10 Best Payment Gateway Providers in the UK | List of 2024

Online shopping has become popular over the past few years and provides information about payment on an online website. But, customers are more concerned about the security and protection of their data, particularly with the many payment options offered.

Establishing trust with their clients is crucial. Installing secure payment gateways is essential to ensure safe transactions on the Internet. A trusted payment gateway does more than help facilitate transactions. It also builds customer confidence, leading to a higher conversion rate and more repeat transactions, benefiting businesses over the long haul.

To help you choose the best payment option for your business, consider what you must know about payment processors. Then, explore some of the most popular options for eCommerce sites across the UK.

What is a Payment Gateway?

Payment gateways are an internet-based platform that allows individuals and businesses to accept different payment methods. It will enable customers to purchase products via websites and mobile apps. It allows various payment options such as credit/ debit cards, electronic wallets, UPI, etc. Companies that use these services are usually known as merchants. Gateway function is an intermediary between the business and a financial institution that processes the payment.

Gateway payments are a type of technology merchants utilise to enable electronic payment. They permit online shoppers to use debit or credit cards to buy goods or services. 

Choosing the Right Payment Gateway Provider: What Truly Matters?

Security and Compliance

Security is a must when dealing with sensitive financial data. A reliable payment gateway should follow strict security protocols, including PCI DSS compliance, encryption technology, and strong fraud prevention measures. Customers should be assured that their financial details are protected during the transaction.

Seamless Integration and User Experience

An integrated process is crucial to ensuring seamless operations for customers and merchants. The payment gateway needs to effortlessly integrate into your online store, website, or mobile application, which will minimize the chance of technical glitches while simplifying the checkout process. Furthermore, the user interface must be user-friendly and intuitive to facilitate quick and smooth transactions.

Versatility and Global Reach

Flexibility is essential, particularly for companies with diverse customers and global ambitions. A reputable payment gateway offers a wide range of payment options, such as debit/ credit cards and digital wallets, to cater to the preferences of different customer groups. Additionally, global Reach is crucial to expanding your business beyond borders. Ensure that your service supports multiple currencies and complies with local regulations.

Transparent Pricing and Cost Efficiency

Transparency in pricing is crucial to avoid hidden charges or charges that are not anticipated and could reduce your profit. Find a payment gateway service provider with an open and competitive pricing structure without hidden charges or contracts for long-term terms. Be aware of factors like the cost of transactions, monthly subscriptions, and any other options or services offered.

Reliable Customer Support

In the end, fast and responsive customer service is vital to resolving customer technical issues or urgent questions. Select a payment gateway with accessible customer support options, including online chats, email or telephone support, and experienced representatives who promptly respond to your queries and offer assistance as needed.

Types of Payment Gateways

Knowing three types of payment gateways—on-site payment, redirects, and off-site payment—is essential for a business owner.

On-site Payments: When using on-site payment, customers can make purchases without leaving the merchant’s website, which is available on platforms like Amazon and eBay. This provides an effortless checkout experience, resulting in improved customer satisfaction.

Redirects: Redirects are when a company offers different payment options during the checkout. Customers are then redirected to a different platform or site to complete their purchase.

Off-site payments: In off-site transactions, the checkout process on the front end occurs on the merchant’s site. However, a different back-end system processes the actual transactions. This gives you a more straightforward checkout process while providing security for payment processing.

Many people prefer to use payment gateways while making online purchases. Some of them are mentioned below:-  

Stripe

Stripe is a worldwide payment processing platform known for its advanced features and user-friendly API. It is a good choice for companies of all sizes, from small businesses to large corporations. Since its inception in 2010, Stripe quickly became an instant favorite for companies and developers because of its adaptability and numerous customization possibilities.

The platform was built to handle everything from small transactions to massive enterprise-scale operations, making it ideal for various companies. It’s easy to integrate Stripe with the Magento platform.

Key Features

• Ease to Access – A simple API to allow seamless integration.
• Customized Checkout – Highly customizable to reflect the aesthetics of your brand.
• Global Payments supports multiple currencies and international transactions.
• Security The PCI DSS level 1 certificate is the highest degree of security.

Pros:

• Price transparency with no hidden charges.
• A dashboard for tracking transactions and analysis.
• Advanced tools for detecting fraud.

Cons:

• It may require assistance from developers to set up.
• The fees are slightly higher for non-European credit cards.

Paypal

Since it was acquired through eBay, PayPal has become the most used digital payment system worldwide. In 2020 alone, PayPal completed more than 15 billion transactions. By 2021, there were more than 30 million active PayPal merchant accounts.

Paypal accepts the following payment options:

• Credit cards
• Digital wallet
• Loan
• Bank redirection
• Deferred payments
• Buy now, pay later

Utilizing an online payment provider such as PayPal costs 1.2 percent plus a fixed fee per domestic transaction for those within the EEA (European Economic Area) market. A further percentage charge of 1.99 percent is applicable in international transactions.

Key Features:

• Worldwide Acceptance:  Millions of users around the world trust and use PayPal.
• User-Friendliness – Easy configuration with only minimal technical requirements.
• Mobile Optimization – Excellent mobile payment capabilities.
• Buyer Protection – Firm policies to safeguard buyers and build confidence.

Pros:

• You can use basic features for free as it doesn’t charge anything
• No monthly costs to use basic service.
• Fast and secure transactions.
• Excellent customer support.

Cons:

• The transaction fee is higher than that of other competitors.
• Customization for checkout is limited.

Amazon Pay

Amazon’s payment gateway services allow customers to make payments with Amazon accounts on other e-commerce platforms. The service, launched in 2007, is primarily used by the USA, most of Europe, and a few other countries.

Payment methods that Amazon Pay supports are as follows:- 

• Credit and debit cards
• Digital wallets
• Payments using QR codes
• UK-based Maestro and Solo cards

Amazon offers a flat rate of 2.7 percent plus 0.30 euros per transaction. Pricing for cross-border transactions is 1 percent. 

Key Features:

• Integration Ease – A simple API allowing seamless integration.
• Customizable Checkouts – Highly customizable to fit with the brand’s aesthetics.
• Global Payments – Accepts multiple currencies and international payments.

Pros:

• A transparent pricing structure is fair and doesn’t charge anything. 
• A comprehensive dashboard for tracking transactions and analysis.
• Advanced tools for detecting fraud.

Cons:

• When setting up the payment gateway, you can get assistance from developers. 
• Charge high cost for non-European credit cards.

Worldpay

Worldpay is the top payment company in FIS Global and has a market presence across the UK. Since its inception in 1989, Worldpay has had years of experience in payment processing and provides secure and reliable solutions to meet the varied requirements of companies, from small-scale retailers to big corporations.

Worldpay provides various services, including debit/ credit cards, mobile, online payment solutions, and point-of-sale systems. Their technology enables rapid, secure transactions, helping businesses improve customer experience and processes.

Key Features:

• Global Reach – Facilitates transactions in multiple currencies and across countries.
• Omnichannel Solutions – Integrated solutions for online, in-store, and mobile payment.
• Advanced Fraud Protection – Robust security measures to guard against fraud.
• Detail Reporting – Complete analysis and reports.

Pros:

• There is a wide variety of payment choices.
• Excellent customer service and committed account management.
• Flexible pricing plans.

Cons:

• Monthly costs are expensive, specifically for small companies.
• Long-term contract terms and early cancellation fees are applicable.

Checkout

Also known as 2CO, 2Checkout is a gateway company for online merchants established in 2000. According to its website, 2CO aids businesses in rapidly expanding to the international market. Many merchants with high volumes prefer 2Checkout because it has high-end features ready for enterprise and customer support at the account level.

Payment methods that 2CO accepts include credit cards, digital wallets, bank deposits, and directly through bank accounts. 

2Checkout’s fixed price is 3.5 percent plus 35 cents for each transaction. Its prices are higher than those of other gateway companies on this list in the UK. 

Pros

• Easy integration and rapid start platform
• Provides fraud detection
• Dashboard insights
• Support for Recurring billing

Cons

• Not all support is available for Ecommerce, which is a hugely popular
• More expensive than other hotels
• A steep learning curve
• Developer APIs are outdated

Worldline

With a long history of several years, Worldline is a leading UK payment gateway offering safe, flexible payment processing services. It is compatible with various payment options, such as credit/debit cards, digital wallets, and alternative payment systems that are available offline, online, and mobile.

Worldline’s integration capabilities guarantee compatibility with the most popular E-commerce platforms and POS systems. In addition, Worldline provides comprehensive analytics and reporting tools and unbeatable customer support.

Key Features:

• Payment solutions that comprehensively support (POS) systems, mobile and online payment, and safe transaction processing.
• Advanced fraud prevention techniques and data security measures are integrated into payment. 
• Value-added service – This includes customer loyalty programs and digital wallets.
• Seamless integration – integrates various systems and platforms to meet the diverse needs of business.
• Global presence and strong local market understanding, allowing customized solutions for various regions.

Pros:

• Simple and no-cost integration with Magento
• The focus should be on sustainability and corporate accountability.
• Different payment solutions cater to companies of any size.
• Excellent customer care and support. 

Cons:

• The complexity of IT services can be too much for small companies without committed IT staff.
• High-end services and features could be available at a higher price.

Square

Square is a flexible payment gateway known for its user-friendly interface and integration with other business tools. It supports both in-person and online transactions. Jack Dorsey established Square in 2009, and Jim McKelvey, Square has changed the payments market with easy and reliable solutions.

Square’s services are beneficial for startups and small businesses. It offers various tools to help improve processes and efficiently manage payments.

Key Features:

• Point of Sales Integration: It seamlessly integrates with Square’s Point of Sale system.
• Virtual Terminal allows the payment process to proceed without using a physical card.
• Instant Deposits – Quick transfer of funds into your bank account.
• Analytics and Reporting – Accessible to get an in-depth insight into the behaviour of customers and sales.

Pros:

• There are no monthly charges for basic features.
• Competitive transaction fees

Cons:

• The square payment method is only available to merchants in specific countries.
• Additional charges for extra features.
  
  

Adyen

Adyen is a worldwide payment company that offers a cutting-edge all-in-one infrastructure connected with Visa, Mastercard, and other payment options worldwide. Established in 2006 by Adyen, it has quickly expanded its offerings and has become an option for many multinational companies.

Popular for its cutting-edge technological capabilities and seamless integration, Adyen offers comprehensive payment solutions for companies of all sectors and sizes.

Key Features:

• Unified Commerce integrates in-store, online, and mobile payment.
• Global Reach – supports many currency and payment methods
• Advanced Fraud Protection – Machine learning-based fraud detection.
• Real-Time Reporting: Detailed and real-time reporting of transactions.

Pros:

• Comprehensive global payment solutions.
• Secure and effective fraud prevention measures.
• Flexible for businesses of all sizes.

Cons:

• Higher fees for smaller businesses.
• Technical knowledge is needed for complete integration.

Planet

Planet integrates payment gateway processing with critical business software used by world-class hospitality and retail brands. Whether it’s an online checkout platform for e-commerce, a booking engine for hotels, or a secure pay link for selling your products or services, Planet’s online gateway allows users to accept online payments from any location, anytime.

Unlike typical online gateways, Planet is specifically designed for businesses in hospitality and retail that offer worldwide reach, scalability, and accessibility to flourish in a fast-paced environment. Merchants can meet the demands of shoppers online and establish trust by protecting customers’ card information, all while cutting down on cart abandonment.

Key Features

Low-code integration is possible with the most popular E-commerce platforms, such as Shopify, Woocommerce, Magento, Salesforce, Shopware, Prestashop, etc.

• Multi-currency (100+ currencies supported)
• Developer-friendly: JSON API & Mobile SDK
• PCI DSS Complaint
• Secure Fields
• For hotels: Pay-by link without the need for a website

You can control the payment pages embedded without compromising your brand. Shoppers will remain on a user-friendly site instead of being directed to a third-party window.

• Earn additional income through the Dynamic Currency Conversion services.
• Languages support: English, German, French, Italian.
• Technical assistance from dedicated account management
• Planet Accepted Payment Methods
• Credit/ debit cards include Visa, Mastercard(r), American Express, Discover, Diners, Union Pay, JCB, Maestro, Paysafecard, and Postfinance Card.
• Pay locally using local payment options: Twint
• Alternative payment methods: Klarna, iDeal, AliPay+)
• Digital wallets include Apple Pay and Google Pay
• Planet Usage Fees

Pros

Online that is reliable and available worldwide gateway that is reliable and globally available.

Cons

Contact the sales department to discuss the cost.

Paysafe

Established in 1996, Paysafe is among Europe’s most renowned payment processing companies. Based in London, UK, the company provides a gateway for payment solutions for enterprise and merchant retailers. It is utilized by over 500 million merchants worldwide. Recently, Paysafe also started supporting cryptocurrency-based processing.

Payment options that Paysafe supports are available through Paysafe.

• ACH transfers
• Debit and credit cards
• Digital wallets

Fondy handles payments in currency used by more than 200 countries. Payments are accepted through websites and online stores, Android and iOS, and mobile apps. Wherever and whenever shoppers wish to shop, you’re prepared to take these transactions.

Key Features

Whether you’re a small-to-medium-sized company (SME) or a large-scale company, there are a lot of benefits to using gateways. They include

• Flexible Payout
• Instant settlement
• Split payments
• Embedded wallets
• Instant payouts (like2like currencies)
• Customer insights, reports, and data management
• Access to a variety of tools for business
• 24/7/365 contact center customer service
• KYC, along with KYB tests for B2B business partners
• PCI DSS compliance
• Fondy Accepted Payment Methods
• Visa/Mastercard
• Digital wallets Apple Pay, GPay
• IDeal
• Klarna
• Bank Transfer
• Open Banking
• QR code
• Payment link
• Tap2Phone

Pros

• Fondy Business Accounts, which include IBANs and embedded wallets that allow partner reconciliation and instant payment
• Cash flow management tools like immediate payouts, split payments, and settlements
• Local payment schemes for payments

Cons

• Presently, we are accepting customers who are UK or EU only

Conclusion

An efficient payment gateway is crucial for robust and seamless payments. You can select the most popular payment gateways mentioned above and ensure you can secure your payments on your website store.

Apart from security, customer experience, compatibility, and customer support, it’s essential to consider the most popular UK payment methods. This includes card transactions, notably Visa and Mastercard(r).

Whether you prefer integration capabilities, pricing flexibility, or dependable support, this guide will help you find an option that meets your needs. Are you ready to position your company to succeed in the UK online marketplace?

Some Common FAQ’s