Platform Overview
Stripe Overview
Stripe: 2.9% + $0.30 online, 2.6% + $0.10 in-person. Developer-focused with robust APIs.
Square Overview
Square: 2.6% + $0.10 in-person, 2.9% + $0.30 online. Includes free POS software.
Fee Comparison
| Aspect | Stripe | Square | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Person Rate | 2.6% + $0.10 | 2.6% + $0.10 | Same rates |
| Online Rate | 2.9% + $0.30 | 2.9% + $0.30 | Same rates |
| POS Included | No (extra cost) | Free Square POS | Square advantage |
| Hardware | Stripe Terminal | Square hardware | Both available |
Our Recommendation
Square for retail/POS; Stripe for online and developer needs.
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 Square.
- 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.