The verdict in three sentences
Choosing a payment provider is not just about the headline rate: real cost depends on your average basket, because the fixed portion (0.25 to 0.35 EUR/transaction) weighs heavily on small amounts. For a low basket, a provider with a low fixed fee like Stancer or PayPlug wins; for international and advanced features, Stripe remains the benchmark. Expect 1.2% to 2.9% depending on profile, with payout delays from D+1 to D+7.
Provider comparison 2026
Here are 2026 orders of magnitude for an SME collecting payments online. Rates vary by volume, card type and negotiation.
| Provider | Commission | Fixed fee/transaction | Payout | Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stripe | 1.4% intra-EU / 2.9% non-EU | 0.25 EUR | D+2 to D+7 | International, API, subscriptions |
| Stancer | ~0.4% + fixed (volume plan) | 0.25 EUR | D+1 to D+3 | Low cost, French |
| PayPlug | 1.2% - 1.8% | 0.25 EUR | D+1 | Simplicity, FR e-commerce |
| Mollie | 1.8% - 2.8% | 0.25 EUR | D+1 to D+3 | Multi-method, Europe |
| PayPal | 2.49% - 2.9% | 0.35 EUR | Instant to D+1 | Brand trust, conversion |
Real cost by average basket
The same transaction doesn't cost the same effective percentage. Let's simulate total cost (commission + fixed fee) by basket, at an average rate of 1.5% + 0.25 EUR.
| Average basket | Cost per transaction | Effective rate | Over 1,000 transactions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 EUR | 0.48 EUR | 3.2% | 480 EUR |
| 40 EUR | 0.85 EUR | 2.1% | 850 EUR |
| 80 EUR | 1.45 EUR | 1.8% | 1,450 EUR |
| 150 EUR | 2.50 EUR | 1.7% | 2,500 EUR |
| 400 EUR | 6.25 EUR | 1.6% | 6,250 EUR |
Mini case study
Julien, CFO of a spare-parts SME, collects 3,000 transactions/month at an average basket of 65 EUR, i.e. 195,000 EUR volume. With his current provider at 2.4% + 0.30 EUR, he pays ~5,580 EUR/month in fees. By switching to a volume plan at 1.3% + 0.25 EUR, the bill drops to ~3,285 EUR/month. Saving: ~27,500 EUR/year, for a technical migration cost of 3,000 to 6,000 EUR amortised in under 3 months.
FAQ
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Is the lowest rate always the best choice?
No. For small baskets, the fixed fee per transaction weighs more than the percentage. A provider with a low fixed fee can beat a more attractive nominal rate.
Is 3DS mandatory?
Strong authentication (SCA/3DS2) is required in the EU for most payments. A good provider applies it intelligently (exemptions on small amounts) to protect conversion.
What payout delays should we expect?
From D+1 (PayPlug, Mollie) to D+7 (Stripe non-EU or new accounts). For an SME's cash flow, a fast payout is sometimes worth a few points of commission.
Can commissions be negotiated?
Yes, from a few tens of thousands of euros in monthly volume. Public rates are a starting point; volume and chargeback rate influence the negotiation.
Should we use one provider or several?
A multi-provider setup (routing) optimises cost and resilience beyond a certain volume, but complicates reconciliation. Below ~500,000 EUR/year, one usually suffices.
Let's scope your project. Share your monthly volume and average basket: we'll simulate the real cost per provider and integrate the best gateway into your site. Detailed quote within 48 h. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
