The most popular payment methods in the UK
The most common online payment method in the UK is credit or debit cards, with 73% of UK consumers ranking it as their preferred choice when shopping online. The dominance of cards is due to their widespread availability, the rise of contactless and mobile payments, and familiarity among UK shoppers. Digital wallets, Open Banking payments, and BNPL options are also popular.
"Cards have long been the go-to payment method in the UK," Iryna says. "Since the introduction of chip-and-PIN in 2006 and contactless payments in 2007, they've offered consumers a more seamless, trusted experience. If you're selling in the UK, they're a must have for your business.
"However, to attract and convert online shoppers, you should go beyond just offering card payments. With the rise of BNPL services, digital wallets, and Open Banking solutions, consumers are increasingly looking for flexible options. Add these to your payment mix, and you'll have a good chance of attracting and converting UK consumers."
The most popular payment methods in Germany
In Germany, PayPal is the most popular online payment method, with 67% of consumers preferring to use it for online purchases. Purchasing on account is in second place with 40%, and cards, direct debits, and SEPA Bank Transfer make up the rest of the top five methods.
Here's our Head of Payments, Iryna Agieieva, on the results.
"German shoppers are quite security conscious, which is one reason PayPal is so popular," Iryna explains. "It lets consumers pay without entering credit card details or other sensitive information. It also offers flexibility with buy now, pay later (BNPL) payments, which allows shoppers to receive items before sending their money. This is also one reason that purchasing on account is the second most popular option.
"Of course, the most popular payment methods are those that are well-known and have strong brand recognition. To be successful in Germany, it's vital that you offer these options."
The most popular payment methods in the Netherlands
The most popular online payment method in the Netherlands is iDEAL, with exactly two-thirds of Dutch consumers preferring it for online transactions. In fact, it powers more than 70% of the country's online purchases. We're now seeing it change as iDEAL 2.0 rolls out across the Netherlands. Eventually, it will offer more ways to pay, including one-click, recurring, and BNPL payments.
In addition to iDEAL, PayPal and card payments are popular choices for Dutch consumers. Cards are also currently undergoing a significant transformation with the rollout of Visa and Mastercard Debit. BNPL and digital wallets are also popular with Dutch consumers.
"iDEAL is still the top choice for Dutch consumers," Iryna says. "But with Visa and Mastercard Debit, online shoppers will have new and easier ways to use their card, whether through wallets, express checkout flows, or other options. So, it does look like cards could play an increasingly important role in the Dutch payments landscape.
“And BNPL methods are becoming more popular – with Dutch shoppers wanting more flexibility in how and when they pay."
The most popular payment methods in France
In France, credit and debit cards are the most preferred payment methods for online transactions, with 71% of consumers ranking them in their top options. Like in the UK, cards are widely available and trusted by shoppers. PayPal is also popular in the French market, with 57% of consumers ranking it as a preferred payment choice.
Digital wallets and BNPL options like Klarna and Alma are also popular with consumers – and could become more popular as the payment landscape evolves.
"Mobile wallets, BNPL, and Open Banking are shaping the future of payments in France," Iryna explains. "That means it's a good idea to offer the leading choices – cards and PayPal – as well as more flexible, digital-first payment options. These and BNPL options are particularly important when selling high-ticket items or to young consumers."
The most popular payment methods in Belgium
In Belgium, Bancontact is the clear leader, with 73% of consumers ranking it as their preferred choice for online payments. Introduced in the 70s, it now helps shoppers make secure, real-time payments from their bank accounts via a physical card, contactless technology, or a mobile app. Its ubiquity in Belgium makes it a must-have payment option if you’re selling to shoppers in the country.
“Despite Bancontact’s dominance, the payments landscape in Belgium is evolving quickly,” Iryna says. “Now, digital wallets, mobile payments, and BNPL services are gaining traction as Belgian consumers become more open to flexible and convenient alternatives. That’s why as well as Bancontact and card payments, businesses should offer a range of other methods to boost conversion.”
