Stripe vs Recurly

The developer's best friend for payments, until you realize you're paying for every single API call meets subscription billing that doesn't make you want to pull your hair out when you need to handle a prorated refund. 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

Recurly

Subscription billing that doesn't make you want to pull your hair out when you need to handle a prorated refund.

Pros

• Handles complex subscription logic like upgrades, downgrades, and pauses without custom code
• Built-in dunning management to automatically retry failed payments and reduce churn
• Strong API with webhooks for real-time subscription events and easy integration
• Supports multiple currencies and tax compliance (VAT, GST) out of the box

Cons

• Pricing is steep for small startups, with setup fees and percentage-based transaction cuts
• Reporting can feel limited compared to pulling raw data into your own analytics

The Verdict

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

Use Recurly if: You prioritize handles complex subscription logic like upgrades, downgrades, and pauses without custom code 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.