As businesses and individuals seek efficient and secure payment solutions, many find themselves weighing the pros and cons of Apple Pay and GoCardless. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of both options, comparing their features, pricing, and unique benefits to help you make an informed decision.
A quick overview on Apple Pay and Gocardless
What is Apple Pay?
Apple Pay is a digital wallet and mobile payment solution developed by Apple Inc. It allows users to store their credit, debit, and prepaid cards digitally and make payments using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology for in-person transactions, as well as through apps and online platforms.
Unique features of Apple Pay include seamless integration with Apple devices and enhanced security measures like device-specific numbers and unique transaction codes. Common use cases include in-store purchases, online and in-app transactions, and peer-to-peer payments via Apple Cash.
What is Gocardless?
GoCardless is a financial technology company that specializes in bank-to-bank payment solutions. It enables businesses to collect payments directly from customers' bank accounts using Direct Debit and Open Banking technologies, eliminating the need for credit or debit card transactions.
Unique benefits of GoCardless include lower processing fees and seamless integration with over 350 software partners like Xero, Sage, and QuickBooks. Common use cases include managing recurring payments for subscription services, membership organizations, and companies offering installment plans.
Pricing of Apple Pay and Gocardless
Apple Pay does not charge users any fees for transactions, but standard fees from the user's credit or debit card issuer may still apply. This means that while Apple Pay itself is free to use, the overall cost depends on the terms set by the user's bank or card issuer, which can vary widely.
GoCardless, on the other hand, has a clear fee structure with its Standard Plan charging 1% + £/€0.20 per transaction, capped at £/€4 for domestic transactions. Higher fees apply for international transactions and additional charges for refunds, chargebacks, and failed payments. GoCardless offers a 90-day fee-free period for new customers, which can be beneficial for businesses starting out.
Overall, GoCardless has a more transparent and potentially lower-cost structure for businesses, while Apple Pay's costs depend on the user's bank or card issuer.
Features of Apple Pay and Gocardless
Apple Pay features
Apple Pay offers several unique features that cater to consumer needs:
- Seamless Integration: Apple Pay is built into Apple devices, allowing users to add their credit or debit cards to the Wallet app and make payments without the need for physical cards.
- Enhanced Security: Utilizing device-specific numbers and unique transaction codes, Apple Pay ensures that actual card numbers are neither stored on devices nor shared with merchants, thereby enhancing transaction security.
- Privacy Protection: Apple does not store transaction information that can be tied back to users, ensuring that purchases remain private.
- Broad Acceptance: Apple Pay is accepted at over 85% of retailers in the U.S., including vending machines, grocery stores, taxis, and subway stations, as well as within apps and on websites.
- Convenience: Simplifies the payment process by eliminating the need to carry physical cards, making it easier for users to manage their transactions.
Gocardless features
GoCardless offers several unique features that cater to business needs:
- Cost Efficiency: Lower transaction fees compared to traditional card payments, making it economical for businesses processing large volumes of transactions.
- Fast Payment Processing: Businesses can receive payments in as little as 2 days, improving cash flow.
- Automation: Automated payment collection and reconciliation reduce administrative tasks and minimize human error.
- Security: Advanced security features like Verified Mandates and Protect+ ensure secure transactions.
- Global Reach: Ability to collect international payments from over 30 countries with in-built FX at the real market rate, powered by Wise.
Comparing Apple Pay, Gocardless and OneSafe
Why choose one over the other?
- Why Choose Apple Pay Over GoCardless: If you prioritize convenience and security for everyday transactions, Apple Pay is the better choice. Its seamless integration with Apple devices and broad acceptance at over 85% of U.S. retailers make it ideal for quick, contactless payments. Additionally, Apple Pay's enhanced security features, such as device-specific numbers and unique transaction codes, ensure that your card details remain private and secure.
- Why Choose GoCardless Over Apple Pay: For businesses managing recurring payments, GoCardless offers a more cost-effective and efficient solution. With lower transaction fees and automated payment collection, it reduces administrative tasks and improves cash flow. GoCardless also integrates seamlessly with over 350 software partners, making it a robust choice for businesses needing streamlined financial operations.
Considering OneSafe vs Apple Pay and Gocardless
- Why Choose OneSafe Over Apple Pay and GoCardless: OneSafe is uniquely designed for businesses operating in the Web3 and crypto sectors, offering seamless USD to USDC conversion on Polygon for instant, borderless transactions. Unlike Apple Pay and GoCardless, OneSafe provides end-to-end expense and payroll management, making it an optimal choice for global teams needing reliable, adaptive banking solutions.
What are the customers saying?
Apple Pay reviews
Based on user reviews, Apple Pay has faced criticism for several issues. Users have reported unauthorized charges, difficulties in obtaining refunds, and challenges with subscription management. For instance, some users mentioned being charged multiple times without consent and encountering obstacles when seeking refunds. Check out more Apple Pay reviews here.
Gocardless reviews
GoCardless has received mixed reviews from users. Negative feedback highlights issues such as unexpected account closures, poor communication, and challenges with customer support. Some users have reported difficulties in accessing funds and dissatisfaction with the handling of account verifications. Check out more GoCardless reviews here.
OneSafe reviews
Users have consistently praised OneSafe for its exceptional customer support, ease of payroll processing, and the platform's ability to simplify complex banking tasks for Web3 companies. The seamless USD to USDC conversion on Polygon and end-to-end expense and payroll management are standout features that users find particularly useful.
Here are some of the sentiments shared by our satisfied customers:
- “OneSafe has the best customer support I've ever experienced from a bank.” - Amit Chu, Investments @ Celo Foundation
- “OneSafe is a game-changer. They solve so many headaches for our company. Finally a banking solution that gets it.” - Marco, CEO of Ensuro
Want to learn more? Check us out here.
Apple Pay, Gocardless, or OneSafe: Which is the best platform for you?
In conclusion, whether you choose Apple Pay, GoCardless, or OneSafe, each offers unique benefits tailored to different needs. Apple Pay excels in convenience and security for everyday transactions, while GoCardless is ideal for businesses managing recurring payments. However, for global businesses, especially those in the Web3 and crypto sectors, OneSafe stands out with its seamless USD to USDC conversion and comprehensive expense and payroll management. We highly recommend OneSafe for its innovative solutions and exceptional customer support.
