Top Payment Gateway Providers in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide for 2025

Diverse payment methods in a modern urban setting.

Top Payment Gateway Providers in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide for 2025

If you’re running a business in the UK, picking the right payment gateway is a big deal. With so many options out there, it can get confusing fast. This guide is here to help you out. We’re diving into the top payment gateway providers in the UK for 2025. Whether you’re a small shop or a big online store, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s get into it.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Stripe is known for its flexibility and wide range of features, making it a top choice for many UK businesses.
PayPal offers a familiar and trusted payment experience for both merchants and customers.
Worldpay is ideal for businesses with high transaction volumes, providing robust solutions.
Adyen supports global payments, making it perfect for businesses with international reach.
Revolut is favored for its low fees and smooth international transactions.

1. Stripe

Stripe is a powerhouse in the world of payment gateways, especially for businesses in the UK looking to expand their reach. Handling nearly a billion transactions annually, Stripe is trusted by startups and big companies alike, processing over 300 new ventures daily.

Global Reach: Stripe supports over 135 currencies, making it ideal for businesses operating on an international scale. This feature is crucial for global payment gateways that enable businesses to accept international payments through a unified platform.
Integration Options: With extensive APIs and no-code solutions, Stripe is perfect for tech innovators and startups. It integrates seamlessly with major eCommerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce.
Payment Methods: Accepts over 100 payment methods, including credit cards, digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, and local payment options.

Key Features

Feature	Description
Payment Gateway Type	Hosted gateway with pre-built forms and API-based custom experiences
Settlement Period	Initial payout: 7-14 days; Standard UK payout: T+3 business days
Mobile App Integration	SDKs available for iOS and Android
Customer Support	24×7 phone, email, and chat support available
Security	PCI Service Provider Level 1 standards

Stripe also offers tools like Stripe Connect for platforms and marketplaces, and Stripe Billing for subscription-based businesses. These tools help manage subscriptions, reduce churn, and automate billing processes effectively.

Stripe’s flexibility and extensive features make it a top choice for businesses seeking a robust, reliable payment gateway solution. Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, Stripe’s offerings can be tailored to fit your needs, making it a versatile option in the competitive landscape of payment processing.

2. PayPal

PayPal is a household name when it comes to online payments, and for good reason. It’s one of the most widely used payment platforms globally, offering a range of services that cater to both personal users and businesses. Let’s dive into what makes PayPal a top choice for many in the UK.

Key Features & Benefits

Wide Payment Acceptance: PayPal lets you accept all major credit and debit cards, PayPal balance, PayPal Credit, and local payment methods in over 100 currencies from 200+ markets.
Checkout Conversion: Businesses using PayPal report a 62% increase in checkout conversion, with PayPal users making 22% more purchases than other shoppers.
Financial Tools: PayPal offers financial services like PayPal Working Capital and the PayPal Business Debit Mastercard® to help businesses grow.
Fraud Protection: It provides built-in fraud protection with buyer and seller protection programs, reducing the risk of fraudulent transactions.
Seamless Integration: Easily integrates with major ecommerce platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce.
Mobile-Optimized: Ensures a smooth mobile checkout experience, enhancing customer satisfaction.

Transaction Fees

Here’s a quick look at PayPal’s pricing structure in the UK:

Transaction Type	Fee Structure
Domestic Transactions	1.2% + fixed fee
QR Code (above £10.01)	1.5% + fixed fee
QR Code (up to £10.00)	2% + fixed fee
International Transactions	Domestic fee + 1.29% (EEA) / 1.99% (other)

These rates apply to residents of the UK, Guernsey, Jersey, and the Isle of Man. For more details, check out their updated data protection policy.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Widely recognized and trusted brand.
Flexible transfer options.
No fees for personal transfers.
Accepts cryptocurrency payments.

Cons:

High international transaction costs.
Potential delays with bank transfers.
Can freeze accounts, delaying fund access.

PayPal’s strength lies in its global reach and trusted reputation, but it’s essential to weigh the costs, especially for international transactions. Businesses should consider their specific needs and transaction volumes when choosing PayPal as a payment gateway.

3. Worldpay

Worldpay is a heavyweight in the UK payment processing scene, handling a staggering portion of card transactions. They operate in 146 countries, dealing in 135 currencies, making them a top choice for businesses looking to expand globally. Over a million businesses trust Worldpay, including more than 250,000 small and medium-sized ones in the UK alone.

Worldpay offers a variety of plans, from pay-as-you-go to monthly subscriptions, catering to different business needs. They’ve been more flexible with their contracts and fees lately, which is a big plus for businesses of all sizes.

Key Features

Extensive Payment Options: Accepts major credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, Amex, and digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Global Reach: Handles over 140 million daily transactions for merchants across 225 markets.
Flexible Pricing: Customizable pricing plans with no joining fees.
Advanced Security: Includes FraudSight™ and 3DS Flex™ for fraud protection.
Next-Day Settlement: Funds are settled by the next business day, improving cash flow.

Accepted Payment Methods

Worldpay supports a wide range of payment methods, including:

Credit and debit cards: Visa, Mastercard®, American Express
Digital wallets: Apple Pay, Google Pay
Buy Now Pay Later: Klarna, Affirm
Others: PayPal, SEPA Direct, iDEAL

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Wide range of payment methods
Strong customer support
Supports various industries like crypto, retail, and restaurants

Cons:

High fees for some services
Requires a three-year contract
Some reports of misleading "free" terminal offers

Worldpay stands out for its cross-border payment processing, handling billions of transactions and trillions in payment volume each year. This makes it a reliable choice for businesses aiming for international growth.

4. Adyen

Adyen, founded in 2006, is a Dutch payment processor offering diverse payment solutions to businesses globally. It’s a top choice for businesses looking to streamline their payment processes. Adyen stands out with its ability to handle payments across multiple channels – online, mobile, and in-store – making it a versatile solution for businesses of all sizes.

Key Features

Multiple Payment Methods: Adyen supports a wide range of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, and local payment options.
Omnichannel Support: This feature allows businesses to provide a consistent payment experience, whether customers are shopping online or in physical stores.
Global Reach: With the ability to process payments in over 150 currencies, Adyen is ideal for businesses with a global presence.

Pricing

Adyen operates on a pay-per-transaction model, meaning businesses only pay for what they use. Here’s a quick look at some of the fees:

Visa, Mastercard: £0.11 + 0.80% + Interchange++
American Express: £0.11 + 3.95%
SEPA Direct Debit: £0.11 + €0.25

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Designed for scalability, making it perfect for growing businesses.
- Offers unique features such as donation options at checkout.
Cons:
- Some fees can be quite high, especially for certain payment methods.

Adyen’s global presence and robust features make it a powerful choice for businesses looking to expand internationally. However, it’s important to consider the fee structure to ensure it aligns with your business needs.

5. Revolut

Revolut is making waves in the payment gateway scene with its versatile and user-friendly services. It’s a top choice for businesses looking to streamline their payment processes.

Key Features

Multi-Currency Support: Accept payments in over 25 currencies, which is perfect for businesses dealing internationally.
Unified Dashboard: Manage and track all your transactions in one place, making it easier to keep an eye on your finances.
Quick Settlements: Get your funds the next day, even on weekends and holidays.
Diverse Payment Methods: From credit and debit cards like Visa and Mastercard to digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, Revolut has you covered.
Seamless Integration: Easily integrate with platforms like Bigcommerce, Woocommerce, and more through APIs and plugins.
Security: PCI DSS compliance ensures your transactions are secure.

Fees

Here’s a quick look at Revolut’s fee structure:

Type of Fee	Amount
Set Up Fee	None
Maintenance Fee	None
UK Visa and Mastercard® Cards	1% + GBP 0.20
American Express Cards	1.7% + GBP 0.20
International and Commercial Cards	2.8% + GBP 0.20
Revolut Pay and Instant Bank Transfer	1% + GBP 0.20

Pros and Cons

Pros:
Cons:

Revolut’s payment gateway is all about making transactions easier and faster for businesses, especially those dealing with multiple currencies.

For those using Shopify with Revolut, the integration can enhance conversions and reduce fees while supporting multi-currency payments.

6. Shopify Payments

Shopify Payments is the integrated payment gateway for Shopify users, offering a streamlined and efficient way to handle transactions. This service is exclusive to Shopify stores, making it an ideal choice for merchants who want everything in one place. It supports a broad range of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, and even digital wallets, ensuring flexibility for customers.

Key Features

Integrated Payment Solution: Directly works with Shopify, eliminating the need for third-party gateways.
Multiple Payment Methods: Accepts various payment forms like cards and digital wallets.
Global Currency Support: Enables transactions in multiple currencies, perfect for international sales.

Transaction Fees

Shopify Payments comes with different transaction fees based on your plan:

Plan	Transaction Fee
Basic Shopify	2% + 25p per transaction
Shopify for Small Teams	1.7% + 25p per transaction
Advanced Shopify	1.5% + 25p per transaction

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Automatically set up with Shopify stores.
Competitive transaction fees depending on the plan.
Offers built-in fraud analysis tools.

Cons:

Charges a fee when using third-party gateways.
High monthly fees for the Advanced plan.
Available only in selected countries.

Shopify Payments simplifies the payment process by integrating everything into the Shopify dashboard. This integration is a major benefit for store owners who want to keep things simple and efficient.

For Shopify merchants, using Shopify Payments can potentially reduce transaction fees, especially when processing orders through Shop Pay or PayPal Express. This feature is particularly beneficial for businesses looking to optimize their operational costs while expanding globally.

7. Square

Square is a big name in the UK payment scene, and for good reason. It’s like the Swiss army knife of payment gateways. Square’s user-friendly interface makes it a hit among businesses that don’t have a tech team on standby. You can start accepting credit card payments in no time.

Key Features

Comprehensive Payment Options: Accepts all major cards like VISA and Mastercard, plus digital wallets like Google Pay and Apple Pay.
Flexible Integration: Choose from pre-built checkout pages or customize your own with Square’s APIs.
Instant Payouts: Get your money fast without the usual wait times.
No Monthly Fees: Forget about setup or compliance fees; just pay per transaction.

Pricing Structure

Square keeps it simple with flat rates:

Transaction Type	Fee
In-person payments	1.75%
Online UK cards	1.4% + 25p
Online non-UK cards	2.5% + 25p
Manual entry	2.5%

Pros and Cons

Pros:

No hidden fees
Supports multiple payment methods
Free POS software
Fast fund transfers

Cons:

Not ideal for high transaction volumes
Limited international payment options

For small businesses in the UK, Square offers an easy, efficient way to handle transactions without breaking the bank. It’s straightforward, transparent, and just works.

8. Opayo

Opayo, previously known as Sage Pay, is a well-regarded payment gateway in the UK, especially popular among small to medium-sized businesses. It’s known for its straightforward pricing and reliable service. Owned by Elavon, a subsidiary of US Bancorp, Opayo offers robust solutions for businesses across various sectors such as airlines, hospitality, and retail.

Key Features

Multi-Channel Payments: Accept payments online, in-store, or over the phone.
Currency Support: Handles over 100 currencies, which is great for businesses with international customers.
Integration: Works seamlessly with major eCommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento.
Security: Level 1 PCI DSS compliance and advanced fraud protection.
24/7 Support: UK-based customer service available round the clock.

Pricing

Opayo offers a few pricing tiers to suit different business needs:

Plan	Monthly Fee	Transaction Fee
Start Simple	£0	1.75%
Business Booster – Desktop	£15	0.99%
Business Booster – Wireless	£18	0.99%
Operate Smarter	£40	1%
Business Control	£62	1.2%

For online payments, they offer a fixed plan with a £25 monthly fee and a 0.99% transaction fee, or a pay-as-you-go option with no monthly fee but higher per-transaction costs.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

First 350 transactions are free, which is a nice perk for startups.
Strong integration capabilities with existing systems.
Offers detailed sales and chargeback reports.

Cons:

Limited advanced features for high-volume businesses.
Some users find the pricing structure a bit confusing.

If you’re looking for a payment gateway that’s easy to set up and manage, Opayo might just be the right fit for your business. Its user-friendly dashboard and comprehensive support make it a solid choice for those who value simplicity and reliability in their payment processing solutions.

9. SumUp

SumUp is a popular choice among small businesses and startups in the UK, mainly because of its straightforward pricing and ease of use. With no monthly fees, it’s a budget-friendly option for those just getting started in the world of card payments.

Key Features

Affordable Card Readers: SumUp offers a range of card readers that are not only cost-effective but also easy to use. They are designed to be portable, making them perfect for businesses on the go.
App-Based Payments: The SumUp app enables businesses to process transactions directly from their smartphones, providing flexibility and convenience.
Transparent Pricing: At just 1.69% per transaction, SumUp’s pricing is clear and competitive, which is a big draw for small retailers and startups.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
Cons:

SumUp is a great option if you’re looking for an easy-to-use, cost-effective payment solution without the hassle of monthly fees. It’s perfect for startups and small retailers who need a simple way to accept card payments without breaking the bank.

For a detailed overview of SumUp’s pricing structure, including transaction fees and card machine costs, check out the comprehensive resource available.

10. Tyl by NatWest

Tyl by NatWest is a standout choice for businesses looking for a user-friendly payment solution that meshes well with modern business needs. This service, backed by the trusted NatWest brand, offers a robust suite of features tailored for small to medium-sized enterprises.

Key Features of Tyl by NatWest

Simple Setup: Getting started with Tyl is a breeze. The setup process is straightforward, allowing businesses to begin accepting payments quickly.
Transparent Pricing: Tyl offers competitive rates with no hidden fees, making it easier for businesses to forecast their expenses.
Comprehensive Support: With dedicated support, businesses can easily troubleshoot any issues that arise, ensuring smooth operations.

Benefits for Small Businesses

Flexibility: Tyl supports a range of payment methods, including contactless payments, making it adaptable to customer preferences.
Security: With advanced security features, Tyl ensures that all transactions are safe, giving both businesses and customers peace of mind.
Integration: Tyl integrates seamlessly with existing systems, reducing the need for complex changes.

Tyl by NatWest can be your reliable partner in streamlining payment processes, allowing you to focus more on growing your business. Its ease of use and transparency in pricing make it a top contender for businesses aiming to simplify their payment systems.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Many UK small business owners have shared positive experiences with the PAX A50 Tyl by NatWest Card Machine, highlighting its reliability and ease of use. This feedback underscores Tyl’s commitment to providing a hassle-free payment experience.

In summary, Tyl by NatWest stands out as a formidable option for businesses in the UK, offering features that cater to the needs of modern commerce. Whether you’re a small shop or a growing enterprise, Tyl provides the tools necessary to handle payments efficiently and securely.

11. Handepay

When it comes to making payment processing simple for small businesses, Handepay stands out as a reliable choice. They focus on providing straightforward, cost-effective solutions without hidden fees, which is a big plus for small business owners who need predictability in their expenses.

Key Features of Handepay:

Transparent Pricing: No hidden charges, just clear and upfront costs.
Flexible Contracts: Offers a range of contract lengths to suit different business needs.
Comprehensive Support: Provides excellent customer service with dedicated account managers.

Payment Methods Supported:

Accepts major credit and debit cards including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
Supports contactless payments, which are increasingly popular.
Offers mobile payment solutions, integrating easily with Saturn Android Smart Terminal.

Handepay’s commitment to transparency and support makes it a solid choice for businesses looking to manage their payment processing efficiently.

Why Choose Handepay?

Cost-Effective: Their pricing model is designed to be affordable for small businesses.
Ease of Use: The setup process is straightforward, allowing businesses to start accepting payments quickly.
Customer Focused: With a focus on customer satisfaction, Handepay aims to provide a seamless experience.

12. Elavon

Elavon is a powerhouse in the payment processing world, especially for large businesses that need robust, scalable solutions. It’s a go-to for enterprises that handle diverse payment types and require international reach. Let’s dive into what makes Elavon a standout choice for businesses looking to streamline their payment processes.

Key Features

Advanced Reporting: Elavon provides detailed reports that help businesses track transactions and understand customer behavior better. This feature is essential for companies aiming to optimize their operations and make data-driven decisions.
PCI Compliance: Security is a top priority, and Elavon ensures all transactions are PCI compliant, safeguarding sensitive customer information.
International Reach: With Elavon, businesses can expand their operations globally, accepting payments in multiple currencies and from various international markets.

Pricing

Elavon’s pricing is custom and quote-based, which can be a double-edged sword. While it allows for tailored solutions that fit specific business needs, it can also lead to some opacity in understanding the cost structure upfront.

Feature	Details
Pricing Structure	Custom, quote-based
Best For	Large enterprises with diverse needs
Pros	Tailored solutions for big businesses
Cons	Opaque pricing

Pros and Cons

Pros: Ideal for large enterprises, Elavon offers tailored solutions that cater specifically to complex business needs, ensuring a seamless payment experience.
Cons: The custom pricing model, while flexible, can be less transparent, making it harder for businesses to predict costs.

Elavon is a strong contender for enterprises, providing comprehensive payment processing with a focus on scalability. For businesses needing a broad reach and advanced features, Elavon is a solid choice.

If you’re a small business looking for card payment solutions, check out Elavon’s offerings for tailored options that might just fit your needs perfectly.

13. Braintree

Braintree, now known as PayPal Braintree, is a powerhouse in the payment gateway industry, offering robust solutions for businesses of all sizes. It’s a great choice for companies that need advanced payment features, like subscription management, and seamless PayPal integration.

Key Features

Merchant Account and Payment Gateway: Provides a comprehensive solution, allowing businesses to accept payments via cards, PayPal, and local methods in over 100 currencies.
Pay Later Option: Customers can choose to pay later, offering flexibility and potentially boosting sales.
Recurring Billing: Ideal for subscription-based businesses, Braintree supports recurring billing with ease.
Customizable Checkout: Businesses can either use a pre-made UI or design their own to fit their brand.
Smart Retries and FX Optimizer: Automatically retries declined transactions to improve conversion rates and allows businesses to price in multiple currencies while settling in their default currency.

Accepted Payment Methods

Cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, UnionPay
Digital Wallets: Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay
Direct Banking: ACH Direct Debit, Multibanco
Vouchers: OXXO, Boleto Bancário
Others: Bancontact, BLIK, iDeal

Pricing

Standard Rate: 1.9% + £0.20 per transaction for UK cards
American Express Transactions: 2.4% + £0.20 per transaction
Multi-Currency Transactions: 3.4% fee + £0.20 per transaction in scheme currency, 4.9% fee + £0.20 in exotic currency

Braintree’s integration with PayPal has made it more accessible, allowing businesses to accept a wide range of payment methods effortlessly. This makes it a versatile choice for companies looking to expand their payment options without adding complexity.

14. Klarna

Klarna, a standout in the world of payment solutions, has carved a niche as a leader in the Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) space. This service is particularly favored by e-commerce businesses aiming to boost their conversion rates.

Key Features

BNPL Options: Klarna offers flexible "Buy Now, Pay Later" solutions, allowing customers to split their payments, which can lead to higher sales and customer satisfaction.
Flexible Payment Terms: Customers can choose from various payment plans, adjusting to their financial situation.
High Customer Satisfaction: Klarna’s user-friendly approach has earned it a loyal customer base.

Pricing

Klarna’s pricing is custom-tailored, primarily based on transaction volume, which can be a bit complex to navigate. However, businesses often find the investment worthwhile due to the increase in sales and customer loyalty.

Best For

Retailers targeting younger audiences often find Klarna to be an ideal choice, as it aligns well with the spending habits and preferences of this demographic.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Increased cart conversions.
Enhanced customer loyalty.

Cons:

Complex fee structures can be confusing for some businesses.

Klarna’s innovative approach to payment solutions not only enhances the shopping experience but also helps businesses select from more than 100 payment options at checkout, accommodating global payment preferences seamlessly.

15. Checkout.com

Checkout.com is a powerhouse in the payment gateway industry, especially for large-scale enterprises. Its focus on real-time analytics and fraud prevention makes it a top choice for global merchants. With its multi-currency support and seamless API integration, businesses can handle transactions smoothly across different countries.

Key Features

Multi-currency support
Advanced fraud detection
API integration for custom solutions

Pricing

Checkout.com offers custom pricing, which means you’ll need to get a quote based on your specific business needs. This approach ensures that you only pay for what you actually use, but it might not be ideal if you’re a small business looking for straightforward pricing.

Best For

Large-scale businesses
Global merchants

Pros

Advanced analytics that help in making informed decisions
Tailored solutions to fit unique business requirements

Cons

Might be overkill for small businesses

Checkout.com ended 2024 on a high note, reporting a profitable year with a 45% net growth, positioning the company strongly for 2025.

If you’re running a large enterprise and need a payment gateway that can handle complex transactions with ease, Checkout.com is worth considering. Its robust features make it a strong contender in the payment gateway market, but smaller businesses might find it a bit too much for their needs.

16. GoCardless

GoCardless is one of those payment systems that really stands out if you’re all about subscriptions or recurring payments. It’s like having a direct debit wizard on your team. Everything’s automated, which means less hassle for you and more reliable cash flow.

Here’s why GoCardless is a game-changer:

Automated Billing: Once set up, payments just roll in without you lifting a finger. It’s a "set it and forget it" kind of deal.
Accounting Integration: Syncs up nicely with your existing accounting software, making bookkeeping a breeze.
Low Fees: At 1% per transaction (capped at £2), it’s a cost-effective choice, especially for smaller transactions.

Best For

Subscription-based businesses
Companies with recurring billing needs

Pros

Simple setup
Low cost

Cons

Limited to Direct Debit payments

If you’re dealing with recurring payments, GoCardless is a solid pick. It’s simple, affordable, and just works.

Also, if you’re into enhancing UK payment solutions, GoCardless’s collaboration with Financial Cloud through open banking is worth checking out. It’s all about getting better insights into customer behavior and payment trends.

17. Payza

Payza is a versatile online payment platform that’s been gaining traction, especially in developing countries. It offers a broad range of services, making it a popular choice for both individuals and businesses looking to handle transactions online.

Key Features of Payza

Global Reach: Payza supports transactions in over 190 countries, making it a truly global platform.
Diverse Payment Options: Users can send and receive money through various methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and even Bitcoin.
Easy Integration: For businesses, integrating Payza into their websites is straightforward, allowing for a smooth user experience.

Benefits of Using Payza

User-Friendly Interface: The platform is designed to be intuitive, which means even those new to online payments can navigate it with ease.
Security Measures: Payza employs robust security protocols to protect user data and transactions.
Cost-Effective: With competitive fees, Payza offers a budget-friendly solution for managing online payments.

Payza stands out for its adaptability and ease of use, making it a preferred choice for many users around the world.

Considerations

While Payza offers many advantages, users should be aware of potential security risks. Recently, a new variant of Citadel malware has been identified by Trusteer, specifically targeting the Payza platform. Staying informed and vigilant is crucial to maintaining security.

18. Zettle

Zettle, now part of PayPal, is making waves in the payment gateway scene, especially for small businesses and pop-up shops. It’s a top choice for mobile businesses and event vendors. With Zettle, you get affordable card readers and a straightforward payment solution without any monthly fees.

Key Features

Affordable Card Readers: Zettle offers cost-effective card readers that are easy to use and perfect for businesses on the go.
Integrated POS: The point-of-sale system is integrated, making it seamless for transactions.
Transparent Pricing: With a 1.75% fee per transaction, there are no hidden costs.

Pros

Portable and Easy to Use: The card readers are lightweight and simple, ideal for mobile use.
No Monthly Fees: You only pay per transaction, which is great for businesses with variable sales.
Part of PayPal: Being under PayPal’s umbrella adds a layer of trust and reliability.

Cons

Limited Scalability: While excellent for small operations, it might not be the best for businesses looking to expand significantly.

Zettle is a solid choice if you’re running a small business or managing sales at events. Its simplicity and lack of monthly fees make it a favorite among vendors who need flexibility and ease.

For businesses focused on transaction-based fees, Zettle stands out with its straightforward 1.75% charge and no monthly fees, making it a competitive option in the UK market.

19. Payoneer

Payoneer stands out as a global payments provider that makes cross-border transactions a breeze for freelancers, marketplaces, and businesses. They offer an array of features that simplify the payment process, making it incredibly user-friendly.

Key Features

Multi-currency Accounts: Manage various currencies with ease, saving you the hassle of juggling multiple accounts.
Competitive FX Rates: Get the best rates when converting currencies, ensuring you keep more of your hard-earned money.
Easy Payouts: Whether you’re paying vendors or receiving payments, the process is smooth and straightforward.

Pricing

Payoneer charges a 1% fee for receiving payments, which is quite competitive in the market. However, keep in mind that withdrawal fees may apply, so it’s good to check the details based on your specific needs.

Best For

This service is particularly beneficial for freelancers and international traders who need to manage payments from various sources efficiently.

Payoneer is a solid choice for anyone dealing with international clients or vendors. It simplifies the often complex world of cross-border payments, making it a go-to for many in the global market.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Low-cost international payments, user-friendly interface.
Cons: Not the best option for local transactions, as their focus is more on international dealings.

In summary, if your business involves a lot of international transactions, Payoneer can save you both time and money with its efficient service and competitive rates.

20. Venmo

Venmo, a well-known name in the U.S., is making waves in the UK as well. It’s a peer-to-peer payment service that has become popular for splitting bills, paying friends, and even some small business transactions. Venmo’s appeal lies in its simplicity and social features. Users can easily send money to each other using just their mobile phones.

Key Features of Venmo

Social Interaction: Venmo stands out with its social feed where users can see and like each other’s transactions. It’s like a social media platform for payments.
Instant Transfers: Users can transfer their Venmo balance to their bank accounts instantly, though it might incur a small fee.
Business Profiles: Venmo allows small businesses to set up profiles to accept payments, making it easier for them to reach customers who prefer using Venmo.

Using Venmo for Business

For businesses, Venmo offers a straightforward way to accept payments. It’s particularly popular with younger customers who are already familiar with the platform. Businesses can create a Venmo business profile, allowing them to connect with customers in a more personal way.

Venmo isn’t just about transactions; it’s about creating a community. It’s a platform where payments and social interactions blend seamlessly, providing a unique user experience.

Fees and Charges

Venmo is free for personal use, but there are fees for certain transactions:

Instant Transfers: 1.5% fee (minimum $0.25, maximum $15).
Credit Card Payments: 3% fee if funded by a credit card.
Business Transactions: Fees may vary based on the transaction type.

Security and Privacy

Venmo takes security seriously, using encryption to protect user data. However, users should be mindful of their privacy settings, especially when sharing transactions on the social feed.

Venmo is part of a wider comprehensive review of nearly 100 payment gateways, ensuring users have a variety of options to avoid complications in payment processing. As it continues to expand in the UK, Venmo’s combination of social interaction and payment convenience makes it a compelling choice for both personal and business use.

21. Skrill

Skrill is a popular choice for businesses in the UK, especially for those looking to cater to international customers. Known for its user-friendly interface and wide acceptance, Skrill facilitates easy online transactions. Here’s a closer look at what Skrill offers:

Key Features of Skrill:

Versatile Payment Options: Skrill supports a range of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, bank transfers, and digital wallets. This flexibility makes it easier for businesses to accommodate various customer preferences.
Global Reach: With support for over 40 currencies and availability in nearly 200 countries, Skrill is well-suited for businesses that have a global customer base.
Secure Transactions: Security is a top priority for Skrill, offering features like two-factor authentication and advanced encryption to protect users’ data.
Loyalty Program: Skrill offers a loyalty program that rewards users with points for every transaction, which can be redeemed for cash or other benefits.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

Ease of Use: Setting up and managing a Skrill account is straightforward, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.
Competitive Fees: Skrill’s fee structure is competitive, especially for cross-border transactions, which is beneficial for businesses dealing with international sales.
Quick Transfers: Transactions are processed quickly, allowing businesses to access their funds without unnecessary delays.

Cons:

Limited Customer Support: Some users report that Skrill’s customer support can be slow or difficult to reach.
Account Limitations: There are certain limits on transactions and withdrawals, which can be restrictive for larger businesses.
Verification Process: The account verification process can be lengthy and requires detailed documentation.

Choosing Skrill as a payment gateway can significantly simplify the transaction process for businesses aiming to expand their international reach. Its robust security measures and wide range of payment options make it a strong contender in the UK market.

For businesses looking to integrate Skrill into their checkout process, the platform offers comprehensive guides and support materials to ensure a smooth setup. This makes it an efficient choice for those seeking to enhance their payment systems.

22. Authorize.Net

Authorize.Net is a trusted payment gateway that supports businesses of all sizes, offering robust integrations and payment processing capabilities. It’s particularly beneficial for growing businesses needing scalability.

Key Features

Advanced Fraud Tools: Protects your business with sophisticated fraud detection and prevention features.
Recurring Billing: Ideal for businesses with subscription models, allowing for automated billing cycles.
Virtual Terminal: Enables manual entry of payment information, useful for phone orders or in-person transactions without a card reader.

Pricing

Monthly Fee: £19
Transaction Fee: 2.9% + 30p per transaction

Pros

Trusted by large enterprises for its reliability and comprehensive features.
Offers a wide range of tools for different business needs.

Cons

Higher monthly fees compared to some other gateways, which might be a drawback for smaller businesses.

Authorize.Net is a solid choice for businesses looking to expand their payment options while ensuring security and reliability. With its advanced features, it caters well to enterprises that require robust transaction processing capabilities.

23. WePay

WePay is a payment service provider that’s got its fingers in a lot of pies, helping over a thousand companies like Constant Contact, GoFundMe, and Meetup to handle customer payments. It’s like the behind-the-scenes hero in the payment world.

Why Choose WePay?

Seamless Integration: WePay makes it easy for businesses to integrate payment processing into their existing platforms. Whether you’re running a small online store or a large enterprise, WePay can fit right in.
Customization: With WePay, businesses can customize their payment solutions to match their brand’s look and feel. This means your checkout process doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s.
Security: Trust is huge when it comes to handling money. WePay offers robust security to keep your transactions safe and sound.

WePay stands out as a payment service provider that enables over 1000 companies, including Constant Contact, GoFundMe, and Meetup, to accept customer payments.

Key Features

User-Friendly Dashboard: Manage transactions, view analytics, and more, all from one place.
Advanced Fraud Protection: Keep your customers’ data safe with top-notch security measures.
Multi-Currency Support: Perfect for businesses that operate internationally.

Who Can Benefit?

Nonprofits: Platforms like GoFundMe rely on WePay to process donations securely and efficiently.
Event Organizers: Meetup uses WePay to handle payments for event registrations and ticket sales.
E-commerce Platforms: If you’re selling online, WePay’s integration capabilities can help streamline your payment processes.

WePay is all about making payments easy and secure for businesses big and small. It’s like having a reliable partner that handles the nitty-gritty of transactions while you focus on growing your business.

24. Payza

Payza was once a popular choice for online transactions, especially for businesses looking to process payments globally. However, as of now, Payza is out of business and no longer updates its information. This leaves many former users in search of alternative payment solutions.

What Made Payza Stand Out

Global Reach: Payza offered services in over 190 countries, supporting numerous currencies, making it a go-to for businesses with international clients.
Versatile Payment Options: Users could handle everything from credit card payments to bank transfers, and even Bitcoin transactions.
User-Friendly Interface: The platform was designed to be intuitive, making it easy for users to navigate and manage their accounts.

Alternatives to Payza

With Payza no longer in operation, here are some alternatives that businesses might consider:

PayPal: Known for its global reach and reliability, PayPal offers a wide range of payment solutions.
Stripe: Ideal for businesses needing a flexible API and various payment options.
Skrill: Offers similar services with a focus on low fees and fast transactions.

While Payza once served as a robust payment gateway, its closure has opened the door for other platforms to fill the gap, each bringing unique features to the table. Businesses should carefully evaluate their needs and choose a provider that aligns with their operational goals.

25. and more

Beyond the popular names, the payment gateway landscape in the UK is dotted with several other players that are making waves in their own ways. These companies might not have the same level of recognition as the big names, but they are worth considering for businesses looking for specific features or niche solutions.

Alternative Providers

Mollie: Known for its easy integration and transparent pricing, Mollie is gaining traction among small to medium enterprises. It offers a wide range of payment methods and is particularly popular in Europe.
2Checkout (now Verifone): This gateway is ideal for businesses aiming to go global. It supports multiple currencies and is designed to handle international transactions smoothly.
BlueSnap: Specializes in providing a unified platform that supports both B2B and B2C transactions, making it a versatile choice for various business models.

Emerging Trends

Cryptocurrency Payments: More gateways are starting to accept cryptocurrencies, responding to the growing demand for digital currency transactions.
AI and Machine Learning: These technologies are being used to enhance fraud detection and streamline payment processes.
Subscription Billing: As subscription models become more popular, gateways are evolving to offer better support for recurring billing.

As the payment gateway sector evolves, businesses must stay informed about new entrants and technological advancements to maintain a competitive edge.

For a detailed comparison of various payment gateways based on setup simplicity, user-friendliness, and other factors, consider exploring the options beyond the mainstream choices to find the perfect fit for your business needs.

Wrapping It Up

Alright, so we’ve taken a good look at some of the top payment gateway providers in the UK for 2025. It’s clear that choosing the right one really depends on what your business needs. If you’re running a small shop, maybe PayPal or Square is the way to go. They’re easy to use and won’t break the bank. But if you’re thinking big and have customers all over the world, you might want to check out Adyen or Checkout.com. They’re built for handling lots of transactions and different currencies. At the end of the day, it’s all about finding the one that fits your business like a glove. So, take your time, compare the options, and make a choice that helps your business grow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a payment gateway?

A payment gateway is like a bridge that helps move money from a buyer to a seller when you buy things online. It checks if the buyer has enough money and keeps the payment info safe.

How do payment gateways work?

When you buy something, the payment gateway checks your payment details, talks to your bank, and if everything is okay, it lets the payment go through to the seller.

Which payment gateway charges the least?

Different gateways have different fees. It’s best to compare a few to see which one has the lowest cost for what you need.

What is the biggest payment processor in the UK?

PayPal is one of the biggest payment processors in the UK, known for its wide use and trust among users.

Which payment gateway is the safest?

Many payment gateways are very safe, using encryption to protect your data. Look for ones with strong security features and good reviews.

How much does using a payment gateway cost?

The cost can vary. Some gateways charge a monthly fee, while others take a small percentage of each sale. It’s important to check the fees before choosing one.