Platform Overview

Square

Square charges 2.6%+$0.10 for in-person, 2.9%+$0.30 for online. Hardware costs apply for in-person. Square includes free POS software with no monthly fees.

Stripe

Stripe charges 2.9%+$0.30 for all transactions, with no distinction between in-person and online. Developer-focused with extensive API capabilities.

Fee Comparison Table

Fee Type Square Stripe Notes
In-Person Rate 2.6% + $0.10 2.9% + $0.30 with Terminal Square is cheaper for in-person
Online Rate 2.9% + $0.30 2.9% + $0.30 Identical rates
Invoiced Rate 3.5% + $0.15 2.9% + $0.30 Stripe is cheaper for invoicing
POS Software Free included Requires Stripe Terminal Square wins for POS
Developer Tools Limited Extensive API Stripe wins for developers

Key Takeaways

What to Consider

  • Platform fees are only part of the equation — factor in fulfillment, shipping, and your time.
  • Consider your product type and target audience when choosing the right platform.
  • Use our Profit Calculator to estimate exact costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is cheaper for in-person payments?

Square at 2.6%+$0.10 is cheaper than Stripe at 2.9%+$0.30 for card-present transactions.

Which is better for invoicing?

Stripe at 2.9%+$0.30 is cheaper than Square at 3.5%+$0.15 for invoiced payments.

Do Square and Stripe have monthly fees?

Square has no monthly fees for standard accounts. Stripe also has no monthly fees for standard accounts.

Bottom Line

Square is better for in-person/POS; Stripe is better for online and invoiced payments.