For any digital business, having a reliable payment gateway is crucial for businesses of all sizes. For Indian businesses and entrepreneurs, choosing the right payment gateway can enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and ultimately drive growth. With the plethora of options available in 2024, it's essential to carefully evaluate each provider based on their features, fees, compatibility, and overall suitability for your business needs.
In this article, we will explore the best payment gateways in India for 2024, including Razorpay, PayU Money, Instamojo, Stripe, PayPal, Cashfree, Paytm, PhonePe, and a few additional noteworthy options. We'll dive into their pros and cons, transaction charges, compatibility with popular website platforms, and additional features like payment pages and storefronts.
Table of Contents
Best Payment Gateways in India
Here’s a brief comparison of the payment gateways with key features:
| Gateway | Transaction Fees (Domestic) | Transaction Fees (International) | Integration (WordPress/Shopify) | Payment Pages | Payment Links | Storefront | Customer Support | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Razorpay | 2% + GST | 3% + GST | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 24/7 Support | Instant Settlements |
| PayU | 2% + GST | 3% + GST | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Business Hours | Multi-Currency Support |
| Instamojo | 2% + GST | 3% + GST | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Business Hours | No Setup Fee |
| Stripe | 2% + GST | 3% + GST | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 24/7 Support | Developer-Friendly |
| PayPal | 2.9% + ₹30 | 4.4% + Fixed Fee | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 24/7 Support | Trusted Brand |
| Cashfree | 1.75% + GST | 3% + GST | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Business Hours | Instant Settlements |
| Paytm | 1.99% + GST | 3% + GST | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Business Hours | Wide User Base |
| PhonePe | 2% + GST | Not Applicable | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Business Hours | UPI Focus |
| CCAvenue | 2% + GST | 3% + GST | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Business Hours | Wide Payment Options |
| Atom | 2% + GST | 3% + GST | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Business Hours | Flexible Solutions |
| EBS | 2% + GST | 3% + GST | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Business Hours | Visa Group Affiliation |
| BillDesk | 2% + GST | 3% + GST | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Business Hours | Reliable Service |
| Pine Labs | 2% + GST | 3% + GST | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Business Hours | POS and Online Solutions |
| Juspay | 1.99% + GST | 3% + GST | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Business Hours | Mobile Optimization |
Features we need in Best Payment Gateway
1. Customer Support
When evaluating payment gateways, consider the quality and accessibility of customer support. Effective support can make a significant difference, especially during critical issues or integration challenges. Look for:
- Availability: 24/7 support versus business hours.
- Channels: Options like phone, email, live chat, and dedicated account managers.
- Response Times: Average time to resolve issues or respond to inquiries.
2. Ease of Integration
The ease of integration with your existing systems and platforms is crucial for minimizing setup time and avoiding technical complications. Consider:
- Integration Tools: Availability of APIs, SDKs, and plugins for platforms like WordPress and Shopify.
- Documentation: Quality and comprehensiveness of integration guides and support resources.
- Customization: Flexibility in customizing payment forms and user experience.
3. User Experience
The overall user experience, both for the business and its customers, is an important factor. Evaluate:
- Payment Flow: Smoothness and ease of the payment process for end-users.
- Mobile Compatibility: Functionality and responsiveness on mobile devices.
- Customization: Ability to customize payment pages and checkout experiences to align with your brand.
4. Security Features
Security is paramount in handling online payments. Look for:
- Compliance: Adherence to PCI-DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) requirements.
- Fraud Prevention: Tools and mechanisms for detecting and preventing fraudulent transactions.
- Data Encryption: Ensuring sensitive information is encrypted and protected during transmission.
5. Settlement Times
Settlement times refer to how quickly funds are transferred to your bank account after a transaction. Faster settlements can improve cash flow:
- Instant or Same-Day Settlements: Some gateways offer quicker fund transfers.
- Standard Settlements: Typically takes 2-3 business days.
6. International Transactions
If your business deals with international customers, consider the following:
- Currency Support: Ability to handle multiple currencies.
- Cross-Border Fees: Additional charges for international transactions.
- Localization: Support for localized payment methods and languages.
1. Razorpay
Razorpay is one of India's most popular payment gateways, known for its user-friendly interface and robust features. It supports various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, net banking, UPI, and wallets.
Pros
- Wide Range of Payment Methods: Supports credit cards, debit cards, net banking, UPI, and wallets.
- Easy Integration: Compatible with WordPress, Shopify, Magento, and other platforms.
- Comprehensive Dashboard: Provides detailed analytics and reporting.
- Instant Settlements: Offers quick fund transfers to bank accounts.
- Customizable Payment Pages: You can create and customize payment pages easily.
Cons
- Transaction Fees: Charges a fee of around 2% + GST per transaction for domestic cards and 3% + GST for international cards.
- Support Issues: Some users report slow customer support response times.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: 2% + GST
- International Transactions: 3% + GST
Compatibility
- WordPress: Fully compatible with plugins like WooCommerce.
- Shopify: Easy integration with Shopify stores.
- Payment Pages: Provides customizable payment pages and links.
2. PayU
PayU also known as PayUMoney is another popular gateway in India, known for its ease of use and comprehensive suite of features. It supports multiple payment methods and provides a variety of tools for managing transactions.
Pros
- Multi-Currency Support: Handles transactions in multiple currencies.
- Easy Integration: Works well with WordPress, Shopify, and other platforms.
- Fraud Detection Tools: Advanced security features to protect transactions.
- Payment Links: Allows creating payment links for easy collection of payments.
Cons
- Higher Transaction Fees: Slightly higher fees compared to some competitors.
- Customer Service: Mixed reviews about the quality of customer support.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: Approximately 2% + GST
- International Transactions: Around 3% + GST
Compatibility
- WordPress: Compatible with major WordPress plugins.
- Shopify: Easily integrates with Shopify.
- Payment Pages: Offers payment pages and links for easy transactions.
3. Instamojo
Instamojo is tailored for small and medium businesses, offering a simple and straightforward payment solution. It provides a range of features to facilitate online payments with minimal hassle.
Pros
- No Setup Fee: Offers a free setup with no initial charges.
- Ease of Use: Simple integration process.
- Payment Links and Pages: Easily create payment links and pages.
- Storefront: Provides a storefront option for online selling.
Cons
- Limited Advanced Features: May lack some advanced features available in other gateways.
- Transaction Fees: Higher fees for certain types of transactions.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: Approximately 2% + GST
- International Transactions: Around 3% + GST
Compatibility
- WordPress: Integrates with WordPress via plugins.
- Shopify: Integration available through third-party apps.
- Payment Pages: Provides payment links and customizable payment pages.
4. Stripe
Stripe is a global payment gateway known for its developer-friendly tools and extensive functionality. It offers a wide range of payment options and is suitable for businesses of all sizes.
Pros
- Global Reach: Supports international transactions and currencies.
- Developer-Friendly: Extensive API and customization options.
- Comprehensive Dashboard: Provides detailed analytics and reporting.
- Payment Pages: Offers customizable payment pages and links.
Cons
- Complex Setup: May be more complex to set up compared to other gateways.
- Higher Fees for Some Transactions: Can be more expensive for certain types of transactions.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: 2% + GST
- International Transactions: 3% + GST
Compatibility
- WordPress: Compatible with plugins like WooCommerce.
- Shopify: Seamless integration with Shopify stores.
- Payment Pages: Provides customizable payment pages and links.
5. PayPal
PayPal is a widely recognized payment gateway with a global presence. It offers a trusted and secure payment solution with various features tailored for both small and large businesses.
Pros
- Trusted Brand: Recognized and trusted globally.
- Multi-Currency Support: Supports transactions in multiple currencies.
- Easy Integration: Works with WordPress, Shopify, and other platforms.
- Payment Pages: Offers customizable payment pages and links.
Cons
- Higher Transaction Fees: Generally higher fees compared to other gateways.
- Currency Conversion Fees: Additional fees for currency conversion.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: 2.9% + ₹30 per transaction
- International Transactions: 4.4% + a fixed fee based on currency
Compatibility
- WordPress: Compatible with major WordPress plugins.
- Shopify: Easily integrates with Shopify.
- Payment Pages: Provides customizable payment pages and links.
6. Cashfree
Cashfree offers a comprehensive suite of payment solutions, including direct bank transfers and payment collection services. It is known for its focus on ease of use and efficiency.
Pros
- Instant Settlements: Provides instant settlements for transactions.
- Flexible Payment Options: Supports various payment methods.
- Integration: Compatible with WordPress, Shopify, and other platforms.
- Payment Pages and Links: Offers customizable payment pages and links.
Cons
- Limited Global Presence: Primarily focused on the Indian market.
- Higher Fees for Certain Transactions: Some transactions may incur higher fees.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: 1.75% + GST
- International Transactions: 3% + GST
Compatibility
- WordPress: Integrates with WordPress via plugins.
- Shopify: Integration available through third-party apps.
- Payment Pages: Provides customizable payment pages and links.
7. Paytm
Paytm is a major player in the Indian digital payments space, offering a range of services from payments to financial products. Its payment gateway is widely used by businesses across India.
Pros
- Wide User Base: Extensive user base in India.
- Easy Integration: Works with WordPress, Shopify, and other platforms.
- Payment Pages: Provides customizable payment pages and links.
Cons
- Transaction Fees: Can be higher for some types of transactions.
- Customer Support: Mixed reviews about customer support.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: Approximately 1.99% + GST
- International Transactions: Around 3% + GST
Compatibility
- WordPress: Compatible with major WordPress plugins.
- Shopify: Easily integrates with Shopify stores.
- Payment Pages: Offers customizable payment pages and links.
8. PhonePe
PhonePe is another popular payment gateway in India, known for its focus on UPI payments and integration with various financial services. It provides a range of features suitable for businesses of all sizes.
Pros
- UPI Focus: Strong support for UPI payments.
- Ease of Use: Simple integration process.
- Payment Pages: Offers customizable payment pages and links.
Cons
- Limited International Reach: Primarily focused on the Indian market.
- Transaction Fees: Fees can be higher for certain types of transactions.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: Approximately 2% + GST
- International Transactions: Not applicable
Compatibility
- WordPress: Integrates with WordPress via plugins.
- Shopify: Integration available through third-party apps.
- Payment Pages: Provides customizable payment pages and links.
9. CCAvenue
CCAvenue is a well-established payment gateway in India, offering a range of features for businesses of all sizes. It supports multiple payment methods and provides robust tools for managing transactions.
Pros
- Wide Range of Payment Options: Supports credit cards, debit cards, net banking, UPI, and wallets.
- Advanced Security Features: Offers comprehensive fraud detection tools.
- Multi-Currency Support: Handles transactions in multiple currencies.
Cons
- Higher Setup Fees: Initial setup costs can be higher.
- Complex Dashboard: The user interface may be less intuitive for some users.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: Approximately 2% + GST
- International Transactions: Around 3% + GST
Compatibility
- WordPress: Compatible with major WordPress plugins.
- Shopify: Integration available through third-party apps.
- Payment Pages: Provides customizable payment pages and links.
10. BillDesk
BillDesk is a prominent payment gateway in India, known for its wide acceptance and reliable service. It offers a range of payment options and is suitable for both small and large businesses.
Pros
- Wide Range of Payment Options: Supports credit cards, debit cards, net banking, UPI, and wallets.
- Robust Security: Advanced fraud detection and security features.
- Reliable Service: Known for its dependable service and uptime.
Cons
- Higher Fees: Transaction fees can be higher compared to some newer gateways.
- Complex Setup: The setup process may be more complex for some users.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: Approximately 2% + GST
- International Transactions: Around 3% + GST
Compatibility
- WordPress: Integrates with WordPress through plugins and custom integrations.
- Shopify: Integration available via third-party applications.
- Payment Pages: Provides customizable payment pages and links.
11. Atom Technologies
Atom Technologies is a well-regarded payment gateway in India, offering a comprehensive suite of payment solutions for businesses. It provides a range of payment methods and integrates with various platforms, making it a versatile choice for many businesses.
Pros
- Diverse Payment Options: Supports credit cards, debit cards, net banking, UPI, and wallets.
- Seamless Integration: Works with WordPress, Shopify, and other popular platforms.
- Customizable Solutions: Provides flexible integration options and customizable payment pages.
- Fraud Protection: Advanced fraud detection and security measures.
Cons
- Higher Transaction Fees: Transaction fees can be higher compared to some competitors.
- Customer Support: Mixed reviews regarding the quality of customer support.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: Approximately 2% + GST
- International Transactions: Around 3% + GST
Compatibility
- WordPress: Integrates with WordPress through plugins and custom solutions.
- Shopify: Integration available via third-party applications.
- Payment Pages: Offers customizable payment pages and links.
12. EBS (E-Billing Solutions)
EBS, a part of the Visa group, is a well-established payment gateway offering robust features for businesses. It supports a wide range of payment methods and provides a user-friendly experience.
Pros
- Variety of Payment Methods: Supports credit cards, debit cards, net banking, UPI, and wallets.
- Comprehensive Dashboard: Detailed reporting and analytics tools.
- Security Features: Includes advanced fraud prevention and security measures.
Cons
- Setup Fees: Can involve higher setup costs compared to other gateways.
- Customer Support: Some users have reported slower support response times.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: Approximately 2% + GST
- International Transactions: Around 3% + GST
Compatibility
- WordPress: Compatible with WordPress through plugins and integration tools.
- Shopify: Integration available through third-party apps.
- Payment Pages: Provides customizable payment pages and links.
13. Pine Labs
Pine Labs is known for its point-of-sale (POS) solutions and has expanded into the online payment gateway space. It offers a range of features tailored for both in-store and online transactions.
Pros
- Comprehensive Solutions: Offers both POS and online payment solutions.
- Diverse Payment Methods: Supports credit cards, debit cards, net banking, UPI, and wallets.
- Strong Security: Advanced security and fraud detection features.
Cons
- Higher Fees: Transaction fees can be higher compared to some competitors.
- Complex Integration: May involve a more complex setup process.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: Approximately 2% + GST
- International Transactions: Around 3% + GST
Compatibility
- WordPress: Integration available through plugins and custom solutions.
- Shopify: Integration available via third-party applications.
- Payment Pages: Offers customizable payment pages and links.
14. Juspay
Juspay is an emerging player in the Indian payment gateway market, known for its focus on mobile payments and technology-driven solutions. It offers a streamlined and efficient payment experience.
Pros
- Focus on Mobile Payments: Optimized for mobile and digital transactions.
- Fast Integration: Quick and easy integration process.
- Security Features: Advanced security measures to protect transactions.
Cons
- Limited Global Reach: Primarily focused on the Indian market.
- Transaction Fees: May have higher fees for certain types of transactions.
Transaction Charges
- Domestic Transactions: Approximately 1.99% + GST
- International Transactions: Around 3% + GST
Compatibility
- WordPress: Integrates with WordPress through plugins and custom solutions.
- Shopify: Integration available via third-party apps.
- Payment Pages: Provides customizable payment pages and links.
Conclusion
Choosing the right payment gateway is a crucial decision for any business looking to thrive in the digital marketplace. Each of the payment gateways discussed—Razorpay, PayU Money, Instamojo, Stripe, PayPal, Cashfree, Paytm, PhonePe, CCAvenue, Atom Technologies, EBS, BillDesk, Pine Labs, and Juspay—has its own set of strengths and considerations.
Key Takeaways
- Razorpay and PayU are strong choices for businesses seeking a broad range of payment methods and robust integration capabilities.
- Instamojo is ideal for small and medium businesses looking for simplicity and cost-effective solutions.
- Stripe is best suited for businesses that need extensive customization and global reach.
- PayPal remains a reliable option for international transactions and widespread recognition.
- Cashfree and Juspay offer efficient solutions with a focus on fast settlements and mobile optimization.
- Paytm and PhonePe provide strong options for the Indian market with wide acceptance.
- CCAvenue, EBS, BillDesk, and Pine Labs offer comprehensive features and reliable service but may involve higher fees or more complex setups.
When selecting a payment gateway, consider factors such as transaction fees, integration ease, security features, and the specific needs of your business. By evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business goals and customer expectations.
Remember, the right payment gateway not only facilitates smooth transactions but also enhances the overall customer experience, contributing to the growth and success of your business in the dynamic digital landscape.
