Stripe vs. Clover: 2026 Comparison

Stripe and Clover both support payment processing, but they differ in flexibility, fee transparency, and user control.

Here’s what Stripe users like about this feature:

• Wide range of accepted payment methods, including cards, digital wallets, ACH transfers, and buy now, pay later services

• No setup fees and clear transaction-based pricing

• Powerful reporting dashboard and real-time tracking of transactions

• Customizable payment flows and support for recurring billing, subscriptions, and invoicing

Here’s what Clover users like about this feature:

• Simple and fast card and contactless payment processing

• Easy to use in busy in-store environments like retail shops and restaurants

• Built-in integration with hardware, making setup quick and intuitive

Some users experience issues with payment processing on both platforms.

• Stripe users report high transaction fees and occasional fund holds that delay payouts

• Clover users mention unexpected processing fees, delayed deposits, and limited control over payment settings

Payment processing for Stripe:

Of the 211 reviewers who gave detailed accounts of their use of Stripe’s payment processing, 100% rated this feature as important or highly important, with an average feature rating of 4.61. Users consistently praise Stripe’s flexibility, transparent pricing, and developer tools.

Payment processing for Clover:

Among 35 reviewers who shared detailed feedback on Clover’s payment processing, 94% rated this feature as important or highly important, with an average feature rating of 3.47. Users appreciate its simplicity and hardware integration, but some express concerns over delays and fee clarity.

Stripe and Clover approach online payments differently, with Stripe offering advanced capabilities for online businesses and Clover focusing on simple, reliable electronic transactions.

Here’s what Stripe users like about this feature:

• Support for all major cards, wallets, and international payment methods

• Seamless integration with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce

• Fast, secure processing with scalable performance for high transaction volumes

• Ideal for recurring billing, subscriptions, and global sales

Here’s what Clover users like about this feature:

• Easy setup for tap-to-pay and remote payments, including Apple Pay and phone orders

• Reliable for businesses that offer over-the-phone or curbside transactions

• Simple interface makes it easy for teams to accept payments without extra training

Some users experience issues with online payments on both platforms:

• Stripe users mention that high fees can add up for low-ticket or high-frequency transactions

• Clover users say the online payment tools lack customization and aren’t ideal for web-based storefronts

Online payments for Stripe:

Of the 189 reviewers who provided detailed feedback, 99% rated Stripe’s online payments as important or highly important, with an average feature rating of 4.74. Users highlight its flexibility, robust integrations, and developer-friendly approach.

Online payments for Clover:

Among 9 reviewers who rated Clover’s electronic payment tools, 100% said the feature was important or highly important, with an average rating of 4.33. While users appreciate the simplicity of contactless payments, many feel it’s less suited for complex online transactions.

Stripe and Clover both offer secure environments for handling customer data, though Stripe provides a more advanced and detailed security infrastructure tailored to online and high-volume businesses.

Here’s what Stripe users like about this feature:

• PCI DSS Level 1 certification, encryption, and two-factor authentication for maximum protection

• Automated fraud detection and real-time monitoring tools

• Clear documentation that outlines security protocols and compliance standards

• Confidence in Stripe’s infrastructure for handling sensitive financial data at scale

Here’s what Clover users like about this feature:

• Reliable security for in-person transactions, including passcodes and user verification

• No reports of major data breaches, contributing to user trust

• Built-in protections that support customer privacy without added complexity

Some users experience issues or limitations related to data security on both platforms.

• Stripe users occasionally mention that understanding or configuring certain security features requires technical knowledge

• Clover users report fewer advanced security tools and mention that protections are more general and less customizable

Data security for Stripe:

Of the 167 reviewers who gave detailed feedback, 96% rated Stripe’s data security as important or highly important, with an average feature rating of 4.61. Stripe is seen as a secure, standards-compliant platform that offers advanced protection for businesses handling sensitive data.

Data security for Clover:

Among 12 reviewers, 92% rated Clover’s data security as important or highly important, with an average rating of 4.29. Users trust the platform’s basic safeguards, though fewer highlight specific security features or advanced controls.