Best Payment Gateways UK (2026) Compare Top Providers, Fees, Features and Costs
Compare the leading payment gateways in the UK, including fees, settlement times and features, to find the right solution for your business.
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Choosing the Right Payment Gateway for Your Business
Choosing the right payment gateway is one of the most important decisions for any UK business. Whether you operate an ecommerce store, a service-based company or a growing online platform, your payment provider directly affects your revenue, cash flow and customer experience.
A payment gateway is the technology that allows your business to securely accept card and digital payments online or in person. While the concept is simple, the differences between providers can be significant. Fees, settlement times, approval rates and support levels vary widely, and choosing the wrong provider can result in unnecessary costs and operational issues.
Many UK businesses initially choose well-known providers such as Stripe or PayPal due to their popularity and ease of setup. However, these are not always the most cost-effective or suitable options, particularly as transaction volumes increase or business models become more complex. In many cases, UK-based or specialist providers can offer better rates, improved support and more flexible approval criteria.
This is particularly important for businesses operating in sectors that may be considered higher risk, or for those processing larger volumes where even small differences in fees can have a significant impact on profitability over time.
In this guide, we provide a detailed comparison of the best payment gateways available in the UK for 2026. We analyse not only headline fees, but also the factors that actually matter in practice, including:
- Transaction and monthly costs
- Settlement times and cash flow impact
- Approval rates and underwriting criteria
- Support quality and UK-based service
- Suitability for different business types
The aim is to give you a clear, unbiased view of the market so you can choose the right payment solution for your business, rather than simply defaulting to the most well-known option. If you are currently reviewing your payment setup or looking to reduce costs, it is often worth comparing providers before making a decision, as many UK businesses are able to secure better rates and terms by exploring alternatives.
Recommended Payment Gateway for UK Businesses
Many businesses initially choose providers such as Stripe or PayPal due to their ease of setup and brand recognition. While these platforms are widely used, they are not always the most cost-effective or flexible option, particularly as your business grows or transaction volumes increase.
In practice, many UK businesses find that working with a specialist payment provider or comparing multiple options leads to better long-term results. This is because pricing, approval rates and support levels can vary significantly between providers, and headline rates do not always reflect the true cost of processing payments.
For businesses processing regular transactions, even small differences in fees can have a measurable impact on profitability over time. In addition, access to UK-based support and more flexible underwriting can make a significant difference, particularly for growing or more complex businesses. Why many UK businesses choose to compare providers before deciding
- Lower transaction fees compared to standard flat-rate providers
- Access to UK-based support teams and account management
- Higher approval rates for a wider range of business types
- More flexible pricing structures based on volume and risk profile
- Potential to negotiate better terms as your business scales
Rather than defaulting to a single provider, comparing options allows you to identify the most suitable solution for your specific business model and growth plans. Get a tailored quote and compare UK payment providers right here.
Quick Comparison: Payment Gateways UK
| Provider | Fees | Monthly Fees | Settlement | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stripe | 1.5% + 20p | No | 2–7 days | Ecommerce |
| PayPal | 2.9% + 30p | No | Instant–3 days | Trust |
| Square | 1.75% | No | 1–2 days | Small business |
| Worldpay | Custom | Yes | 2–4 days | Enterprise |
| Opayo | Custom | Yes | 2–3 days | SMEs |
| Shopify Payments | Varies | No | 2–4 days | Shopify |
| Elavon | Custom | Yes | 2–4 days | Established |
| Cashflows | Custom | Yes | 1–3 days | UK SMEs |
| Trust Payments | Custom | Yes | 3–7 days | High-risk |
| Adyen | Custom | Yes | 2–5 days | Global |
| Mollie | ~1.2–2.9% | No | 2–4 days | SMEs |
| Revolut | From ~1% | No | 1–3 days | International |
| Amazon Pay | Similar to PayPal | No | 3–5 days | Ecommerce |
| Klarna | 2.5%–6% | No | 2–5 days | Retail |
Top Payment Gateways in the UK (2026)
Both providers offer portable card readers designed to work with smartphones or operate as standalone devices. These machines allow businesses to accept chip and PIN payments, contactless cards and mobile wallet payments.
SumUp offers several card readers including the SumUp Air and the SumUp Solo. These devices are known for their compact design and ease of use. The SumUp Air reader connects to a smartphone using Bluetooth, while the Solo device includes a touchscreen and can operate independently using WiFi or mobile data.
Square also offers a range of hardware options. The basic Square Reader is similar to the SumUp Air, allowing businesses to accept payments through a smartphone app. Square also provides more advanced devices such as the Square Terminal and Square Register, which include built in screens and additional POS functionality.
For businesses that simply need a portable card reader to take payments, both companies offer reliable hardware at similar price points. However, Square’s more advanced devices may be attractive for businesses that want an all in one payment and point of sale system.
Stripe
Stripe is a global payment platform widely used by online businesses and developers. It offers flexible integrations and supports a wide range of digital payment methods.
Compare alternatives to Stripe and see how UK providers differ on fees and support
Stripe is one of the most widely used payment gateways in the UK, particularly among ecommerce businesses and technology-focused companies. It offers a highly flexible platform with extensive integrations and customisation options.
Key features
- Supports card payments, Apple Pay and Google Pay
- Advanced API for custom checkout experiences
- Built-in fraud detection tools
Pricing
Typically 1.5% – 2.5% and 20p per UK card transaction, with higher fees for international cards.
What to consider
Stripe is often chosen for its flexibility, but costs can increase as transaction volumes grow. Support is primarily online and may be less responsive compared to UK-based providers.
Best for
Online businesses, SaaS platforms and companies that require custom integrations.
.
PayPal
PayPal is one of the most recognised payment providers globally, known for its trusted checkout experience. It allows customers to pay quickly using stored payment details.
Compare alternatives to Paypal and see how UK providers differ on fees and support
PayPal is one of the most recognised payment providers globally and is often associated with trust and ease of use.
Key features
- One-click checkout for returning customers
- Widely recognised brand
- Simple setup
Pricing
Around 2.9% + 30p per transaction.
What to consider
PayPal’s fees are among the highest in the market. While it can improve conversion rates due to brand trust, the cost can reduce margins over time.
Best for
Businesses that prioritise ease of use and customer trust.
.
Square
Square is a payment provider focused on small businesses, offering simple pricing and integrated point-of-sale solutions. It supports both in-person and online payments.
Compare alternatives to Square and see how UK providers differ on fees and support
Square is a simple and transparent payment solution designed for small businesses and in-person transactions.
Key features
- Flat-rate pricing
- Integrated POS system
- No monthly fees
Pricing
Around 1.75% per transaction.
What to consider
Square is easy to use but offers fewer advanced features compared to more customisable platforms.
Best for
Retailers, hospitality businesses and small businesses.
.
Worldpay
Worldpay is an established payment processor providing scalable solutions for medium and large businesses. It supports a wide range of payment methods and currencies.
Explore payment options suited to your business
Worldpay is a long-established provider offering scalable payment solutions for medium and large businesses.
Key features
- Multi-currency support
- Enterprise-grade infrastructure
- Wide range of payment options
Pricing
Custom pricing depending on business size and volume.
What to consider
Worldpay is reliable but pricing structures can be complex and less transparent.
Best for
Established businesses with higher transaction volumes.
.
Opayo
Opayo is a UK-based payment gateway offering secure and reliable transaction processing. It is commonly used by small to medium businesses seeking local support.
Explore other payment options suited to your business right here.
Opayo is a UK-based payment gateway known for strong reliability and security.
Key features
- UK-based support
- Secure transaction processing
- Integration with major platforms
Pricing
Monthly fee plus transaction charges.
What to consider
Monthly fees can make Opayo less suitable for very small businesses, but it can offer stability for established companies.
Best for
Small to medium UK businesses.
.
Shopify
Shopify Payments is a built-in payment solution for Shopify stores, allowing merchants to accept payments without third-party providers. It simplifies setup and management within the platform.
Compare alternatives to Shopify and see how UK providers differ on fees and support
Shopify Payments is built directly into Shopify, making it the most convenient option for Shopify users.
Key features
- Seamless integration
- No additional transaction fees
- Simple setup
Pricing
Included within Shopify plans, rates are often around 2% plus 20p per transaction.
What to consider
Limited flexibility outside the Shopify ecosystem.
Best for
Shopify-based ecommerce stores.
.
Elavon
Elavon is a global acquiring bank with a strong presence in the UK and Europe. It provides stable payment processing solutions for established businesses.
Elavon is a well-established acquiring bank with a strong presence in the UK and Europe, part of the US Bank.
Key features
- Online, in-store and mobile payments
- Multi-currency support
- Strong fraud protection
Pricing
Custom pricing depending on business profile, but can be anywhere from 0.3% for debit transactions depending on your business turnover.
What to consider
Elavon is typically suited to low risk businesses and offers a more traditional acquiring model compared to newer platforms.
Best for
Established businesses looking for stability and long-term partnerships.
.
Cashflows
Cashflows is a UK-based payment provider offering straightforward card processing and fast onboarding. It focuses on simplicity and local support for growing businesses.
Cashflows is a UK-based payment provider focused on fast onboarding and straightforward payment processing.
Key features
- Quick application process
- UK-based support
- Card payment solutions
Pricing
Custom pricing based on business needs, typically you’d be paying somewhere near 1% but they can go as low as 0.5% for debit card, depending on your business type & turnover.
What to consider
Cashflows offers a simpler alternative to larger providers, particularly for UK-based businesses.
Best for
Small to medium UK businesses that want fast approval and local support.
.
Trust Payments
Trust Payments is a specialist payment provider offering solutions for high-risk and complex businesses. It supports global payments and flexible underwriting.
Trust Payments is a specialist provider that supports businesses in higher-risk industries or with more complex requirements.
Key features
- High-risk merchant accounts
- Multi-currency support
- Advanced fraud tools
Pricing
Custom pricing based on risk profile, but its likely to be around 2% for most businesses, but can be significantly higher depending on your risk and processing history.
What to consider
Fees are typically higher due to increased risk, but approval rates are significantly better than standard providers.
Best for
High-risk businesses and companies operating internationally.
.
Adyen
Adyen is a global payment platform used by large enterprises to manage online, in-store and mobile payments. It offers advanced reporting and multi-currency capabilities.
Compare alternatives to Adyen and see how UK providers differ on fees and support
Adyen is a global payment platform used by large enterprises and fast-growing international businesses.
Key features
- Global payment support
- Unified commerce platform
- Advanced reporting tools
Pricing
Custom pricing.
What to consider
Adyen is powerful but generally not suitable for smaller businesses due to complexity and onboarding requirements.
Best for
Enterprise-level and international businesses whp process in the Millions.
.
Mollie
Mollie is a European payment provider known for its simple pricing and easy integration. It supports a range of payment methods for small to medium businesses.
Mollie is a European payment provider known for its simple pricing and ease of use.
Key features
- No monthly fees
- Multiple payment methods
- Easy integration
Pricing
Typically between 1.2% and 2.9% depending on payment type.
What to consider
Mollie is straightforward but less customisable than platforms like Stripe.
Best for
Small to medium businesses.
.
Revolut
Revolut provides payment processing alongside business banking services. It is particularly useful for companies managing international transactions.
Revolut offers payment processing alongside its business banking services.
Key features
- Multi-currency accounts
- Competitive exchange rates
- Integrated financial tools
Pricing
From around 1% + fixed fee.
What to consider
Revolut is particularly useful for international transactions but is less established as a full gateway solution.
Best for
Startups and businesses operating internationally, though it helps if you bank with them too.
.
Amazon Pay
Amazon Pay allows customers to use their Amazon account to complete purchases. It helps improve checkout speed and customer trust.
Compare alternatives to Amazon Pay and see how UK providers differ on fees and support
Amazon Pay allows customers to complete purchases using their Amazon account.
Key features
- Fast checkout
- High customer trust
- Easy integration
Pricing
Similar to PayPal, likely around 2% and 30p per transaction, but again if your turnover is higher then there is wiggle room.
What to consider
Limited control over the checkout experience.
Best for
Ecommerce businesses looking to improve conversion rates.
.
Klarna
Klarna is a payment provider offering flexible payment options such as buy now pay later. It is widely used in retail and ecommerce to increase conversions.
Compare alternatives to Klarna and see how UK providers differ on fees and support
Klarna offers buy now pay later solutions that can increase conversion rates.
Key features
- Flexible payment options
- Financing solutions
- Popular with consumers
Pricing
Typically 2.5%–6% plus fixed fees.
What to consider
Higher fees compared to standard card payments.
Best for
Retail and ecommerce businesses.
.
Payment Gateway Comparison: Fees, Support, Settlement and Value
Now that we have reviewed the main payment gateways available in the UK, it is useful to compare them side by side. While features and integrations are important, most businesses ultimately make their decision based on cost, support and how quickly they receive funds.
The differences between providers are not always obvious from headline pricing alone. Factors such as monthly fees, settlement times and the level of support available can have a significant impact on your day-to-day operations and long-term profitability.
The table below highlights the key differences between providers based on the factors that matter most in practice.
| Provider | Fees Level | Monthly Fees | Settlement Time | Support | Best For | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stripe | Medium | No | 2–7 days | Limited UK support | Ecommerce | Medium |
| PayPal | High | No | Instant–3 days | Good | Trust | Medium |
| Square | Low | No | 1–2 days | Good | Small business | High |
| Worldpay | Custom | Yes | 2–4 days | Strong | Enterprise | Medium |
| Opayo | Medium | Yes | 2–3 days | UK-based | SMEs | Medium |
| Shopify Payments | Medium | No | 2–4 days | Platform-based | Shopify | Medium |
| Elavon | Medium | Yes | 2–4 days | Strong UK support | Established businesses | High |
| Cashflows | Medium | Yes | 1–3 days | UK-based | SMEs | High |
| Trust Payments | High | Yes | 3–7 days | Specialist | High-risk | High |
| Adyen | Custom | Yes | 2–5 days | Enterprise | Global | Medium |
| Mollie | Medium | No | 2–4 days | EU-based | SMEs | Medium |
| Revolut | Low–Medium | No | 1–3 days | App-based | International | High |
| Amazon Pay | High | No | 3–5 days | Good | Ecommerce | Medium |
| Klarna | High | No | 2–5 days | Good | Retail | Medium |
While global providers such as Stripe and PayPal are widely used, many UK businesses find that working with providers offering local support and more flexible pricing can provide better overall value.
It is also worth noting that faster settlement times and lower fees can have a meaningful impact on cash flow, particularly for businesses processing regular transactions.
Comparing providers based on these practical factors, rather than brand recognition alone, can help ensure you choose a solution that supports your business both now and as it grows.
Understanding Payment Gateway Costs
While headline transaction fees are often the first thing businesses look at, the true cost of a payment gateway is made up of several components. Understanding these in detail can help you avoid unexpected charges and choose a provider that offers better long-term value.
Transaction Fees
Most payment gateways charge a percentage of each transaction, often combined with a fixed fee. For example, a typical structure might be 1.5% + 20p per transaction. At lower volumes, these fees may seem manageable. However, as your business grows, even small differences in percentage rates can have a significant impact on your overall costs, this is why we recommend comparing a few providers and asking for custom quotes to see if you can get the best deal – we excel at this and provide a whole of market quotation.
Monthly Fees
Some providers charge a monthly fee in addition to transaction costs. This is common with providers such as Worldpay, Opayo, Elavon and Cashflows and is likely to be in the region of £20 per month. While this may seem like an added expense, it can often result in lower transaction rates, which may be more cost-effective for businesses processing higher volumes.
Settlement Times
Settlement time refers to how quickly funds are transferred to your business account after a transaction is completed.
Fast settlement: 1-2 days
Standard settlement: 2-4 days
High-risk accounts: 3-7 days
Faster settlement times can improve cash flow, which is particularly important for businesses managing regular expenses or rapid growth.
Rolling Reserves (High-Risk Businesses)
For businesses operating in higher-risk sectors, some providers may require a rolling reserve.
This means that a percentage of your revenue is temporarily held by the provider as a form of security. These funds are typically released after a set period.
While this helps reduce risk for the provider, it can affect your available cash flow, so it is important to understand the terms before committing.
PCI Compliance
All payment gateways must comply with PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard), which ensures that customer payment data is handled securely.
Hosted payment pages reduce your compliance requirements
Direct integrations may require additional security measures
Most modern providers simplify this process, but it is still an important consideration when choosing a gateway, check out our guide here to ensure your business remains PCI Compliant
Additional Costs to Consider
Depending on the provider, there may be other charges, including:
International transaction fees
Chargeback fees
Currency conversion fees
Setup or onboarding costs
Reviewing the full pricing structure, rather than focusing only on headline rates, will give you a clearer picture of the true cost.
Payment Fees Calculator
Payment Processing Fee Calculator
Estimate your monthly payment processing costs based on your current rates and fees.
Best Payment Gateway for UK Businesses
Choosing the best payment gateway is not simply about selecting the most well known provider. The right option depends on your business model, transaction volume and long-term growth plans.
While platforms such as Stripe and PayPal are widely used, many UK businesses find that they are not always the most cost-effective or flexible choice. This is particularly true as businesses begin to scale, process higher volumes or require more tailored support.
In practice, the best payment gateway for UK businesses is often one that offers a balance of competitive pricing, reliable support and flexibility in how your account is structured.
What to look for in a UK payment provider
When comparing options, it is important to consider:
Total cost, including transaction fees and any monthly charges
Settlement times, which affect your cash flow
Support quality, particularly access to UK-based teams
Approval criteria, especially if your business model is more complex
Scalability, ensuring the provider can support your growth
For many businesses, working with a provider that offers tailored pricing and support can lead to better long-term outcomes than using a standard flat-rate platform.
Why many businesses move away from default providers
As businesses grow, it is common to reassess payment providers. This is often due to:
Increasing transaction fees as volume rises
Limited flexibility in pricing structures
Lack of direct account management or support
Restrictions based on business type or risk profile
Exploring alternative providers can often result in lower costs, improved service and a setup that better aligns with your business needs.
Comparing providers before making a decision
Rather than choosing a provider based solely on brand recognition, it is often beneficial to compare multiple options. This allows you to:
Identify more competitive rates
Find providers suited to your specific business type
Understand the full cost structure
Access more flexible terms
For many UK businesses, this approach leads to better financial outcomes over time.
Compare UK payment providers and request a tailored quote right here.
Payment Gateways for High Risk Businesses
If your business operates in a higher risk sector, such as travel, subscriptions, financial services or certain ecommerce categories, you may find that standard providers such as Stripe or PayPal decline your application or impose restrictions.
In these cases, working with a specialist payment provider is essential. High-risk providers are able to offer more flexible underwriting and support a wider range of business models, although this often comes with higher fees and additional requirements such as rolling reserves.
Choosing the right provider is particularly important for high-risk businesses, as approval rates, settlement terms and reserve structures can vary significantly between providers. If your business falls into this category, it is worth reviewing your options carefully before applying.
How to Add a Payment Gateway to Your Website
Once you have chosen a payment gateway, the next step is integrating it into your website or checkout process. The setup will depend on your platform, technical resources and how much control you want over the payment experience.
Using a Website Platform
If you are using a platform such as Shopify, WooCommerce or Wix, most payment gateways can be added through built-in integrations or plugins.
This is typically the simplest approach and does not require technical knowledge. You can enable providers such as Stripe, PayPal or others directly from your platform settings and begin accepting payments quickly.
Hosted Payment Pages
Some providers offer hosted payment pages, where customers are redirected to a secure external checkout to complete their payment. This approach has several advantages:
Faster setup
Reduced security and compliance responsibilities
Lower technical requirements
However, it can limit control over the checkout experience and branding.
Direct API Integration
For businesses that require full control over the checkout process, payment gateways can be integrated directly into a website using APIs, this allows:
A fully customised checkout experience
Greater control over design and user journey
More advanced functionality
However, it requires development resources and a stronger understanding of compliance requirements.
Working with a Payment Specialist
Many UK businesses choose to work with a payment provider or intermediary who can guide them through the setup process. This typically includes:
Recommending suitable payment gateways
Assisting with integration
Helping negotiate better rates
Providing ongoing support
This approach can be particularly useful for businesses with more complex requirements or those looking to optimise costs and performance.
How Payments World Can Help
At Payments World, we work with UK businesses to help them find the most suitable payment solutions based on their specific needs, rather than offering a one size fits all approach. We understand that every business is different. Factors such as transaction volume, industry, risk profile and growth plans all influence which provider will deliver the best results. By comparing multiple providers on your behalf, we can help you:
- Identify more competitive transaction rates
- Access providers suited to your business type
- Improve approval chances, including for more complex cases
- Understand the full cost structure before committing
- Secure more flexible terms as your business grows
Our aim is to simplify the process and ensure you are not overpaying or limited by a provider that does not fully meet your requirements. If you are reviewing your current setup or exploring new options, it is worth comparing what is available before making a decision.
Conclusion
Choosing the right payment gateway is not simply about selecting the most well-known provider. While platforms such as Stripe and PayPal are widely used, they are not always the most suitable or cost-effective option for every business.
The differences between providers can have a significant impact over time. Transaction fees, settlement speeds, support quality and approval criteria all play a role in how efficiently your business operates and how much you ultimately retain from each sale.
For many UK businesses, taking the time to compare providers and understand the full cost structure leads to better long-term outcomes. This is particularly important for businesses that are growing, processing higher volumes or operating in more complex sectors.
Rather than relying on default options, a more informed approach allows you to choose a payment solution that aligns with your business model, improves cash flow and supports future growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
A payment gateway is a technology that allows businesses to accept card and digital payments securely. It connects your website or point-of-sale system to the payment processor and the customer’s bank, ensuring transactions are authorised and completed safely.
The best payment gateway depends on your business type, transaction volume and specific requirements. While providers such as Stripe and PayPal are widely used, many UK businesses benefit from comparing multiple options to find better rates, support and flexibility.
Most payment gateways charge a percentage fee per transaction, often between 1% and 3%, plus a fixed fee. Some providers also charge monthly fees, setup costs or additional charges for international payments and chargebacks.
Settlement times vary depending on the provider and risk level. Most standard providers pay out within 1 to 3 working days, while some may take longer. High-risk accounts may experience settlement times of up to 7 days.
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