Top 12 PayPal Alternatives for Small Businesses in 2025

Key highlights 

• Compare PayPal vs top competitors to identify platforms with lower fees, faster payouts and better payment options. 
• Explore 12 PayPal alternatives like Stripe, Wise, Payoneer and Google Pay tailored for small businesses and freelancers. 
• Evaluate each provider’s strengths such as international payments, contactless support and recurring billing features. 
• Identify signs it’s time to switch, from high fees and poor integration to limited global support and in-person payment needs. 
• Switch smoothly and power your online store using Bluehost WooCommerce hosting for seamless payment gateway integration. 

Running a small business in 2025 means keeping a close eye on every dollar, especially when it comes to payment processing fees. While PayPal has long been the go-to option, it’s not always the most cost-effective or flexible solution for transactions.  

PayPal’s consumer fees (up to 3.49% + $0.49 per transaction in the US) and account limitations are driving many entrepreneurs to search for better options. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the top 12 PayPal alternatives that offer lower fees, faster payouts and more flexibility for modern online businesses like yours. 

Let’s get started.

Comparison table: PayPal vs alternatives  

It’s easy to get overwhelmed while picking a payment provider, since you’ve got a lot to consider, from payment types and security to pricing and customer service.  

Let’s see how these top services stack up against each other:  

Payment service	Key features	Fees	Security	Best for
PayPal	Global reach, buyer protection, integration with eCommerce platforms	Variable fees, high international transfer costs	Strong fraud protection, two-factor authentication	Online shoppers, freelancers, small businesses
Wise	Low-cost international transfers, real exchange rates, multi-currency accounts	Low fees, transparent pricing	High-level encryption, regulatory compliance	International money transfers
Payoneer	Global payments, prepaid MasterCard, integrates with marketplaces	2% withdrawal fees, variable transfer fees	Secure authentication, fraud monitoring	Freelancers, digital nomads
Amazon Pay	Seamless checkout for Amazon users, voice payments via Alexa	Merchant-based pricing, no monthly fees	Amazon fraud protection, secure checkout	Online shoppers, eCommerce merchants
Stripe	Developer-friendly API, customizable payment solutions, multi-currency support	2.9% + $0.30 per transaction	PCI compliance, encrypted transactions	Businesses, online entrepreneurs
Google Pay	Tap-to-pay, peer-to-peer transfers, integrates with Google services	No transaction fees for personal payments	Secure encryption, tokenization	Mobile users Android ecosystem
Authorize.net	Merchant-focused, recurring billing, invoicing	Monthly fees apply, processing fees vary	Advanced fraud detection, secure payment gateway	Small businesses, subscription services
Venmo	Social payments, free peer-to-peer transfers, split payments	3% fee for credit card transactions	Secure encryption, purchase protection	Friends and family transactions
Verifone (2Checkout)	Global payments, customizable checkout, recurring billing	3.5% + $0.35 per transaction	PCI compliance, fraud detection tools	International eCommerce businesses
Apple Pay	Contactless payments, works with iOS devices, privacy-focused	No fees for personal transactions	Secure element encryption, Face ID & Touch ID authentication	Apple users, in-store payments
Skrill	Crypto-friendly, international transfers, prepaid card option	1.45% per transaction	Two-factor authentication, fraud prevention	Forex traders, international transactions
Square	In-person and online payments, POS solutions, invoicing	2.6% + $0.10 per transaction	End-to-end encryption, fraud detection	Small businesses, retail shops
Zelle	Instant bank-to-bank transfers, widely used in the U.S.	No fees for personal transactions	Bank-grade security, authentication measures	Domestic money transfers

Based on the above comparison, you might be wondering which PayPal competitors are worth trying. Let’s explore the best PayPal alternatives in 2025 that offer better features, lower fees and more flexibility for small businesses. 

What are the top 12 PayPal alternatives to use in 2025?   

Although PayPal has been around for a while, there are a few more options that have unique features that could better meet the individual demands of a business owner.  

The top 12 PayPal alternatives you can use in 2025: 

1. Zelle    
2. Wise   
3. Payoneer   
4. Amazon Pay   
5. Stripe   
6. Google Pay   
7. Authorize.net   
8. Venmo   
9. 2Checkout   
10. Apple Pay   
11. Skrill    
12. Square   

Data indicates that multiple payment methods and digital wallets are becoming more popular. 

Digital wallet statistics show a shift towards digital wallets and multiple payment solutions: 

• 65% of U.S. adults use a digital wallet at least once a month. 
• 30% of global point-of-sale transactions were made using digital wallets. 
• 50% of online purchases globally were paid through digital wallets. 
• The total value of digital wallet transactions reached $9 trillion worldwide. 

Despite its popularity, PayPal’s user base declined in 2023 due to rising fees, account limitations and competition from emerging platforms. 

Below are 12 dependable PayPal alternatives for personal use in 2025, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages: 

1. Wise 

Formerly known as TransferWise, Wise has established itself as a prominent platform for international money transfers. The platform lets its users send and receive money abroad with transparent fees and actual exchange rates. Wise is the go-to choice for consumers looking for low-cost international transfers because of its user-friendly design and dedication to transparency. 

Advantages of Wise: 

• Transparent fees: Wise makes sure users are informed of the upfront fees by giving them accurate information on transaction charges. 
• Actual exchange rates: The software offers fair currency conversions using markup-free mid-market exchange rates. 
• Support for several currencies: This feature makes cross-border transactions easy by enabling users to save and manage money in a number of different currencies. 

Disadvantages of Wise: 

• No cash deposits: Wise operates entirely online, so users cannot deposit cash directly into their accounts. 
• Limited physical presence: Without physical branches, users must rely on digital channels for support and services. 

2. Payoneer 

Payoneer is a worldwide payment network that lets its users send and receive money across borders. Online retailers, freelancers and professionals who deal with clients from around the world all utilize the site extensively. 

Advantages of Payoneer: 

• International accessibility: Payoneer is perfect for users who engage in global financial transactions because it facilitates transactions in more than 200 countries. 
• Prepaid MasterCard: Payoneer provides prepaid MasterCards so that customers may access their money for ATM withdrawals or purchases. 
• Diverse currency support: Users may accept payments in a variety of currencies, providing greater flexibility when managing overseas finances. 

Disadvantages of Payoneer: 

• Inactivity fees: Accounts that remain inactive for a specified period may incur maintenance fees. 
• Withdrawal charges: Transferring funds to a local bank account or withdrawing cash via ATMs can attract additional fees. 

3. Amazon Pay 

Amazon Pay offers a flawless payment experience by utilizing the reliable Amazon ecosystem. Customers may use their Amazon account credentials to make purchases on third-party websites, saving them from having to continually enter their payment information or create new accounts. This integration provides speed and convenience, particularly for regular Amazon shoppers. 

Advantages of Amazon Pay: 

• Convenience: On partner websites, using pre-existing Amazon account information expedites the checkout procedure. 
• Security: Amazon Pay makes sure that transactions are safe by utilizing Amazon’s strong security framework. 
• Familiarity: The interface is quick and straightforward to use for frequent Amazon customers. 

Disadvantages of Amazon Pay: 

• Limited merchant acceptance: Not all online retailers support Amazon Pay, which may restrict its usability. 
• Geographical restrictions: The service’s availability and features can vary depending on the user’s location. 

4. Stripe 

Stripe’s extensive API and developer-friendly features have transformed it into a complete payment processing platform for its users. Despite being primarily designed for corporations, Stripe offers features that are helpful for individuals, such as accepting payments for freelancing or personal projects. 

Advantages of Stripe: 

• Versatility: Stripe supports distinct payment methods and currencies, accommodating various personal financial needs. 
• Security: Employs advanced security protocols to protect user data and transactions. 
• Customization: Through its API, the platform provides a wide range of customization possibilities, enabling customers to adapt it to their own needs. 

Disadvantages of Stripe: 

• Complexity for non-developers: Users without technical backgrounds may find the setup and customization process challenging. 
• Primarily business-oriented: Some features are geared towards businesses, which might be unnecessary for personal users. 

5. Google Pay 

Google created Google Pay, a platform for digital wallets and an online payment system. Users may use their PCs, tablets or cellphones to make payments with it. The PayPal alternative for personal use places a high priority on security and convenience, enabling contactless payments in physical locations as well as smooth online purchases. It is more valuable because of its interaction with other Google services, which offer a consistent payment experience across several platforms. 

Advantages of Google Pay: 

• User-friendliness: Quick setup and seamless transactions are ensured by the user-friendly interface. 
• Wide acceptance: The fact that many retailers and online platforms embrace it adds to its utility. 
• Increased security: User data is shielded through tokenization and biometric authentication. 

Disadvantages of Google Pay: 

• Device compatibility: In order to make contactless payments, suitable devices with NFC capabilities are needed. 
• Limitations per region: Not all nations or areas may have access to all functionalities. 

6. Authorize.net 

Authorize.net is a payment gateway service that lets businesses accept electronic and credit card payments. Although businesses use it the most, customers can also use its services to handle personal transactions. 

Advantages of Authorize.net: 

• Comprehensive modes of payment: Google Pay accepts credit cards, eChecks and mobile payments, among other payment methods. 
• Security features: The platform offers advanced fraud detection tools to protect user transactions. 

Disadvantages of Authorize.net: 

• Complicated setup: The platform’s more involved setup process may be challenging for non-technical users to understand. 
• Fees: Authorize.net’s monthly and setup fees might not be cost-effective for users with low transaction volumes. 

7. Venmo 

Venmo, owned by PayPal, has become a popular choice for peer-to-peer transactions, especially among younger users. Its social media-like interface allows users to do transactions while sharing notes and emojis, making money transfers more engaging. 

Advantages of Venmo: 

• User-friendly interface: The app’s design is intuitive, making it easy for users to navigate and complete transactions. 
• Instant transfers: Funds can be transferred instantly to your bank account for a small fee; standard transfers are free and take one to three business days. 
• Social features: Users can share payment activities, adding a social element to financial transactions. 

Disadvantages of Venmo: 

• Privacy concerns: The social feed can expose transaction details if privacy settings are not adjusted appropriately. 
• Limited international use: Venmo is primarily available for transactions within the United States. 
• Fees for certain transactions: A 3% fee applies to payments funded by credit cards. 

8. Verifone 

Verifone, formerly known as 2Checkout, is a global payment network that lets users and businesses make online payments to clients all over the world. The platform delivers a secure and tailored experience for its customers by letting them make payments in their local currencies and languages. 

Advantages of Verifone: 

• Multinational reach: The platform supports transactions in multiple currencies and payment methods, facilitating international payments. 
• Comprehensive payment options: Verifone accepts credit cards, debit cards and PayPal, providing flexibility to users. 
• Robust security: It offers advanced fraud protection and secure payment processing. 

Disadvantages of Verifone: 

• Complex fee structure: Transaction fees can be higher compared to other platforms, especially for international sales. 
• Account approval process: The verification and approval process can be lengthy for new users. 
• Limited personal use features: Primarily designed for businesses, which may make it less suitable for casual personal transactions. 

9. Apple Pay 

Apple Pay is a digital wallet and mobile payment service offered by Apple Inc. that enables online, in-app and in-person payments. Its smooth interaction with Apple products and security measures are well-known. 

Advantages of Apple Pay: 

• High security: Apple Pay utilizes tokenization and biometric authentication (Face ID/Touch ID) for secure transactions. 
• Convenience: Allows quick payments with Apple devices without the need to carry physical cards. 
• Wide acceptance: The platform is accepted at numerous retailers, apps and websites worldwide. 

Disadvantages of Apple Pay: 

• Apple ecosystem restriction: Only available on Apple devices, limiting accessibility for non-Apple users. 
• Limited peer-to-peer features: While Apple Cash allows person-to-person payments, it’s only available in the U.S. 
• Dependency on the device: Losing your Apple device can temporarily hinder access to Apple Pay. 

10. Skrill 

Skrill is a digital wallet that provides a variety of online payment and money transfer options. It is extensively utilized for both private and professional transactions, particularly in the currency and casino sectors. 

Advantages of Skrill: 

• International availability: Skrill supports a variety of currencies and operates in many nations. 
• Prepaid card option: Provides a Skrill Visa Prepaid Card that enables instant access to monies. 
• Loyalty program: Through transactions on Skrill, users may accrue points that can be exchanged for benefits. 

Disadvantages of Skrill:

• Transaction fees: Certain services, such as currency conversion and withdrawals, can come with price tags. 
• Maintenance cost for the account: If the account is inactive for a certain period of time, there is an inactivity fee. 
• Limited customer support: According to some customers, it might be challenging to get in touch with customer care quickly. 

11. Square 

Square is a financial services and mobile payment company that offers a suite of tools for individuals and businesses. While it’s widely recognized for its point-of-sale systems, Square also provides peer-to-peer payment options through its Cash App. 

Advantages of Square: 

• User-friendly interface: The platform is easy to navigate, making transactions straightforward. 
• Instant deposits: It offers instant transfers to your bank account for a fee; standard deposits are free. 
• Investment opportunities: Cash App allows users to invest in stocks and Bitcoin directly from the app. 

Disadvantages of Square: 

• Fees for instant transfers: Square charges a percentage fee for instant bank transfers. 
• Limited international availability: Primarily available in the United States and the United Kingdom. 
• Security concerns: As with any financial app, there are potential risks if security features are not adequately utilized. 

12. Zelle 

Zelle is a digital payment network based in the United States that allows users to send and receive money directly across bank accounts. Many financial applications have it integrated, providing a smooth transfer experience. 

Advantages of Zelle: 

• Speed: Between enrolled users, transfers usually take only a few minutes. 
• Fee-free: Using Zelle is usually free for banks. 
• Integration with banks: Direct access via the mobile applications of partner banks, removing the need for an additional app. 

Disadvantages of Zelle: 

• Limited international use: Zelle is not appropriate for international transactions because it is only accessible in the United States. 
• No credit card payments: Zelle’s lack of support for credit card payments restricts its versatility in comparison to PayPal and other options. 
• Fraud risks: Users should exercise caution while sending money since unauthorized transfers are difficult to contest because transactions are instantaneous and irreversible. 

Each of these personal payment alternatives to PayPal has its strengths and limitations, so it’s essential to evaluate fees, accessibility and features before making a decision.

What to look for in a payment gateway?  

Choosing the right payment gateway is key for smooth business operations. Here are the top things to consider: 

• Low payment processing fees: Look for competitive transaction fees and low monthly fees to keep costs down. 
• Multiple payment methods: Support for credit cards, debit cards, digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, bank transfers and ACH payments. 
• Recurring payments: Essential if you offer subscription services or membership plans. 
• Fraud protection: Strong fraud prevention and PCI compliance for secure payments. 
• Easy integration capabilities: Works smoothly with your online store, invoicing or accounting software. 
• Global payment options: Supports international payments and currency conversion with low fees. 
• Payment links and invoicing: Ability to create payment links for easy money transfers and pay freelancers. 
• In person payments: If you sell offline, choose a gateway that accepts contactless and in-person transactions. 
• Volume discounts: Lower per transaction fees for higher transaction volume. 
• Clear payout schedule: Fast transfers to your business bank account or merchant account. 

Now that you know what to look for in a payment gateway, it’s important to recognize when PayPal might not meet your needs. Let’s explore when it’s time to consider a PayPal alternative for your business. 

When to consider a PayPal alternative for your business? 

Although PayPal has been a popular digital payment service, there are now powerful competitors due to changing customer demands and technological advancements. These days, a lot of people look for platforms with improved security, better user experiences and reduced rates.  

Here are signs it might be time to explore alternative online payment methods: 

• High payment processing fees: If PayPal’s transaction fees and currency conversion fees are cutting into profits. 
• Limited payment methods: You need more options like Apple Pay, Google Pay or bank transfers. 
• Recurring billing needs: PayPal lacks advanced recurring payment features for subscriptions. 
• Poor integration: PayPal doesn’t integrate well with your sales tax tools or ecommerce platform. 
• Frequent fraudulent transactions: You want stronger fraud protection and dispute handling. 
• International sales growth: You need better support for global tax and international transactions. 
• Volume discounts missing: Your transaction volume grew but fees stayed the same or went up. 
• In person payments required: You want to accept payments both online and offline in one solution. 
• Slow transfer of funds: PayPal delays payouts to your business bank account or merchant account. 
• Customer experience: Your customers prefer more seamless or multiple payment options during checkout. 

So, if you’re weighing your options beyond PayPal, Stripe is an obvious choice for many. Considering the other alternatives will help decide the best payment gateways. Let’s dive into Stripe vs PayPal to see which one fits your small business the best. 

Stripe vs PayPal: Which one is better for small businesses?  

When choosing between Stripe and PayPal, small businesses want to know which payment processor offers the best mix of features, fees and ease of use. Both are top PayPal alternatives with strong payment processing services. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide. 

Feature	Stripe	PayPal
Payment processing fees	Competitive transaction fees, volume discounts available	Higher fees for international and currency conversion
Payment methods supported	Credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, ACH payments	Credit cards, debit cards, PayPal payments, bank transfers
Recurring payments	Built-in support for recurring billing	Supports recurring payments but limited customization
Integration capabilities	Highly customizable with developer tools	Easy integration with popular online stores and platforms
Fraud prevention	Advanced fraud protection and PCI compliance	Strong fraud prevention and buyer protection
Accept in person payments	Yes, with Stripe Terminal	Yes, with PayPal Here
Currency conversion fees	Low fees for currency conversion	Higher currency conversion and international fees
Monthly or annual fees	No monthly fees, pay-as-you-go pricing	No monthly fees for basic accounts
Transfer money to bank account	Fast transfers, typically 2 business days	Standard transfers 1-3 business days

Deciding between Stripe vs PayPal can shape how your small business handles payments. Once you’ve chosen the best fit, switching to a new payment solution is easier than you might think. 

How to switch from PayPal to an alternative?  

Switching from PayPal to another payment gateway can be smooth if you follow these simple steps. Whether you want better payment processing fees or more payment methods, here’s how to make the move: 

• Research and choose the best payment gateway provider that fits your business needs, focusing on low fees and multiple payment methods. 
• Create a merchant account with your new payment processor. 
• Link your business bank account or business bank account to receive transfers and money transfers. 
• Integrate the new payment gateway with your online store or payment solution platform. 
• Set up recurring billing or payment links for subscription or repeat payments. 
• Test the payment processing system with small transactions to ensure smooth online payment processing. 
• Inform your customers about the new payment options available like Apple Pay or Google Pay. 
• Close or limit your PayPal account usage after confirming all payments transfer correctly. 
• Monitor transaction fees, fraudulent transactions and payment data to adjust settings for fraud protection. 
• Review monthly or annual fees and payment processing services to optimize your costs. 

Switching from PayPal to another payment gateway can feel like a big step, but it’s easier than you think. Before you decide, let’s look at why PayPal remains a strong choice for many businesses. 

Why is PayPal still a good option for some users?  

Despite growing competition, PayPal remains a solid choice for many. It’s widely recognized and trusted by both buyers and sellers. Setup is easy, especially for freelancers, small business owners and online sellers. 

PayPal also supports international transactions and multiple currencies, making it ideal for global businesses. Its buyer and seller protection policies offer added security. 

For users who value convenience, brand familiarity and broad acceptance across eCommerce platforms, PayPal still gets the job done. 

Here’s why it still holds strong in the market: 

• Widely accepted: PayPal is recognized and trusted by customers worldwide, making it easy to accept payments. 
• Simple setup: Getting started is quick and easy, without complex integration. 
• Global reach: Supports transactions in multiple currencies and international payments. 
• Easy to transfer money: Allows businesses to transfer money to their bank accounts seamlessly. 
• Recurring billing: Easily set up recurring payments for subscriptions or memberships. 
• Strong fraud protection: Offers tools for fraud prevention, ensuring safe transactions. 
• No upfront fees: PayPal offers a pay-per-transaction model, so there are no monthly fees unless you choose to upgrade. 

Even with PayPal competitors offering lower fees, these benefits make it a top choice for many businesses. 

Why is Bluehost the ideal hosting partner for your payment gateway integration?  

Running an online store means you need reliable, fast and secure payment processing. Bluehost simplifies payment gateway integration with optimized WooCommerce hosting for multiple payment options. Our solution supports the best payment gateways including Stripe, Apple Pay, Google Pay, ACH payments and bank transfers. 

We ensure PCI-compliant, secure payments with minimal downtime. You can process credit card payments, manage recurring billing and reduce payment processing fees using trusted payment gateway providers. Our hosting infrastructure supports fast online transactions, international payments and various payment options, all backed by 24/7 support. 

Get started with WooCommerce hosting and power your store with the best PayPal alternatives and online payment methods. 

If you are an online seller or a freelancer who is looking for hassle-free payment solutions, Bluehost WooCommerce hosting comes with robust payment solutions. 

1. Streamline your small business payments with built-in Stripe integration 

With Bluehost WooCommerce hosting, you get built-in Stripe payment integration for seamless transactions. WooCommerce recommends WooPayments, its native payment solution developed in partnership with Stripe, ensuring secure and reliable payment processing.  

By choosing Bluehost, you get a fully optimized eCommerce hosting experience with pre-configured WooPayments, eliminating the hassle of third-party setup while enabling smooth online transactions. 

2. Boost your business with YITH PayPal Payments for WooCommerce 

With YITH PayPal Payouts for WooCommerce, you can easily handle all your transactions. You can manage PayPal and credit card payments on your eCommerce website, upscaling the customer experience while boosting sales.  

PayPal payments for WooCommerce allows you to: 

• Paying commissions automatically: Save time and lessen human labor by sending payments to partners, affiliates and merchants straight from your PayPal Business account. 
• Feature for mass pay: Streamline payout procedures for companies with several recipients by issuing bulk payments with a single click. 
• Personalized commission percentages: Establish distinct compensation rates for every affiliate, vendor or partner to provide a customizable revenue-sharing arrangement. 
• Quick WooCommerce integration: Lets marketplace owners and affiliate managers effectively automate rewards by integrating seamlessly with YITH Multi Vendor and YITH WooCommerce Affiliates. 
• Real-time payment processing: After an order is completed, commissions are computed and paid immediately, guaranteeing safe, prompt transactions. 

Also read: How to Accept Payments on WooCommerce Websites 

With Bluehost WooCommerce hosting, you get seamless payment gateway integrations, making it easy to accept payments, manage recurring billing and handle international transactions securely. 

Our WooCommerce hosting plans are built for online stores that need fast, secure and reliable payment processing with low fees and strong fraud protection. 

Whether you’re just starting or scaling up, Bluehost helps you process payments without the hassle. 

Final thoughts

Switching from PayPal isn’t just about saving on fees. It’s about finding a solution that actually fits the way you do business. Maybe you’re expanding internationally, offering subscriptions or just want faster access to your funds. Whatever the case, the right PayPal alternative can do more than process payments, it can support your growth.  

But choosing the right payment processor is only half the equation. Your store needs to be fast, secure and built to handle modern checkout expectations like contactless, recurring and international payments. With Bluehost, you’re free to integrate the gateway that fits your business best. 

Ready to switch? Power your store with Bluehost WooCommerce hosting and connect the payment gateway that works best for you. 

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