Paddle vs Payhip
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both Paddle and Payhip are credible subscription billing tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Paddle — Merchant of record for SaaS.
Choose Payhip if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free – $19/mo) and a free plan to start on. Sell digital products, courses, and memberships.
Paddle vs Payhip: side by side
| Dimension | Paddle | Payhip |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Custom | Free – $19/moWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Pricing model | Usage-based | Freemium |
| Best for | Saas, Indie Makers | Creators |
| Platforms | Web, Api | Web |
| Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.6/5 |
Paddle key facts
- Vendor
- Paddle
- Pricing
- Usage-based — Custom
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Web, Api
- Best for
- Saas, Indie Makers
- Editor rating
- 4.4 / 5
- Founded
- 2012
- Headquarters
- London, UK
Payhip key facts
- Vendor
- Payhip
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $19/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web
- Best for
- Creators
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2011
- Headquarters
- London, UK
Frequently asked questions
Is Paddle better than Payhip?
Neither is universally better — Payhip edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Paddle or Payhip cheaper?
Payhip is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $19/mo. Paddle starts at custom; Payhip starts at free – $19/mo.
Can Paddle replace Payhip?
Yes for most teams — both are subscription billing tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.