Which payment processor has the lowest fees?
It depends on the amount and how you are paid. Use the calculator above with your typical payment to see the lowest option in each group; the comparison uses each company’s standard US rates.
Credit Card Processing Fee Calculator
Compare the fee and what you receive from Stripe, PayPal, Square, Venmo and Cash App for the same payment.
US standard rates in USD. Custom pricing, international cards and currency conversion are not included.
Enter an amount to compare fees.
Independent comparison. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Stripe, PayPal, Square, Venmo or Cash App.
Stripe vs PayPal vs Square fees
Every processor charges a percentage of the payment plus, usually, a fixed fee per transaction. The percentage matters most on large payments; the fixed fee matters most on small ones. That is why the cheapest option can change with the amount.
| Processor | $10.00 | $100.00 | $1,000.00 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stripe — Card payment 2.9% + $0.30 | $0.59 | $3.20 | $29.30 |
| PayPal — Credit/debit card 2.99% + $0.49 | $0.79 | $3.48 | $30.39 |
| PayPal — PayPal Checkout button 3.49% + $0.49 | $0.84 | $3.98 | $35.39 |
| Square — Online or invoice (Free plan) 3.3% + $0.30 | $0.63 | $3.60 | $33.30 |
At $10.00, the lowest online card fee is Stripe (card payment) at $0.59. At $100.00, the lowest online card fee is Stripe (card payment) at $3.20. At $1,000.00, the lowest online card fee is Stripe (card payment) at $29.30.
How to choose a payment processor
- Where you get paid. Online checkouts and invoices usually cost more than in-person tap, dip or swipe payments.
- Your typical payment size. If most payments are small, compare the fixed fees first; if they are large, compare the percentages.
- What your customers already use. Offering the method your buyers prefer can matter more than a few cents in fees.
- Payout speed. Some apps charge extra to move money out instantly — check the individual calculators for those fees.
Frequently asked questions
Are these the rates I will pay?
They are the published standard rates for US accounts. Custom or negotiated pricing, subscription plans, international cards and currency conversion can change your rate — open the individual calculator to enter your own.
Can I pass the fee on to customers?
Use the “What to Charge” mode to see how much to charge to receive a set amount. Check card network rules and your state’s laws before adding a surcharge.