How do I compare affiliate programs?

Compare the same fields across programs: audience fit, qualifying action, commission model, tracking window, eligibility, and payout terms. The largest advertised rate is only one part of the decision.

A checklist for your shortlist

Check	Question to answer	Why it matters
Audience fit	Does this solve a problem your audience has?	Relevant recommendations have a stronger reason to be considered.
Qualifying action	Is payment for a sale, qualified lead, trial, or another action?	A click or free signup may not qualify.
Commission	Percentage or fixed amount? One-time or recurring? Any caps?	Headline rates can leave out important conditions.
Cookie window	How long after a tracked click can an action qualify?	The window affects attribution, but other rules also apply.
Eligibility	Are your country, channel, and promotional methods accepted?	An attractive program may not support your setup.
Payout	What are the validation period, minimum balance, schedule, and method?	Recorded commissions and money received are different stages.
Evidence	Can you confirm the terms on an official page or agreement?	Rates and policies can change; verify before recommending.

Percentage and fixed commissions are not directly comparable

A hypothetical 10% commission on an eligible $100 purchase is $10 before any exclusions or reversals. A hypothetical $20 fixed commission may require a paid subscription rather than a free trial. Compare the required action and eligible value, not just the displayed numbers.

Recurring commissions can apply to renewals, but check their duration, caps, and cancellation rules. “Recurring” does not always mean for the customer’s lifetime.

A longer cookie is not a payout guarantee

A cookie window describes a tracking period. Last-click rules, another affiliate’s link, device changes, consent settings, excluded products, and returns can affect whether a transaction qualifies. Use the provider’s terms to understand how it attributes conversions.

Use AffiFind to compare, then verify

Search your topic and open relevant program details.
Add up to four programs to the compare tray.
Review available commission, cookie, network, and other fields side by side.
Visit the program’s official source and application page to resolve missing information.

AffiFind’s match scores describe relevance to your search; they are not predicted income. Calculations using assumed sales or conversions are scenarios, not earnings forecasts.

Make a small, informed choice

Choose one or two programs you can explain honestly, apply, and publish a useful recommendation after approval. Track approved outcomes and keep the terms you relied on for your own reference. If the provider does not clearly explain the qualifying action or payment conditions, ask before investing time.