PayPal vs Square: which should you pick in 2026?

Both are strong choices. The short answer: pick PayPal if you are reaching buyers who prefer PayPal. Pick Square if you are in-person sellers and retail.

PayPalSquare
In one lineThe checkout button shoppers already trust.Card readers, POS and online payments for physical businesses.
PricingFrom 2.99% per transactionFree POS; 2.6% + 10c in person
Free tierYesYes
Best forReaching buyers who prefer PayPalIn-person sellers and retail
CategoryPayments & InvoicingPayments & Invoicing
Websitepaypal.comsquareup.com

PayPal details Square details

Other options

StripeWise BusinessMelioBill.com