Credit card fees for merchants in comparison

Credit card fees for merchants in comparison

Credit card fees for merchants in comparison

Credit card fees at the POS can vary greatly. Find out what costs merchants incur and how to find the right solution.

Credit card fees at the POS can vary greatly. Find out what costs merchants incur and how to find the right solution.

Sep 26, 2025

Christopher Henke

Sales Lead DACH bei Mollie

Table of contents

  1. What costs are incurred?

  2. How does a credit card payment work?

  3. 2 example scenarios

  4. Fee comparison: 7 providers at a glance

  5. Smart solution: Mollie Tap

  6. The right provider: what to look for?

Overview: Credit card fees for merchants

  • Credit card fees for merchants vary significantly depending on the provider, card type and turnover

  • It is worth comparing providers carefully: this is the only way to ensure fair terms at the POS and online in the long term

  • With solutions such as Mollie Tap, you can accept card payments flexibly anywhere

  • Mollie offers transparent fee models and adapts to your business model – whether retail, omnichannel or e-commerce

  • Choosing the right payment provider increases efficiency, ensures cost certainty and improves the shopping experience for your customers

Table of contents

  1. What costs are incurred?

  2. How does a credit card payment work?

  3. 2 example scenarios

  4. Fee comparison: 7 providers at a glance

  5. Smart solution: Mollie Tap

  6. The right provider: what to look for?

Overview: Credit card fees for merchants

  • Credit card fees for merchants vary significantly depending on the provider, card type and turnover

  • It is worth comparing providers carefully: this is the only way to ensure fair terms at the POS and online in the long term

  • With solutions such as Mollie Tap, you can accept card payments flexibly anywhere

  • Mollie offers transparent fee models and adapts to your business model – whether retail, omnichannel or e-commerce

  • Choosing the right payment provider increases efficiency, ensures cost certainty and improves the shopping experience for your customers

Table of contents

  1. What costs are incurred?

  2. How does a credit card payment work?

  3. 2 example scenarios

  4. Fee comparison: 7 providers at a glance

  5. Smart solution: Mollie Tap

  6. The right provider: what to look for?

Overview: Credit card fees for merchants

  • Credit card fees for merchants vary significantly depending on the provider, card type and turnover

  • It is worth comparing providers carefully: this is the only way to ensure fair terms at the POS and online in the long term

  • With solutions such as Mollie Tap, you can accept card payments flexibly anywhere

  • Mollie offers transparent fee models and adapts to your business model – whether retail, omnichannel or e-commerce

  • Choosing the right payment provider increases efficiency, ensures cost certainty and improves the shopping experience for your customers

Table of contents

  1. What costs are incurred?

  2. How does a credit card payment work?

  3. 2 example scenarios

  4. Fee comparison: 7 providers at a glance

  5. Smart solution: Mollie Tap

  6. The right provider: what to look for?

Overview: Credit card fees for merchants

  • Credit card fees for merchants vary significantly depending on the provider, card type and turnover

  • It is worth comparing providers carefully: this is the only way to ensure fair terms at the POS and online in the long term

  • With solutions such as Mollie Tap, you can accept card payments flexibly anywhere

  • Mollie offers transparent fee models and adapts to your business model – whether retail, omnichannel or e-commerce

  • Choosing the right payment provider increases efficiency, ensures cost certainty and improves the shopping experience for your customers

What costs do merchants incur for credit card payments?

When accepting credit card payments at the POS, you as a merchant incur various costs. The most important items are the discount (a percentage fee per transaction) and fixed and variable credit card fees. You should also expect additional credit card costs for merchants such as terminal fees, chargebacks and, depending on the provider, possible currency conversion costs. Debit card costs for merchants can also vary depending on the card type and provider.

Directly displaying or passing on credit card fees to your customers is prohibited in Germany and throughout the EU. You should therefore make sure to to take the number of credit card payments into account when calculating your prices. Further information on legal requirements for card payments in the EU can be found on the official EU website on electronic payments.

Typical cost items for merchants at a glance:

  • Discount (percentage per payment)

  • Fixed/variable credit card fees

  • Terminal costs for POS hardware

  • Chargeback fees

  • Currency conversion costs (for international payments)

  • Special fees for debit cards

By carefully comparing credit card fees for merchants, you can find the right model for your business and avoid unnecessary costs.

When accepting credit card payments at the POS, you as a merchant incur various costs. The most important items are the discount (a percentage fee per transaction) and fixed and variable credit card fees. You should also expect additional credit card costs for merchants such as terminal fees, chargebacks and, depending on the provider, possible currency conversion costs. Debit card costs for merchants can also vary depending on the card type and provider.

Directly displaying or passing on credit card fees to your customers is prohibited in Germany and throughout the EU. You should therefore make sure to to take the number of credit card payments into account when calculating your prices. Further information on legal requirements for card payments in the EU can be found on the official EU website on electronic payments.

Typical cost items for merchants at a glance:

  • Discount (percentage per payment)

  • Fixed/variable credit card fees

  • Terminal costs for POS hardware

  • Chargeback fees

  • Currency conversion costs (for international payments)

  • Special fees for debit cards

By carefully comparing credit card fees for merchants, you can find the right model for your business and avoid unnecessary costs.

When accepting credit card payments at the POS, you as a merchant incur various costs. The most important items are the discount (a percentage fee per transaction) and fixed and variable credit card fees. You should also expect additional credit card costs for merchants such as terminal fees, chargebacks and, depending on the provider, possible currency conversion costs. Debit card costs for merchants can also vary depending on the card type and provider.

Directly displaying or passing on credit card fees to your customers is prohibited in Germany and throughout the EU. You should therefore make sure to to take the number of credit card payments into account when calculating your prices. Further information on legal requirements for card payments in the EU can be found on the official EU website on electronic payments.

Typical cost items for merchants at a glance:

  • Discount (percentage per payment)

  • Fixed/variable credit card fees

  • Terminal costs for POS hardware

  • Chargeback fees

  • Currency conversion costs (for international payments)

  • Special fees for debit cards

By carefully comparing credit card fees for merchants, you can find the right model for your business and avoid unnecessary costs.

When accepting credit card payments at the POS, you as a merchant incur various costs. The most important items are the discount (a percentage fee per transaction) and fixed and variable credit card fees. You should also expect additional credit card costs for merchants such as terminal fees, chargebacks and, depending on the provider, possible currency conversion costs. Debit card costs for merchants can also vary depending on the card type and provider.

Directly displaying or passing on credit card fees to your customers is prohibited in Germany and throughout the EU. You should therefore make sure to to take the number of credit card payments into account when calculating your prices. Further information on legal requirements for card payments in the EU can be found on the official EU website on electronic payments.

Typical cost items for merchants at a glance:

  • Discount (percentage per payment)

  • Fixed/variable credit card fees

  • Terminal costs for POS hardware

  • Chargeback fees

  • Currency conversion costs (for international payments)

  • Special fees for debit cards

By carefully comparing credit card fees for merchants, you can find the right model for your business and avoid unnecessary costs.

How does a credit card payment work for merchants at the POS?

At the physical point of sale, the payment process begins as soon as your customer holds their credit card or mobile device up to the terminal – contactless or with PIN entry. The payment information is transmitted in encrypted form and initially received by the acquirer. The acquirer securely transfers the data to the respective credit card network, which forwards it to the customer's card-issuing bank (issuer).

There, the bank checks whether there are sufficient funds or credit available. If the payment is approved, your POS terminal receives a confirmation and the amount is usually credited to your merchant account within a few working days. This process incurs credit card fees for merchants, which can vary depending on the provider. These are usually deducted directly from the payout amount and shown on the next monthly statement.

At the physical point of sale, the payment process begins as soon as your customer holds their credit card or mobile device up to the terminal – contactless or with PIN entry. The payment information is transmitted in encrypted form and initially received by the acquirer. The acquirer securely transfers the data to the respective credit card network, which forwards it to the customer's card-issuing bank (issuer).

There, the bank checks whether there are sufficient funds or credit available. If the payment is approved, your POS terminal receives a confirmation and the amount is usually credited to your merchant account within a few working days. This process incurs credit card fees for merchants, which can vary depending on the provider. These are usually deducted directly from the payout amount and shown on the next monthly statement.

At the physical point of sale, the payment process begins as soon as your customer holds their credit card or mobile device up to the terminal – contactless or with PIN entry. The payment information is transmitted in encrypted form and initially received by the acquirer. The acquirer securely transfers the data to the respective credit card network, which forwards it to the customer's card-issuing bank (issuer).

There, the bank checks whether there are sufficient funds or credit available. If the payment is approved, your POS terminal receives a confirmation and the amount is usually credited to your merchant account within a few working days. This process incurs credit card fees for merchants, which can vary depending on the provider. These are usually deducted directly from the payout amount and shown on the next monthly statement.

At the physical point of sale, the payment process begins as soon as your customer holds their credit card or mobile device up to the terminal – contactless or with PIN entry. The payment information is transmitted in encrypted form and initially received by the acquirer. The acquirer securely transfers the data to the respective credit card network, which forwards it to the customer's card-issuing bank (issuer).

There, the bank checks whether there are sufficient funds or credit available. If the payment is approved, your POS terminal receives a confirmation and the amount is usually credited to your merchant account within a few working days. This process incurs credit card fees for merchants, which can vary depending on the provider. These are usually deducted directly from the payout amount and shown on the next monthly statement.

Difference between credit cards and debit cards at the POS

With credit cards, the amount is only debited from the customer's account later, whereas with debit cards such as Visa Debit or Mastercard Debit, the charge is made immediately after the purchase. The credit card fees ultimately incurred by merchants depend on the chosen payment provider and the type of card.

Tip: Find out in advance about the exact processes and fee models of your payment provider so that you can keep track of all credit card fees for merchants and calculate them efficiently.

With credit cards, the amount is only debited from the customer's account later, whereas with debit cards such as Visa Debit or Mastercard Debit, the charge is made immediately after the purchase. The credit card fees ultimately incurred by merchants depend on the chosen payment provider and the type of card.

Tip: Find out in advance about the exact processes and fee models of your payment provider so that you can keep track of all credit card fees for merchants and calculate them efficiently.

With credit cards, the amount is only debited from the customer's account later, whereas with debit cards such as Visa Debit or Mastercard Debit, the charge is made immediately after the purchase. The credit card fees ultimately incurred by merchants depend on the chosen payment provider and the type of card.

Tip: Find out in advance about the exact processes and fee models of your payment provider so that you can keep track of all credit card fees for merchants and calculate them efficiently.

With credit cards, the amount is only debited from the customer's account later, whereas with debit cards such as Visa Debit or Mastercard Debit, the charge is made immediately after the purchase. The credit card fees ultimately incurred by merchants depend on the chosen payment provider and the type of card.

Tip: Find out in advance about the exact processes and fee models of your payment provider so that you can keep track of all credit card fees for merchants and calculate them efficiently.

Example scenarios: Credit card fees for merchants in practice

Scenario 1: Large omnichannel shop (EcoFashion Ltd)

The fictional EcoFashion Ltd sells sustainable fashion in two German stores and across Europe via its own online shop. The company generates a total monthly turnover of around £90,000, of which around €13,500 is attributable to credit card payments at the POS (approx. 270 transactions). In addition, around 190 credit card payments are processed per month in e-commerce. With these volumes, an accurate comparison of credit card fees for merchants is crucial, as even small differences can have a major impact on total annual costs.

Scenario 2: Small, purely brick-and-mortar shop (bookshop)

An independent bookshop generates around €25,000 in monthly sales. Of this, around €3,750 is generated by credit card payments at the POS, which corresponds to around 75 transactions. Here, too, it is worth comparing credit card fees for merchants in order to find a solution that fits the business model and payment volume.

Scenario 1: Large omnichannel shop (EcoFashion Ltd)

The fictional EcoFashion Ltd sells sustainable fashion in two German stores and across Europe via its own online shop. The company generates a total monthly turnover of around £90,000, of which around €13,500 is attributable to credit card payments at the POS (approx. 270 transactions). In addition, around 190 credit card payments are processed per month in e-commerce. With these volumes, an accurate comparison of credit card fees for merchants is crucial, as even small differences can have a major impact on total annual costs.

Scenario 2: Small, purely brick-and-mortar shop (bookshop)

An independent bookshop generates around €25,000 in monthly sales. Of this, around €3,750 is generated by credit card payments at the POS, which corresponds to around 75 transactions. Here, too, it is worth comparing credit card fees for merchants in order to find a solution that fits the business model and payment volume.

Scenario 1: Large omnichannel shop (EcoFashion Ltd)

The fictional EcoFashion Ltd sells sustainable fashion in two German stores and across Europe via its own online shop. The company generates a total monthly turnover of around £90,000, of which around €13,500 is attributable to credit card payments at the POS (approx. 270 transactions). In addition, around 190 credit card payments are processed per month in e-commerce. With these volumes, an accurate comparison of credit card fees for merchants is crucial, as even small differences can have a major impact on total annual costs.

Scenario 2: Small, purely brick-and-mortar shop (bookshop)

An independent bookshop generates around €25,000 in monthly sales. Of this, around €3,750 is generated by credit card payments at the POS, which corresponds to around 75 transactions. Here, too, it is worth comparing credit card fees for merchants in order to find a solution that fits the business model and payment volume.

Scenario 1: Large omnichannel shop (EcoFashion Ltd)

The fictional EcoFashion Ltd sells sustainable fashion in two German stores and across Europe via its own online shop. The company generates a total monthly turnover of around £90,000, of which around €13,500 is attributable to credit card payments at the POS (approx. 270 transactions). In addition, around 190 credit card payments are processed per month in e-commerce. With these volumes, an accurate comparison of credit card fees for merchants is crucial, as even small differences can have a major impact on total annual costs.

Scenario 2: Small, purely brick-and-mortar shop (bookshop)

An independent bookshop generates around €25,000 in monthly sales. Of this, around €3,750 is generated by credit card payments at the POS, which corresponds to around 75 transactions. Here, too, it is worth comparing credit card fees for merchants in order to find a solution that fits the business model and payment volume.

Fee comparison: Credit card fees for merchants from different providers

The choice of payment provider has a direct impact on credit card fees for merchants – especially if Visa, Mastercard or American Express are accepted on a regular basis. Not only the discount, but also the costs for POS terminals, chargebacks or additional services should be taken into account in the total costs. Depending on the type of card – for example, Visa debit card or Debit Mastercard – merchants can benefit from lower fees. The long-term total costs depend on turnover, transactions and individual requirements.

Note: In contrast to the general comparison of card payment fees, the following focuses specifically on credit card payments.

Scenario EcoFashion GmbH:

  • 13,500 € credit card turnover at the POS (270 transactions, 50 € per transaction on average)

  • Of which 30 % credit card (Visa/Mastercard), 60 % debit card (Visa/Mastercard), 10 % AMEX

Bookshop scenario:

  • 3,750 € credit card turnover at POS (75 transactions, 50 € per transaction on average)

  • Of which 30 % credit card (Visa/Mastercard), 60 % debit card (Visa/Mastercard), 10 % AMEX

Table: Comparison of credit card fees

Provider

POS

Online

Rating
(Trustpilot, as of July 2025)

Visa/Mastercard (credit)

Debit (Visa/Mastercard)

AMEX

Terminal (from)

Fixed costs

Mollie

from 1.7 %

from 0.7 %

from 1.7 %

45 €

0 to 20 € per terminal

1.8 % + 0.25 €


⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5 out of 5)

Adyen

0.95 % + 0.11 €

0.95 % + 0.11 €

3.95 % + 0.11 €

50 €

none

0.95 % + 0,11 €



⭐ (1.4 out of 5)

Stripe

1.4 % + 0.10 €

(+0.10 € per authorisation for Tap to Pay)

1.4 % + 0.10 €

(+0.10 € per authorisation for Tap to Pay)

1.4 % + 0.10 €

(+0.10 € per authorisation for Tap to Pay)

59 €

none

1.5 % + 0.25 €


⭐⭐(2.0 out of 5)

SumUp

1.39 %

1.39 %

1.39 %

34 €

none

2.5 %


⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.0 out of 5)

Payone

1.9 %

0.7 %

1.9 %

19 €

none

1.49 % + 0.09 € + 20 € fixed costs

⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.0 out of 5)

Zettle

2.75 %

0.95 %

2.75 %

29 €

none

2.99 % + 0.29 €


⭐⭐⭐(3.0 out of 5)

Shopify POS

2.1 % + 0.30 €

2.1 % + 0.30 €

3.2 % + 0.30 €

59 €

from 33 €

2.1 % + 0.30 €


⭐ (1.3 out of 5)

Information provided without guarantee

Assumptions per provider:

  • Terminal and fixed costs are calculated on a monthly basis.

  • The cheapest listed rates are used for calculation, without special features or discounts.

  • Additional costs per transaction are included in the calculation.

Overview of credit card fees for merchants (total costs)

Provider

EcoFashion GmbH (POS + Online)

Bookshop

(POS only)

Mollie

317.00 €

86.26 €

Adyen

301.46 €

105.13 €

Stripe

362.50 €

119.00 €

SumUp

346.66 €

86.13 €

Payone

278.30 €

63.26 €

Zettle/PayPal

418.46 €

91.63 €

Shopify POS

591.35 €

197.38 €

Information provided without guarantee

Note: The actual credit card fees for merchants vary depending on turnover, industry, card type and provider conditions. Particular attention should be paid to the differences in Visa fees for merchants, Mastercard fees for merchants, American Express (Amex) fees for merchants and the costs for Visa debit cards and Mastercard debit cards. Regularly comparing and checking the transaction structure can lead to long-term savings.

Credit card fees for merchants: Detailed calculation

Scenario 1: EcoFashion Ltd:

Assumptions:

  • Online turnover: 19,000 €

  • Online transactions: 190 (average 100 €)

  • POS turnover: 13,500 € (average 50 €), of which 4,050 € is Visa/Mastercard credit (81 transactions), 8,100 € is debit (162 transactions) and 1,350 € is AMEX (27 transactions)

Mollie

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.7 % = 68.85 €

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.7 % = 56.70 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.7 % = €22.95

  • Terminal: 45 €

  • Fixed costs: 20 €

  • Total POS: 68.85 € + 56.70 € + 22.95 € + 45 € + 20 € = 213.50 €

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 1.8 % = 90.00 €

  • 50 × 0.25 € = 12.50 €

  • Total online: 90.00 € + 12.50 € = 102.50 €

Total costs Mollie:

214.50 + 102.50 = 317.00

Adyen

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 0.95 % + 81 × 0.11 € = 38.48 + 8.91 = 47.39

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.95 % + 162 × 0.11 € = 76.95 € + 17.82 € = 94.77 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 3.95 % + 27 × 0.11 € = 53.33 € + 2.97 € = 56.30 €

  • Terminal: 50 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 47.39 € + 94.77 € + 56.30 € + 50 € = 248.46

Online:

  • 5,000 × 0.95 % = 47.50

  • 50 × 0.11 € = 5.50

  • Total online: 47.50 € + 5.50 € = 53.00 €

Total costs Adyen:

248.46 + 53.00 = 301.46

Stripe

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.4 % + 81 × 0.10 € = 56.70 € + 8.10 € = 64.80 €

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 1.4 % + 162 × 0.10 € = 113.40 € + 16.20 € = 129.60 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.4 % + 27 × 0.10 € = 18.90 € + 2.70 € = 21.60 €

  • Terminal: 59 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 64.80 € + 129.60 € + 21.60 € + 59 € = 275.00

Online:

  • 5,000 × 1.5 % = 75.00

  • 50 × 0.25 € = 12.50

  • Total online: 75.00 € + 12.50 € = 87.50

Total Stripe costs:

275.00 + 87.50 = 362.50

SumUp

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.39 % = 56.30

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 1.39 % = 112.59 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.39 % = 18.77 €

  • Terminal: 34 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 56.30 € + 112.59 € + 18.77 € + 34 € = 221.66

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 2.5 % = 125.00

Total SumUp costs:

221.66 + 125.00 = 346.66

Payone

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.9 % = 76.95

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.7 % = 56.70 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.9 % = 25.65 €

  • Terminal: 19 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 76.95 € + 56.70 € + 25.65 € + 19 € = 179.30

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 1.49 % = 74.50 €

  • 50 × 0.09 € = 4.50 €

  • Fixed costs: 20 €

  • Total online: 74.50 € + 4.50 € + 20 € = 99.00

Total Payone costs:

179.30 + 99.00 = 278.30

Zettle/PayPal

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard Credit: 4,050 € × 2.75 % = 111.38

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.95 % = 76.95 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 2.75 % = 37.13 €

  • Terminal: 29 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 111.38 € + 76.95 € + 37.13 € + 29 € = 254.46

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 2.99 % = 149.50

  • 50 × 0.29 € = 14.50

  • Total online: 149.50 € + 14.50 € = 164.00

Total costs Zettle/PayPal:

254.46 + 164.00 = 418.46

Shopify POS

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 2.1 % + 81 × 0.30 € = 85.05 + 24.30 = 109.35

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 2.1 % + 162 × 0.30 € = 170.10 € + 48.60 €= 218.70 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 3.2 % + 27 × 0.30 € = 43.20 € + 8.10 € = 51.30 €

  • Terminal: 59 €

  • Fixed costs: 33 €

  • Total POS: 109.35 € + 218.70 € + 51.30 € + 59 € + 33 € = 471.35 €

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 2.1 % = 105.00 €

  • 50 × 0.30 € = 15.00 €

  • Total online: 105.00 € + 15.00 € = 120.00 €

Total cost Shopify POS:

471.35 € + 120.00 € = 591.35 €

Scenario 2: Bookshop

  • Visa/Mastercard credit (30 %): 2,250 €, approx. 45 transactions

  • Debit (Visa/Mastercard, 60 %): 1,125 €, approx. 23 transactions

  • Amex (10 %): 375 €, approx. 7 transactions

Mollie

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.7 % = 19.13

  • Debit: 2,250 €× 0.7 % = 15.75

  • Amex: 375 € × 1.7 % = 6.38 €

  • Terminal: 45 €

  • Total: 19.13 € + 15.75 € + 6.38 € + 45 € = 86.26 €

Adyen

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 0.95 % + 23 × 0.11 € = 10.69 € + 2.53 € = 13.22

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 0.95 % + 45 × 0.11 € = 21.38 € + 4.95 € = 26.33 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 3.95 % + 7 × 0.11 € = 14.81 € + 0.77 € = 15.58 €

  • Terminal: 50 €

  • Total: 13.22 € + 26.33 € + 15.58 € + 50 € = 105.13 €

Stripe

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.4 % + 23 × 0.10 € = 15.75 € + 2.30 € = 18.05

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 1.4 % + 45 × 0.10 € = 31.50 € + 4.50 € = 36.00 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 1.4 % + 7 × 0.10 € = 5.25 € + 0.70 € = 5.95 €

  • Terminal: 59

  • Total: 18.05 € + 36.00 € + 5.95 € + 59 € = 119.00

SumUp

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.39 % = 15.64 €

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 1.39 % = 31.28 €

  • Amex: 375 €× 1.39 % = 5.21 €

  • Terminal: 34 €

  • Total: 15.64 € + 31.28 € + 5.21 € + 34 € = 86.13 €

Payone

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.9 % = 21.38 €

  • Debit: 2,250 €× 0.7 % = 15.75 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 1.9 % = 7.13 €

  • Terminal: 19 €

  • Total: 21.38 €+ 15.75 € + 7.13 € + 19 € = 63.26 €

Zettle

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 2.75 % = 30.94 €

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 0.95 % = 21.38 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 2.75 % = 10.31 €

  • Terminal: 29 €

  • Total: 30.94 € + 21.38 € + 10.31 € + 29 € = 91.63 €

Shopify POS

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 2.1 % + 23 × 0.30 € = 23.63 € + 6.90 € = 30.53

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 2.1 % + 45 × 0.30 € = 47.25 € + 13.50 € = 60.75 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 3.2 % + 7 × 0.30 € = 12.00 € + 2.10 € = 14.10 €

  • Terminal: 59 €

  • Fixed costs: 33

  • Total: 30.53 € + 60.75 € + 14.10 € + 59 € + 33 € = 197.38

Conclusion:

Credit card fees for merchants vary significantly depending on the provider and card type. While providers such as Mollie and SumUp score highly with particularly low Debit Mastercard fees and Visa debit card fees for merchants, sellers with a high proportion of American Express payments should definitely pay attention to the respective Amex fees for merchants. It is worth regularly comparing credit card fees for merchants in order to save costs in the long term and find the right model.

The choice of payment provider has a direct impact on credit card fees for merchants – especially if Visa, Mastercard or American Express are accepted on a regular basis. Not only the discount, but also the costs for POS terminals, chargebacks or additional services should be taken into account in the total costs. Depending on the type of card – for example, Visa debit card or Debit Mastercard – merchants can benefit from lower fees. The long-term total costs depend on turnover, transactions and individual requirements.

Note: In contrast to the general comparison of card payment fees, the following focuses specifically on credit card payments.

Scenario EcoFashion GmbH:

  • 13,500 € credit card turnover at the POS (270 transactions, 50 € per transaction on average)

  • Of which 30 % credit card (Visa/Mastercard), 60 % debit card (Visa/Mastercard), 10 % AMEX

Bookshop scenario:

  • 3,750 € credit card turnover at POS (75 transactions, 50 € per transaction on average)

  • Of which 30 % credit card (Visa/Mastercard), 60 % debit card (Visa/Mastercard), 10 % AMEX

Table: Comparison of credit card fees

Provider

POS

Online

Rating
(Trustpilot, as of July 2025)

Visa/Mastercard (credit)

Debit (Visa/Mastercard)

AMEX

Terminal (from)

Fixed costs

Mollie

from 1.7 %

from 0.7 %

from 1.7 %

45 €

0 to 20 € per terminal

1.8 % + 0.25 €


⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5 out of 5)

Adyen

0.95 % + 0.11 €

0.95 % + 0.11 €

3.95 % + 0.11 €

50 €

none

0.95 % + 0,11 €



⭐ (1.4 out of 5)

Stripe

1.4 % + 0.10 €

(+0.10 € per authorisation for Tap to Pay)

1.4 % + 0.10 €

(+0.10 € per authorisation for Tap to Pay)

1.4 % + 0.10 €

(+0.10 € per authorisation for Tap to Pay)

59 €

none

1.5 % + 0.25 €


⭐⭐(2.0 out of 5)

SumUp

1.39 %

1.39 %

1.39 %

34 €

none

2.5 %


⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.0 out of 5)

Payone

1.9 %

0.7 %

1.9 %

19 €

none

1.49 % + 0.09 € + 20 € fixed costs

⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.0 out of 5)

Zettle

2.75 %

0.95 %

2.75 %

29 €

none

2.99 % + 0.29 €


⭐⭐⭐(3.0 out of 5)

Shopify POS

2.1 % + 0.30 €

2.1 % + 0.30 €

3.2 % + 0.30 €

59 €

from 33 €

2.1 % + 0.30 €


⭐ (1.3 out of 5)

Information provided without guarantee

Assumptions per provider:

  • Terminal and fixed costs are calculated on a monthly basis.

  • The cheapest listed rates are used for calculation, without special features or discounts.

  • Additional costs per transaction are included in the calculation.

Overview of credit card fees for merchants (total costs)

Provider

EcoFashion GmbH (POS + Online)

Bookshop

(POS only)

Mollie

317.00 €

86.26 €

Adyen

301.46 €

105.13 €

Stripe

362.50 €

119.00 €

SumUp

346.66 €

86.13 €

Payone

278.30 €

63.26 €

Zettle/PayPal

418.46 €

91.63 €

Shopify POS

591.35 €

197.38 €

Information provided without guarantee

Note: The actual credit card fees for merchants vary depending on turnover, industry, card type and provider conditions. Particular attention should be paid to the differences in Visa fees for merchants, Mastercard fees for merchants, American Express (Amex) fees for merchants and the costs for Visa debit cards and Mastercard debit cards. Regularly comparing and checking the transaction structure can lead to long-term savings.

Credit card fees for merchants: Detailed calculation

Scenario 1: EcoFashion Ltd:

Assumptions:

  • Online turnover: 19,000 €

  • Online transactions: 190 (average 100 €)

  • POS turnover: 13,500 € (average 50 €), of which 4,050 € is Visa/Mastercard credit (81 transactions), 8,100 € is debit (162 transactions) and 1,350 € is AMEX (27 transactions)

Mollie

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.7 % = 68.85 €

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.7 % = 56.70 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.7 % = €22.95

  • Terminal: 45 €

  • Fixed costs: 20 €

  • Total POS: 68.85 € + 56.70 € + 22.95 € + 45 € + 20 € = 213.50 €

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 1.8 % = 90.00 €

  • 50 × 0.25 € = 12.50 €

  • Total online: 90.00 € + 12.50 € = 102.50 €

Total costs Mollie:

214.50 + 102.50 = 317.00

Adyen

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 0.95 % + 81 × 0.11 € = 38.48 + 8.91 = 47.39

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.95 % + 162 × 0.11 € = 76.95 € + 17.82 € = 94.77 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 3.95 % + 27 × 0.11 € = 53.33 € + 2.97 € = 56.30 €

  • Terminal: 50 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 47.39 € + 94.77 € + 56.30 € + 50 € = 248.46

Online:

  • 5,000 × 0.95 % = 47.50

  • 50 × 0.11 € = 5.50

  • Total online: 47.50 € + 5.50 € = 53.00 €

Total costs Adyen:

248.46 + 53.00 = 301.46

Stripe

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.4 % + 81 × 0.10 € = 56.70 € + 8.10 € = 64.80 €

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 1.4 % + 162 × 0.10 € = 113.40 € + 16.20 € = 129.60 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.4 % + 27 × 0.10 € = 18.90 € + 2.70 € = 21.60 €

  • Terminal: 59 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 64.80 € + 129.60 € + 21.60 € + 59 € = 275.00

Online:

  • 5,000 × 1.5 % = 75.00

  • 50 × 0.25 € = 12.50

  • Total online: 75.00 € + 12.50 € = 87.50

Total Stripe costs:

275.00 + 87.50 = 362.50

SumUp

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.39 % = 56.30

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 1.39 % = 112.59 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.39 % = 18.77 €

  • Terminal: 34 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 56.30 € + 112.59 € + 18.77 € + 34 € = 221.66

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 2.5 % = 125.00

Total SumUp costs:

221.66 + 125.00 = 346.66

Payone

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.9 % = 76.95

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.7 % = 56.70 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.9 % = 25.65 €

  • Terminal: 19 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 76.95 € + 56.70 € + 25.65 € + 19 € = 179.30

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 1.49 % = 74.50 €

  • 50 × 0.09 € = 4.50 €

  • Fixed costs: 20 €

  • Total online: 74.50 € + 4.50 € + 20 € = 99.00

Total Payone costs:

179.30 + 99.00 = 278.30

Zettle/PayPal

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard Credit: 4,050 € × 2.75 % = 111.38

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.95 % = 76.95 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 2.75 % = 37.13 €

  • Terminal: 29 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 111.38 € + 76.95 € + 37.13 € + 29 € = 254.46

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 2.99 % = 149.50

  • 50 × 0.29 € = 14.50

  • Total online: 149.50 € + 14.50 € = 164.00

Total costs Zettle/PayPal:

254.46 + 164.00 = 418.46

Shopify POS

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 2.1 % + 81 × 0.30 € = 85.05 + 24.30 = 109.35

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 2.1 % + 162 × 0.30 € = 170.10 € + 48.60 €= 218.70 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 3.2 % + 27 × 0.30 € = 43.20 € + 8.10 € = 51.30 €

  • Terminal: 59 €

  • Fixed costs: 33 €

  • Total POS: 109.35 € + 218.70 € + 51.30 € + 59 € + 33 € = 471.35 €

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 2.1 % = 105.00 €

  • 50 × 0.30 € = 15.00 €

  • Total online: 105.00 € + 15.00 € = 120.00 €

Total cost Shopify POS:

471.35 € + 120.00 € = 591.35 €

Scenario 2: Bookshop

  • Visa/Mastercard credit (30 %): 2,250 €, approx. 45 transactions

  • Debit (Visa/Mastercard, 60 %): 1,125 €, approx. 23 transactions

  • Amex (10 %): 375 €, approx. 7 transactions

Mollie

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.7 % = 19.13

  • Debit: 2,250 €× 0.7 % = 15.75

  • Amex: 375 € × 1.7 % = 6.38 €

  • Terminal: 45 €

  • Total: 19.13 € + 15.75 € + 6.38 € + 45 € = 86.26 €

Adyen

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 0.95 % + 23 × 0.11 € = 10.69 € + 2.53 € = 13.22

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 0.95 % + 45 × 0.11 € = 21.38 € + 4.95 € = 26.33 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 3.95 % + 7 × 0.11 € = 14.81 € + 0.77 € = 15.58 €

  • Terminal: 50 €

  • Total: 13.22 € + 26.33 € + 15.58 € + 50 € = 105.13 €

Stripe

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.4 % + 23 × 0.10 € = 15.75 € + 2.30 € = 18.05

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 1.4 % + 45 × 0.10 € = 31.50 € + 4.50 € = 36.00 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 1.4 % + 7 × 0.10 € = 5.25 € + 0.70 € = 5.95 €

  • Terminal: 59

  • Total: 18.05 € + 36.00 € + 5.95 € + 59 € = 119.00

SumUp

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.39 % = 15.64 €

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 1.39 % = 31.28 €

  • Amex: 375 €× 1.39 % = 5.21 €

  • Terminal: 34 €

  • Total: 15.64 € + 31.28 € + 5.21 € + 34 € = 86.13 €

Payone

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.9 % = 21.38 €

  • Debit: 2,250 €× 0.7 % = 15.75 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 1.9 % = 7.13 €

  • Terminal: 19 €

  • Total: 21.38 €+ 15.75 € + 7.13 € + 19 € = 63.26 €

Zettle

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 2.75 % = 30.94 €

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 0.95 % = 21.38 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 2.75 % = 10.31 €

  • Terminal: 29 €

  • Total: 30.94 € + 21.38 € + 10.31 € + 29 € = 91.63 €

Shopify POS

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 2.1 % + 23 × 0.30 € = 23.63 € + 6.90 € = 30.53

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 2.1 % + 45 × 0.30 € = 47.25 € + 13.50 € = 60.75 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 3.2 % + 7 × 0.30 € = 12.00 € + 2.10 € = 14.10 €

  • Terminal: 59 €

  • Fixed costs: 33

  • Total: 30.53 € + 60.75 € + 14.10 € + 59 € + 33 € = 197.38

Conclusion:

Credit card fees for merchants vary significantly depending on the provider and card type. While providers such as Mollie and SumUp score highly with particularly low Debit Mastercard fees and Visa debit card fees for merchants, sellers with a high proportion of American Express payments should definitely pay attention to the respective Amex fees for merchants. It is worth regularly comparing credit card fees for merchants in order to save costs in the long term and find the right model.

The choice of payment provider has a direct impact on credit card fees for merchants – especially if Visa, Mastercard or American Express are accepted on a regular basis. Not only the discount, but also the costs for POS terminals, chargebacks or additional services should be taken into account in the total costs. Depending on the type of card – for example, Visa debit card or Debit Mastercard – merchants can benefit from lower fees. The long-term total costs depend on turnover, transactions and individual requirements.

Note: In contrast to the general comparison of card payment fees, the following focuses specifically on credit card payments.

Scenario EcoFashion GmbH:

  • 13,500 € credit card turnover at the POS (270 transactions, 50 € per transaction on average)

  • Of which 30 % credit card (Visa/Mastercard), 60 % debit card (Visa/Mastercard), 10 % AMEX

Bookshop scenario:

  • 3,750 € credit card turnover at POS (75 transactions, 50 € per transaction on average)

  • Of which 30 % credit card (Visa/Mastercard), 60 % debit card (Visa/Mastercard), 10 % AMEX

Table: Comparison of credit card fees

Provider

POS

Online

Rating
(Trustpilot, as of July 2025)

Visa/Mastercard (credit)

Debit (Visa/Mastercard)

AMEX

Terminal (from)

Fixed costs

Mollie

from 1.7 %

from 0.7 %

from 1.7 %

45 €

0 to 20 € per terminal

1.8 % + 0.25 €


⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5 out of 5)

Adyen

0.95 % + 0.11 €

0.95 % + 0.11 €

3.95 % + 0.11 €

50 €

none

0.95 % + 0,11 €



⭐ (1.4 out of 5)

Stripe

1.4 % + 0.10 €

(+0.10 € per authorisation for Tap to Pay)

1.4 % + 0.10 €

(+0.10 € per authorisation for Tap to Pay)

1.4 % + 0.10 €

(+0.10 € per authorisation for Tap to Pay)

59 €

none

1.5 % + 0.25 €


⭐⭐(2.0 out of 5)

SumUp

1.39 %

1.39 %

1.39 %

34 €

none

2.5 %


⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.0 out of 5)

Payone

1.9 %

0.7 %

1.9 %

19 €

none

1.49 % + 0.09 € + 20 € fixed costs

⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.0 out of 5)

Zettle

2.75 %

0.95 %

2.75 %

29 €

none

2.99 % + 0.29 €


⭐⭐⭐(3.0 out of 5)

Shopify POS

2.1 % + 0.30 €

2.1 % + 0.30 €

3.2 % + 0.30 €

59 €

from 33 €

2.1 % + 0.30 €


⭐ (1.3 out of 5)

Information provided without guarantee

Assumptions per provider:

  • Terminal and fixed costs are calculated on a monthly basis.

  • The cheapest listed rates are used for calculation, without special features or discounts.

  • Additional costs per transaction are included in the calculation.

Overview of credit card fees for merchants (total costs)

Provider

EcoFashion GmbH (POS + Online)

Bookshop

(POS only)

Mollie

317.00 €

86.26 €

Adyen

301.46 €

105.13 €

Stripe

362.50 €

119.00 €

SumUp

346.66 €

86.13 €

Payone

278.30 €

63.26 €

Zettle/PayPal

418.46 €

91.63 €

Shopify POS

591.35 €

197.38 €

Information provided without guarantee

Note: The actual credit card fees for merchants vary depending on turnover, industry, card type and provider conditions. Particular attention should be paid to the differences in Visa fees for merchants, Mastercard fees for merchants, American Express (Amex) fees for merchants and the costs for Visa debit cards and Mastercard debit cards. Regularly comparing and checking the transaction structure can lead to long-term savings.

Credit card fees for merchants: Detailed calculation

Scenario 1: EcoFashion Ltd:

Assumptions:

  • Online turnover: 19,000 €

  • Online transactions: 190 (average 100 €)

  • POS turnover: 13,500 € (average 50 €), of which 4,050 € is Visa/Mastercard credit (81 transactions), 8,100 € is debit (162 transactions) and 1,350 € is AMEX (27 transactions)

Mollie

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.7 % = 68.85 €

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.7 % = 56.70 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.7 % = €22.95

  • Terminal: 45 €

  • Fixed costs: 20 €

  • Total POS: 68.85 € + 56.70 € + 22.95 € + 45 € + 20 € = 213.50 €

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 1.8 % = 90.00 €

  • 50 × 0.25 € = 12.50 €

  • Total online: 90.00 € + 12.50 € = 102.50 €

Total costs Mollie:

214.50 + 102.50 = 317.00

Adyen

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 0.95 % + 81 × 0.11 € = 38.48 + 8.91 = 47.39

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.95 % + 162 × 0.11 € = 76.95 € + 17.82 € = 94.77 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 3.95 % + 27 × 0.11 € = 53.33 € + 2.97 € = 56.30 €

  • Terminal: 50 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 47.39 € + 94.77 € + 56.30 € + 50 € = 248.46

Online:

  • 5,000 × 0.95 % = 47.50

  • 50 × 0.11 € = 5.50

  • Total online: 47.50 € + 5.50 € = 53.00 €

Total costs Adyen:

248.46 + 53.00 = 301.46

Stripe

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.4 % + 81 × 0.10 € = 56.70 € + 8.10 € = 64.80 €

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 1.4 % + 162 × 0.10 € = 113.40 € + 16.20 € = 129.60 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.4 % + 27 × 0.10 € = 18.90 € + 2.70 € = 21.60 €

  • Terminal: 59 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 64.80 € + 129.60 € + 21.60 € + 59 € = 275.00

Online:

  • 5,000 × 1.5 % = 75.00

  • 50 × 0.25 € = 12.50

  • Total online: 75.00 € + 12.50 € = 87.50

Total Stripe costs:

275.00 + 87.50 = 362.50

SumUp

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.39 % = 56.30

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 1.39 % = 112.59 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.39 % = 18.77 €

  • Terminal: 34 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 56.30 € + 112.59 € + 18.77 € + 34 € = 221.66

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 2.5 % = 125.00

Total SumUp costs:

221.66 + 125.00 = 346.66

Payone

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.9 % = 76.95

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.7 % = 56.70 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.9 % = 25.65 €

  • Terminal: 19 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 76.95 € + 56.70 € + 25.65 € + 19 € = 179.30

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 1.49 % = 74.50 €

  • 50 × 0.09 € = 4.50 €

  • Fixed costs: 20 €

  • Total online: 74.50 € + 4.50 € + 20 € = 99.00

Total Payone costs:

179.30 + 99.00 = 278.30

Zettle/PayPal

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard Credit: 4,050 € × 2.75 % = 111.38

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.95 % = 76.95 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 2.75 % = 37.13 €

  • Terminal: 29 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 111.38 € + 76.95 € + 37.13 € + 29 € = 254.46

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 2.99 % = 149.50

  • 50 × 0.29 € = 14.50

  • Total online: 149.50 € + 14.50 € = 164.00

Total costs Zettle/PayPal:

254.46 + 164.00 = 418.46

Shopify POS

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 2.1 % + 81 × 0.30 € = 85.05 + 24.30 = 109.35

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 2.1 % + 162 × 0.30 € = 170.10 € + 48.60 €= 218.70 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 3.2 % + 27 × 0.30 € = 43.20 € + 8.10 € = 51.30 €

  • Terminal: 59 €

  • Fixed costs: 33 €

  • Total POS: 109.35 € + 218.70 € + 51.30 € + 59 € + 33 € = 471.35 €

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 2.1 % = 105.00 €

  • 50 × 0.30 € = 15.00 €

  • Total online: 105.00 € + 15.00 € = 120.00 €

Total cost Shopify POS:

471.35 € + 120.00 € = 591.35 €

Scenario 2: Bookshop

  • Visa/Mastercard credit (30 %): 2,250 €, approx. 45 transactions

  • Debit (Visa/Mastercard, 60 %): 1,125 €, approx. 23 transactions

  • Amex (10 %): 375 €, approx. 7 transactions

Mollie

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.7 % = 19.13

  • Debit: 2,250 €× 0.7 % = 15.75

  • Amex: 375 € × 1.7 % = 6.38 €

  • Terminal: 45 €

  • Total: 19.13 € + 15.75 € + 6.38 € + 45 € = 86.26 €

Adyen

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 0.95 % + 23 × 0.11 € = 10.69 € + 2.53 € = 13.22

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 0.95 % + 45 × 0.11 € = 21.38 € + 4.95 € = 26.33 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 3.95 % + 7 × 0.11 € = 14.81 € + 0.77 € = 15.58 €

  • Terminal: 50 €

  • Total: 13.22 € + 26.33 € + 15.58 € + 50 € = 105.13 €

Stripe

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.4 % + 23 × 0.10 € = 15.75 € + 2.30 € = 18.05

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 1.4 % + 45 × 0.10 € = 31.50 € + 4.50 € = 36.00 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 1.4 % + 7 × 0.10 € = 5.25 € + 0.70 € = 5.95 €

  • Terminal: 59

  • Total: 18.05 € + 36.00 € + 5.95 € + 59 € = 119.00

SumUp

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.39 % = 15.64 €

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 1.39 % = 31.28 €

  • Amex: 375 €× 1.39 % = 5.21 €

  • Terminal: 34 €

  • Total: 15.64 € + 31.28 € + 5.21 € + 34 € = 86.13 €

Payone

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.9 % = 21.38 €

  • Debit: 2,250 €× 0.7 % = 15.75 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 1.9 % = 7.13 €

  • Terminal: 19 €

  • Total: 21.38 €+ 15.75 € + 7.13 € + 19 € = 63.26 €

Zettle

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 2.75 % = 30.94 €

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 0.95 % = 21.38 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 2.75 % = 10.31 €

  • Terminal: 29 €

  • Total: 30.94 € + 21.38 € + 10.31 € + 29 € = 91.63 €

Shopify POS

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 2.1 % + 23 × 0.30 € = 23.63 € + 6.90 € = 30.53

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 2.1 % + 45 × 0.30 € = 47.25 € + 13.50 € = 60.75 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 3.2 % + 7 × 0.30 € = 12.00 € + 2.10 € = 14.10 €

  • Terminal: 59 €

  • Fixed costs: 33

  • Total: 30.53 € + 60.75 € + 14.10 € + 59 € + 33 € = 197.38

Conclusion:

Credit card fees for merchants vary significantly depending on the provider and card type. While providers such as Mollie and SumUp score highly with particularly low Debit Mastercard fees and Visa debit card fees for merchants, sellers with a high proportion of American Express payments should definitely pay attention to the respective Amex fees for merchants. It is worth regularly comparing credit card fees for merchants in order to save costs in the long term and find the right model.

The choice of payment provider has a direct impact on credit card fees for merchants – especially if Visa, Mastercard or American Express are accepted on a regular basis. Not only the discount, but also the costs for POS terminals, chargebacks or additional services should be taken into account in the total costs. Depending on the type of card – for example, Visa debit card or Debit Mastercard – merchants can benefit from lower fees. The long-term total costs depend on turnover, transactions and individual requirements.

Note: In contrast to the general comparison of card payment fees, the following focuses specifically on credit card payments.

Scenario EcoFashion GmbH:

  • 13,500 € credit card turnover at the POS (270 transactions, 50 € per transaction on average)

  • Of which 30 % credit card (Visa/Mastercard), 60 % debit card (Visa/Mastercard), 10 % AMEX

Bookshop scenario:

  • 3,750 € credit card turnover at POS (75 transactions, 50 € per transaction on average)

  • Of which 30 % credit card (Visa/Mastercard), 60 % debit card (Visa/Mastercard), 10 % AMEX

Table: Comparison of credit card fees

Provider

POS

Online

Rating
(Trustpilot, as of July 2025)

Visa/Mastercard (credit)

Debit (Visa/Mastercard)

AMEX

Terminal (from)

Fixed costs

Mollie

from 1.7 %

from 0.7 %

from 1.7 %

45 €

0 to 20 € per terminal

1.8 % + 0.25 €


⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5 out of 5)

Adyen

0.95 % + 0.11 €

0.95 % + 0.11 €

3.95 % + 0.11 €

50 €

none

0.95 % + 0,11 €



⭐ (1.4 out of 5)

Stripe

1.4 % + 0.10 €

(+0.10 € per authorisation for Tap to Pay)

1.4 % + 0.10 €

(+0.10 € per authorisation for Tap to Pay)

1.4 % + 0.10 €

(+0.10 € per authorisation for Tap to Pay)

59 €

none

1.5 % + 0.25 €


⭐⭐(2.0 out of 5)

SumUp

1.39 %

1.39 %

1.39 %

34 €

none

2.5 %


⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.0 out of 5)

Payone

1.9 %

0.7 %

1.9 %

19 €

none

1.49 % + 0.09 € + 20 € fixed costs

⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.0 out of 5)

Zettle

2.75 %

0.95 %

2.75 %

29 €

none

2.99 % + 0.29 €


⭐⭐⭐(3.0 out of 5)

Shopify POS

2.1 % + 0.30 €

2.1 % + 0.30 €

3.2 % + 0.30 €

59 €

from 33 €

2.1 % + 0.30 €


⭐ (1.3 out of 5)

Information provided without guarantee

Assumptions per provider:

  • Terminal and fixed costs are calculated on a monthly basis.

  • The cheapest listed rates are used for calculation, without special features or discounts.

  • Additional costs per transaction are included in the calculation.

Overview of credit card fees for merchants (total costs)

Provider

EcoFashion GmbH (POS + Online)

Bookshop

(POS only)

Mollie

317.00 €

86.26 €

Adyen

301.46 €

105.13 €

Stripe

362.50 €

119.00 €

SumUp

346.66 €

86.13 €

Payone

278.30 €

63.26 €

Zettle/PayPal

418.46 €

91.63 €

Shopify POS

591.35 €

197.38 €

Information provided without guarantee

Note: The actual credit card fees for merchants vary depending on turnover, industry, card type and provider conditions. Particular attention should be paid to the differences in Visa fees for merchants, Mastercard fees for merchants, American Express (Amex) fees for merchants and the costs for Visa debit cards and Mastercard debit cards. Regularly comparing and checking the transaction structure can lead to long-term savings.

Credit card fees for merchants: Detailed calculation

Scenario 1: EcoFashion Ltd:

Assumptions:

  • Online turnover: 19,000 €

  • Online transactions: 190 (average 100 €)

  • POS turnover: 13,500 € (average 50 €), of which 4,050 € is Visa/Mastercard credit (81 transactions), 8,100 € is debit (162 transactions) and 1,350 € is AMEX (27 transactions)

Mollie

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.7 % = 68.85 €

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.7 % = 56.70 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.7 % = €22.95

  • Terminal: 45 €

  • Fixed costs: 20 €

  • Total POS: 68.85 € + 56.70 € + 22.95 € + 45 € + 20 € = 213.50 €

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 1.8 % = 90.00 €

  • 50 × 0.25 € = 12.50 €

  • Total online: 90.00 € + 12.50 € = 102.50 €

Total costs Mollie:

214.50 + 102.50 = 317.00

Adyen

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 0.95 % + 81 × 0.11 € = 38.48 + 8.91 = 47.39

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.95 % + 162 × 0.11 € = 76.95 € + 17.82 € = 94.77 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 3.95 % + 27 × 0.11 € = 53.33 € + 2.97 € = 56.30 €

  • Terminal: 50 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 47.39 € + 94.77 € + 56.30 € + 50 € = 248.46

Online:

  • 5,000 × 0.95 % = 47.50

  • 50 × 0.11 € = 5.50

  • Total online: 47.50 € + 5.50 € = 53.00 €

Total costs Adyen:

248.46 + 53.00 = 301.46

Stripe

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.4 % + 81 × 0.10 € = 56.70 € + 8.10 € = 64.80 €

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 1.4 % + 162 × 0.10 € = 113.40 € + 16.20 € = 129.60 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.4 % + 27 × 0.10 € = 18.90 € + 2.70 € = 21.60 €

  • Terminal: 59 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 64.80 € + 129.60 € + 21.60 € + 59 € = 275.00

Online:

  • 5,000 × 1.5 % = 75.00

  • 50 × 0.25 € = 12.50

  • Total online: 75.00 € + 12.50 € = 87.50

Total Stripe costs:

275.00 + 87.50 = 362.50

SumUp

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.39 % = 56.30

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 1.39 % = 112.59 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.39 % = 18.77 €

  • Terminal: 34 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 56.30 € + 112.59 € + 18.77 € + 34 € = 221.66

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 2.5 % = 125.00

Total SumUp costs:

221.66 + 125.00 = 346.66

Payone

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 1.9 % = 76.95

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.7 % = 56.70 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 1.9 % = 25.65 €

  • Terminal: 19 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 76.95 € + 56.70 € + 25.65 € + 19 € = 179.30

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 1.49 % = 74.50 €

  • 50 × 0.09 € = 4.50 €

  • Fixed costs: 20 €

  • Total online: 74.50 € + 4.50 € + 20 € = 99.00

Total Payone costs:

179.30 + 99.00 = 278.30

Zettle/PayPal

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard Credit: 4,050 € × 2.75 % = 111.38

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 0.95 % = 76.95 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 2.75 % = 37.13 €

  • Terminal: 29 €

  • Fixed costs: 0 €

  • Total POS: 111.38 € + 76.95 € + 37.13 € + 29 € = 254.46

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 2.99 % = 149.50

  • 50 × 0.29 € = 14.50

  • Total online: 149.50 € + 14.50 € = 164.00

Total costs Zettle/PayPal:

254.46 + 164.00 = 418.46

Shopify POS

POS:

  • Visa/Mastercard credit: 4,050 € × 2.1 % + 81 × 0.30 € = 85.05 + 24.30 = 109.35

  • Debit: 8,100 € × 2.1 % + 162 × 0.30 € = 170.10 € + 48.60 €= 218.70 €

  • Amex: 1,350 € × 3.2 % + 27 × 0.30 € = 43.20 € + 8.10 € = 51.30 €

  • Terminal: 59 €

  • Fixed costs: 33 €

  • Total POS: 109.35 € + 218.70 € + 51.30 € + 59 € + 33 € = 471.35 €

Online:

  • 5,000 € × 2.1 % = 105.00 €

  • 50 × 0.30 € = 15.00 €

  • Total online: 105.00 € + 15.00 € = 120.00 €

Total cost Shopify POS:

471.35 € + 120.00 € = 591.35 €

Scenario 2: Bookshop

  • Visa/Mastercard credit (30 %): 2,250 €, approx. 45 transactions

  • Debit (Visa/Mastercard, 60 %): 1,125 €, approx. 23 transactions

  • Amex (10 %): 375 €, approx. 7 transactions

Mollie

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.7 % = 19.13

  • Debit: 2,250 €× 0.7 % = 15.75

  • Amex: 375 € × 1.7 % = 6.38 €

  • Terminal: 45 €

  • Total: 19.13 € + 15.75 € + 6.38 € + 45 € = 86.26 €

Adyen

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 0.95 % + 23 × 0.11 € = 10.69 € + 2.53 € = 13.22

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 0.95 % + 45 × 0.11 € = 21.38 € + 4.95 € = 26.33 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 3.95 % + 7 × 0.11 € = 14.81 € + 0.77 € = 15.58 €

  • Terminal: 50 €

  • Total: 13.22 € + 26.33 € + 15.58 € + 50 € = 105.13 €

Stripe

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.4 % + 23 × 0.10 € = 15.75 € + 2.30 € = 18.05

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 1.4 % + 45 × 0.10 € = 31.50 € + 4.50 € = 36.00 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 1.4 % + 7 × 0.10 € = 5.25 € + 0.70 € = 5.95 €

  • Terminal: 59

  • Total: 18.05 € + 36.00 € + 5.95 € + 59 € = 119.00

SumUp

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.39 % = 15.64 €

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 1.39 % = 31.28 €

  • Amex: 375 €× 1.39 % = 5.21 €

  • Terminal: 34 €

  • Total: 15.64 € + 31.28 € + 5.21 € + 34 € = 86.13 €

Payone

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 1.9 % = 21.38 €

  • Debit: 2,250 €× 0.7 % = 15.75 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 1.9 % = 7.13 €

  • Terminal: 19 €

  • Total: 21.38 €+ 15.75 € + 7.13 € + 19 € = 63.26 €

Zettle

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 2.75 % = 30.94 €

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 0.95 % = 21.38 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 2.75 % = 10.31 €

  • Terminal: 29 €

  • Total: 30.94 € + 21.38 € + 10.31 € + 29 € = 91.63 €

Shopify POS

  • Credit card: 1,125 € × 2.1 % + 23 × 0.30 € = 23.63 € + 6.90 € = 30.53

  • Debit: 2,250 € × 2.1 % + 45 × 0.30 € = 47.25 € + 13.50 € = 60.75 €

  • Amex: 375 € × 3.2 % + 7 × 0.30 € = 12.00 € + 2.10 € = 14.10 €

  • Terminal: 59 €

  • Fixed costs: 33

  • Total: 30.53 € + 60.75 € + 14.10 € + 59 € + 33 € = 197.38

Conclusion:

Credit card fees for merchants vary significantly depending on the provider and card type. While providers such as Mollie and SumUp score highly with particularly low Debit Mastercard fees and Visa debit card fees for merchants, sellers with a high proportion of American Express payments should definitely pay attention to the respective Amex fees for merchants. It is worth regularly comparing credit card fees for merchants in order to save costs in the long term and find the right model.

Smart solution: Mollie Tap

With Mollie Tap, card payments are easier than ever, wherever you are: the compact card reader gives you flexibility – whether in your shop, at the weekly market or on the go. Thanks to the integrated battery and SIM card, you're ready to go straight away, with no fixed costs or contract commitments.

Accept all major debit and credit cards as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay, simply and contactlessly. Billing is transparent:

only 0.7 % per debit card payment and 1.7 % per credit card payment, one-time device price of 45 €, 20 € per month.

Benefit from quick setup, intuitive operation and a complete overview in the Mollie dashboard – and offer your customers modern payment convenience wherever you sell.

Accept card payments flexibly with Mollie Tap and benefit from clear credit card fees for merchants.

With Mollie Tap, card payments are easier than ever, wherever you are: the compact card reader gives you flexibility – whether in your shop, at the weekly market or on the go. Thanks to the integrated battery and SIM card, you're ready to go straight away, with no fixed costs or contract commitments.

Accept all major debit and credit cards as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay, simply and contactlessly. Billing is transparent:

only 0.7 % per debit card payment and 1.7 % per credit card payment, one-time device price of 45 €, 20 € per month.

Benefit from quick setup, intuitive operation and a complete overview in the Mollie dashboard – and offer your customers modern payment convenience wherever you sell.

Accept card payments flexibly with Mollie Tap and benefit from clear credit card fees for merchants.

With Mollie Tap, card payments are easier than ever, wherever you are: the compact card reader gives you flexibility – whether in your shop, at the weekly market or on the go. Thanks to the integrated battery and SIM card, you're ready to go straight away, with no fixed costs or contract commitments.

Accept all major debit and credit cards as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay, simply and contactlessly. Billing is transparent:

only 0.7 % per debit card payment and 1.7 % per credit card payment, one-time device price of 45 €, 20 € per month.

Benefit from quick setup, intuitive operation and a complete overview in the Mollie dashboard – and offer your customers modern payment convenience wherever you sell.

Accept card payments flexibly with Mollie Tap and benefit from clear credit card fees for merchants.

With Mollie Tap, card payments are easier than ever, wherever you are: the compact card reader gives you flexibility – whether in your shop, at the weekly market or on the go. Thanks to the integrated battery and SIM card, you're ready to go straight away, with no fixed costs or contract commitments.

Accept all major debit and credit cards as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay, simply and contactlessly. Billing is transparent:

only 0.7 % per debit card payment and 1.7 % per credit card payment, one-time device price of 45 €, 20 € per month.

Benefit from quick setup, intuitive operation and a complete overview in the Mollie dashboard – and offer your customers modern payment convenience wherever you sell.

Accept card payments flexibly with Mollie Tap and benefit from clear credit card fees for merchants.

The right provider: what to look for?

Choosing the right payment provider has a direct impact on the credit card fees merchants pay and the profitability of your business. Don't just compare the pure credit card fees for merchants, but also pay attention to the total costs, transparency and flexibility of the terms and conditions.

Excessive credit card fees for merchants can quickly add up and reduce your margin – especially if you accept a lot of card payments.

Make sure that your provider offers fast payouts, modern technology and easy integration at the POS in addition to low credit card fees for merchants. A transparent pricing structure with no hidden fixed costs is just as important as reliable support.

With Mollie, you benefit from clear credit card fees for merchants, full cost control and flexible solutions such as Mollie Tap. Setup is easy and the billing model remains fair – with no minimum turnover or long-term commitment. This makes Mollie ideal for merchants who value efficiency, innovation and transparent credit card fees for merchants.

Choose your payment provider now so that your credit card fees for merchants remain low in the long term and you can offer your customers the convenience they expect when paying.

How high are credit card fees for merchants?

Credit card fees for merchants vary depending on the payment provider, card type and turnover. With Mollie, merchants benefit from particularly transparent conditions: only 1.7 % per credit card payment and 0.7 % per debit card payment.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of credit cards for merchants?

Credit cards offer you, the merchant, more sales opportunities and ensure satisfied customers who want flexible payment options. Credit card fees for merchants are a significant factor – with Mollie, these fees remain fair and transparent. Chargebacks are considered a disadvantage, but they can be managed efficiently with modern Mollie solutions.

What do I need if I want to offer credit card payments?

You need a payment provider with a POS solution and a card reader, such as Mollie Tap. Alternatively, Mollie also offers classic POS terminals and versatile online solutions.

How much does Mollie Tap cost?

With Mollie Tap, you can choose between two models:

With the pay-as-you-go tariff, you pay a one-off fee of 95 € per Tap device, with no monthly fixed costs or contract. Credit card fees for merchants are 1.2 % for domestic consumer debit cards and 2.0 % for all other cards.

With the Pro Plan, you pay 20 € per device per month (1 month free trial) and a one-time fee of 45 € per Tap device. In return, you benefit from lower credit card fees for merchants: 0.7 % for domestic consumer debit cards and 1.7 % for all other cards. The Pro Plan is ideal if you use multiple devices or regularly process card payments.

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MollieGrowthCredit card fees for merchants in comparison
MollieGrowthCredit card fees for merchants in comparison
MollieGrowthCredit card fees for merchants in comparison