛍️ Exclusive Deals: Access to sales, bundles, and cardholder promos not available to cash buyers.
Want to see real tips from first-time buyers? Check out this Reddit thread on first time buying a phone with a credit card.
Best Affordable Smartphones in the Philippines (Under ₱10,000)
For first-time buyers or students on a budget, these affordable smartphones pack excellent value:
How Credit Card Installment Works in the Philippines
Here’s how you can buy phones with 0% interest:
- Choose your phone – Select your device from a retailer that supports credit card payments.
- Swipe your card – Use a credit card that offers installment plans.
- Select term – Choose 3, 6, 12, or 24 months.
- Pay monthly – Your bank bills you in equal monthly installments.
💡 Tip: Check if there’s a processing fee—some 0% offers still charge 3–5% upfront.
Compare Credit Cards Before You Buy
Before you swipe, compare cards to get the best installment terms, cashback, or rewards.
📌 Use this guide to compare credit cards tailored to your needs.
Top options for shopping and phone purchases:
- 💳 UnionBank Rewards Credit Card: Great for points and gadgets.
- 📈 Best UnionBank Deals: Up-to-date promos.
Also, check this Reddit discussion on the best credit card to buy a phone to learn from real experiences.
When and Where to Shop for the Best Deals
🛒 Buy during sale events like:
- 5.5, 11.11, and 12.12 on Shopee or Lazada
- Mid-year and Christmas sales at SM, Abenson, or MemoXpress
🛍️ Shop from:
- Online platforms with exclusive card promos
- Telco partners for bundle plans
- Brand stores with secure payment methods
Final Tips for First-Time Credit Card Buyers
✅ Pay on time to avoid interest and build good credit
✅ Watch your limit – make sure you don’t exceed it
✅ Use reward points or cashback to offset phone accessories
✅ Always monitor your monthly statements
Ready to Buy Your First Phone with a Credit Card?
Whether you go for a budget-friendly Infinix or a premium iPhone 15, paying via credit card helps spread the cost while giving you more value and flexibility.
🔍 Compare your options at Finmerkado Credit Cards and get the best card for phone purchases in the Philippines today.
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