Stripe vs Adyen

The developer's best friend for payments, until you realize you're paying for every single API call meets the payment platform that actually unifies everything, so you can stop juggling 10 different providers. Here's our take.

Stripe

Nice Pick

The developer's best friend for payments, until you realize you're paying for every single API call.

Pros

• Best DX
• Great docs
• Reliable
• All payment types
• Incredibly clean and well-documented APIs that just work
• Handles global compliance and fraud detection so you don't have to
• Seamless integration for subscriptions and recurring billing
• Extensive ecosystem with tools like Stripe Connect and Radar

Cons

• 2.9% + 30¢
• Complex for simple needs
• Account holds
• Transaction fees add up fast, especially for high-volume businesses
• Can get pricey for custom or advanced features beyond the basics

Adyen

The payment platform that actually unifies everything, so you can stop juggling 10 different providers.

Pros

• Single API for online, in-app, and in-store payments
• Supports over 250 payment methods and 150 currencies globally
• Built-in fraud prevention and data analytics tools

Cons

• Pricing can be steep for smaller businesses
• Complex setup may require dedicated technical resources

The Verdict

Use Stripe if: You want best dx and can live with 2.9% + 30¢.

Use Adyen if: You prioritize single api for online, in-app, and in-store payments over what Stripe offers.

The Bottom Line

Stripe wins

The developer's best friend for payments, until you realize you're paying for every single API call.