I used the debt snowball for about 8 months and then switched to the avalanche method. Here's what I learned from both.

Snowball gave me early wins. Paying off a $600 medical bill and a $900 furniture balance in the first two months felt incredible and kept me motivated when the process felt overwhelming. That psychological lift is real and it's not nothing.

Avalanche is mathematically superior. When I switched and started attacking my 22% APR credit card, I watched the balance fall faster than anything I'd done before. I estimate I'll save about $800 in interest compared to finishing the snowball path.

My conclusion: start with snowball if you're not sure you'll stay motivated. Switch to avalanche once you've built the habit and the excitement wears off.