Are you leaving money on the table with your current marketing strategy? While most businesses focus on direct sales and advertising, a powerful network of partners could be multiplying your reach right now.
Affiliate marketing software can transform how you scale growth. These digital ecosystems connect businesses with promoters ready to champion your products — all on a performance basis.
Let’s explore the different affiliate marketing platforms available at this time, with key features you should know to make the right call for your business.
Disclaimer: If you buy any products through links on this site, I may earn a commission. But it doesn't make any difference to your cost, and it helps me keep this blog running. So you could always read my articles for free.
What to look for in affiliate marketing software
When choosing affiliate marketing software, focus on tools that make tracking and managing your campaigns easier. You want software that helps you earn more while doing less manual work.
Reliable tracking
Look for reliable tracking capabilities. Your software should accurately track clicks, conversions, and commissions.
Without proper tracking, you might miss out on earnings that are rightfully yours. For example, cookie duration matters – longer tracking periods give your referrals more time to convert.
Payment processing
Check how the affiliate marketing software handles commission payments. Does it offer multiple payment methods? What about payment schedules?
Some platforms pay weekly, while others might only process payments monthly or when you reach a certain threshold.
Reporting tools
Good affiliate marketing platforms provide clear, detailed reports on your performance.
You need to know which products or content drive the most sales so you can double down on what works.
Ease of use
Both you and your affiliates should find the platform easy to navigate. A confusing interface wastes time and frustrates everyone involved.
Software integrations
Integration capabilities can save you a lot of trouble. Your affiliate software should work seamlessly with your existing tools, like your website, CRM, or email marketing platform.
Remember that the best affiliate marketing platforms balance functionality with simplicity. You need powerful features, but don’t want to get lost in unnecessary complexity.
What are the top affiliate marketing platforms?
Want to streamline your online business with powerful affiliate marketing software? Here are the best software platforms that automate tracking, payments, and commission management for maximum ROI.
Awin
Awin stands out as one of the largest global affiliate networks, formed through the merger of Affiliate Window and Zanox.
You get access to a marketplace connecting over 250,000 active publishers with more than 15,000 advertisers across 180 countries.
What makes Awin distinctive as an affiliate marketing platform is its strong European presence combined with significant global reach, particularly after acquiring ShareASale in 2017.
Key features
Network of 250,000+ publishers across 180 countries
Customizable tracking with multiple attribution models
Fraud detection tools
Automated commission payments
Performance analytics dashboard
Pros
Large pool of affiliates across various niches
Cross-device tracking capabilities
Flexible commission structures
API integration options
Strong global presence
Cons
Higher setup and monthly fees
Potentially excessive for small businesses
Steeper learning curve for beginners
Time required to build quality partnerships
Support varies by package level
My verdict
Awin is an affiliate marketing software that delivers a powerful solution for medium to large businesses serious about scaling affiliate marketing. However, smaller merchants might find the costs challenging.
Upfluence
Upfluence offers a distinctive approach to affiliate marketing by combining influencer discovery with affiliate program management.
You can identify potential partners based on audience demographics, engagement rates, and content quality. What sets Upfluence apart is its searchable database of over 3 million influencers who can become your affiliates.
This affiliate marketing platform is particularly designed for brands looking to blend traditional affiliate marketing with influencer collaborations.
Key features
AI-powered influencer search and filtering
Integrated CRM for relationship management
Performance tracking and attribution
Automated payments and commission handling
Campaign management tools with custom workflows
Pros
All-in-one platform for influencer and affiliate marketing
Advanced filtering with 20+ search criteria
Real-time performance analytics
Seamless integration with e-commerce platforms
Bulk outreach capabilities
Cons
Higher price point compared to standard affiliate marketing platforms
Steeper learning curve for new users
Better suited for brands with larger budgets
Some features overlap with dedicated influencer platforms
Requires time investment to master all capabilities
My verdict
Upfluence works best for businesses wanting to merge influencer and affiliate strategies. However, companies seeking a purely traditional affiliate marketing software might find it unnecessarily complex.
Amazon Associates
Amazon Associates stands as one of the oldest and largest affiliate programs worldwide, launched in 1996. You can promote millions of products from Amazon’s vast marketplace and earn commissions when your referrals make purchases.
Unlike most affiliate marketing platforms, this program connects you directly with Amazon rather than serving as a network between multiple merchants and affiliates. For instance, you can create custom product links for virtually any item sold on Amazon’s website.
Key features
Access to millions of products across all categories
Multiple link creation tools and widgets
Real-time reporting dashboard
24-hour cookie duration
Mobile-optimized links and tracking
Pros
No approval needed for individual products
Trusted brand recognition with consumers
Simple implementation process
Payments via direct deposit or Amazon gift cards
Opportunity to earn from customers’ entire carts
Cons
Relatively low commission rates (1-10%)
Short 24-hour cookie window
Strict compliance requirements
Frequent program changes with little notice
Limited promotional methods allowed
My verdict
Amazon Associates works well as an entry-level affiliate marketing software with an immense product selection, though serious affiliates may find the low commission rates and short cookie duration limiting.
Tracknow
Tracknow offers businesses a specialized tracking solution for running in-house affiliate programs without joining larger affiliate marketing platforms. You can maintain direct relationships with your affiliates while still getting precise performance metrics.
This platform focuses primarily on accurate tracking technology rather than affiliate recruitment or marketplace features.
For example, many businesses choose Tracknow when transitioning from network-based programs to self-managed affiliate relationships.
Key features
Custom tracking links with multiple attribution models
Real-time fraud detection algorithms
White-label affiliate portal customization
API integration with major e-commerce platforms
Multi-currency commission calculations
Pros
More control over affiliate relationships
Lower overall costs compared to networks
Flexible commission structures
No revenue sharing with third parties
Detailed conversion path analysis
Cons
No built-in affiliate marketplace
Requires self-recruitment of partners
Steeper technical setup process
Limited brand recognition among affiliates
May need additional tools for complete program management
My verdict
Tracknow excels for established brands with existing affiliate relationships seeking greater control and cost savings. Although newcomers might struggle with the lack of built-in recruitment tools in this affiliate marketing software.
Rakuten
Rakuten Advertising (formerly Rakuten Marketing) operates as one of the largest global affiliate marketing platforms, backed by the Japanese e-commerce giant Rakuten.
You can access over 3,500 merchant programs across diverse categories from fashion to travel. What distinguishes Rakuten is its hybrid approach combining affiliate marketing with display advertising and other digital marketing channels.
For instance, many luxury and premium brands choose Rakuten for its strong positioning in the high-end retail space.
Key features
Access to premium and exclusive merchant programs
Advanced tracking with attribution modeling
Publisher development team for strategic partnerships
Cross-channel marketing integration
Customizable reporting dashboard
Pros
Higher average commission rates
Strong presence in luxury and fashion verticals
Reliable payment processing
Quality account management for larger publishers
Global program options with multi-currency support
Cons
Strict approval requirements for publishers
Higher payment thresholds than some competitors
Interface can be less intuitive
Longer application review process
Limited support for smaller publishers
My verdict
Rakuten works best for established content creators seeking affiliate marketing software for quality merchant relationships and higher commissions. However, beginners may find entry barriers challenging initially.
ClickBank
ClickBank operates as one of the oldest digital product marketplaces, focusing primarily on downloadable information products, courses, and software. You can promote thousands of digital products without needing individual merchant approval.
What sets ClickBank apart from other affiliate marketing platforms is its reputation for high commission rates, often ranging from 30% to 75% per sale.
For example, many successful affiliates choose ClickBank specifically for promoting online courses and ebooks where margins allow for these generous commission structures.
Key features
Instant affiliate approval system
Thousands of digital products across categories
Built-in payment processing and tax handling
60-day cookie duration
Weekly payment options
Pros
Exceptionally high commission rates
No waiting for merchant approvals
Reliable payment processing
Detailed analytics and tracking
Recurring commission opportunities
Cons
Variable product quality concerns
Higher refund rates on some products
Limited physical product options
Competitive in popular niches
Some outdated interface elements
My verdict
ClickBank excels as an affiliate marketing software for affiliates seeking high-commission digital products with instant promotion capabilities, though product quality verification requires additional due diligence before promotion.
Walmart
Walmart’s affiliate program operates through their Walmart Affiliates marketing platform, allowing you to earn commissions by promoting products from America’s largest retailer.
You can access millions of products across categories from groceries to electronics to home goods. What distinguishes Walmart’s program is its combination of competitive pricing with name recognition that rivals Amazon.
For instance, many affiliates choose Walmart for promoting everyday essentials and grocery items that benefit from Walmart’s reputation for value.
Key features
Access to millions of products with competitive pricing
Custom link generator and product widgets
Real-time reporting dashboard
3-day cookie duration
Monthly payment schedule
Pros
Strong brand recognition with consumers
Wide product selection across categories
No approval needed for individual products
Competitive commission rates in some categories
Pickup and delivery options increase conversion potential
Cons
Shorter cookie window than some competitors
Limited international shipping options
Commission structure favors certain categories
Basic promotional tools compared to some platforms
Payments only via direct deposit
My verdict
Walmart’s affiliate marketing software works well as a complement to other programs, offering strong conversion potential for everyday essentials, though the short cookie duration presents a limitation.
Ebay Partner Network
eBay Partner Network (EPN) connects you with eBay’s massive marketplace of new, used, and collectible items. You can earn commissions promoting products from millions of sellers worldwide.
What makes eBay’s affiliate program unique is its access to auction-style listings and hard-to-find collectibles not available on other affiliate marketing platforms.
For example, many affiliates choose eBay specifically for promoting vintage items, collectibles, or discontinued products that consumers can’t find elsewhere.
Key features
Access to over 1.7 billion listings across categories
Custom link and banner creation tools
Real-time reporting dashboard
24-hour cookie duration
Category-specific commission structure
Pros
Unique product selection including rare items
No approval needed for individual products
Global marketplace with international options
Multiple promotional tools and APIs
Established consumer trust and recognition
Cons
Relatively short cookie window
Variable commission rates by category
Competition with direct eBay search
Product listings can expire
Limited control over seller quality
My verdict
As an affiliate marketing software, eBay Partner Network excels for promoting unique, collectible, or hard-to-find items, though the short cookie duration and variable product quality require strategic promotion approaches.
PartnerStack
PartnerStack specializes in B2B software and SaaS affiliate marketing, distinct from general affiliate marketing platforms. You can use it to run partnership programs for subscription-based products rather than one-time purchases.
What makes PartnerStack unique is its focus on managing multiple partner types – affiliates, referral partners, and resellers – all through one platform.
For instance, many SaaS companies choose PartnerStack specifically to manage their complex B2B sales cycles that might involve different commission structures for different partner categories.
Key features
Partner recruitment and application management
Automated commission tracking for subscriptions
Multi-tier partner program capabilities
Customizable partner portal
Integration with CRM and payment systems
Pros
Specialized for B2B and SaaS products
Handles recurring commission structures
Strong compliance and fraud prevention
Built-in partner training and resources
Comprehensive partner lifecycle management
Cons
Higher price point than general affiliate platforms
Limited consumer product capabilities
Steeper learning curve for configuration
Requires integration setup
Better suited for established businesses
My verdict
PartnerStack excels for B2B software companies seeking comprehensive partnership management beyond basic affiliate programs. Although consumer-focused businesses will find it unnecessarily complex and costly.
CJ Affiliate
Commission Junction (CJ Affiliate) stands as one of the oldest and largest affiliate marketing software platforms in the industry, operating since 1998. You can access thousands of advertiser programs across diverse verticals from retail to travel to finance.
What distinguishes CJ is its reputation for working with established, well-known brands and its advanced tracking technology. For example, many enterprise-level retailers choose CJ specifically for its cross-device tracking capabilities that attribute sales even when customers switch between mobile and desktop.
Key features
Access to premium brand advertisers
Advanced attribution and tracking models
Real-time reporting dashboard
Cross-device tracking technology
Deep-linking tools for specific products
Pros
Established relationships with major brands
Reliable payment processing
Comprehensive reporting capabilities
Strong compliance and security measures
Multi-language and currency support
Cons
Strict publisher approval process
Higher minimum payment thresholds
Interface can be complex for beginners
Some advertisers have lengthy payment terms
Limited support for smaller publishers
My verdict
CJ Affiliate works best for established content creators seeking relationships with major brands. Although beginners may find this affiliate marketing software’s requirements and complexity challenging initially.
Avangate
Avangate (now part of 2Checkout) specializes in digital product and software affiliate marketing with a global payment processing focus. You can promote software, SaaS products, and digital services while Avangate handles complex aspects like international taxes and localized payments.
What makes Avangate distinct is its emphasis on helping software vendors reach global markets through affiliates.
For instance, many software developers choose this affiliate marketing platform specifically for its ability to process payments in over 200 countries with 45+ payment methods and 30+ currencies.
Key features
Digital product and software focus
Global payment processing system
Recurring commission tracking
Localized checkout experiences
Cross-promotion tools
Pros
Higher commission rates for software products
Handles international tax compliance
Supports subscription-based commissions
Reliable affiliate tracking
Multiple promotional resources
Cons
More limited product selection than general networks
Interface can be technically complex
Focused primarily on software vertical
Less brand recognition with consumers
Steeper learning curve for beginners
My verdict
Avangate excels for affiliates promoting software and digital products to global audiences, though those seeking broader product categories would find it unnecessarily specialized.
FlexOffers
FlexOffers operates as a mid-sized affiliate marketing software providing access to over 12,000 affiliate programs across diverse categories. You can join with relatively low entry barriers compared to larger networks like CJ or Rakuten.
What distinguishes FlexOffers is its approach to consolidating programs from multiple networks, allowing you to manage various affiliate relationships through a single affiliate marketing platform.
For example, many publishers choose FlexOffers to gain access to brands that might otherwise require separate network applications and management.
Key features
Access to 12,000+ merchant programs
Sub-affiliate program management
Consolidated payment system
Real-time reporting dashboard
Deep-linking tools and widgets
Pros
Easier approval process than larger networks
Weekly payment options
Lower payment thresholds
Aggregates offers from multiple networks
Strong customer support reputation
Cons
Less direct relationship with merchants
Some interface limitations
Variable commission rates as intermediary
Limited international merchant options
Less name recognition with some brands
My verdict
FlexOffers works well for beginners or mid-level affiliates seeking a simplified way to access multiple programs through one platform, though established affiliates may prefer direct network relationships.
Final thoughts on affiliate marketing software
Each affiliate marketing software serves different purposes effectively. For beginners, Amazon Associates and FlexOffers provide easier entry points with simpler approval processes and familiar products.
In contrast, established businesses might benefit more from CJ Affiliate or Rakuten’s premium brand connections and advanced tracking.
B2B companies should consider specialized affiliate marketing platforms like PartnerStack or Avangate that handle complex sales cycles and subscription models.
Meanwhile, those wanting more control over affiliate relationships might prefer self-hosted solutions like Tracknow.
Did I miss anything? Did you try these options? Do you have any questions or comments? Share your thoughts below in the comments section.
