Stripe Terminal is Stripe’s own solution for in-person payments, which includes programmable software and pre-certified hardware (card readers). It allows businesses to extend their online Stripe integration into a physical retail environment. While it shares the same goal as Charge for Stripe—enabling in-person payments—Stripe Terminal is often integrated into more complex, custom POS systems and requires purchasing hardware directly from Stripe.
Frequently Asked questions (FAQs)
- Is Charge for Stripe a part of Stripe Terminal?
No. Charge for Stripe is an independent alternative that allows you to take in-person payments without needing to buy Stripe’s specific hardware readers. It uses your phone’s built-in NFC capability for Tap to Pay transactions. - What is the main difference between Charge for Stripe and Stripe Terminal?
The biggest difference is hardware. Stripe Terminal requires you to buy and manage one of their physical card readers. Charge for Stripe requires no extra hardware—it turns your existing smartphone into the payment terminal. - When would a business choose Stripe Terminal over Charge for Stripe?
A business with a high volume of transactions at a fixed location, like a busy cafe, might choose a dedicated Stripe Terminal reader for its speed and durability. A mobile business or one with lower volume might prefer the simplicity and zero hardware cost of Charge for Stripe.
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