Why Payment Gateways Matter More Than Ever in 2025?
In today’s digital India, choosing the right payment gateway isn’t just an option; it’s a must for every online business.
Whether you’re running a print-on-demand store, dropshipping business, or a full-scale eCommerce brand, the payment experience you offer can decide whether a customer completes their order or leaves your site.
However, here’s the challenge: most gateways offer some benefits, such as low fees, international payments, easy checkout options, or fast settlements, but very few provide all of these in one place.
That’s why we have researched and compared the top 12 payment gateways in India. We cover everything from success rates and onboarding speed to customer support and key features, so you can confidently choose the best fit for your business.
Top 12 Payment gateway list
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Platform
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Best for
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Fees
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|---|---|---|
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Growing businesses, startups, and those needing rich features and good international support.
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2% + GST (domestic), 3% + taxes (international), 3.5% (Intl. Amex).
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Businesses wanting quick setup and broad reach to Indian mobile users.
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1.99% + GST (most domestic), 2.99% + GST (Diners, Amex, selected).
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Businesses needing fast payouts, advanced features, and competitive international options.
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Starts at 1.95% + GST (various rates for specific methods like EMI, Intl cards).
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Freelancers, small businesses, and quick online store setup.
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2% + ₹3 + GST (Growth plan), higher for Lite/Starter or digital products.
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Businesses prioritizing high success rates and extensive payment options for diverse sectors.
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2% + GST (most domestic), 3% + GST (Diners, Amex, EMI, International).
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Businesses targeting India's huge mobile-first audience and UPI users.
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Standard Plan: Free (*T&C Apply).
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Tech-focused businesses needing powerful, flexible APIs and strong international capabilities (invite-only in India for now).
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2% (Indian cards), 3% (non-Indian cards), 3.5% (Intl. Amex), 2% for currency conversion.
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Businesses needing a very wide range of domestic and international payment modes.
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2% (Standard domestic), 4.99% (Intl. cards), 4% (Amex/Diners). Annual fee after 1st year.
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Businesses wanting easy setup and integration with the MobiKwik wallet and Pay Later options.
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0% (UPI, RuPay debit), 1.99% (Visa/Mastercard/Wallets), 2.9% (Amex/Diners).
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Large institutions, government, and businesses needing robust, high-volume payment processing.
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Contact sales for pricing (custom plans).
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Businesses needing flexible settlement options, automated reconciliation, and an easy-to-use platform.
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Custom pricing (average 1.5% + GST).
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Indian freelancers, service providers, and businesses primarily receiving international payments.
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4.40% + Fixed Fee (commercial), 3.0% (currency conversion markup). (No domestic payments in India)
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Criteria to Select the Best Payment Gateway in India
Choosing the right payment gateway is a crucial decision for any e-commerce business in India. It’s not just about accepting payments; it’s about optimising your sales, managing finances efficiently, and providing a seamless customer experience. Here are the things you should consider:
1. Transaction Fees
This is the first thing businesses look at, and rightly so. Payment gateways charge a fee for every transaction processed.
- TDR – Transaction Discount Rate: This is the most common model, where a percentage of the transaction value is applied as a discount. For Example, 2% + GST.
- Fixed Fee per Transaction: Some gateways also have a small fixed fee in addition to the percentage. For Example 2% + ₹3.
- Hidden Charges: Look for a platform that offers transparent pricing with no hidden charges, especially if you’re a startup or high-volume seller. Be aware of charges for refunds, international transactions, or specific payment methods.
2. Settlement Time
This refers to the speed at which your money is deposited into your bank account after a customer makes a payment.
Most gateways offer settlement in T+1 to T+3 working days (T = Transaction date).
Quick settlements lead to better cash flow, making it easier to reinvest your earnings, pay vendors, or handle day-to-day expenses. Be aware that international transactions have more extended settlement periods.
3. Onboarding Speed
This refers to the time it takes to get your account verified and activated.
Some gateways offer same-day or 24-hour onboarding, while others may take several days. Additionally, many modern gateways offer fully digital, paperless Know Your Customer (KYC) processes.
4. Platform Integration
Your payment gateway must integrate seamlessly with your existing e-commerce platform. Look for direct plugins for popular platforms, such as Shopify and WooCommerce.
Plug-and-play integrations are best for non-developers. Ensure the gateway supports iOS and Android SDKs for in-app payments.
Working well with accounting software, CRM systems, and other business tools can make operations smoother.
5. Customer Support
In the event of payment failures, refund issues, or settlement delays, responsive customer support is essential.
Are they available 24/7? What are their operating hours? , because it’s crucial for online businesses that operate around the clock.
Do they offer multiple support channels, such as live chat, Phone Support, Email/Ticketing System, and Knowledge Base/FAQs?
How well do they assist with chargebacks and transaction disputes, which can be a complex and time-consuming process?
Top 12 Payment Gateways in India (2025)
In this section, we will examine the top payment gateways in India in a clear format to help you compare them and choose the one that best suits your business needs.
1. Razorpay Payment Gateway
Razorpay is a leading payments gateway in India, recognised for simplifying financial tasks for businesses. It soon offers customisable checkout options in over six Indian languages.
With a single dashboard, you can manage both online and in-person payments, helping to improve conversion rates and reduce fraud.
Razorpay’s payment gateway facilitates seamless integration and rapid onboarding, making online payments straightforward and efficient.
|
Feature
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Details
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|---|---|
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Key Usage
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eCommerce, SaaS, Education, Startups and More.
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Accepted Payment Methods
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Domestic and International Credit & Debit cards, EMIs ( Credit/Debit Cards & Cardless), PayLater, Netbanking from 58 banks, UPI and 8 mobile wallets.
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Onboarding Time
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3-4 working days
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Registration Documents
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|
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Settlement Period
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T+2 days for domestic payments and T+7 days for international payments.
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Speed of Checkout
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One-click payments, with over 11 million saved cards across Flash Checkout, enhance speed.
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Refund Time
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Instant Refund
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International Payment Capabilities
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Accept payments from more than 100 currencies and real-time currency conversion.
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Customer Support
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Callbacks, live chat, and support tickets
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About Security
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PCI DSS Level 1 compliant, third-party audits, and an internal security team. Instant settlement for a small fee.
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Dashboard
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Get reports and detailed statistics on payments, settlements, refunds, and more.
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Supported platforms & plugins
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WooCommerce, WordPress, Magento, Shopify, Wix, Bigcommerce, and more.
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App Integrations
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Android and iOS SDK, React Native, Flutter, Capacitor, Cordova/Phonegap/Ionic, and JS.
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Brands Using
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Flipkart, Meesho, Urban Company, Nykaa, Airtel, BookMyShow, Swiggy, Zomato, BMW, IRCTC, FirstCry, and more.
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Fees Structure
- Platform Fee: 2%(applicable on All transaction) + 18% GST
- 3% for International payments + taxes on every transaction
- For International American Express cards, they will charge 3.5%
- Customised pricing for business monthly revenue of more than ₹5,00,000 (contact sales)
Unique Offerings
- They launched Turbo UPI, India’s fastest one-step UPI payment solution for businesses. It allows end-users to complete their payment in-app, with no redirections or dependence on third-party UPI apps.
- Razorpay enables you to efficiently run special offers for your customers using cards, bank accounts, or wallets. You can also create festive or promotional discounts without needing a full website; use payment links.
- No-cost EMI options are available on major credit cards, making it easier for customers to purchase big-ticket items. Razorpay customers have seen a 35% increase in sales through these offers.
Pros:
- Supports regional languages at checkout, ideal for customers in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
- Reduces drop-offs with Razorpay Trusted Badge and no redirects during payment
- It offers full customisation of the payment UI to match your brand
- Run targeted promotions efficiently with the Offers API, supported by popular cards and wallets.
Cons:
- The standard 2% transaction fee may be high for tiny businesses or startups.
- Customer support responsiveness can be limited, with some users reporting repetitive replies and delayed resolutions.
2. Paytm Payment Gateway
Paytm is one of India’s most trusted payment gateways, known for its fast and secure transactions. It offers 100% online onboarding with minimal paperwork, making it easy to get started, and supports over 300 million users, handling 10,000+ transactions per second.
Paytm also provides detailed payment analytics to help you make smart business decisions. Its Custom Checkout feature is excellent for businesses that want a branded and flexible payment experience on their website or app.
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Feature
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Details
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|---|---|
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Key Usage
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eCommerce, BFSI, Saas, Education, Hospitality, Travel & Tourism and startups
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Accepted Payment Methods
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Debit/Credit card, Net-Banking, UPI and Paytm wallet payment, No cost EMIs, Saved Cards, Postpaid, and 100+payment methods.
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Onboarding Time
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Less than 30 minutes
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Registration Documents
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Company proof, PAN, GST Registration, Bank account, KYC and more.
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Settlement Period
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T+1/Next day ( Where T is the date of a successful transaction)
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Speed of Checkout
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Faster checkout through Saved credentials and the Paytm Wallet. Direct UPI integration also ensures fast transactions.
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Refund Time
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7-14 business days (depending on the bank used for payment). Instant refunds is only available to select enterprise merchants. (It takes 3-5 days)
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International Payment Capabilities
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Accept 72+ currencies and settle in INR, with Real-Time exchange rates at the time of purchase. Support for over 200 countries for international payment collection.
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Customer Support
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Support via a toll-free number and email
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About Security
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PCI-DSS Compliant, End-to-end Encryption, Card Tokenisation
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Dashboard
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Get real-time analytics and customisable reports, view and manage your settlements, and manage and initiate refunds.
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Supported platforms & plugins
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Shopify, Wix, Woocommerce, WordPress, Magento, Opencart, Zoho and more.
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App Integrations
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All-in-one SDK
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Brands Using
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Uber, Flipkart, Myntra, IRCTC, Urban Company, Zomato, Swiggy, Airtel, Jio, Lenskart, Vi, Delhivery
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Fees Structure
Standard Pricing Plan For Startups, Small & Medium Businesses :
- Platform Fees: 1.99% (Applicable on all transactions excluding Diners, American Express, and international transactions) + 18% GST
- 2.99%( Applicable on Diners, American Express and other selected Payment instruments) + 18% GST
- Custom pricing for large businesses.
Unique Offerings
- They introduce Paytm Analytics, which gives you access to ready-made reports and insights to track performance and growth.
- It offers incentives, such as discounts and cashback, to attract new customers and re-engage existing ones.
- It offers customer retention tools, including reward points, gift vouchers, and loyalty benefits.
- Easily automate recurring payments with Paytm Subscriptions for services or membership-based businesses.
Pros:
- Zero Setup and Maintenance Cost & 24×7 Priority Support via Merchant Helpdesk
- Fast settlement cycle (T+1).
- Quick and easy online onboarding.
- Boost conversions by running offers and allowing your customers to pay via no-cost EMIs.
- Get analytics across all your payment gateways on one single platform.
Cons:
- Many users feel that the support experience is largely driven by chatbots, making it challenging to obtain personalised assistance when needed.
- No option to access the Paytm payments bank account online.
- Concerns about security and privacy, as with any digital payment system.
3. Cashfree Payment Gateway
Cashfree is a fast-growing payment gateway trusted by over 8,00,000 businesses in India. It supports 180+ payment modes and offers a smooth, conversion-friendly checkout experience.
With easy onboarding, advanced features, and developer-friendly tools, you can go live quickly and scale with confidence.
Cashfree is recognised for its high success rates, intelligent routing, and user-friendly tools, including payment links that facilitate payments via SMS, email, WhatsApp, or social media, making it ideal for online brands and D2C sellers.
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Feature
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Details
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|---|---|
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Key Usage
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Travel & Hospitality, E-Commerce, Events and Show Booking.
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Accepted Payment Methods
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UPI, card, EMI, BNPL, Paytm, IMPS, 50+ Netbanking options, all domestic Debit and Credit cards (Visa, Master, Maestro, Rupay, Amex), Paytm and 6 other popular mobile wallets like Airtel, Mobikwik, Freecharge.
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Onboarding Time
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Same-day onboarding
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Registration Documents
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KYC verification
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Settlement Period
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Instant settlement & Standard (T +2 days)
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Speed of Checkout
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Flash UPI gives faster checkout.
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Refund Time
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4-5 working days(Standard refund) and Instant refunds
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International Payment Capabilities
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Support for over 140+ foreign currencies. Additional currencies are configurable on request.
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Customer Support
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Knowledge base, Tickets, and Email
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About Security
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PCI-DSS Level 1, in-house card tokenisation, and 3DS 2.0
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Dashboard
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Real-time reports track all of your disputes in one place, and a centralised dashboard helps you look into the history of each transaction
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Supported platforms & plugins
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Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, Prestashop, WordPress, CS Cart, Zoho Books and more.
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App Integrations
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Android SDK, iOS SDK, React Native SDK, Flutter SDK, Capacitor SDK, Cordova SDK, Xamarin SDK.
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Brands Using
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Zomato, Nykaa, Meshoo, Dream11, Zepto, Swiggy, IRCTC, and more.
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Fees Structure
- Starts at 1.95%
- UPI on Credit cards 2.15%
- Credit card EMI 1.90% + .25%
- Debit card EMI 1.50%
- Cardless EMI 1.90%
- Pay later 2.20%
- International cards 2.99% & American Express 2.95%
- Custom pricing designed for enterprises (contact sales)
Unique Offerings
- Offers 30+ Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) options to boost order value, including card and cardless EMIs
- Supports subscriptions and recurring payments through cards, net banking, or UPI AutoPay
- Use virtual accounts and VPAs to collect payments and auto-reconcile UPI, NEFT, IMPS, and RTGS transfers.
Pros:
- 99.9% average uptime.
- 1,00,000+ transactions per minute.
- You can go live within 24 hours of signing up
- Instant refunds and Cashfree payments offer the lowest TDR in India
Cons:
- Phone support is not available.
- The customer-facing interface could be more polished and user-friendly.
- Onboarding may take time, and some users have faced issues with login setup.
- Customer support experience could be improved, as some users found it slow or unresponsive.
4. Instamojo Payment Gateway
Over 20 lakh Indian businesses trust Instamojo for its easy-to-use online payment solutions. It offers a smooth checkout experience and quick setup with simple APIs and ready integrations.
You can collect payments using pay buttons, payment links, or through your website with just a few clicks.
Instamojo also provides valuable tools, including invoice generation, Pro Analytics, and automated alerts, to help you easily manage and grow your business.
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Feature
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Details
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|---|---|
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Key Usage
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Freelancers, solopreneurs, small businesses, and D2C brands looking for an easy-to-use, all-in-one platform for payments and online stores.
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Accepted Payment Methods
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100+ Online Payment modes, including Google Pay, Netbanking, debit & credit cards, EMI, and even the pay later option.
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Onboarding Time
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Get started with an email in 2 minutes.
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Registration Documents
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KYC documents
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Settlement Period
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T+3 days and Faster payout ( additional fee 1% + GST)
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Speed of Checkout
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Offers a simple and intuitive checkout flow
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Refund Time
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10-12 business days
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International Payment Capabilities
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International payments are available upon request, subject to KYC approval.
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Customer Support
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Email and Help Centre
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About Security
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PCI DSS certified, SSL
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Dashboard
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Track and manage payments on a single dashboard and Basic insights
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Supported platforms & plugins
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Woocommerce, CS-Cart, Drupal, WordPress, Magento
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App Integrations
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Ionic SDK, Android, iOS and more.
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Brands Using
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Swimming Academy, Insights IAS, Saffron Stays
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Fees Structure
- Lite: 5% + ₹3 transaction fee + GST
- Starter: ₹6999/year (5% + ₹3 transaction fee) + GST
- Growth: ₹14,999/yr, 2999/mo (2% + ₹3 transaction fee) + GST
- Do-IT-FOR-ME: Price On Request
- Transaction Fee (Digital Products): 10% + ₹3 + GST
- Payment Link: 2% + ₹3 transaction fee + GST
Unique Offerings
- Payment Links: Collect payments via a simple shareable link.
- Online Store Builder: Create an eCommerce website without coding.
- Smart Pages: Customizable landing pages with integrated payment options.
Pros:
- Free to join with no setup or maintenance fees
- Offers detailed analytics on payments, trends, and pending dues
- Secure platform with 128-bit encryption and PCI-DSS compliance
- Let users create and customise their online store
Cons:
- They do not support multi-currency payments
- Annual Fees are expensive
- Limited support for international payments
5. PayU Payment Gateway
PayU is a trusted payment gateway used by over 5 lakh businesses in India. It provides a seamless and secure method for accepting both local and international payments.
Known for its scalability and ease of use, PayU supports a wide range of payment methods and includes features like fraud detection and instant settlements, making it a reliable choice for businesses of all sizes.
|
Feature
|
Details
|
|---|---|
|
Key Usage
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D2C, Ecommerce, Online Marketplaces, SaaS service, Insurance, Travel, NBFC, OTT platforms, Gaming and more
|
|
Accepted Payment Methods
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150+payment methods including Credit, debit cards, net banking, wallets, UPI
|
|
Onboarding Time
|
1 day
|
|
Registration Documents
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KYC documents
|
|
Settlement Period
|
T+2 days & Priority settlements
|
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Speed of Checkout
|
One-click checkout options, including Visa Safe Click & Native OTP.
|
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Refund Time
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5-7 working days & Instant refund in 15-30 minutes
|
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International Payment Capabilities
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Accept payments via Visa, MasterCard, and American Express in over 150 countries. Supports 130+ currencies such as US Dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), British Pound (GBP), Australian Dollar (AUD), Arab Emirates Dirham (AED), Singapore Dollar (SGD), Bahraini Dinar (BHD), New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
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Customer Support
|
Knowledge centre, Tickets, Email
|
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About Security
|
Secured with DSC & PCI Certified
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Dashboard
|
Managing payments from a single dashboard, Access real-time analytics
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|
Supported platforms & plugins
|
WooCommerce, Shopify, BigCommerce, Wix, Magento, Shiprocket, Zoho and Shopmatic.
|
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App Integrations
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iOS, Android, and React Native
|
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Brands Using
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Airbnb, Netflix, Myntra, BookMyShow
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Fees Structure
- 18% GST is applicable for all transactions
- 2% for Visa, Mastercard, Net Banking, BNPL, Wallets ( For domestic transactions)
- 3% for Diners, American Express, EMI, and International transactions
- Custom pricing for Large enterprises ( contact sales)
Unique Offerings
- It lets customers pay faster with one-click card payments
- Supports automatic recurring payments for subscriptions or services
- Keeps saved card details secure with its Token Hub feature
- Allows you to send GST-compliant invoices with payment links, no technical setup is needed.
- Easily share detailed bills through email or WhatsApp to collect payments quickly
Pros:
- No setup fees to get started
- A smooth and secure checkout experience helps reduce cart abandonment
- Easy integration with websites and mobile apps using SDKs
- Accepts international payments from customers around the world
- Built-in fraud protection and advanced encryption for secure transactions
- Customizable cashback, discounts, and offers across all payment modes
- Supports Buy Now, Pay Later options to increase affordability
- The affordability widget shows EMI and BNPL options on product pages
- Allows customers to pay using loyalty rewards or points
Cons:
- Some users report longer KYC activation times for specific business types.
- Customer support always seems to be busy.
- Some users feel that the interface is not responsive.
6. Phonepe Payment Gateway
PhonePe Payment Gateway builds on the trust and reach of one of India’s most popular UPI apps. With over 61 crore users and 4 crore merchants, it offers businesses a fast and reliable way to accept online payments.
The platform helps boost conversions with innovative features, such as real-time tracking of payment methods to prevent failed transactions. It’s easy to get started and is designed to deliver a smooth payment experience for both businesses and customers.
|
Feature
|
Details
|
|---|---|
|
Key Usage
|
Best for businesses targeting a large Indian mobile-first customer base, e-commerce and more.
|
|
Accepted Payment Methods
|
UPI, Credit & Debit cards, Net banking and more.
|
|
Onboarding Time
|
Instant Onboarding
|
|
Registration Documents
|
Cancelled cheque/bank statement, authorised signatory PAN card, and GST certificate or provisional number
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|
Settlement Period
|
You will receive the settlement for all payments made to you for a particular day by 08:00 a.m. on the following day.
|
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Speed of Checkout
|
one-click checkout
|
|
Refund Time
|
3–7 business days
|
|
International Payment Capabilities
|
Limited. UPI payments are available in Singapore, UAE, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Mauritius.
|
|
Customer Support
|
Call support, Help section, Email
|
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About Security
|
PCI DSS compliant and offers data encryption, internal audits, and FRA capabilities.
|
|
Dashboard
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Centralised Dashboard, Access statistics, Insights
|
|
Supported platforms & plugins
|
Shopify, WooCommerce, OpenCart
|
|
App Integrations
|
Android, iOS, React Native
|
|
Brands Using
|
Meshoo, Dream11, IRCTC, OTO, Airtel, Jar, PharmEasy, Pebel, Zupee, Floweraura
|
Fees Structure
- Standard Plan: Free (*T&C Apply)
- Personalised pricing plans for high-volume businesses
Unique Offerings
- AutoPay subscription solution that allows you to charge varying amounts for each billing cycle, helping ensure revenue lock-in and improved customer retention.
- With Quick Checkout, customers can finish their payments right on your website or app. PhonePe makes this easy with its simple checkout process.
- Pay on Delivery, enable digital payments at your customer’s doorstep for COD orders with a contactless solution that reduces cash handling and increases convenience.
- 1 in 3 Indians use PhonePe. Utilise high-impact ad banners on the app’s homepage, rewards, and offers pages to promote your brand to the target audience effectively. Target specific user groups and boost visibility with guaranteed impressions.
- Distribute personalised coupons and offers directly to users. Rewards are visible on the app and can be shared or gifted.
- PhonePe PG Partner Program: Refer merchants to PhonePe PG and earn a 0.20% commission on every transaction they make.
Pros:
- Zero setup and processing fees to get started easily
- 100% uptime with intelligent downtime detection for reliable performance
- User-friendly interface that’s easy to use for all age groups
- Quick payment settlements in real time
- Great for mobile-first businesses, offering a smooth and optimised experience
- Daily sales tracking helps in budgeting and business decisions
Cons:
- Limited support for international payments, mainly focused on the Indian market.
- Some users feel that customer support is not helpful, as it often repeats information already displayed on the dashboard or app.
- The dashboard experience can be confusing.
- Features like personalised pricing and priority onboarding are mainly offered to high-volume businesses only.
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7. Stripe
Stripe helps businesses accept payments online, in person, and globally with a flexible solution built for startups and large enterprises alike.
Businesses using Stripe’s optimised checkout see an average revenue increase of 11.9%. From the dashboard, you can enable popular payment methods and let Stripe’s AI automatically show the most relevant ones to each customer.
You can also run A/B tests, experiment with new techniques, and set custom rules, all without writing code.
|
Feature
|
Details
|
|---|---|
|
Key Usage
|
Startups, enterprise, SaaS, Retail, E-commerce, Marketplace, AI companies, Finance
|
|
Accepted Payment Methods
|
100+ payment methods, including domestic and international cards, UPI, Netbanking, Wallets, and BNPL. 40+ global payment methods like Link, Apple Pay, ACH, and SEPA Direct Debit
|
|
Onboarding Time
|
Instant Onboarding
|
|
Registration Documents
|
KYC requirements
|
|
Settlement Period
|
T+2 to T+5 business days for domestic transactions.(7-day waiting period for the first payout.)
|
|
Speed of Checkout
|
One-click checkout
|
|
Refund Time
|
Approximately 5-10 business days later.
|
|
International Payment Capabilities
|
135+ currencies, Multi-currency management, Visa and Mastercard, USD on American Express
|
|
Customer Support
|
Phone, chat, and email support
|
|
About Security
|
Stripe radar(AI), PCI Service Provider Level 1, SOC 1 and SOC 2 Type II, EMVCo Level 1 and 2, NIST Cybersecurity Framework
|
|
Dashboard
|
Full-featured Dashboard that efficiently manages payments, customers, refunds, disputes, and more, all in one place.
|
|
Supported platforms & plugins
|
Shopify, Wix, WooCommerce, Bigcommerce, Mindbody, Squarespace, Salesforce, and more.
|
|
App Integrations
|
iOS & Android SDKs, React Native SDK
|
|
Brands Using
|
Amazon, Shopify, Airbnb, Figma, H&M, Uber, Zoom, URBN, Spotify
|
Fees Structure
- Standard: 2% for cards issued in India & 3% for cards issued outside India
- For detailed payment details, request an invite
- Design a custom package – available for businesses with large payment volumes or unique business models. (Contact sales)
- 2% for Mastercard and Visa cards issued in India
- 3% for Mastercard and Visa cards issued outside India + 2% if currency conversion is required
- 3.5% for American Express cards issued outside India + 2% if currency conversion is required
- 4.3% for international cards with USD or other currency presentment + 2% if currency conversion is required
Unique Offerings
- Stripe Checkout is a ready-to-use payment form that helps increase conversions. You can embed it on your site or use a hosted page to accept one-time or recurring payments.
- Customise the checkout page with your branding colours, fonts, and layout to match your website.
- Stripe Radar uses machine learning to detect and block fraud based on data from millions of global businesses.
- With Stripe Billing, you can set up subscriptions, free trials, coupons, and more. It also supports recurring payments and tools to reduce customer drop-off.
Pros:
- Supports payments from 197 countries with multi-currency and 30+ language checkout options
- Offers excellent international payment capabilities for all business types and sizes
- Features an optimised, one-click checkout that helps boost conversions
- Clean and easy-to-use interface with a well-organised dashboard
- Highly developer-friendly with detailed documentation and powerful APIs
- Designed for seamless and efficient payment processing with excellent data security
Cons:
- It’s developer-friendly. Non-technical users may find it challenging to set up and manage without assistance. Comparatively more expensive than other alternatives.
- Transaction and currency conversion fees may feel high for smaller businesses with low volumes.
- The verification process during signup can be lengthy or slightly frustrating for some users.
- Limited support for specific local Indian payment methods compared to India-first gateways.
8. CCAvenue Payment Gateway
CCAvenue is a trusted payment gateway serving nearly 3 million merchants across various industries.
It offers secure, scalable, and easy-to-use payment solutions for businesses of all sizes.
With tools like the CCAvenue Mobile App for omni-channel payment tracking and F.R.I.S.K., its advanced fraud and risk management system, CCAvenue helps ensure a smooth and secure payment experience both online and in-store.
|
Feature
|
Details
|
|---|---|
|
Key Usage
|
eCommerce, Travel, Shopping, Government, NGO, airlines, and educational institutions in India
|
|
Accepted Payment Methods
|
200+ payment modes, including credit card, Debit cards, Bank EMIs, Netbanking, UPI, and Prepaid Instruments.
|
|
Onboarding Time
|
Instant Onboarding ( 1 hour)
|
|
Registration Documents
|
Digital KYC
|
|
Settlement Period
|
T+2 - T+3 working days
|
|
Speed of Checkout
|
Personalised checkout with saved cards
|
|
Refund Time
|
7 working days (no refunds or exchanges will be provided)
|
|
International Payment Capabilities
|
Supports 27 major foreign currencies, Multi-currency support, Real-time conversion and settlements in INR.
|
|
Customer Support
|
Email, Phone, and Chat
|
|
About Security
|
PCI DSS Compliance, Advanced encryption & Fraud prevention tools
|
|
Dashboard
|
Intuitive dashboard, Real-time analytics, Insights on payments, settlements, refunds and more.
|
|
Supported platforms & plugins
|
Woocommerce, WordPress Elementor, Open Cart, Drupal, Magento, Prestashop, Give, Zen Cart, Joomla.
|
|
App Integrations
|
iOS & Android SDKs
|
|
Brands Using
|
Myntra, LAKME, Bombay Dyeing, McDonald's, Amul, Jiomart, Indigo, Bisleri, Emirates, Taj, MakeMyTrip, and more.
|
Fees Structure
Startup Pro – Zero setup fee
- Platform fee – 2% (Both Online & Offline)
- MasterCard & Visa Credit / Debit Cards (International) – 4.99%
- Corporate / Commercial Credit Cards (Domestic) – 3.00%
- American Express / Amex EMI & Diners Club – 4.00%
- Multi-currency options – 4.99%
- Annual Software Upgradation Charges – ₹ 1200 (Waived for the 1st Financial Year from the
date of Activation)
Privilege – ₹ 30000 setup fee
- Platform Fee & others( Their executives will get in touch with you with the best proposal.)
Unique Offerings
- Branded Payment Pages: Customise payment pages to match your website for a seamless brand experience
- Marketing Tools: Create and manage discount coupons and promotional offers easily
- Multilingual Checkout: Support for 18 Indian and international languages for a more localised and user-friendly experience
- Shopping Cart Plugins: Easily integrate with popular shopping carts using CCAvenue’s APIs
- Free Online Store Builder: No website? Create a customisable online store with no technical skills required.
- Responsive Design: All storefronts and carts are mobile-friendly, so your customers can shop on any device.
- Social Media Payments: Sell and collect payments directly on social media platforms.
Pros:
- Zero setup fees and quick integration with well-documented SDKs, APIs, and plugins
- Easy customisation to match your brand, upload logos, choose colours, and preview changes in real time.
- Smart Retry Option allows customers to retry failed payments without restarting, reducing drop-offs and improving success rates to more than 15%
- Responsive checkout pages ensure a smooth experience across all devices, including mobile, tablet, and desktop.
Cons:
- Higher transaction fees for specific payment methods, especially for international payments on basic plans.
- Annual maintenance charges apply after the first year.
- Onboarding can sometimes be slower due to comprehensive KYC requirements.
9. Zaakpay Payment Gateway
Zaakpay, by MobiKwik, is an Indian-built payment gateway designed to simplify online payments for businesses of all sizes.
With quick integration, you can start accepting and disbursing payments within a day using multiple payment modes.
Zaakpay offers a customizable checkout experience, enabling you to tailor the payment page to match your brand while ensuring a smooth and user-friendly interface.
|
Feature
|
Details
|
|---|---|
|
Key Usage
|
E-commerce, Education, Freelancer, Retail, B2B, and Financial Services.
|
|
Accepted Payment Methods
|
100+ modes, including debit & credit cards, UPI, Net Banking, Mobile wallets, and Pay later options.
|
|
Onboarding Time
|
Same-day onboarding
|
|
Registration Documents
|
KYC documentation
|
|
Settlement Period
|
Settled 24*7
|
|
Speed of Checkout
|
Express checkout and Simplified future checkouts with recurring payments.
|
|
Refund Time
|
Within 5 working days
|
|
International Payment Capabilities
|
International Credit Cards
|
|
Customer Support
|
Call, Email, and chat support
|
|
About Security
|
PCI DSS compliant, Tokenisation and SSL standards
|
|
Dashboard
|
Robust tools for efficient Payment Management
|
|
Supported platforms & plugins
|
Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, WhatsApp, Prestashop, Opencart
|
|
App Integrations
|
Flutter and Android SDK
|
|
Brands Using
|
Indiamart, 1mg, Uber, IRCTC, Jockey, Kreditbee, and Bajaj Finserve
|
Fees Structure
Standard plan
- UPI, Rupay(Debit card) – 0% per transaction (Platform charges may apply)
- Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, Rupay, Wallet and 50+ Banks – 1.99% per transaction
- American Express, Diners – 2.9% per transaction
- ICICI pay later, Ola Postpaid – 2.25%
- GST as applicable on the transaction fee
Enterprise Plan
- For businesses with Medium and Large payment volumes – Custom Price
Unique Offerings
- Merchant Account Access for easy payment management
- Enhanced Analytics to track customer behaviour and adjust business strategies
- Recurring Billing support with securely saved payment details for subscriptions
- No-Code Integration to start accepting payments instantly with just one click
Pros:
- No setup or maintenance fees make it cost-effective for businesses.
- 99.9% uptime ensures reliable and uninterrupted payment processing.
- Supports a wide range of payment options, including credit/debit cards, UPI, net banking (50+ banks), wallets, and Pay Later.
- One-click, no-code integration allows businesses to start accepting payments instantly.
- Ideal for businesses seeking a rapid and straightforward setup with high performance.
Cons:
- International payments may not be as robust as those facilitated by some global payment gateways.
- It may lack advanced features required by large enterprises or complex marketplaces.
- Brand visibility as a standalone payment gateway is still growing, as it’s often seen as part of MobiKwik.
10. BillDesk Payment Gateway
BillDesk is one of India’s oldest and most trusted payment gateways, known for its strong network of direct bank integrations and secure payment solutions.
With over 25 years of experience, it supports businesses of all sizes in their digital growth journey. BillDesk offers reliable APIs and direct connections with banks, card networks, and wallets, making it especially strong in net banking and institutional payments.
|
Feature
|
Details
|
|---|---|
|
Key Usage
|
BFSI, Digital content, E-commerce, SaaS.
|
|
Accepted Payment Methods
|
150+ payment methods, including Credit and Debit Cards, UPI, and Net Banking. Accept payments from 100+ Retail or Corporate net banking options. NEFT / RTGS, Wallet / Cash Cards, Pay with Points and more.
|
|
Onboarding Time
|
A few days to a few weeks
|
|
Registration Documents
|
KYC Documents
|
|
Settlement Period
|
3-4 working days
|
|
Speed of Checkout
|
Quick checkouts
|
|
Refund Time
|
5-7 working days
|
|
International Payment Capabilities
|
Accepts 70+ currencies, Customers pay in INR with 130+ payment methods.
|
|
Customer Support
|
Tickets and Email
|
|
About Security
|
Level 1 PCI DSS V4.0 compliant
|
|
Dashboard
|
Feature-rich platform with real-time view of transactions, customisable alerts and notifications.
|
|
Supported platforms & plugins
|
Shopify, Magento, Woo-Commerce, OpenCart, WordPress and PrestaShop
|
|
App Integrations
|
Android, iOS, RESTful APIs, JSON
|
|
Brands Using
|
KFC, TATA Play, ZEE, Sony, Flipkart, Microsoft, Jio, Adani (Gas), Unacademy, Bajaj Finserv, LIC, and more.
|
Fees Structure
- For both the Standard and Enterprise plans, merchants need to contact the BillDesk sales team to get pricing details.
Unique Offerings
- Bharat BillPay System is their core strength in standardized bill payments across India.
- Supports subscription billing and recurring payments via cards, eNACH, and UPI AutoPay.
- Offers custom-hosted payment pages with complete branding and multiple payment options.
Pros:
- It has Direct Bank Integrations and Deeper connectivity with banks than many other PGs.
- Ideal for subscription-based businesses seeking to foster long-term customer relationships.
- Extremely reliable and built on a robust infrastructure, handling over 4 billion transactions per year
- Accepts a wide range of payment modes: UPI, cards, net banking, NEFT/RTGS, wallets, and loyalty points
- Hosted in India at secure, ISO-certified Tier III data centres
- Offers advanced security and performance, ensuring stable and safe transactions
Cons:
- Less accessible for small and medium-sized eCommerce businesses due to its enterprise-focused model.
- Onboarding can be lengthy and complex.
- Less focus on diverse e-commerce features compared to dedicated e-commerce platforms.
- Pricing is not transparent and requires direct negotiation.
- It may be challenging for non-coders to integrate or customise without technical support.
11. Easebuzz Payment Gateway
Easebuzz is a secure and reliable payment gateway designed to help businesses manage end-to-end payments and financial processes.
With plug-and-play APIs, it enables smooth checkouts, automated reconciliation, refund handling, and sub-merchant management.
Trusted by over 2,00,000 businesses, Easebuzz is ideal for companies of all sizes looking for an easy and efficient way to accept online payments.
|
Feature
|
Details
|
|---|---|
|
Key Usage
|
Education, E-commerce, Real Estate, Marketplaces, Saas & ERP
|
|
Accepted Payment Methods
|
150+ payment options, including credit cards, debit cards, UPI, wallets, EMI & BNPL
|
|
Onboarding Time
|
Few hours to within a day
|
|
Registration Documents
|
KYC Documents
|
|
Settlement Period
|
Instant settlements based on fee, Normal settlement( T+1 or T+2), Same day settlement(T+0), T+1 settlement is also called as single file settlement, and On-demand Settlement.
|
|
Speed of Checkout
|
Quick and easy checkout process
|
|
Refund Time
|
Instant refunds & Standard( Maximum 6 - 7 working days). Visa and Mastercard allow refunds to be initiated only within 180 days of the original transaction.
|
|
International Payment Capabilities
|
Supports 30+ international currencies including GBP, HKD, ILS, JOD, JPY, KRW, etc.
|
|
Customer Support
|
Toll-Free number, Email, and phone
|
|
About Security
|
PCI DSS compliance level-1, Card tokenization, 3D Secure, Encryption and data masking
|
|
Dashboard
|
Unified dashboard with real-time transaction data, customisable reports, and detailed payment insights.
|
|
Supported platforms & plugins
|
Shopify, Magento, Woo-Commerce, OpenCart, WordPress and PrestaShop
|
|
App Integrations
|
Android, iOS, Flutter, React Native, Xamarin, CapacitorJS
|
|
Brands Using
|
Bigbasket, IRCTC, NXT Digital, Twid, Cult.Fit, Housing, Tata Play Fibre, Gokwik, Star Health Insurance and more
|
Fees Structure
- Customised pricing for every business need.
- Charges an average transaction fee of 1.5%.
Unique Offerings
- Seamless checkout with 150+ payment modes, including UPI, cards, net banking, and wallets.
- Custom-branded iFrame checkout with multilingual support.
- Discount & brand coupons to attract and retain customers.
- Slices – Automatically split payments to multiple accounts for vendor settlements.
- EasyCollect – Manage recurring and subscription payments via API.
- InstaCollect – Collect payments instantly using virtual bank accounts.
- DIY Form Builder – Drag-and-drop tool to capture customer info and accept payments, with built-in workflows and analytics.
Pros:
- Over 1 million transactions processed daily, demonstrating strong reliability and scalability.
- Plug-and-play APIs and quick onboarding make setup easy for businesses.
- Real-time currency conversion with timely INR settlement for international transactions.
- Full payment suite for managing refunds, split payments, auto-reminders, and more.
- 24/7 technical support is available.
- Multi-lingual support with Google Translate for better reach across user groups.
- Helpful tools like coupon engine, discount management, and real-time reporting to grow eCommerce sales.
Cons:
- Some users feel that account verification takes too long and may lead to onboarding rejections.
- Technical support quality may not always meet expectations, especially for complex issues.
- It may require customisation for niche or developer-heavy use cases.
12. Paypal Payment Gateway
PayPal is a global leader in online payments, enabling individuals and businesses to send and receive money digitally. Trusted by over 346 million users worldwide. In India, its primary focus for merchants is on facilitating international payments and remittances, with significant restrictions on domestic transactions.
With secure checkout, buyer protection, and easy-to-use features, PayPal provides a trusted way to shop and get paid online worldwide.
|
Feature
|
Details
|
|---|---|
|
Key Usage
|
Primarily used by Indian freelancers, suppliers, Social sellers(like Instagram and Facebook), service providers, and e-commerce businesses whose primary customer base is international.
|
|
Accepted Payment Methods
|
Credit & debit cards, PayPal, pay later offers, and multiple local payment methods
|
|
Onboarding Time
|
2-3 days
|
|
Registration Documents
|
Video KYC
|
|
Settlement Period
|
5 Business days
|
|
Speed of Checkout
|
Speed through checkout with a simple login, no card details or addresses.
|
|
Refund Time
|
5 business days & sometimes it takes 30 days
|
|
International Payment Capabilities
|
Accepts 25 currencies from 200 countries
|
|
Customer Support
|
Help centre, support via phone, email, and a resolution centre
|
|
About Security
|
Encryption, fraud protection, buyer and seller protection policies, and PCI compliance
|
|
Dashboard
|
Merchant dashboard for managing Transaction history and reports, sending invoices, managing disputes and chargebacks, and initiating withdrawals to bank accounts.
|
|
Supported platforms & plugins
|
Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, Etsy, Bigcommerce, Wix, Salesforce
|
|
App Integrations
|
Offers SDKs for mobile app integration
|
|
Brands Using
|
Emirates, Airbnb, Calvin Klein, ZARA, FragranceX, Netflix, Adidas, Puma, and more.
|
- Commercial Transaction Rates – 4.40% + Fixed Fee
- International micropayments – 6.00% + micropayments fixed fee
- Currency Conversions – 3.0% above the base exchange rate
- Other Merchant Fees – 250.00
Unique Offerings
- Get paid easily by sharing a personalized PayPal.Me link with your customers
- Buyer Protection covers you for items that are defective, not as described, or don’t arrive
- Protection also extends to digital purchases, event cancellations, and custom-made items
Pros:
- 24/7 fraud monitoring to protect against scams and identity theft.
- Buyer and seller protection for safer online transactions.
- Access to a Resolution Centre for dispute handling and purchase issues.
- Easy for international clients to send payments.
- Excellent global reach for receiving payments from across the world.
- Widely trusted for secure international transactions with millions of global merchants.
Cons:
- It cannot be used for domestic transactions in India. It supports only international payments.
- High fees due to transaction charges and currency conversion markups (around 4%).
- Some users report delays in customer support, specifically for Indian merchants.
- Account freezes may happen automatically if suspicious activity is detected, sometimes without prior warning.
- Overall, the fee structure can be expensive for small businesses handling frequent international payments.
How to Select the Best Payment Gateway for the Indian Market?
Choosing the right payment gateway is crucial for your online business in India. Here’s a simple guide:
1. Look at Your Business Needs:
- What you sell: Are you selling products, services, or digital items?
- How much do you sell? Do you have many small sales or fewer, larger ones?
- Who buys from you: Are your customers mostly in India, using phones, or from other countries?
- Your tech skills: Can you handle a complex setup, or do you need something easy to use?
2. Pick What Matters Most:
- Is it safe? Ensure it protects customer funds and adheres to regulations.
- What does it cost? Don’t just look for the lowest fee. Think about what you get for the money.
- How can customers pay? In India, many use UPI, cards, and wallets. Make sure these are offered.
- Is it easy to set up? You want it to connect smoothly with your website.
- Can you get help? Good customer support is essential when problems arise.
- How fast do you get paid? Quick settlements in your bank help your business.
Conclusion
Selecting the right payment gateway is crucial for your online business in India. It’s not just about taking money; it’s about building trust and ensuring your sales proceed smoothly. There isn’t one “best” option for everyone; it depends on what your business needs.
The world of digital payments in India is constantly evolving, so staying up-to-date is crucial to staying ahead. Whether you’re just starting or scaling quickly, now is the perfect time to review your current payment setup or explore new options that better fit your needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Payment Gateway?
A payment gateway is an online payment processing service that helps businesses accept electronic payments from their customers.
It also helps merchants receive payments from their clients by securing card details and verifying their authenticity.
Finally, it securely withdraws the funds for a transaction from customers and deposits them into the merchant’s bank account.
Which payment gateway is best in India?
There’s no single best payment gateway in India; it depends on your business needs. However, Razorpay, Cashfree, and PayU are top choices for most businesses due to their ease of use, wide integration options, and strong support for Indian payment methods.
For international payments, Stripe and PayPal are the preferred options.
Which is the best payment gateway in India with lowest transaction fee?
Most payment gateways in India charge between 1.75% and 2.2% + GST for domestic transactions, including credit/debit cards, net banking, and wallets.
Gateways such as Cashfree, Razorpay, PayU, Paytm, and CCAvenue offer competitive rates within this range. For international or premium cards (such as American Express or Diners), fees are typically higher, ranging from 3% to 4.5% plus GST.
Additionally, larger businesses can often negotiate lower custom rates based on their transaction volume.
Are there any specific payment gateways that cater to international e-commerce operations?
Stripe and PayPal can process international payments. Other payment gateways that support international transactions include Payoneer and Skrill.
What security features should e-commerce businesses look for when choosing a payment gateway?
E-commerce businesses should prioritize the following security features when selecting a payment gateway:
-
PCI-DSS Compliance
Ensures the payment gateway meets global standards for handling cardholder data securely. -
SSL Encryption
Protects sensitive transaction data through end-to-end encryption, reducing the risk of data theft. -
Tokenization
Replaces card details with encrypted tokens, so real payment information is never stored or exposed. -
3D Secure (OTP Verification)
Adds an extra layer of authentication for online transactions, mandatory under RBI guidelines in India. -
Fraud Detection and Risk Monitoring
Includes tools like real-time transaction monitoring, velocity checks, and AI-based fraud alerts. -
Secure APIs and Webhooks
Ensures safe communication between your website and the payment gateway. -
Dispute and Chargeback Management
Helps merchants handle refund requests and resolve chargebacks quickly and transparently.
Top Indian payment gateways like Razorpay, Paytm, Cashfree, and CCAvenue offer these security features, making them trusted options for online sellers.
How do the payment gateways handle various payment methods, including credit cards, digital wallets, and cryptocurrencies?
Here’s how leading payment gateways handle different payment methods:
- Razorpay: Accepts a wide range of options including credit cards, debit cards, UPI, and digital wallets.
-
Stripe: Supports all major credit cards, digital wallets (like Apple Pay and Google Pay), and even cryptocurrencies.
-
Paytm: Allows payments via credit cards, debit cards, UPI, and net banking.
- PayPal: Accepts credit cards, debit cards, PayPal balances, and linked bank accounts.
