Best Stripe Alternatives in 2026
Looking for alternatives to Stripe? Here are the top options compared.
Why Consider Stripe Alternatives?
- β οΈComplex setup for non-developers
- β οΈYou handle sales tax compliance yourself
- β οΈTransaction fees can add up
- β οΈNot a Merchant of Record (you're liable)
Top 2 Alternatives to Stripe
#1
PayPal
PayPal is the most recognized online payment platform.
3.49% + 49c
β Pros
- β’ Brand recognition
- β’ Easy setup
β Cons
- β’ Higher fees
- β’ Account holds
#2
Lemon Squeezy
Lemon Squeezy is a modern payment platform designed specifically for selling digital products and SaaS. As a Merchant of Record, it handles sales tax, VAT, and compliance for you.
5% + 50Β’ per transaction
β Pros
- β’ Merchant of Record (handles tax compliance)
- β’ Simple setup for digital products
- β’ Built-in license key management
β Cons
- β’ Higher transaction fees than Stripe
- β’ Limited to digital products and SaaS
- β’ Less flexible than Stripe's API
Quick Comparison
| Tool | Price | Free Tier | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stripe | 2.9% + 30Β’ per transaction | β | Payments |
| PayPal | 3.49% + 49c | β | Payments |
| Lemon Squeezy | 5% + 50Β’ per transaction | β | Payments |