Platform Overview
Stripe Overview
Stripe offers developer-friendly APIs, beautiful documentation, and seamless online payment processing with global reach.
Braintree Overview
Braintree (PayPal subsidiary) provides robust payment solutions with PayPal integration and strong fraud protection.
Fee Comparison
| Aspect | Stripe | Braintree | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Transactions | 2.9% + $0.30 | 2.59% + $0.49 | Braintree cheaper |
| In-Person (POS) | 2.6% + $0.10 | 2.7% + $0.15 | Stripe slightly better |
| International | 1.5% conversion | Stored currency conversion | Both strong |
| Virtual Terminal | $14/month | Varies by plan | Stripe included |
| Recurring Billing | Yes + Stripe Billing | Yes + PayPal Commerce | Both excellent |
| Accept PayPal | No | Yes included | Braintree advantage |
| Chargeback Handling | Customer support | Customer support | Both similar |
Our Recommendation
Braintree is cheaper per transaction. Stripe is better for developer experience and modern features.
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 between Stripe and Braintree.
- Use our Profit Calculator to estimate exact costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Stripe's fees compare to PayPal?
Stripe and PayPal charge the same base rate: 2.9% + $0.30 per domestic US card transaction. International rates are also identical at 2.9% + 1% + $0.30 for foreign cards. Key differences: Stripe offers more developer tools, while PayPal has higher fees for micropayments (under $10) and some business categories.
Does Stripe charge monthly or hidden fees?
Standard Stripe accounts have no monthly fees, no setup fees, and no cancellation fees. Optional paid add-ons include Stripe Billing ($8+/month), Stripe Atlas ($500/year), and Stripe Radar fraud prevention ($0.05/transaction). The base payment processing rate (2.9% + $0.30) has no hidden costs.
Data Methodology & Disclaimer
Fee data and benchmarks in this article are sourced from official platform documentation and cross-referenced with publicly available rate schedules as of April 2026. Calculations use standard fee formulas; individual results vary based on product category and specific listing details.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Check the latest rates at each platform's official seller fees page. Fee structures reflect publicly available information as of April 2026 and are subject to change. Always verify current rates before making financial decisions.