Stripe vs PayPal: which should you pick in 2026?

Both are strong choices. The short answer: pick Stripe if you are online payments, subscriptions and invoicing. Pick PayPal if you are reaching buyers who prefer PayPal.

StripePayPal
In one lineThe developer-loved payments infrastructure of the internet.The checkout button shoppers already trust.
Pricing2.9% + 30c per transactionFrom 2.99% per transaction
Free tierYesYes
Best forOnline payments, subscriptions and invoicingReaching buyers who prefer PayPal
CategoryPayments & InvoicingPayments & Invoicing
Websitestripe.compaypal.com

Stripe details PayPal details

Other options

SquareWise BusinessMelioBill.com