Question 1

Is Stripe or Square cheaper in the USA?

Accepted Answer

For online payments: identical (2.9%+$0.30). For in-person: Square (2.6%+$0.10) is marginally cheaper than Stripe Terminal (2.7%+$0.05) on high-value transactions. Stripe is cheaper for ACH (0.8% vs Square's 1%).

Question 2

Does Square charge for chargebacks?

Accepted Answer

No. Square absorbs chargeback fees — merchants pay $0. Stripe charges $15 per dispute (refunded if you win). This is a significant advantage for businesses with higher dispute rates.

Question 3

Can I use Stripe and Square together?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some businesses use Square for in-person retail POS and Stripe for their online store or subscription billing. Managing both adds complexity but maximises each tool's strengths.

Question 4

Is Square available internationally?

Accepted Answer

Square operates in USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan only. If you need payments in Europe, Asia, or other regions, Stripe (45+ countries) is the only option.

Question 5

Which is better for restaurants — Stripe or Square?

Accepted Answer

Square. Square for Restaurants includes free POS software, table management, and kitchen display systems. Stripe Terminal is developer-focused and lacks restaurant-specific features.

Payment Type	Stripe	Square	Winner
Online checkout	2.9% + $0.30	2.9% + $0.30	🤝 Tie
In-person (card present)	2.7% + $0.05	2.6% + $0.10	✓ Square (high value)
ACH bank transfer	0.8% (cap $5)	1% (cap $10)	✓ Stripe
International cards	+1.5%	Not supported	✓ Stripe
Chargeback fee	$15	$0 (absorbed)	✓ Square
Subscription billing	✅ Stripe Billing	Basic	✓ Stripe
POS hardware	Basic	✅ Full ecosystem	✓ Square
Global reach	✅ 45+ countries	US, UK, CA, AU, JP	✓ Stripe

Stripe vs Square USA 2026 — Full Comparison

The Bottom Line

Frequently Asked Questions