Stripe vs PayPal Break-Even CalculatorFind the Exact Amount Where Costs Cross Over
Enter a transaction amount and currency to see the break-even point between Stripe and PayPal — the amount where both processors charge exactly the same fee.
Find Your Break-Even Point
What Is a Break-Even Point in Payment Processing?
A break-even point is the transaction amount where two payment processors charge the exact same fee. Below that amount, one processor is cheaper. Above it, the other wins.
This crossover exists when the fee structures differ in a specific way: one processor has a lower percentage but a higher fixed fee. The lower fixed fee wins on small transactions (where the fixed component dominates), while the lower percentage wins on large transactions (where the percentage dominates).
The Break-Even Formula Explained
Payment processing fees follow the formula: Fee = Amount × PercentRate + FixedFee. Two processors break even when their fees are equal:
Amount = (Fixed_B − Fixed_A) / (Rate_A − Rate_B)
For example, if Processor A charges 2.5% + $0.50 and Processor B charges 3.0% + $0.25, the break-even is:
Below $50, Processor B (lower fixed fee) is cheaper. Above $50, Processor A (lower percentage) is cheaper. At exactly $50, both charge $1.75.
Making the Right Decision for Your Business
Knowing the break-even point is only useful if you apply it to your real transaction patterns. Here's a practical framework:
- Find your average transaction amount — pull this from your sales data or payment dashboard
- Check the break-even — use the calculator with your currency to see if a crossover exists
- Compare at your average — if most transactions are above the break-even, the lower-percentage processor saves you more
- Consider your distribution — if you have both high and low-value transactions, calculate the blended cost using actual volumes
In many regions — including the US, EU, UK, and Australia — Stripe is cheaper at all amounts, making the decision straightforward. The break-even analysis becomes most valuable in regions where the fee structures create a genuine crossover.
See Detailed Fee Breakdowns
Explore per-processor fee details, regional rates, and money-saving tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a break-even point between Stripe and PayPal?
The break-even point is the transaction amount where both processors charge exactly the same fee. Below that amount, one is cheaper; above it, the other is. This crossover only exists when one processor has a lower percentage fee but a higher fixed fee than the other.
Is there a break-even point in the US?
No. In the US, Stripe is cheaper at every amount because both its percentage (2.9% vs 3.49%) and fixed fee ($0.30 vs $0.49) are lower than PayPal's. A break-even requires one processor to have a lower fixed fee and the other to have a lower percentage — that doesn't happen with US rates.
How is the break-even calculated?
The formula is: Break-even = (FixedFee_B - FixedFee_A) / (PercentFee_A - PercentFee_B). This gives the transaction amount where both fee equations produce the same result. Our calculator computes this automatically for any currency you select.
Does the break-even change by currency?
Yes. Each region has different percentage and fixed fee combinations for Stripe and PayPal. In some regions, the fee structures create a crossover point. Select different currencies in the calculator to see whether a break-even exists in your region.
What should I do if there is no break-even point?
If there's no crossover — meaning one processor is cheaper at all amounts — the decision is simpler. Choose the cheaper processor as your primary. You may still want to offer the other as a checkout option for customers who prefer it.
Does the break-even point account for international fees?
No. The break-even calculation uses domestic card rates only. International card surcharges (1.5% for Stripe, 0.5–2% for PayPal) and currency conversion fees are additional and would shift the crossover point. Always consider your actual transaction mix.
How do I use the break-even to choose a processor?
Compare the break-even amount to your average transaction size. If most of your transactions are above the break-even, choose the processor with the lower percentage. If most are below, choose the one with the lower fixed fee. If you have a wide range, calculate the blended cost using your actual transaction distribution.
Can the break-even point change over time?
Yes. Both Stripe and PayPal adjust their rates periodically. PayPal, in particular, has changed US rates several times. Always verify current pricing and recalculate if rates change. Our calculator uses the latest published rates.
Assumptions & methodology
- All rates shown are standard published domestic card rates for online payments.
- International card surcharges (+1–2%) and currency conversion fees are not included.
- Actual fees may differ based on negotiated volume discounts, business type, or plan.
- We are not affiliated with Stripe, PayPal, or any payment processor.
- Always verify current rates on the official Stripe and PayPal pricing pages.
- Break-even calculations use domestic card rates only. International surcharges and conversion fees would shift the crossover point.
Last updated: February 15, 2026