PaymentCloud vs Stripe

PaymentCloud is a merchant services company, founded in 2015 and based in Los Angeles, CA, that offers credit card processing to businesses of all types and risk levels. They specialize in high-risk merchant accounts, providing services to industries such as credit repair, adult products, firearms, dating sites, and the like. They feature seamless integrations with many tools like Shopify, OpenCart, WordPress, WooCommerce, and many more. They boast many features in their credit card processing, such as seamless digital payments, digitally trackable and encrypted transactions, fraud protection, contactless payments, and full PCI compliance. They have an excellent reputation among clients, garnering a 4.3/5 score on Trustpilot. Clients generally laud their helpful and patient customer support and their accepting nature toward high-risk businesses. The costs incurred for their services differ and aren’t specified on PaymentCloud's website, as they require prospective clients to submit a quote.

Stripe is a merchant services provider that offers payment processing solutions for businesses of all sizes. They offer both merchant accounts and related services, including payment gateways, online transaction processing, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and credit card readers. Stripe is a payment processor that allows business owners to accept payment from a variety of methods or sources, including mobile wallets and "buy now, pay later" services. The company offers lots of additional services, including billing, invoicing, and sales tax automation. Stripe is renowned for its straightforward pricing model, where a flat rate is charged per transaction. It is a preferred option for businesses that predominantly operate online, as its distinctive features are primarily tailored toward enhancing online sales. Stripe is accredited with the BBB and has an A+ rating with them, but they have an average review score of 3.1/5 on Trustpilot. Their website offers two service options: an integrated "pay-as-you-go" plan that charges 2.9% +30¢ per card charge or a customized plan that involves interchange-plus pricing for businesses with higher volumes. Prospective clients must contact sales to discuss pricing for the latter plan.