Square Payments vs Helcim

PayPal

Venmo

Stripe

PayPal provides an end-to-end suite of tools that can integrate with a business's existing systems and service providers. Its network of shoppers and businesses provides AI-driven data insights to help businesses reach new customers and drive results.

Venmo is a digital wallet and payment gateway that allows customers to send money and make purchases via mobile device, and share activity via the purchase feed

Stripe is a financial infrastructure platform that enables businesses to accept payments online and in person. It offers a suite of APIs for payment processing, subscription management, fraud prevention, and financial services integration Stripe provides both developer-focused tools with extensive documentation and no-code solutions for businesses without technical staff.

Owner

The resolution process was clumsy and communicating with customer service was nearly impossible.  

Sales Associate

It relies entirely on service and wi-fi, so large events with little service can be hard to make work well, especially with high customer volume.

Owner 

Their customer service has been excellent and I’ve never had any major issues and things run smoothly throughout my sales processes.

After you take the time to figure everything out it does work fairly seamlessly it can be very confusing though for a first time person trying to work with it but the customer support for Square is excellent

Accept every way your customers want to pay with Square Payments.

ACH Payment Processing

Activity Dashboard

Billing & Invoicing

Cash Management

Compliance Management

Contactless NFC

Credit Card Processing

Cryptocurrency Processing

Customer Database

Data Security

Debit/Credit Card Processing

Electronic Payments

Electronic Signature

Fraud Detection

Gift Card Management

In-Person Payments

Invoice Management

Mobile Access

Mobile Card Reader

Mobile Payments

Multiple Payment Options

Offline Access

Online Payments

Partial Payments

Payment Fraud Prevention

Payment Links

PCI Compliance

Point of Sale (POS)

Receipt Management

Recurring/Subscription Billing

Reminders

Reporting/Analytics

Reporting & Statistics

Sales Reports

SSL Security

Third-Party Integrations

Transaction History

Reviews for Square Payments come from a wide variety of industries, including retail (7% of reviewers), health, wellness and fitness (7%), and arts and crafts (4%). The most frequent use case for Square Payments cited by reviewers is payment processing (78% of reviewers).

Users and use cases

Reviewers appreciate Square Payments' transparent, flat-rate pricing and absence of monthly or hidden fees, which they find predictable and helpful for cash flow. However, some users report that per-transaction fees and extra costs for advanced features can reduce overall value, especially for high-volume businesses.

Value for money

The Square Payments integration most frequently cited by reviewers is ClinicSense, a massage therapy product rated 5.0 out of 5 for its integration with Square Payments.

Integrations

Square Payments is a payment processing tool offering key features such as debit/credit card processing, data security, payment fraud prevention, mobile payments, and online payments, among others.

Square Payments

Web-based

iPad

Android

iPhone

Clover

PayPal Point of Sale

PayPal Commerce Platform

Payanywhere

Square Point of Sale

SumUp

SpotOn

Cash App

Invoicely

ProPay

In person

Online

Invoices

Manually entered

Reliance on strong connectivity

Sometimes connectivity issues arise based on WIFI connection or issues with customer phones not having service to process apple pay or tap payments.

Seller

However if the service or internet was slow or went down the service wouldn't work.

78% of reviewers feel negative about Connection Issues. Users report frequent problems when WiFi or cellular signals are weak, especially at events or in rural areas. Reviewers indicate that Square Payments often requires a strong internet connection to function properly, leading to delays or inability to process transactions when service is spotty. They say reconnecting devices or restarting the app is sometimes necessary, which can slow down service and frustrate customers. Some users mention that offline mode is unreliable, and dependence on connectivity can be a significant drawback for mobile businesses.

Frequent swiping difficulties

40% of reviewers feel negative about Card Swiping. Users say that swiping cards often requires several attempts, which can be awkward and time-consuming in front of customers. Reviewers mention that device compatibility, especially with newer smartphones lacking headphone jacks, complicates the process. They report higher fees for manual entry when swiping fails and express concern about customer confidence when multiple swipes are needed. Some users indicate that repeated swiping or hardware orientation issues can disrupt the checkout flow and occasionally lead to accidental double charges.

Inconsistent card reader performance

Registered Dietitian

I only use the small card reader that Square provided at no charge and I find it has difficulty with various magnetic strips and won't complete the charge.

42% of reviewers feel negative about Card Reader. Users report that the card reader sometimes fails to read cards on the first try, requiring multiple swipes or manual entry. Reviewers indicate that compatibility issues with newer phones and cases can make the reader difficult to use. They say hardware can be unreliable, with occasional connection problems, battery issues, or the need for frequent replacements. Some users mention that manual entry incurs higher fees and slows down transactions. They find these issues inconvenient, especially during busy sales periods or at events.

Occasional software glitches

57% of reviewers feel negative about Bugs and Issues. Users report experiencing random app crashes, freezing, and technical glitches that disrupt transactions. Reviewers indicate that troubleshooting can be difficult, especially when customer support is hard to reach or only available during limited hours. They say problems like account holds, syncing errors, and delayed refunds can slow business operations. Some users mention issues with dispute resolution and system updates causing temporary outages. They find these interruptions frustrating, particularly during busy periods or when multiple users rely on the system.

High and cumulative fees

Admin

Square Payments fees can add up, especially for small businesses, and some advanced features require additional costs.

43% of reviewers feel negative about Pricing. Users think Square’s transaction fees can add up quickly, especially for high-volume or large-ticket businesses. Reviewers say the flat percentage-per-transaction model is less favorable for those with larger sales or frequent transactions. They mention that additional costs for advanced features and hardware can be burdensome. Some users express frustration over higher fees for manually entered transactions and the lack of ACH payment options. They indicate that while there are no monthly fees, the cumulative effect of per-transaction charges can impact profit margins.

Efficient payment processing

Auto Detailer

Overall, I enjoy being able to simplify the check out process for my clients and I.

Account Manager

It is a fast process and they use great tech to make sure everything is sound.

93% of reviewers feel positive about Processing. Users think Square’s payment processing is fast, reliable, and easy to use for both small and multi-location businesses. Reviewers appreciate the seamless automation that simplifies bookkeeping and the immediate deduction of processing fees. They say the system’s straightforward setup and minimal learning curve make it accessible for new users. Some users highlight the speed of transactions and the reliability of the service as key benefits. They indicate that the platform helps streamline checkout processes, allowing them to focus more on serving customers.

Flexible event payment tools

Executive Assistant

Using Square at one of our donor events or set up as a display during volunteer hours has made it incredibly easy for us to accept onsite donations for our organization.  

93% of reviewers feel positive about Event Payments. Reviewers appreciate being able to process payments quickly and efficiently at events, fundraisers, and markets. Users say Square’s portability allows them to accept card payments anywhere, which is essential for increasing sales and donations at offsite locations. They find the system’s ability to handle multiple users and provide instant receipts valuable. Some users mention that the platform helps them track sales and donations, making post-event analysis easier. They indicate that the convenience of mobile payments has expanded their business opportunities at various venues.

Comprehensive invoicing features

Producer/Director

Another plus is the ability to invoice customers for reoccurring payments, such as paying off a large invoice over two or three months, and the system is automatic.

91% of reviewers feel positive about Invoicing. Users think Square’s invoicing tools make it easy to create, send, and track invoices from anywhere. Reviewers appreciate features like recurring billing, payment reminders, and the ability to accept payments directly from invoices. They say customization options and real-time reporting help them manage their business more efficiently. Some users highlight the convenience of automating payment plans and offering clients multiple ways to pay. They indicate that the invoicing system supports both in-person and online sales, making it versatile for different business needs.

Process Engineer

Square provides e-commerce and inventory capabilities, customer appointments, payroll processing, shift scheduling, and even access to banking and business loans.

Prodution manager

The system is straightforward to navigate, and the reporting tools provide helpful insights into sales and customer activity. While fees and occasional account reviews can be a drawback, the convenience, professionalism, and efficiency it brings to daily operations make it a valuable tool for business.

Managing Partneer

The ability to send payment links, use in our online store and even with our service technicians on the road has been a huge advantage.

Square allows these sellers to easily accept electronic forms of payments from buyers who they otherwise may not have been able to or would have historically may have only accepts cash or check for payment.

Provider and Practice Owner

As Square is an option through my ECR company, which provides a HIPPA compliant platform from which I process payments, I am forced to pay fees per transaction.

Licensed Massage Therapist

I really do like square payments, it helps me be able to get paid for my work at minimal cost as I just use the reader they sent me that connect to my phone, overall I’m pretty thankful for it

Owner and Founder

The Square reader magstripe (the small device) was a bit more difficult to use compare the other options that are contactless and can easily scan cards by just tapping on them.

What I like least about Square Payments is that the transaction fees can add up, especially for larger invoices or high-volume processing.

It’s a reliable and efficient solution for handling transactions, and it helps streamline the payment process without unnecessary complexity.

The search bar is necessary to find pretty much everything. When issuing a refund, processing fees are not refunded by Square so the business actually has to pay out of pocket for those anytime a refund is needed.

It is a standout choice for businesses that need to accept payments both in-person and online without dealing with complex contracts or specialized merchant accounts.

Administrative Assistant

The transaction fees can add up during peak charter seasons when processing a high volume of bookings and larger payments.

Customers can tap, dip, swipe, and use other options like CashApp Pay, Google Pay, and Apple Pay as well as deferment options like AfterPay.

Fundraiser

I like the items list feature which allows for post-event analysis of what was sold.

Founder

It just takes too much time to get everything crafted and also the UI of manually creating orders for someone can be improved.

Staff Accountant

Square has helped us eliminate the need for physical money at our programing events, since attendees can easily pay with CC.

Property management

The processing fees can feel a bit high, especially for small-ticket transactions. But overall, these are minor compared to the convenience the system provides.

Co owner

The tricky part comes when fees start eating into smaller sales, and unexpected holds can leave funds out of reach for a while.

Being able to take payments in person, online, or through invoices all in one platform is incredibly convenient.

The reporting features allow me to pull data from a range of fields and pinpoint transactions.

We use Square's card readers for attendees to pay for admission to our program events.

owner

Square payments are up front with their processing fees and have affordable tiers for every business.

Managing Partner

The integration with other Square tools, like inventory management and analytics, also makes it a comprehensive solution for small businesses. Plus, the transparent pricing structure helps users avoid unexpected fees.

Equine Therapist

It allows me to create and send invoices on the go and trust that my clients will receive a detailed invoice and be able to pay me.

There’s also not a ton of flexibility in how those fees are structured, so you kind of just have to accept it as the cost of using the platform.

Office Manager

Allowing credit card payments opens up more potential customers from any type of business.

What i didn't like about square payments is that they dont take checks and alot of my customers pay by check

president

Ease of use, sending invoices and payment processing, having custom reminders for lack of payment from clients make the job much easier.

Store Manager

When our WiFi goes down, our store phone still works, and Square allows up to still be able to take payments or send over invoices to a customers email.

No one carries cash anymore and you can sell much more when you offer a credit card option to pay with.

The rapid posting of payments to business account has proved helpful in tracking earnings.

Manager

Used for a small bakery and also on a personal level to make purchases, create purchases, invoices, and process orders for caterings.

Owners

The mobile app is user-friendly, and being able to accept card payments anywhere is a huge plus.

One downside is the processing fees, which can add up over time, especially for small businesses with lower margins.

Digital asset manager

Overall, my experience has been fine, and seeing how restaurants offer Square as a payment option (or their only option) is familiar to me, so much so that I find the app synonymous with ordering food. Though I'm aware it can be used for other goods/services, Square has worked well for me when dealing with restaurants.

What I liked the least about Square Payments is how to add tax on the products and how to add a tipping option while gathering payments.

Social media and event planner

For every payment someone makes it charges a percentage of the payment and it takes awhile to withdraw money

Financial Coach

You can't (as far as I could see) set an invoice to automatically charge the customer unless the customer selected it, and you can't enter a customer's payment information directly (as far as I could see).

I love being able to access customer data and transaction history with just a few taps—super handy for staying on top of things. Despite these small setbacks, Square has been a reliable sidekick in running my business, helping me keep everything streamlined and efficient."

As a consumer who has only used Square Payments for processing payments as a buyer, there is nothing that I can think of that I would consider a con of Square Payments.

I enjoyed the convenience of having a portable POS and way to accept card payments at events outside of physical business location.  

It’s great seeing the money in the bank and not having to send out an additional ten emails to our partners that always seem to forget.

Sometimes I feel like my Square Payments tends to run a little slow. But all in all, that is normal for most technology.

Takes payments on laptop, mobile and the Square terminal.  

Fulfillment Manager

No real issues with Square, it does seem to be pretty heavily dependent on WiFi or Cellular access at the mobile level and that can sometimes be a hinderance during outages.

Veterinary Technician

Overall I've been very satisfied with square payments customer service is great at works great payments are all kept in one spot and process when no problem

Writer

I use the app to send digital invoices and see real-time updates on my sales and inventory.

Payouts take way too long to happen and I need that cash in the bank for rent now.

Payment Processing

Users report Square Payments’ payment processing is quick, intuitive, and works seamlessly across in-person, online, and mobile channels. Reviewers say Square Payments enables instant or same-day deposits, transparent fund transfers, and easy integration with other platforms. They find the system reliable for handling high transaction volumes, though some mention occasional delays in fund transfers or reader connectivity issues. They appreciate Square Payments’ ease of use and the convenience it brings to both business owners and customers during payment processing. Of the 162 Square Payments users who gave detailed accounts of their use of Payment Processing, 99% rated this feature as important or highly important.

Pricing

Invoicing

Inventory Management

Reporting

Card Reader

Connection Issues

Event Payments

Bank Account and Money

User Interface

Small Business

Large Enterprises

Mid-size Business

Freelancers

Square

Helcim payments include access to the Helcim Product and Inventory Manager to keep your business organized and running efficiently. One centralized product catalog means that all of your data stays in one place, helping you stay organized and on top of your inventory at all times.

Square Payments vs Helcim Comparison (2026)

Square Payments

Helcim

Overview

Video & Screenshots

Pricing

User reviews

Key features

Integrations

Alternatives