Best Payment Gateway Providers Shortlist
Here’s the shortlist of the best payment gateway providers that I’ll cover in this article, with detailed summaries below:
- 6. AlliedWallet — Best payment gateway provider for businesses that require advanced fraud protection
Online transactions have become the norm. As businesses shift to ecommerce, integrating a reliable payment gateway has become crucial to ensure secure transactions. With the global payment gateway market set to grow annually, it's clear that businesses across all industries are recognizing the need for a trustworthy payment gateway provider.
In this article, I have analyzed the best payment gateway providers. I have evaluated which providers offer the most secure and reliable payment processing, ease of integration, pricing, customer support, and additional features.
If you have general questions about how payment gateway providers work or how to pick the best option for your organization, take a look at my People Also Ask section below. Or, if you’re curious how I prepared this list, see How I Selected the Best Payment Gateway Providers below.
Overviews Of The 10 Best Payment Gateway Providers
Here’s a brief description of each payment gateway provider that showcases each vendor’s best use case, their noteworthy features, and some pros and cons. I’ve also included screenshots to give you a snapshot of their user interface too.
QuickBooks Online
Best payment gateway provider for invoicing
QuickBooks Online is an accounting software designed specifically for small and medium-sized businesses. It can help you manage your finances, track expenses, create and send invoices, and process payments.
Why I picked QuickBooks Online: The software's payment processing system tracks transaction details to help you spot errors. This also supports you in accurate record keeping. You can connect your bank feeds to the platform, eliminating the need for manual data entry. The software also calculates sales tax automatically and allows you to charge clients and customers via invoice.
You can create professional, customizable invoices using the software, and send them either by email or by printing and mailing them. For regular clients, you can set up recurring invoices to alleviate your workload. 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.
QuickBooks Online Standout Features and Integrations
Features include expense tracking, receipt management, invoicing, record keeping, automated sales tax calculations, recurring invoices, payroll management, tax filing, and reporting and analytics tools.
Integrations include over 450 business apps like Square, Stripe, Insightly CRM, Mailchimp, Shopify, eBay, BigCommerce, Magento, Squarespace, and Etsy.
Pros
- Payroll and accounting in the same software
- Caters specifically to small businesses
- Automates tax deductions and filings
Cons
- Not available globally
- No free-forever plan available
Square
Best payment gateway provider for small businesses
Square is a payment gateway provider that offers payment solutions to businesses of all sizes. The company's hardware and software products include a credit card processing system that allows businesses to accept payments using a smartphone or tablet, a point-of-sale system for managing inventory and customer data, and an online store builder.
However, its affordable fee structure makes it an ideal payment gateway solution for small business owners.
Why I picked Square: What stands out about Square is its simple setup, affordable pricing, and versatile features. Its point-of-sale system, online store, and invoicing tools are all designed to make payment processing easy and hassle-free for small business owners. The fact that there are no monthly fees and low transaction fees also makes it an attractive option for businesses with limited budgets.
The primary use case for Square is small business payment processing. Its standout features include the ability to accept payments in-person, online, and through invoices and integration with other Square tools like payroll and marketing. With its focus on serving the needs of small businesses, Square is an excellent choice for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want a simple yet cost-effective payment processing solution.
Square Standout Features and Integrations
Features include reporting or analytics, SSL security, payment fraud prevention, payment processing, Point of Sale (POS), receipt management, recurring or subscription billing, electronic signature, fraud detection, and debit or credit card processing.
Integrations include Acuity Scheduling, Ecwid, FreshBooks, Google Forms, Mailchimp, Paymo, Poptin, Weebly, WooCommerce, Zoho Invoice, and other software options.
Pros
- Offers free POS app
- Easy to use
- No monthly fees
Cons
- Limited global coverage
- Lacks phone support
Stripe
Best payment gateway provider for handling recurring transactions
Stripe is an online payment processing platform that provides tools and services that enable businesses of all sizes to quickly and securely accept payments online, including credit and debit cards, digital wallets, and bank transfers. Businesses use Stripe's flexible payment processing solutions in various industries, including ecommerce, subscription services, and on-demand marketplaces.
Why I picked Stripe: Stripe's intuitive user interface, developer-friendly API, and in-depth documentation make it easy for teams to get started with payment processing quickly. What sets Stripe apart is its ability to handle recurring transactions with ease, allowing businesses with subscription-based models to automate payment processing and reduce payment failures.
Stripe is ideal for startups and developers who want to incorporate payment processing into their web or mobile applications. Its standout features include a wide range of payment options, including credit and debit cards, digital wallets, bank transfers, and support for more than 135 currencies.
Stripe's developer-friendly API and comprehensive documentation make it easy for teams to get started with payment processing quickly. Additionally, Stripe's robust subscription management features, including automatic billing, make it easy for businesses with subscription-based revenue models to easily handle recurring transactions.
Stripe Standout Features and Integrations
Features include ACH payment processing, billing and invoicing, credit card payment management, fraud detection, in-person payments, 135+ currency support, and iOS and Android mobile apps.
Integrations include DocuSign, FreshBooks, Gmail, Google Pay, Mailchimp, Microsoft Excel, monday.com, Rippling, Shopify, Slack, WordPress, and other software options. You can also connect Stripe to a paid Zapier account to unlock additional integrations, if needed.
Pros
- Supports 135+ currencies
- Uses advanced fraud detection tools
- Easy-to-use software
Cons
- Limited phone support
- High chargeback fees
Braintree
Best payment gateway provider for ecommerce businesses
Braintree is a payment gateway service founded in 2007 and acquired by PayPal in 2013. It provides businesses with merchant services and a platform to accept online payments in over 130 currencies.
Why I picked Braintree: Braintree stands out with its advanced fraud protection features that help prevent chargebacks, making it a reliable and secure payment gateway provider. Its unique customization options also allow businesses to create a branded checkout experience that enhances customer trust and loyalty, making it ideal for ecommerce businesses.
It also offers developer-friendly API, allowing businesses to integrate the platform into their existing infrastructure quickly and efficiently. It also integrates with popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce, making it easy for businesses to get up and running with their payment processing.
Braintree Standout Features and Integrations
Features include ACH payment processing, API, billing and invoicing, debit or credit card processing, in-person payments, mobile payments, multiple payment options, payment fraud prevention, and reporting and statistics.
Integrations include 3dcart, BigCommerce, Demandware, Magento, NetSuite, Primer, Salesforce, SAP, WooCommerce, Yodle, and other software options.
Pros
- Offers transparent pricing
- No setup or monthly fees
- Excellent customer support
Cons
- Some users reported integration complexities
- The dispute resolution process can be lengthy
Shift4
Best payment gateway provider for businesses of all sizes
Shift4 is an online payment gateway provider that offers a variety of payment processing solutions to businesses of all sizes. Their platform provides secure, reliable, and efficient payment processing, advanced security features, real-time reporting, and comprehensive analytics. They also offer various integrations and APIs that make it easy for businesses to integrate their payment processing solutions with their existing systems and software.
Why I picked Shift4: Shift4 is a payment gateway provider that stands out for its unified commerce platform and advanced security features, including point-to-point encryption and tokenization. Shift4's point-to-point encryption and tokenization feature is a security measure that protects sensitive payment information during transactions.
Shift4 is best for businesses that need a payment solution that can handle transactions across various channels, including in-store, online, mobile, and self-service. The platform also supports various payment types, including credit and debit cards, digital wallets, and gift cards, and integrates with leading POS systems and ecommerce platforms.
Overall, Shift4 is an excellent choice for businesses that need a secure, reliable, and flexible payment solution that can adapt to changing needs.
Shift4 Standout Features and Integrations
Features include debit or credit card processing, electronic signature, Point of Sale (POS), recurring or subscription billing, and reporting or analytics.
Integrations include GuestSuites, Meta for Business, rezStream, RocketRez, RoomKeyPMS, Simplotel, Storis, TimeForge, Twitter, and WebSell.
Pros
- No hidden fees
- Provides real-time monitoring and fraud prevention capabilities
- Supports a wide range of payment types
Cons
- Limited customization options
- It can be difficult to navigate
AlliedWallet
Best payment gateway provider for businesses that require advanced fraud protection
Allied Wallet is a global payment processing company that offers advanced fraud detection and prevention capabilities.
Why I picked Allied Wallet: One cool feature that sets Allied Wallet apart is its NextGen Payment Gateway technology, which offers real-time transaction monitoring, multi-currency processing, and advanced fraud detection and prevention capabilities. This technology is scalable and customizable, allowing businesses to access payment processing solutions that meet their unique needs.
With its fraud protection technology, customizable payment processing solutions, and 24/7 customer support, Allied Wallet is the go-to payment gateway provider for businesses that require secure and reliable payment processing solutions.
Allied Wallet Standout Features and Integrations
Features include credit card processing, custom branding and design, security features, direct API integrations, tokenization API, tokenization script, mobile POS, multi-currency processing, real-time reporting, 100+ payment methods, PCI compliance, dashboard tools, mobile dashboard, and pre-built shopping cart integrations.
Integrations include Cratejoy, Ecwid, Jigoshop, Magento, MagicMembers, The Cart Press, and WooCommerce.
Pros
- Robust dashboard tools
- Supports 164+ currencies
- Accepts 100+ payment methods
Cons
- Some customers have reported sudden account closures
- 24/7 customer support
Authorize.net
Best payment gateway provider for an all-in-one plan
Authorize.Net is one of the most popular payment gateway solutions for small to medium-sized businesses. The platform supports a wide range of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, e-checks, and digital payment options. It also offers a range of features, such as fraud detection, recurring billing, and automated invoicing.
Why I picked Authorize.Net: Authorize.Net offers two main pricing plans: All-in-One and Payment Gateway Only. The All-in-One plan comprises a merchant account and payment gateway. The Payment Gateway Only plan includes only a payment gateway for online transactions. Both plans offer a range of features, such as fraud detection, customer information management, and recurring billing.
Additionally, both plans offer the flexibility to choose based on your needs. With the All-in-One option, you can have a payment gateway and a merchant account in one place, making it easy and convenient to manage your online payments. If you already have a merchant account with a provider that doesn't offer a payment gateway, the Payment Gateway-only option can provide a flexible solution that allows you to process payments securely and efficiently.
Authorize.Net Standout Features and Integrations
Features include ACH payment processing, API, credit card processing, customizable branding, data security, debit or credit card processing, discount management, multiple payment options, PCI compliance, recurring or subscription billing, and reporting or analytics.
Integrations include 3dcart, BigCommerce, Chargify, Commerce Sync, CryptoIVR Payments, Foxy.io, JotForm, Magento Commerce, Miva, Recurly, and other software options.
Pros
- Supports a wide range of payment methods
- Excellent fraud protection tools
- Simple and intuitive interface
Cons
- Reporting and analytics tools can be improved
- Customer support can be slow
Payoneer
Best payment gateway provider for global businesses and freelancers
Payoneer enables businesses and professionals to send and receive payments globally, including via local bank transfers, e-wallets, and prepaid Mastercards. Payoneer is used by freelancers, online sellers, and businesses of all sizes to manage their cross-border payments easily and efficiently.
Why I picked Payoneer: One thing that's particularly cool about Payoneer is its global reach and ability to facilitate payments in multiple currencies. Unlike many other payment gateways with limited coverage, Payoneer supports payments in over 150 currencies across more than 200 countries and territories. This makes it an ideal solution for freelancers, online sellers, and businesses operating globally or with clients and partners in different parts of the world.
Additionally, Payoneer offers competitive exchange rates and low fees, making it a cost-effective option for cross-border payments. It doesn't charge a monthly or setup fee, but if your account is inactive for 12 months, it charges a $29.95 annual fee.
With Payoneer, you can send payments at no cost, and usually, the amount will reach the recipient's bank within 24 hours. You can also request payments from a client who can pay you through a Payoneer account, bank account, or credit card. Lastly, the platform also provides a mobile app, debit card, and security features.
Payoneer Standout Features and Integrations
Features include global payments, invoices, prepaid debit card, mobile app, tax administration, and security.
Integrations include Avaza, ChannelAdvisor, Deel, Exigo, Freightos, Hubstaff, MarketPowerPRO, Time Doctor, Xero, and Zentail.
Pros
- Worldwide acceptance
- Low currency conversion rates
- Good mobile app
Cons
- Risk of account freezes and terminations
- Slow customer support
2Checkout
Best payment gateway provider for subscription-based businesses
2Checkout is a modular software that provides online businesses with a flexible and customizable payment processing solution. It enables businesses to accept payments from customers around the world while providing comprehensive fraud protection and compliance with global regulations.
Why I picked 2Checkout: 2Checkout's subscription billing feature allows businesses to create and manage recurring payments for their subscription-based products or services. It provides tools for businesses to manage their entire billing lifecycle. This includes setting up multiple billing plans with different pricing tiers, trial periods, and renewal intervals. Additionally, businesses can easily manage customer subscriptions, issue refunds, and handle cancellations within the 2Checkout platform.
Moreover, the feature also offers robust reporting and analytics tools that allow businesses to track their recurring revenue and identify trends in customer behavior. This helps businesses make informed decisions about their subscription pricing and marketing strategies, ensuring they can optimize their revenue and customer retention over time.
The subscription billing feature of 2Checkout is ideal for businesses that offer subscription-based products or services, such as SaaS companies, online publishers, and ecommerce businesses. It will help you manage the entire billing process, from customer onboarding to payment processing and management. Some standout features of the subscription billing feature include flexible pricing plans, automated payments, and detailed reporting and analytics.
2Checkout Standout Features and Integrations
Features include global payments, APIs and connectors, reporting and analytics, security and fraud protection, and email and chat support.
Integrations include AbanteCart, Adobe Analytics, Akeeba Subscriptions, AliDropship, Avactis, BigCommerce, Marketo, Salesforce, Sheer ID, Ve Interactive, and other software options.
Pros
- Simple and intuitive interface
- Excellent fraud protection and risk management tools
- Supports a variety of payment methods
Cons
- High fees
- Limited documentation and support resources
WePay
Best payment gateway provider for WePay platform partners
WePay is a payment service provider that offers various payment processing services to businesses and organizations of all sizes.
Why I picked WePay: One of the standout features that I found particularly impressive is the Instant Onboarding feature that allows businesses to quickly and easily set up a merchant account and start accepting payments through WePay, without the need for lengthy application processes or underwriting. This aligns perfectly with WePay's focus on serving online platforms and marketplaces, making it an ideal solution for small businesses and startups that need to start generating revenue quickly.
WePay is ideal for businesses operating in the gig economy, crowdfunding, and other online marketplaces. The platform offers various payment processing services, including credit cards, bank transfers, and digital wallets, as well as tools for businesses to manage their transactions, including fraud detection and risk management features. With WePay, businesses can easily integrate payment processing into their existing systems.
WePay Standout Features and Integrations
Features include payment processing, fraud protection, chargeback management, data analytics, multi-currency support, and developer tools.
Integrations include Buildertrend, Classy, Constant Contact, Ecwid, Eventzilla, FreshBooks, Keap, SchoolAuction, TeamSnap, TouchBistro, and Webconnex.
Pros
- Uses advanced security measures
- Processes payments quickly
- Integrates with several ecommerce platforms
Cons
- Risk of account holds
- High fees
The 10 Best Payment Gateway Providers Summary
Tool | Free Option | Price | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | QuickBooks Online Best payment gateway provider for invoicing | 30-day free trial | From $30/month | Visit Website |
2 | Square Best payment gateway provider for small businesses | Free plan available | From $36/month plus 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction | Visit Website |
3 | Stripe Best payment gateway provider for handling recurring transactions | Contact Sales for more info | From 2.9% + 0.30 per transaction | Visit Website |
4 | Braintree Best payment gateway provider for ecommerce businesses | No free trial or demo | Plans start at 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction | Visit Website |
5 | Shift4 Best payment gateway provider for businesses of all sizes | Not available | Pricing upon request | Visit Website |
6 | AlliedWallet Best payment gateway provider for businesses that require advanced fraud protection | Free demo available | From 1% + 10 c$ per EU/UK transaction and 1.95% + 10 c$ per international transaction | Visit Website |
7 | Authorize.net Best payment gateway provider for an all-in-one plan | No information available | Plans start at $25/month, plus transaction fees | Visit Website |
8 | Payoneer Best payment gateway provider for global businesses and freelancers | Not available | From 3% fee for credit card transactions | Visit Website |
9 | 2Checkout Best payment gateway provider for subscription-based businesses | Not available | From 3.5% + $0.35 per successful sale | Visit Website |
10 | WePay Best payment gateway provider for WePay platform partners | No free trial or demo | Plans start at 2.9% + 30¢ for card transactions | Visit Website |
Other Options
Here are a few more worthwhile options that didn’t make the best payment gateway providers list:
- Skrill
Best payment gateway provider for secure and fast transactions
- BlueSnap
Best payment gateway provider for cross-border transactions
- Dwolla
Best payment gateway provider for ACH transfers
- CardStream
Best payment gateway provider for advanced fraud protection and PCI compliance features
- Payeezy
Best payment gateway provider for customizations
- Clover
Best payment gateway provider for businesses with brick-and-mortar locations
- Amazon Pay
Best payment gateway provider for businesses that sell products on Amazon
- BitPay
Best payment gateway provider for accepting cryptocurrency payments
- PayPal
Best payment gateway provider for reliable and secure transactions
- Worldpay
Best payment gateway provider for businesses of all sizes
How I Selected the Best Payment Gateway Providers
To develop this list of the 10 best payment gateway providers, I used a rigorous selection process. I started by researching and comparing a wide range of payment gateway providers that have positive user ratings and reviews. From there, I used the following selection criteria to evaluate each platform and determine which ones stood out from the rest.
Selection Criteria
Here’s a short summary of the main selection and evaluation criteria I used to develop my list of the best payment gateway providers for this article.
Usability
I looked at how easy it is to set up and use each payment gateway, including the interface and user experience.
Standout Features
I examined each payment gateway's unique features and benefits, such as fraud prevention, multi-currency support, reporting and analytics, payment processing, and recurring billing options.
Software Integrations
I considered how well each payment gateway integrates with other software and platforms commonly used by businesses, such as ecommerce platforms and accounting software.
Pricing
I evaluated the pricing structure of each payment gateway, including transaction fees, monthly fees, and any additional costs.
People Also Ask
As you continue learning about payment gateway providers, you may encounter some common questions. Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions.
What are payment gateway providers?
What are the benefits of payment gateway providers?
What are the key features of payment gateway providers?
Other Payment Software Reviews
These software review lists may complement your search for payment gateway software. I focused on software reviews for payment or payment-adjacent technologies, like fraud prevention or BNPL.
- Point-of-Sale (POS) Software
- Ecommerce Sales Tax Software
- Buy-Now-Pay-Later (BNPL) Platforms
- Mobile Payment Solutions
- Ecommerce Fraud Prevention Software
- Ecommerce Accounting Software
Choose The Best Payment Gateway Provider For Your Business Needs
Selecting the right payment gateway provider is crucial for any business that wants to process online transactions securely and efficiently. Choosing the wrong provider could lead to issues with payment processing, security breaches, and unsatisfied customers.
On the other hand, selecting the right payment gateway provider can ensure that transactions are processed smoothly, securely, and with minimal downtime. Additionally, the right payment gateway provider can offer advanced features such as fraud detection and prevention, payment customization, and detailed reporting, improving the overall payment experience for businesses and their customers.
I hope you enjoyed reading this list, and if you'd like to learn about related topics, sign up for our newsletter.