Stripe vs PayPal

The developer's best friend for payments, until you realize you're paying for every single API call meets the og of online payments: everyone uses it, but nobody loves the fees. Here's our take.

Stripe

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

PayPal

Nice Pick

The OG of online payments: everyone uses it, but nobody loves the fees.

Pros

• Near-universal acceptance for online transactions
• Built-in fraud protection and buyer/seller safeguards
• Easy integration with most e-commerce platforms

Cons

• Transaction fees can eat into profits, especially for small businesses
• Account freezes and disputes can be a nightmare to resolve

The Verdict

Use PayPal if: You want near-universal acceptance for online transactions and can live with transaction fees can eat into profits, especially for small businesses.

Use Stripe if: You prioritize best dx over what PayPal offers.

The Bottom Line

PayPal wins

The OG of online payments: everyone uses it, but nobody loves the fees.