Online payment systems are a key element of the purchasing process. They directly impact the user experience, transaction speed, and, consequently, conversion rates. Choosing the right payment system can determine the success or failure of an online store. Today's consumers expect not only security but also a variety of payment methods tailored to their preferences.
Types of online payment systems
Card payments
Debit and credit cards are still the primary means of payment in many countries. Card payments are fast but require security measures such as 3D Secure. PCI DSS compliance is also important.
Electronic wallets (e-wallets)
E-wallets like PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay have gained popularity thanks to their convenience and speed. Users don't need to enter their card details—a single click is all it takes.
Deferred payments (BNPL)
Buy Now, Pay Later is a solution that's gaining popularity among younger consumers. Services like Klarna and PayPo allow purchases without immediate payment.
Online transfers (pay-by-link)
The dominant payment model in Poland. Systems such as Przelewy24 and PayU enable quick transfers through the user's online banking.
Mobile payments
Blik is a flagship example of mobile payments. Users generate a six-digit code in their banking app and approve the transaction without logging in to their bank.
The most popular payment systems on the global market
- PayPal
PayPal is the undisputed leader in the global digital payments market, setting standards in online transaction processing for two decades. Its advantage stems from its versatility, broad reach, and extensive ecosystem.
Global reach and multi-currency support : PayPal supports over 200 countries and allows payments in over 100 currencies, making it an indispensable tool for businesses selling in multiple markets.
Buyer and Seller Protection : One of PayPal's greatest strengths is its extensive transaction protection system, which minimizes the risk of fraud. Chargeback mechanisms, complaint procedures, and refund guarantees build customer trust and promote increased conversions.
Speed of refund processing : PayPal is very efficient in handling refunds, allowing for quick refunds, which is crucial for maintaining a positive customer relationship.
Integrations and Compatibility : PayPal offers ready-made integration modules for most eCommerce platforms, as well as extensive APIs for more advanced implementations. This allows for seamless customization of the system to the specific needs of any store, regardless of its size.
Innovations and additional services : PayPal is constantly developing its portfolio, offering, among others, financing options for purchases (BNPL – buy now pay later), mobile payments and integration with popular digital wallets.
- Stripe
Stripe is a payment platform built with flexibility and complete control over the payment process in mind, making it the first choice for startups, tech companies, and developers.
Advanced configuration options : Stripe offers a comprehensive API that allows for virtually unlimited customization of payment flows. Solutions like subscription payments, multi-currency payments, split payments, and automatic payment recovery can be easily implemented.
Scalability : The platform works well for both small online stores and global corporations handling millions of transactions per month.
Support for modern payment methods : Stripe integrates with Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit and debit cards, and local payment methods worldwide, which is crucial for businesses operating in international markets.
Security : Stripe adheres to the highest security standards, such as PCI DSS, and implements 3D Secure mechanisms compliant with PSD2 regulations. The platform also offers advanced fraud detection tools (Radar).
Dashboard and analytics : The intuitive management panel allows for detailed transaction analysis, revenue monitoring, and quick response to potential problems.
Innovative solutions : Stripe regularly introduces new features, such as SMS payments, marketplace functionalities, and tools for managing mobile and online payments.
- Apple Pay / Google Pay
Apple Pay and Google Pay are mobile payment systems that have gained immense popularity thanks to their tight integration with the Apple and Google ecosystems. Their growing importance stems from the fact that more and more users are making purchases using smartphones and tablets.
Native integration with mobile devices : Apple Pay is available on iPhones, iPads, and Macs, while Google Pay is available on Android devices. Both systems enable fast and secure payments using NFC contactless technology.
Convenience and speed of transactions : Users can make payments with one touch or using Face ID/Touch ID, which shortens the shopping time and increases the user experience.
Security : Apple Pay and Google Pay use tokenization, meaning payment card data is not stored or transferred to merchants. Each transaction is authorized with a unique, one-time code.
Growing popularity : According to market research, the number of users of both systems is constantly growing, which translates into an increase in their importance in purchasing processes, both online and in stationary sales points.
eCommerce Integrations : More and more online stores are accepting Apple Pay and Google Pay, often as a complement to traditional methods. Both systems are compatible with most eCommerce platforms and payment tools.
Support for subscriptions and recurring payments : These systems increasingly support recurring payments, which is important for subscription and SaaS services.
The most popular payment systems in Poland
- Przelewy24
Przelewy24 is one of the leaders in the Polish payments market, distinguished by its wide variety of available payment channels. This service integrates both traditional methods and modern forms such as Blik, e-wallets, and payment cards.
Payment channels : Przelewy24 enables pay-by-link payments, which quickly redirect the customer to the selected bank's online banking system. It also supports Visa and Mastercard transactions, as well as mobile payments and e-wallets, ensuring omnichannel access.
Integrations : Przelewy24 is compatible with most popular eCommerce platforms – WooCommerce, PrestaShop, Magento, Shopify, and others. Ready-made plugins and APIs are available, allowing for quick and hassle-free implementation.
Security and reliability : The system adheres to the latest security standards, such as PCI DSS, and supports strong authentication (SCA) in compliance with PSD2. Furthermore, it guarantees high service availability and fast settlement.
Support and development : Przelewy24 invests in the development of its analytical and reporting tools, offering sellers full insight into transactions, which allows for effective management of store finances.
- PayU
PayU is one of the most recognizable payment systems in Poland, especially thanks to its strategic cooperation with the Allegro platform, which translates into a huge number of users.
Payment options and methods : PayU offers a wide range of payment methods, from card payments and fast online transfers to Blik and digital wallets. Furthermore, the system supports installment and subscription payments, which is a significant advantage for stores offering subscription-based sales.
Reliability : The system is characterized by high stability and transaction speed, which minimizes the risk of cart abandonment due to technical issues.
Integrations : PayU offers ready-made integration modules for the most popular eCommerce platforms and extensive APIs for large stores and websites requiring individual solutions.
Security : PayU is PCI DSS certified and implements PSD2 standards, ensuring full protection of customer data and compliance with European regulations.
Additional services : The company also develops anti-fraud services that help reduce the risk of fraud and chargebacks.
- Tpay
Tpay is a relatively young but dynamically developing player in the Polish payments market. Thanks to its flexible approach and innovation, it has gained popularity, especially among online stores and startups.
Unique features : Tpay stands out for its implementation of fast cryptocurrency payments, a rarity on the Polish market. Furthermore, the system supports instant payments, instant transfers, and Blik.
API and integrations : Tpay offers an extensive API enabling a wide range of payment process personalization, integration with ERP or CRM systems, and the ability to create custom reports and settlements.
Payment channels : In addition to traditional methods, Tpay also allows payments via e-wallets and cards, which ensures the comfort of customers with different preferences.
Security : The platform uses the latest security measures and is compliant with PSD2 and PCI DSS requirements, which increases the level of trust among users.
Customer support : The company offers professional service and technical support that helps in quickly resolving any integration issues.
- Blik
Blik is a Polish mobile payment system that has gained immense popularity thanks to its simplicity and fast transaction authorization process. The system is developed by Polski Standard Płatności and works with most banks operating in Poland.
System Features : Blik works by generating a unique, six-digit code in the user's banking app, which is then entered in an online store or POS terminal. It also enables quick payments in mobile apps and instant P2P transfers.
Popularity : Thanks to the wide support of banks and the ease of use, Blik is one of the most frequently chosen payment methods by Polish consumers, especially younger generations.
Offline and online use : Apart from eCommerce, Blik is increasingly used for payments in stationary stores, vending machines and transport services, which highlights its universality.
Security : The system uses security measures offered by banks, and each transaction requires confirmation in the mobile application, which significantly reduces the risk of fraud.
Integration : Blik is easy to implement on most eCommerce platforms and works perfectly with payment systems such as Przelewy24 or PayU, offering customers even greater convenience of choice.
Consumer trust and choice of payment method
Trust is a currency that can't be bought. Consumers choose well-known and proven payment systems. The absence of a familiar logo in the shopping cart can result in transaction abandonment.
The impact of the payment system on conversion and abandoned carts
An unintuitive payment interface, limited methods, or authorization errors all lead to customer loss. Payment systems must be fast, transparent, and reliable. Even a 1-second delay can reduce conversion rates by several percent.
Integration of the payment system with the eCommerce platform
WooCommerce Payments
WooCommerce, as a WordPress extension, offers a wide range of integrations with payment systems—both global and local. The most commonly used include plugins for PayU, Przelewy24, Stripe, Blik, PayPal, and Tpay.
Advantages:
- Ease of implementation – most integrations are available as ready-made plugins installed from the administration panel.
- A large number of technical documentation and guides.
- Ability to customize payment flow to individual store needs thanks to open source code.
Challenges:
- Need to manually update payment plugins and WordPress, which can lead to conflicts between plugins.
- Dependence on the quality of third-party plugins – some may be poorly optimized.
- Compatibility issues after system or theme update.
For smaller and medium-sized stores, WooCommerce is a cost-effective solution, but it requires some technical knowledge and systematic maintenance.
Shopify payments
Shopify is a SaaS solution that prioritizes ease of use and security. Built-in payment systems (e.g., Shopify Payments powered by Stripe) work without the need to install additional modules.
Advantages:
- Instant integration with popular payment systems: Stripe, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay.
- Full PSD2 and SCA compliance with no additional configuration required.
- Payments work instantly – minimal technical risk.
Challenges:
- Shopify charges additional commissions when using external payment systems (from 0.5% to 2%).
- Some local systems (e.g. Przelewy24 in Shopify , Tpay) requires the use of third-party applications, often paid in a subscription model.
- Fewer possibilities of personalizing payment processes compared to open-source platforms.
Shopify Poland This is an ideal solution for entrepreneurs who value time and stability. However, with high transaction volumes, it's worth considering the costs of additional commissions.
Payments in Magento
Magento is an enterprise-class platform that offers limitless integration possibilities. On the one hand, it allows for the implementation of the simplest solutions (e.g., Stripe, PayPal, PayU), and on the other, it allows for the creation of complex configurations and custom payment gateways.
Advantages:
- The highest level of flexibility – the ability to build hybrid payment models and advanced flows (e.g. split payment, marketplace).
- Integration with ERP, CRM and middleware systems (e.g. Mulesoft, Zapier).
- Possibility to implement subscription, installment and BNPL systems in one structure.
Challenges:
- High cost of implementation and maintenance – Magento requires experienced developers.
- Greater complexity in updates and testing.
- The need for regular security audits and adaptation to changes in regulations (e.g. PSD2, PCI DSS).
Magento is a platform for large players who prioritize control and complex payment operations. However, it requires a solid technical base.
Payments in PrestaShop
PrestaShop is often chosen by mid-sized eCommerce stores due to its modular structure and relatively low maintenance costs. Most payment processors offer dedicated integration modules.
Advantages:
- Ready-made payment modules for Blik, Przelewy24, PayU, Tpay, Stripe, PayPal and others.
- Open code – the ability to modify and adapt the integration to specific needs.
- High compliance with local markets and fiscal systems.
Challenges:
- Integration modules vary in quality and level of support – they often come from external companies.
- Compatibility issues between modules in older versions of PrestaShop.
- Manual configuration and A/B testing required for UX optimization during the checkout process.
PrestaShop is a good choice for growing stores seeking a balance between flexibility and budget. The key to success is selecting proven modules and regularly optimizing the shopping journey.
Costs and commissions of the most popular payment systems - comparative table
Each system has its own billing model. Transaction fees can range from 0.5% to as much as 3%. Additional costs include chargebacks, withdrawals, integration, and monthly subscription fees. It's worth analyzing not only the commission rate but also the availability of methods and SLAs.
| Payment system | Type of implementation costs | Transaction commissions | Additional fees | Supported payment channels | Currency handling | Cost Notes |
| Przelewy24 | No implementation fee (ready-made plugins) | 1.9% - 2.5% + PLN 0.30 | Monthly subscription fee optional (approximately PLN 20-50) | Bank transfers, Blik, cards, e-wallets | PLN and foreign currencies (limited) | The commission depends on the selected package and transaction volume. |
| PayU | No implementation fee | 1.8% - 2.4% + PLN 0.30 | No fixed monthly fees | Transfers, cards, Blik, installment payments | PLN and other currencies | Promotional conditions for large volumes, negotiable |
| Tpay | No entry fee | 1.7% - 2.3% + PLN 0.25 | Optional withdrawal fee (approx. PLN 2) | Transfers, Blik, cards, cryptocurrencies | PLN, EUR, USD (depending on integration) | Low commission for small and medium-sized businesses |
| Blik | No implementation fees (part of system integration) | Typically 1.5% – 2.0% (included in the operator's system) | Lack | Mobile payments, P2P, offline, online | PLN | Costs charged by payment operators, different models |
| PayPal | No implementation fee | 2.9% + 1.35 PLN (in Poland) / 2.9% + fixed fee (globally) | Currency conversion fees (approx. 2.5% – 4%) | Cards, PayPal balances, digital wallets | Over 100 currencies | Higher commissions than local systems, currency conversion fees |
| Stripe | No implementation fee | 1.4% - 2.9% + 0.30 USD/EUR | No fixed monthly fees | Cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, local methods | Over 135 currencies | Lower fees for European cards; transparent model |
| Apple Pay | No implementation fees (requires payment integration) | Commissions charged by the payment system (e.g. Stripe, PayPal) | Lack | Contactless and mobile payments | Currency handling within the associated operator | The cost depends on the associated payment provider |
| Google Pay | No implementation fees (requires integration) | Commissions charged by the payment operator | Lack | Mobile and contactless payments | Currency handling within the associated operator | The cost depends on the integration with the payment platform |
Key observations:
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Polish payment systems They are usually characterized by lower commissions and no implementation costs, which is beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises.
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PayPal and Stripe They offer advanced functionalities and global reach, but their commissions and currency conversion fees are higher than those of local operators.
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Apple Pay and Google Pay These are primarily technologies that facilitate mobile payments, but they do not charge a commission themselves – they are dependent on the payment operators with which they integrate.
- Commission models often vary depending on the size and specifics of the business, so it is worth negotiating terms for larger volumes.
This table should help you make an informed decision regarding the selection of a payment system tailored to the needs of your online store and the profile of its customers.
Security and compliance (PCI DSS, PSD2, SCA)
Payment systems must meet stringent standards. PCI DSS concerns the secure processing of card data. PSD2 and SCA requirements have introduced strong user authentication requirements. Non-compliance with these standards risks not only penalties but also reputational damage.
New trends in online payments
Open Banking
It allows customers to make payments directly from their bank accounts, without the involvement of intermediaries. It is gaining popularity in Western Europe.
Cryptocurrencies
While still niche, cryptocurrency payments (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) are attracting younger, technologically advanced customers. However, they require specialized integration and sensitivity to exchange rate volatility.
Subscription payments
The subscription model requires the automation of recurring charges. Stripe, Recurly, and Chargebee offer dedicated solutions that are gaining importance in the D2C model.
Summary
Choosing a payment system is a strategic decision. It should consider not only costs but also customer needs, regulatory compliance, and integration options. A well-implemented payment system can significantly increase sales, reduce cart abandonment, and build customer trust. In the dynamically evolving e-commerce environment, it's worth monitoring new solutions and regularly optimizing the payment process.
