Whenever you sell goods online, it’s important to choose your payment methods carefully. Different platforms have varying fees, ease of use, and encryption methods. Choosing the wrong platform could result in you overpaying, or even putting your customers at a higher risk of data theft.
To help you avoid those problems, I’ve put together a comparison of four of the best payment processors you can use. I’ll compare each option in terms of their pros, cons, and pricing structures. That way, you can choose reliable methods that are a strong fit for your needs.
Along the way, we’ll touch on other key factors such as security, ease of use, flexibility, and restrictions. Let’s get moving!
Stripe – Flexible Payment Gateway
Stripe is a popular, modern payment solution with global reach and a simple pricing model. It’s ideal for businesses and developers looking for customisation and integration options.
Pros:
- Highly Customisable: Control what customer data is collected
- Extensions: Add tools like booking, analytics, and shipping
- Easy Integration: Works well with platforms like WordPress and WooCommerce
- Strong Security: Robust encryption and a bug bounty program
- Global Access: Available in 26 countries, accepts payments worldwide
Cons:
- Steep Learning Curve: Beginners may struggle with setup
- Advanced Features Require Help: Full functionality may need a developer or Enterprise plan
Fees:
Stripe charges 1.5% + £0.20 per online transaction and 1.4% + £0.59 for terminal payments. Enterprise pricing is available on request.
Best For:
Ideal for businesses needing custom payment setups or detailed customer data collection. Works best for those with access to IT support or developers.
Square – Simple Payments with Card Reader Support
Square is a user-friendly payment solution for both online and in-person transactions, popular with small businesses.
Pros:
- Easy online store setup with drag-and-drop tools
- Multiple card reader options for quick in-person payments
- Collect customer emails via digital receipts
- Large extension library for booking, analytics, and platform integration
- Customisation options for developers
- Strong security with encryption and fraud detection
Cons:
- Limited to the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan
Fees:
1.4% + £0.25 per UK card transaction
2.5% + £0.25 for non-UK cards
Best For:
Businesses needing in-person payments, simple online stores, and minimal tech setup—within supported countries.
PayPal – Global Payment Platform
Founded in 1998, PayPal is a widely used online payment solution with near-global coverage.
Pros:
- Quick and easy setup for business accounts
- Card reader support for in-person payments
- Integrates easily with websites and CMS platforms
- Strong security with encryption and fraud protection
- Available in most countries
Cons:
- Seller protection excludes digital goods
- £20 chargeback fee if not covered
- Some policies may be restrictive for certain businesses
Fees:
2.9% + £0.30 per UK transaction; custom quotes available for business accounts
Best For:
Businesses need global reach and simple payment tools. Less ideal for digital goods sellers due to chargeback risks.
SumUp – Affordable Mobile Payment Solution
SumUp offers low fees, no monthly costs, and strong 3G connectivity—ideal for small and mobile businesses.
Pros:
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- PCI, DSS, and EMV compliant for secure transactions
- Easy setup with card reader integration
Cons:
- Doesn’t support high-risk merchants; credit checks required
- No live chat support—only phone, email, and help articles
Fees:
2.5% + £0.88 per transaction
Best For:
Start-ups, small businesses, and mobile vendors are looking for simple, secure payments without complex setup.
Choosing a Payment Gateway for Your eCommerce Site
Pick a solution that fits your business needs, works in the countries you serve, and integrates with your website platform.
Top Options:
- SumUp: Best for start-ups, small, and mobile businesses
- Stripe: Flexible and secure—great for businesses with developer support
- Square: Easy to use, with card reader and extension options
- PayPal: Global reach and broad platform compatibility
| PayPal | Square | Stripe | SumUp | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | 2.9% + 30p | 2.5% + 88p | 1.5% + 20p | 2.5% + 88p |
| Terminal | 1.75% + 61p | 1.75% + 61p | 1.4% + 59p | 1.69% + 59p |
| Terminal hardware (one-off fee) | £29.00 | £19.20 | £49.00 | £29.00 |
Square, Stripe, and SumUp users with NFC-enabled phones can accept card payments directly through the mobile app — no card reader required.