Fintech Analysis • Financial Guide

Stripe vs. PayPal Fees (2026): Complete Processing Cost Breakdown & Savings Guide

Detailed comparison of Stripe (2.9% + $0.30) vs PayPal (2.99%–3.49% + $0.49) across domestic cards, international payments, invoicing, and chargebacks.

⚡ Quick Verdict: Stripe vs. PayPal

On US online checkout, Stripe (2.9% + $0.30) beats PayPal Checkout (3.49% + $0.49) by 0.59% + $0.19 per order. On $10,000/month (200 orders), Stripe saves you $97/month ($1,164/year).

Scenario Stripe (US) PayPal (US) Winner
Standard Checkout 2.90% + $0.30 3.49% + $0.49 ✅ Stripe
Unbranded Card Fields 2.90% + $0.30 2.99% + $0.49 ✅ Stripe
Client Invoicing 3.30% + $0.30 (or $5 ACH) 3.49% + $0.49 ✅ Stripe ACH ($5 cap)
International Cards 4.40% + $0.30 4.99% + $0.49 ✅ Stripe
Dispute / Chargeback Fee $15.00 $20.00 ✅ Stripe

💡 Best Setup for Online Stores

Use Stripe / Apple Pay as your primary checkout, and keep PayPal Express as a secondary button to capture the extra 10% of mobile shoppers who prefer PayPal. Compare your payouts in our Stripe Calculator and PayPal Calculator.