Affiliate marketing offers multiple payout models, but the three most common ones you’ll hear about are CPL (Cost Per Lead), CPA (Cost Per Action), and CPS (Cost Per Sale).
If you’re wondering which model to start with or scale next, this guide breaks it all down — with pros, cons, real use cases, and which model suits your style of marketing.
What Do CPL, CPA, and CPS Mean?
Let’s define them in simple terms:
| Model | You Get Paid When… | Example |
|---|---|---|
| CPL | A user submits a lead form | $25 when someone signs up for a loan offer |
| CPA | A user takes a specific action (e.g., installs an app) | $30 for a credit card trial signup |
| CPS | A user makes a purchase | $50 per confirmed product sale |
Payout Comparison
| Model | Payout per Conversion | Conversion Rate | Volume Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPL | Low to Medium ($5–$35) | High (easy to convert) | Very High |
| CPA | Medium ($20–$60) | Medium | High |
| CPS | High ($40–$150+) | Low (harder to convert) | Moderate |
Pros & Cons of Each Model
CPL – Cost Per Lead
Pros:
- Easier to generate conversions (just a form fill)
- Great for beginners and content creators
- Often allowed with SEO, email, and native traffic
- Fast payment cycles
Cons:
- Lower payouts per conversion
- Lead quality matters a lot (possible rejections if not qualified)
Best for:
Bloggers, SEO affiliates, email marketers, influencers
CPA – Cost Per Action
Pros:
- Higher payouts than CPL
- More flexible actions (free trial, app install, etc.)
- Many B2C and SaaS offers available
Cons:
- More steps for the user = lower conversion rates
- Some offers require proof of action or verification
Best for:
Intermediate affiliates, app promoters, native ad buyers
CPS – Cost Per Sale
Pros:
- Highest commissions
- Often offers lifetime or recurring revenue
- Stable programs in eCommerce and SaaS
Cons:
- Hardest to convert (people must buy)
- Traffic must be high intent and well-qualified
Best for:
Experienced marketers, review sites, YouTube reviewers, email funnels
So… Which One Should You Choose?
| If you’re… | Choose… |
|---|---|
| Just starting out | CPL — low barrier, easy conversions |
| Running content or SEO sites | CPL or CPA |
| Focused on paid ads | CPA for fast ROI |
| Building long-term niche sites | CPS (e.g., SaaS reviews) |
| Running email campaigns | CPL + CPA combo works best |
What Works Best at Dyzad?
At Dyzad, we specialize in non-incent CPL and CPA offers in these verticals:
- Finance (loans, insurance, credit)
- SaaS & B2B tools
- Home services (solar, home security)
- Sweepstakes (Flatiron, LeadStack)
If you’re looking for high-converting CPL campaigns with $20–$40 payouts, we’ve got you covered.
Final Verdict: CPL vs CPA vs CPS
There’s no “best” model — it depends on:
- Your traffic type
- Your promotion style
- Your audience’s intent
Start with CPL if you’re new. Mix in CPA once you’re confident. Add CPS for long-term passive income.
Apply to work with Dyzad today. Signup Today
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