Stripe vs Square: fees compared
Stripe and Square have the same headline effective rate on a typical $50.00 sale. Stripe uses flat rate pricing (2.90% + $0.30); Square uses flat rate pricing (2.90% + $0.30). Beyond the headline rate, compare international surcharge, chargeback fees, monthly cost and payout speed in the table below. Snapshot June 2026 — processors change pricing; verify on the provider's pricing page before relying on a figure.
Data as of June 2026.
Note: These are general estimates, not a quote or offer. Your real rate depends on your card mix, volume, region, risk profile and the contract you sign.
Stripe vs Square overview
| Factor | Stripe | Square |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Flat rate | Flat rate |
| Headline rate | 2.90% + $0.30 | 2.90% + $0.30 |
| Effective @ $50.00 | 3.50% | 3.50% |
| Monthly fee | $0 (pay-as-you-go); Stripe Billing/Tax are paid add-ons | $0 free plan; Square for Retail/Restaurant plans $0–$89/mo |
| International / cross-border | +1.5% for international cards, +1% currency conversion | +1.5% for cards issued outside the US |
| Chargeback fee | $15.00 (refunded if you win the dispute) | $0 (Square absorbs the chargeback fee) |
| Payout speed | 2 business days (US, first payout 7–14 days) | 1–2 business days; instant transfer for 1.75% fee |
| Best for | online businesses and developers | small retail, restaurants and in-person sellers |
Sources: Stripe, Inc. pricing · Block, Inc. pricing.
Effective rate by transaction size
| Transaction size | Stripe | Square | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| $10.00 | 5.90% | 5.90% | tie |
| $50.00 | 3.50% | 3.50% | tie |
| $200.00 | 3.05% | 3.05% | tie |
Verdict
On headline rates it is close between Stripe and Square. But the cheapest processor depends on your average ticket (fixed-fee weight), international card share and volume. Read each one's full breakdown — Stripe and Square — and model your own numbers in the effective-rate calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Is Stripe or Square cheaper?
Stripe and Square have the same headline effective rate on a typical $50.00 sale. Run your real volume and card mix in the calculator to see which actually costs less. Snapshot June 2026 — processors change pricing; verify on the provider's pricing page before relying on a figure.
Stripe vs Square: what is the difference in pricing model?
Stripe uses flat rate (2.90% + $0.30); Square uses flat rate (2.90% + $0.30). Flat rate is simplest for small merchants; interchange-plus and subscription win at higher volume; Merchant-of-Record bundles global tax.
Which should I choose, Stripe or Square?
Stripe is best for online businesses and developers; Square is best for small retail, restaurants and in-person sellers. Beyond sticker price, weigh international surcharge, chargeback fees, payout speed and features. These are general estimates, not a quote or offer. Your real rate depends on your card mix, volume, region, risk profile and the contract you sign.
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Last updated: 2026-06-29