Stripe vs PayPal: Which One Should You Start With?

The Fork in the Road

When it comes time to actually get paid, you’ll face your first decision: Stripe or PayPal?

These are the two most common gateways for creators, and both get the job done. But they’re not identical, and choosing the right one depends more on your audience than on the tech itself.

Why Stripe Works for Many Beginners

Stripe has become the go-to for online creators, and for good reason:

• Smooth checkout experience — Customers can pay directly on your site without bouncing to another page.

• Great for subscriptions — If you’re planning memberships, recurring payments, or ongoing offers, Stripe handles them with ease.

• Modern integrations — Works seamlessly with most platforms (Squarespace, WordPress, Kajabi, and more).

The catch? Stripe isn’t available in every country. And while it’s super polished for credit cards, some international buyers still prefer PayPal.

Why PayPal Still Matters

PayPal has been around forever, and people across the world recognize it instantly.

• Global familiarity — Many customers already have a PayPal account. That trust matters.

• Preferred for international buyers — In some countries, PayPal is the default way people expect to pay online.

• Buyer protection — Customers often feel safer paying through PayPal, especially when buying from a smaller or newer brand.

The downside? The checkout flow isn’t always as smooth. Sometimes people get redirected, and the interface can feel clunky compared to Stripe.

So, Which Should You Pick?

If your audience is mostly local and you want smooth subscriptions → Stripe is your best bet.

If you expect buyers from around the world or know your audience trusts PayPal → add PayPal.

And here’s the real truth: you don’t have to overthink it. You can always start with one, then add the other later. Many platforms (like Squarespace) let you connect both, so your customer gets to choose.

Closing Thought

Don’t let this decision hold you back. The goal isn’t to find the “perfect” gateway, it’s to give your audience a way to pay you, today.

Pick the one that best fits your people, connect it, and keep moving.