Key points
- Full-stack providers are fastest to launch and simplest to run
- Separate gateway + acquirer can be cheaper at high volume
- Hosted checkout keeps PCI scope minimal
- 3DS / SCA is now the default — pick a gateway that handles it seamlessly
Full-stack providers
Stripe, Adyen, Square and similar players do both jobs in one contract. Fastest to launch, one relationship to manage.
Gateway + separate acquirer
You use a gateway product with an existing acquiring bank. Often cheaper on volume, but you manage two contracts and two support lines.
Hosted vs integrated checkout
Hosted checkout (redirect to the provider) is the simplest PCI route. Fully integrated checkout keeps the customer on your site but pulls you into a broader PCI scope.
3DS and SCA
Every EU/UK transaction defaults to Strong Customer Authentication. Modern gateways handle 3DS2 challenges automatically.
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