Skip to main content

People love their phones, as you may have seen everywhere you go. This extends to paying for stuff, too. Personally, I only use my phone to pay now, so I can attest to its popularity.

Plastic is so last decade, so you need to be ready to accept payment through these magical digital wallets everyone's keeping on their uniquitous black mirrors. So, you need to have a mobile payment solution that allows you to readily accept all that cash.

You'll want a solution that can seamlessly integrate with your other systems, is pumped up with the latest security standards, has reasonable fees, and can scale with your inevitable influx of payments.

We decided, for your sake, that we'd go looking for the best mobile payment software, putting it through our gauntlet of checklists to end up with this great post with all the deets.

Our ecommerce and retail expertise informed this list, so we hope you like it.

What is Mobile Payment Software?

Mobile payment solutions are the modern-day wallet—think of them as the 21st-century answer to cash and cards, making transactions easier for you and your customers.

They allow retailers to accept payments via smartphones, tablets, and even the latest smart gadgets (yes, we’re talking about those AI pins and snazzy smartwatches).

If you’re thinking this tech is only for brick-and-mortar businesses, think again. Mobile payment apps work for ecommerce just as seamlessly (via mobile-browser based and in-app payments), eliminating the need for physical cards altogether.

Rather than pulling out plastic and typing in card numbers, your customers can tap into their mobile wallets for lightning-fast, hassle-free payments.

Popular options like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Pay make this possible—and let’s be honest, they’re way more convenient than rummaging through a wallet.

And it’s not just about buying stuff.

Mobile payment apps make peer-to-peer (P2P) transfers a breeze, whether you’re splitting a dinner tab or getting something on Facebook Marketplace (a mostly undamaged armoire for fifty bones?).

Why Trust Our Mobile Payment App Reviews

We’ve been testing and reviewing ecommerce software since 2021.

As ecommerce experts ourselves, we know how critical, and how difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software.

We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions.

We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different ecommerce use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews.

Learn how we stay transparent & our review methodology.

Comparing the Best Mobile Payment Solutions, Feature by Feature

Before we get into the reviews, let’s quickly compare each of our top mobile payment software picks for price and more. If you click on Compare Software below the table, you’ll get the full comparison of these tools.

Tools Price
Stax Pay From $99/month
Payment Depot From $79/month
Shopify POS Pricing upon request
CardX by Stax From $29/month
QuickBooks Online From $10.50/month (for 3 months, then $35/month)
Helcim From 0.50% + $0.25 per transaction
Clover From 2.3% + $0.1 per transaction
Merchant One From $13.95 plus 0.29% + 1.55% per transaction
Square From $29/month + processing fees
Stripe From 2.9% + 0.30/transaction
Compare Software Specs Side by Side

Compare Software Specs Side by Side

Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.

Compare Software

How to Choose a Mobile Payment Solution

Picking the right mobile payment solution might feel like navigating a maze, but nailing this choice means smooth operations and happy customers. Here’s your cheat sheet:

  • Define what you need. Do you need a solution for in-store, online, or both? Pin down essential features like support for mobile browser and in-app payments, multiple payment options, and integrations with your current tools. Think about business size too—a boutique might prioritize simplicity, while a growing ecommerce platform may need scalability.
  • Think about who will use it. Whether it’s cashiers, online shoppers, or your team as a whole, make sure the system is user-friendly. Extra points if it requires minimal training to hit the ground running!
  • Ensure it integrates. List out tools it needs to sync with—your POS, ecommerce platform, CRM, or accounting software. Solid integrations (think electronic signatures, cryptocurrency support) make life easier and keep everything connected as your business grows.
  • Prioritize security. Look for encryption, tokenization, and PCI-DSS compliance to keep customer data safe and maintain trust. For global transactions, check that the security level holds up across borders.
  • Check the costs. Transparent pricing is key, so be aware of transaction fees, setup costs, and hidden charges. Sometimes a higher price tag brings long-term savings with lower transaction fees or stellar support.
  • Consider customer experience. Fast, reliable checkout is non-negotiable. Ensure the solution offers multiple payment methods and has minimal downtime to avoid any "Why won’t my payment go through?" frustrations.
  • Look for good support. A provider with 24/7 support can be a lifesaver during peak sales. Check their uptime guarantees too—reliability is crucial for smooth sales during big events.
  • Plan for growth. Choose a solution that scales with you, handling more transactions as you grow. Bonus if it offers analytics, loyalty programs, or CRM integration to unlock more value later.
  • Test and review. Take advantage of free trials and read reviews to see how the system performs in real life. It’s your best chance to spot red flags before committing.

Get these steps right, and you’ll land a mobile payment solution that makes checkout a breeze, keeps data safe, and grows with you.

The 10 Best Mobile Payment Solutions, Reviewed

OK, here’s the deal. Below, you’ll find our brief reviews of these top mobile payment systems.

In them, we talk about why we included the tool, its standout features and integrations, its inherent pros and cons, as well as screenshots of what it looks like for the user.

Best for real-time business health monitoring

  • Free demo available
  • From $99/month

Stax is an all-in-one payment platform that allows businesses to accept in-person, online, and mobile payments, with customizable smart terminals, top industry gateways, and convenient payment options such as swipe, dip, tap, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

I chose Stax as a mobile payment solution because of its comprehensive mobile app that supports iOS and Android, allowing for real-time business insights and access to sales reports. This feature allows for monitoring of business health on the go. Additionally, Stax offers compliant surcharging solutions with 0% markup on direct-cost interchange, allowing businesses to pass credit card processing fees to their customers.

Furthermore, their point-of-sale system has the ability to synchronize mobile transactions seamlessly. Overall, Stax Pay provides a secure and convenient way for businesses to manage their payment data and monitor their business health from their mobile device. 

Stax Standout Features and Integrations

Features include subscription billing, ecommerce integrations, recurring payments, invoicing, credit card surcharging, real-time analytics, developer-friendly APIs, and support for multiple payment methods including credit cards, digital wallets, and bank transfers.

Integrations include popular business tools such as Slack, Quickbooks, Microsoft Office, Google Suite, CRMs and more. Additional integrations are possible through Zapier, though this requires a separate subscription and may incur additional costs.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Advanced invoicing and billing software included
  • User-friendly and versatile platform for various payment types
  • Developer-friendly API

Cons:

  • Potential added fees for advanced features
  • May be cost-prohibitive for businesses with low sales volume

Best value for high transaction volumes

  • 3-month free trial
  • From $79/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.5/5

Payment Depot offers merchant services that focus on transparent pricing and low-cost credit card processing, aiming to eliminate hidden fees for businesses. This approach has garnered positive feedback from customers who value honesty and have reported substantial savings, making Payment Depot a preferred choice for both small and large businesses seeking clarity in their transaction costs.

Payment Depot offers a robust mobile payment solution that caters well to businesses on the go, combining convenience with efficiency. By partnering with SwipeSimple, Payment Depot provides a mobile app and card reader that enable merchants to accept payments directly from their smartphones or tablets, regardless of location. This mobile app supports a wide range of functionalities, including the ability to manage a product catalog, save payment information securely, add tips, and process refunds.

Moreover, Payment Depot's mobile payment solution is designed with user experience in mind, supporting payments from mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. This inclusivity in accepted payment methods caters to the growing consumer preference for contactless payments, enhancing the customer experience by offering quick and convenient payment options. The mobile app's intuitive interface ensures that business owners and their staff can easily navigate its features, from transaction processing to inventory management.

Payment Depot Standout Features and Integrations

Features include subscription-based pricing, free payment gateway, virtual terminal through swipesimple, compatibility with pos systems like clover and vital select, user-friendly interface, support for mobile and ach payments, integration with major ecommerce platforms, no hidden fees, and dedicated customer support​​​​​​​​​​.

Integrations include OpenCart, PrestaShop, 3dCart, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, Magento, Zen Cart, NCR, Authorize.Net, PayTrace, and others.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Cost-effective for businesses with high transaction volumes
  • User interface is straightforward and intuitive
  • Comprehensive equipment offerings

Cons:

  • Not ideal for low-volume businesses
  • Limited to US-based, non-high-risk merchants

Best for powering your retail business with more tools

  • 3-day free trial
  • Pricing upon request

The Shopify POS mobile payment solution offers businesses software that can streamline their entire purchase process in a centralized platform, from recording customer data and managing loyalty programs to tracking inventory, processing payments, and distributing commissions to staff.

With Shopify POS, you get all the essential features of a traditional POS system, as well as unique solutions for scalability and growth. With omnichannel options that manage online and retail stores, you don’t need to track multiple inventories, payment systems, and catalogs separately. This all-in-one solution syncs data across the entire platform for easier management.

Shopify is for businesses of all sizes, but they especially excel in supporting retail and wholesale businesses. Whether you’re just starting your business or trying to grow it with a robust marketing strategy, Shopify POS offers a place to sell, market, and manage everything associated with your organization.

Shopify POS Standout Features and Integrations

Features include contactless NFC, electronic payments, mobile access, POS, pricing management, customer history, email marketing, accounting integrations, employee management, return tracking and management, forecasting, multi-location, and sales reports.

Integrations include Shopify, Meta for Business, DataFeedWatch, TapMango, Extensiv Order Manager, Sling, Better Reports, Marsello, SendCloud, and Glew.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Convenient for customers
  • Modern and intuitive navigation
  • All-in-one platform for business management

Cons:

  • Minimal customer support
  • No variable or custom pricing

Best for zero-cost credit card transactions

  • From $29/month

CardX by Stax is a payment processing tool that allows businesses to accept credit card payments at zero cost, ensuring compliance with surcharging regulations. It offers solutions for online, in-office, and in-person transactions, allowing businesses to keep 100% of their sales and remain fully compliant with all rules and regulations.

I chose CardX by Stax for mobile payment solutions because it offers zero-cost credit card transactions and seamless surcharging compliance, making it stand out from other payment solutions. This tool allows businesses to keep 100% of every credit card sale and provides a fully compliant, turnkey solution, making it the best option for zero-cost credit card transactions.

Additionally, the platform is fully compliant with all rules and regulations, offering powerful surcharging and 24/7 customer service to drive sales and lower payment processing times.

CardX by Stax Standout Features and Integrations

Features include transparent pricing, no hidden fees, compliance with surcharging regulations, easy integration, enhanced convenience, efficiency for businesses, customer support, real-time reporting, secure transactions, and fraud prevention tools.

Integrations include Stax Pay, Stax Connect, Stax Bill, Stax Processing, and Click to Pay.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Detailed transaction insights
  • Customizable surcharge options
  • Compliance with surcharging laws

Cons:

  • Not best suited for smaller transaction volumes
  • Complex integration process

Best for small business accounting tools

  • 30-day free trial
  • From $10.50/month (for 3 months, then $35/month)
Visit Website
Rating: 4/5

QuickBooks Online is a cloud-based accounting software that you can use to process your payments, track your expenses, and manage your invoices. It's designed for small- and medium-sized businesses, and is available in the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia. You can access the platform from anywhere because it's cloud-based, making it possible to manage transactions on the go.

To automate your data entry, you can connect your bank feeds to the software. It calculates sales tax automatically for transactions, and allows you to charge clients and customers via invoice. The invoicing tool creates customizable invoices, which you can then send by email or by printing and mailing.

The software's expense tracking feature lets you categorize and track your business expenses, helping you keep clean and up-to-date financial records for your business. It has a detailed analytics and reporting dashboard to give you a comprehensive overview of where money is coming from, and where it's going.

QuickBooks Online integrates with over 450 business apps like Square, Stripe, Paychex, Insightly CRM, Mailchimp, Shopify, eBay, BigCommerce, Magento, Squarespace, and Etsys. Paid plans start from $30 per month, and a 30-day free trial is available.

Best for cost-effective payment processing

  • Free account available
  • From 0.50% + $0.25 per transaction
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

Helcim is a payment processing tool designed to provide businesses with cost-effective solutions for accepting credit and debit card payments, both in-person and online. Its commitment to transparent pricing and low processing rates positions Helcim as a competitive choice for businesses aiming to reduce their processing fees.

I chose Helcim for mobile payment solutions because of its commitment to low processing rates and transparent pricing, which is crucial for businesses looking to manage costs effectively. What makes Helcim different is its Interchange Plus pricing model and the Helcim Fee Saver feature, which can significantly reduce credit card fees.

Beyond just payment processing, Helcim provides a full suite of integrated services, including a comprehensive merchant platform that supports a wide range of functionalities such as invoicing, customer management, and inventory management.

Helcim Standout Features and Integrations

Features include merchant accounts for accepting credit and debit card payments, a mobile app for iOS and Android for on-the-go payment acceptance, virtual terminals for processing transactions over the phone or via other non-direct methods, and payment gateways for integrating payments into business websites with features like hosted payment pages, QR codes, and recurring payment plans.

Integrations include Xero, Quickbooks, WooCommerce, Foxy.io, and Great Exposure.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Support through phone, email, and an online ticket system
  • Interchange-plus pricing model is highly transparent
  • Extensive range of services beyond payment prossing alone

Cons:

  • Limited physical presence outside Canada and the US
  • Complexity for small merchants

Best for POS system integrations

  • Free demo available
  • From 2.3% + $0.1 per transaction

Clover is a point-of-sale (POS) system that provides businesses with a combination of hardware and software to process sales transactions and manage various aspects of their operations. The system is designed to support businesses in the retail, restaurant, and service industries by providing a centralized solution for sales, payment processing, and business management tasks.

Clover offers portable devices that allow merchants to accept payments anywhere, whether at the counter, at the table, or on the go. These customizable POS devices can handle a wide range of payment types, including credit and debit card swipes, mobile wallets, EMV chips, and contactless payments.

Clover's software platform also includes features for tracking sales, managing inventory, and analyzing business performance. Overall, it is intended to provide businesses with the tools they need to process transactions efficiently while also offering insights into their operations.

Clover Standout Features and Integrations

Features include a customizable interface, employee management and order management tools, customer relationship management, loyalty and rewards programs, offline mode in the case of internet outages, point-to-point encryption (P2PE), and Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) compliance.

Integrations include WooCommerce, Homebase, 7shifts, Paychex Flex, Adobe Commerce, Deputy, Xero, Shopify, Mailchimp, and DocuSign.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Provides reliable customer support
  • User-friendly interface
  • Offers a good mix of hardware options

Cons:

  • Limited support for international currencies
  • Long-term contract required for some pricing plans

Best customizable payment solutions tailored to specific business needs

  • Free plan available
  • From $13.95 plus 0.29% + 1.55% per transaction

Merchant One is a payment processing solution that caters to a variety of business sectors, including retail, with a particular emphasis on credit card processing and point of sale (POS) systems. Recognized for its direct service approach and next-day funding capabilities, Merchant One stands out as a preferred choice for retail POS systems, serving over 100,000 customers with its reliable and cost-effective processing solutions.

Another distinctive feature of Merchant One is its commitment to providing customizable payment solutions tailored to the specific needs of each business. Unlike one-size-fits-all payment processors, Merchant One works closely with clients to understand their unique requirements and challenges, offering personalized setups that include various payment gateways, POS systems, and mobile payment solutions.

Merchant One differentiates itself by assigning dedicated account managers to each client. This approach ensures that businesses receive personalized support and guidance throughout their partnership with Merchant One. The dedicated account manager becomes familiar with the specific needs and challenges of the business, providing targeted advice, timely assistance with issues, and helping navigate the complexities of payment processing.

Merchant One Standout Features and Integrations

Features include high approval rates for high-risk businesses, customizable payment solutions, dedicated account managers, flexible payment processing options, mobile payment capabilities, e-commerce integration, pos systems support, 24/7 customer service, competitive pricing, comprehensive reporting and analytics, secure transaction processing, multi-channel payment acceptance.

Integrations include Authorize.net, Payeezy Gateway, Payflow Pro, Paytrace Gateway, USAePay, Aloha, Micros, Maitre’D, 1ShoppingCart, BigCommerce, ecwid, Fishbowl, Magento, PrestaShop, Salesforce, and dozens more ecommerce platforms, shopping cart solutions, and sales enablement tools.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Dedicated account managers for each client
  • Customizable payment solutions tailored to the specific needs businesses
  • High approval rates for high-risk businesses

Cons:

  • Cost cosiderations for smaller businesses
  • Learning curve for advanced features

Best for bringing together all sides of your business

  • Free plan available
  • From $29/month + processing fees
Visit Website
Rating: 4.7/5

With Square, you have everything you need to take payments and grow your sales. This payment service allows you to sell in-person, over the phone, online, and even out and about when in the field. Square also allows you to track customer preferences, feedback, and inventory.

One of the best things about Square is the versatility it offers. You can charge credit cards by magstripe, chip cards, and contactless readers, as well as Google, Apple, and Samsung Pay. Businesses also have the option to enable virtual terminal payments, where you enter a card number and other details manually with no card reader required.

Square has the power to support individuals and small businesses with simple tools, as well as massive organizations with custom plans. This platform works for food and beverage, retail, beauty, services, and much more.

Square Standout Features and Integrations

Features include mobile card reader, near-field communication, ACH payment processing, POS system, fraud detection, bank transfers, electronic payments, subscription billing, reporting and analytics, partial payments, receipt management, offline access, and SSL security features.

Integrations include Mailchimp, Wix, FreshBooks, Weebly, WooCommerce, Paymo, QuickBooks, Make, Zoho Invoice, and Book Like A Boss.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • No monthly fee for small businesses
  • Summaries of every transaction
  • Easy to set up

Cons:

  • Bluetooth connectivity issues
  • No geo-mapping capabilities

Best for a technology-first approach to payment processing

  • Free trial available
  • From 2.9% + 0.30/transaction
Visit Website
Rating: 4.2/5

Stripe is an online payment processing tool that’s targeted towards internet businesses. It allows users to set up a marketplace, accept payments with a global payment platform, and bill customers on a monthly or recurring basis.

One of the best things about Stripe is its technology-first approach, which encourages developers to build integrations into the system with real-time webhooks. Using the developer platform means businesses spend less time on maintenance for legacy systems and more time focusing on the customer experience.

As an online tool for internet retailers, Stripe is scalable for businesses of every size. Its versatility allows business owners to accept payments in over 135 currencies and global transfers, manage a subscription service, or create a crowdfunding platform. Using Stripe, you can ensure you have a variety of payment options for your customers.

Stripe Standout Features and Integrations

Features include an embeddable UI toolkit, authentication, in-person payments, authorization, payment links, online and recurring payments, iOS and android compatibility, financial reporting, and payout management.

Integrations include Magento, Shopware, WordPress, Drupal, WooCommerce, PrestaShop, Afterpay, Klarna, Shopify, and Rippling.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Automated fraud detection
  • Reliable and intuitive
  • No monthly fee, only transaction fee

Cons:

  • Developer needed for some features
  • No real-time payment deposits

Other Options

Here are a few more options that didn’t make the best mobile payment solutions list:

  1. Braintree

    For leveraging the PayPal service to drive conversions

  2. Fondy

    For cross-border commerce and marketplaces

  3. Venmo

    For supercharged word-of-mouth marketing

  4. Amazon Payments

    For optimizing customer checkout experiences

  5. WePay

    For scaling with your business as it grows

  6. PayPal

    For reducing cart abandonment

  7. Google Pay

    For easy integration with whatever you’re already using

  8. Authorize.net

    For credit card processing for small and medium businesses

  9. Apple Pay

    For protecting customers’ personal data

  10. Mobiyo

    For an ROI-centric approach to mobile payments

Our Selection Criteria for Mobile Payment Systems

You might wonder how this list was assembled. Why did some solutions get the rose while others were sadly sent home?

Well, we create a list of the most popular tools, narrow them down based on ratings, and finally use selection criteria to settle on who gets the roses, so to speak. (I don't even watch The Bachelor, but it just seemed right for this.)

Choosing the right mobile payment solution requires a detailed evaluation to ensure it meets your business needs and enhances your operations.

Here are the criteria we use to guide you to the best choice.

Core functionality (25% of total weighting score)

These are the essential features every mobile payment solution should have—no exceptions.

  • Payment method support. Must support a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Wallet), and contactless payments.
  • Security features. Includes advanced security measures like encryption, tokenization, and compliance with PCI-DSS standards.
  • Integration capabilities. Seamless integration with existing POS systems, ecommerce platforms, accounting software, and CRM systems.
  • User experience. Provides a smooth and quick checkout process, both online and in-store, ensuring minimal friction for customers.
  • Reliability. Guarantees high uptime and reliable performance, especially during peak times.

Additional standout features (25% of total weighting score)

What extra value does each solution provide that's outside the norm?

  • Advanced analytics. In-depth reporting and analytics tools to track sales performance and customer behavior.
  • Scalability. Ability to grow with your business, handling increasing transaction volumes and offering additional features as needed.
  • Fraud prevention. Robust tools for detecting and preventing fraudulent transactions.
  • Mobile support. Fully functional mobile app for on-the-go management of payments and transactions.

Usability (10% of total weighting score)

Is the solution user-friendly? How intuitive is it?

  • User interface (UI). Clean, attractive design with intuitive navigation and minimal learning curve.
  • Ease of use. Easy to set up and use for both staff and customers, with clear instructions and support.
  • Mobile usability. Responsive design and mobile app for managing payments on the go.

Onboarding (10% of total weighting score)

How quickly can you get up and running with the solution?

  • Training and support. Comprehensive resources such as training videos, guides, and interactive product tours.
  • Implementation support. Templates, best practices, and dedicated support to ensure a smooth setup and deployment.

Customer support (10% of total weighting score)

How reliable and accessible is the support?

  • Availability. Responsive support available via live chat, phone, and email.
  • Proactive assistance. Community forums, regular updates, webinars, and proactive support options.

Value for money (10% of total weighting score)

Is the solution worth the investment?

  • Pricing models. Competitive and flexible pricing that scales with your business needs.
  • Transparency. Clear, transparent pricing without hidden fees, reflecting a commitment to providing value.

Customer reviews (10% of total weighting score)

What are users saying about the solution?

  • User satisfaction. High ratings from businesses of various sizes, indicating effectiveness and reliability.
  • Positive feedback. Praise for ease of use, quality of customer support, and overall impact on business efficiency.

By evaluating mobile payment solutions against these criteria, you can identify the best fit for your business, ensuring it supports growth, enhances security, and improves the customer experience.

Key Features of Mobile Payment Solutions

When you're reeling in a mobile payment solution, certain features signal that it's a keeper. If it’s missing these essentials, toss it back and keep fishing!

Here’s what you want in your net:

  • Multiple payment options. From credit cards to mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Wallet) and even contactless payments, the best solutions cater to all preferences. More options mean more sales—and happier customers.
  • Top-tier security. Encryption, tokenization, and PCI-DSS compliance are musts to protect customer data and keep your reputation intact. Look for fraud prevention tools like real-time transaction monitoring and chargeback management to stay ahead of the game.
  • Seamless integrations. A great solution plays well with others—your POS, ecommerce platform, CRM, and accounting tools. Whether it's for electronic signatures or cryptocurrency payments, smooth integration keeps your systems in sync and running like clockwork.
  • User-friendly interface. No one has time for a complicated setup. The best solutions are intuitive for both your team and customers, reducing training time and streamlining the entire payment process.
  • Reliable uptime. You can’t afford downtime—especially during peak sales times. High reliability and uptime guarantees keep payments flowing without a hitch.
  • Scalability. As your business grows, so should your payment solution. Look for one that can handle a growing transaction volume and offers optional features (like loyalty programs) to support future needs.
  • Mobile support. A solution with a fully functional mobile app lets you manage transactions on the go—whether you're overseeing sales or handling customer queries.
  • Detailed analytics and reporting. With in-depth insights into customer behavior, sales trends, and payment types, you’re equipped to make smarter, data-driven decisions.
  • 24/7 customer support. Problems don’t follow a 9-5 schedule, and neither should support. A provider with round-the-clock assistance via live chat, phone, and email is essential for fast problem-solving.
  • Customization options. Tailor the solution to your brand’s look, set specific user permissions, and tweak payment options to fit your exact needs.

With these features in place, you’re set to land a mobile payment solution that doesn’t just meet your needs but enhances the customer experience and keeps you poised for growth.

Top Benefits of the Best Mobile Payment Apps

Let’s get to the good stuff: what mobile payment solutions can actually do for your business. You’re looking for sales growth and smoother transactions—but here’s a rundown of the real benefits, beyond the obvious:

  • Convenience and speed. Mobile payments streamline checkout, making it fast and friction-free for your customers. Less wait time means happier shoppers, and happier shoppers are more likely to come back.
  • Boosted security. With advanced security like encryption and tokenization, mobile payment apps protect customer data and drastically cut down on fraud risks. Peace of mind for you and your customers.
  • Higher sales potential. Offering multiple payment options—from contactless cards to mobile wallets—lets you reach a wider range of customers. More ways to pay = more completed sales.
  • Better customer satisfaction. The ease and flexibility of mobile payments make transactions painless, building customer loyalty and encouraging repeat business.
  • Operational efficiency. Automating payments reduces manual errors and speeds up the checkout process, freeing up time for your team to focus on more impactful tasks.
  • Real-time insights. Get detailed analytics on customer behavior, peak buying times, and popular payment methods. These insights let you make data-driven decisions to optimize your operations.
  • Built for growth. Mobile payment solutions scale with your business, accommodating higher transaction volumes and adding new features as your needs evolve.
  • Cost savings. By reducing the need for physical infrastructure and streamlining transactions, mobile payments can help lower your operational costs over time.
  • Competitive edge. Staying tech-forward with modern payment options can set you apart from competitors who are still stuck on cash and card-only systems.
  • Global reach. Many mobile payment solutions support international currencies and payment methods, making it easier to cater to global customers without extra hassle.
  • System integration. Seamless integration with your POS, ecommerce platform, or CRM keeps everything synced, streamlining operations and reducing headaches.
  • Fraud prevention. Built-in fraud detection tools monitor for suspicious activity and help protect against chargebacks, so you can feel confident about every transaction.

With these benefits, mobile payment solutions go from being a convenient tool to a strategic powerhouse that drives growth, boosts customer satisfaction, and keeps your business future-ready.

Mobile payment solutions are evolving at breakneck speed, shaped by tech advances, economic shifts, and the ever-demanding customer experience.

Here’s what’s coming in hot for 2025:

  • Contactless and QR-based payments. NFC and QR code payments aren’t slowing down. Expect continued growth as hygiene-conscious customers stick with touch-free options. Plus, these methods are becoming more robust with added layers of encryption and real-time fraud detection.
  • Mobile wallets as digital hubs. Mobile wallets are no longer just for payments; they’re consolidating loyalty cards, transit passes, event tickets, and even IDs. With Apple Wallet and Google Wallet leading the charge, this trend puts everything a customer needs for their day in one place—convenient, secure, and ready on their smartphone.
  • Biometric authentication everywhere. Say goodbye to passwords and hello to fingerprints, facial scans, and even voice recognition. These security features offer a frictionless, secure experience for users who want safety without hassle, helping businesses increase checkout speeds and customer trust.
  • Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) expansion. The BNPL model is booming, especially among Gen Z and Millennials. New BNPL tools are integrating with mobile payment apps, enabling customers to split high-ticket purchases over time, with many options offering zero interest—meaning bigger sales and more purchasing power.
  • The rise of cryptocurrency payments. More mobile payment apps are beginning to support crypto payments, appealing to the rising number of consumers and businesses looking to diversify payment options. Expect smoother crypto-to-fiat conversions and more ways to use digital currencies for everyday purchases.
  • Super apps are going global. Inspired by Asia’s WeChat Pay and Grab, super apps are consolidating everything from payments and shopping to social media and booking services. These all-in-one apps simplify the user experience and boost engagement, and Western markets are starting to see their own versions emerge.
  • Mobile Point-of-Sale (mPOS) growth. mPOS systems are transforming smartphones into cash registers, giving small businesses the freedom to accept payments on the go. With mPOS tech evolving, it’s becoming more accessible and feature-rich, supporting contactless and app-based payments alongside traditional cards.
  • AI-powered fraud detection. Artificial intelligence is ramping up fraud detection, helping businesses spot suspicious activity in real-time while keeping checkout seamless for customers. Machine learning models are also powering personalized recommendations, creating smoother customer journeys and building loyalty.
  • In-app and social media payments. Social commerce is surging, with platforms like Instagram and TikTok offering in-app purchases. In 2025, expect more customers to complete their shopping journeys within social media apps, giving businesses new sales channels and opportunities to engage audiences where they’re already active.

Staying ahead of these trends can help your business make the most of mobile payment tech, from seamless in-app checkouts to advanced fraud protection.

Cost & Pricing of Mobile Payment Solutions

Understanding the pricing structure of mobile payment solutions is essential for finding a platform that aligns with your business needs and budget.

Here’s a breakdown of common pricing models, typical features, and the types of businesses they serve.

Plan typeAverage priceCommon features includedBest for
Free$0Basic transaction processing, support for major credit/debit cards, limited monthly volume, basic security features.Startups, small online stores
Pay-as-you-go2.6% + $0.10 per transactionNo monthly fees; charges per transaction; includes basic reporting and support.Small businesses with variable sales volumes
Small Business$50 - $100/monthAdvanced reporting, multi-currency support, subscription billing, 24/7 customer support, integration with accounting software.Growing SMBs & established retailers
Professional$100 - $200/monthAll Small Business features plus fraud protection, API access, marketplace integrations, multiple user accounts.Large businesses & multichannel retailers
EnterpriseCustom pricingAll Professional features plus custom integrations, dedicated account manager, priority support, and white-label options.High-volume merchants & multinational corporations

Additional costs to consider

When evaluating mobile payment software, keep in mind potential extra expenses that can impact the overall cost:

  • Transaction fees. In addition to monthly fees, some providers charge per transaction, especially for credit card processing or international payments.
  • Hardware costs. If your business requires physical card readers or POS systems, factor in the cost to purchase or rent this equipment.
  • Integration fees. Some providers charge extra for integrating the payment solution with your existing systems, like ecommerce platforms or accounting software.
  • Chargeback fees. Fees apply when a customer disputes a transaction, which can add up if not managed carefully.
  • Currency conversion fees. If you handle international transactions, account for fees associated with currency conversion.

By carefully evaluating these factors alongside the features and pricing of each plan, you’ll be better positioned to select a mobile payment solution that suits your current needs and supports your business as it scales.

Mobile Payment Systems FAQs

We don’t like missing any little detail, so here we are with questions you might still have and the requisite answers that would go with them.

What is the difference between mobile payments and mobile banking?

Mobile payments are all about spending—using apps like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, or Samsung Pay to make purchases, pay bills, or send money. Mobile banking, on the other hand, is like having your bank branch in your pocket, letting you check balances, transfer funds, or deposit checks.

One’s your wallet, the other’s your account manager.

Can mobile payment solutions handle international transactions?

Yep, but with some fine print. Many mobile payment solutions work across borders, but not all support every currency or country, and fees can vary.

If you’re selling globally, double-check that your solution covers your target regions and watch out for currency conversion charges or international transaction fees. It’s worth the extra five minutes of research to save on surprise charges.

How do mobile payment solutions integrate with accounting software?

Integration levels vary. Some mobile payment apps sync up beautifully with accounting software—think seamless data flow from sales into your books. Others might need an integration tool or (brace yourself) some manual entry.

Look for solutions that either directly integrate with your accounting setup or offer an easy fix if they don’t. After all, we’re here to simplify, not add work!

What security measures are in place to protect against fraud?

Good mobile payment solutions take security seriously. Here’s what to look for:

  • Encryption and tokenization to lock down customer data.
  • Biometric authentication (fingerprint, facial recognition) for easier, safer logins.
  • Real-time monitoring and alerts to catch suspicious activity on the spot.

Reputable solutions meet PCI-DSS standards, meaning they’re wired for secure payment processing. Long story short: your customer’s data—and your reputation—stays safe.

Are there any hidden fees lurking in mobile payment solutions?

Sometimes, unfortunately, yes. Many providers are upfront about costs, but some have sneaky fees that pop up for:

  • Transactions. Each payment processed may have a cost, especially for credit card use.
  • Monthly service. Premium features often come with a monthly price tag.
  • Chargebacks. Disputed transactions can mean extra fees.
  • Special services. Instant deposits, high-tier support, or specific integrations might come with added costs.

It pays to review the details closely, so you know what you’re signing up for and aren’t surprised by fees hiding in the shadows.

How do mobile payment solutions handle refunds and chargebacks?

Most solutions make refunds easy—just hit a few buttons in the app. Chargebacks (when customers dispute a transaction with their bank) are a bit messier. They can mean extra steps, sometimes fees, and a little back-and-forth to resolve.

Before choosing a provider, get a sense of how they handle chargebacks and if they’ll have your back when disputes pop up.

Do I need any physical equipment to use mobile payment solutions?

If you’re handling in-person sales, you’ll probably need some basic gear like a card reader or a mobile POS (mPOS) device. Many solutions include a starter card reader (for tap, swipe, and insert) either free or at a low cost.

For more advanced setups, you might pay for a rental or purchase, but it’s a small price for the flexibility to take payments wherever you are.

Other Payment Software Reviews

These software review lists may complement your search for mobile payment solutions. I focused on software reviews for payment or payment-adjacent technologies, like fraud prevention or BNPL.

Other Ecommerce Software to Consider

While payments are where your bread is buttered, you need a bunch of other things to make your customers get to the point where they want to pay you. Here are some roundups of those other tools:

Take Payments Anywhere Anytime

The payment game isn’t slowing down—it’s speeding up, with new tech designed to make paying (and getting paid) easier than ever. To stay in the game and keep your customers happy, it’s time to adapt and go mobile.

If your current setup isn’t mobile-friendly, you’re missing out on sales that could be as easy as a tap or a scan.

But now, armed with this list of top mobile payment solutions, you’re ready to find the perfect fit, streamline your checkout, and watch those sales roll in. Now, go get paid!

The world of ecommerce moves fast—and so do you. Subscribe to our newsletter with the latest insights for ecommerce managers from leading experts in ecomm.

Sean Flannigan
By Sean Flannigan

Sean is the Senior Editor for The Ecomm Manager. He's spent years getting to know the ecommerce space, from warehouse management and international shipping to web development and ecommerce marketing. A writer at heart (and in actuality), he brings a deep passion for great writing and storytelling to ecommerce topics big and small.