11 Best Online Payment Apps in India for 2024

In today’s digital age, the convenience and security of online payment applications have revolutionized the way we manage our financial transactions. Gone are the days of fumbling for cash or swiping credit cards; now, a simple tap on a smartphone can transfer funds instantaneously.

In this blog, we will talk about the best online payment applications available in the market. From peer-to-peer transfers to mobile wallets, we will look for everything to find the best platform that suits your needs.

11 Best Online Payment Apps in India List

1. PhonePe

PhonePe is one of the most used online payment applications in India. It allows users to link their bank accounts and make payments using UPI, credit/debit cards, and wallets. Once you have linked your account, you can send money to your contacts, Banks or any UPI.

You can also shop online, pay utility bills and even invest into the stock market directly through the app. Furthermore, the UPI international feature allows users to transfer money to countries like Bhutan, Singapore, Nepal, UAE, and Mauritius.

Why Use PhonePe?

• Payments on this platform are safe, reliable and fast
• You can scan any QR code and pay directly to the merchant
• Make payments using Rupay credit cards
• Get cashback and rewards for using PhonePe

Transaction charges: PhonePe doesn’t charge any money for UPI and bank transfers. However, it charges a small platform fee of INR 3 for bill payments.

Pros and Cons of PhonePe

2. Google Pay

Initially named as Tez, GooglePay was launched in 2018 and is one of the best payment apps in India. It’s a simple and secure way to manage money such as making payments, buying items, and sending money to others.

You can easily send or request money from friends or family using a mobile phone. The platform is also called “G-Pay” and it is widely accepted by merchants and outlets across the country.

Why Use Google Pay?

You can use Google Pay online payment application because of the following:

• Supports auto recharge and auto-pay for monthly subscriptions
• You can send money using UPI Lite without the security pin (up to INR 500)
• Check your CIBIL score for free with Google Pay

Google Pay Charges: Google Pay doesn’t charge any amount for transactions, but it charges a nominal fee for utility bills. The fees can vary from ₹1 and ₹3 depending on the recharge value.

Pros and Cons of Google Pay

3. Paytm

Paytm is one of the first online payment apps in India. It is an all-in-one platform that offers UPI, Direct Bank Transfer and E-Wallet apps. It also allows users to make all kinds of reservations for flight tickets, movie tickets, concerts, train tickets and many more, through their app.

Paytm is also famous among businesses and vendors due to its soundbox voice alert feature. Additionally, Paytm Postpaid offers emergency funds to its users with 0% interest rate for the first 30 days.

Why Use Paytm?

• Offers E-Wallet facility to store and withdraw money without any hassle
• You can purchase insurance, invest in stocks and apply for loan directly through the app
• Also supports multiple payment facilities like mobile recharges, flight tickets, bill payments, loan repayments, forex, and more
• The soundbox alert device supports over 11 languages including English

Transaction Charges for Paytm: Paytm does not charge any fees for money transfers. It charges fees if you want to add money into your Paytm Wallet app through credit card (which is 2.5% of the amount).

Pros and Cons of Paytm

4. BHIM

Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) was launched by NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India) which introduced the concept of UPI. BHIM is specifically designed to meet the needs of the Indian demographic.

Although it is not the market leader in UPI payments market, BHIM operates effectively and is considered one of the best online payments apps in India.

Why Use BHIM?

• BHIM comes with multiple local languages for its Indian customers
• Offers a simple setup process to send and receive money
• Pay by scanning the QR code through Scan & Pay
• You can block users who are sending you money requests from unwanted sources
• Apply for IPOs by simply entering your BHIM UPI ID on the IPO application

Transaction Charges for BHIM: No charges from using BHIM app infra, but banks may charge for making transactions.

Pros and Cons of BHIM

5. Amazon Pay

Amazon Pay allows users to easily pay for their purchases on websites and mobile applications using the payment and shipping details stored in their Amazon account. This service offers a secure and convenient way for users to make transactions without entering their payment information every time.

With Amazon Pay, users can make payments on third-party websites that offer the Amazon Pay option during the checkout process. Moreover, Amazon Pay has also introduced UPI payments for seamless transactions.

Why Use Amazon Pay Online Payment Application?

• Shop, pay bills, and transfer money effortlessly with Amazon Pay
• You can monitor your spends through balance statement in your Amazon Pay account
• Amazon Pay offers your refund within 24-hours
• Instantly checkout your products through your Pay balance without the need for any bank OTP

Transaction Charges for Amazon Pay: Amazon Pay charges a transaction fee which consists of a service tax from the merchants for transactions. The transaction fee is 1.95% plus taxes.

Pros and Cons of Amazon Pay

6. Apple Pay

Apple Pay safely stores your cards and makes secure transactions using your Apple devices. It allows users to make payments in person, in iOS apps, and on the web. It works on iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac- all with the highest level of security and privacy.

It is safer than a physical debit or credit card. Apple Pay can be locked with Touch ID, Face ID, or passcode for extra security. It is useful at any place that accepts contactless payments such as grocery stores, taxis, subways and vending machines.

Why Use Apple Pay?

• Can be used for purchases in Safari on an iPhone, iPad, or Mac
• The level of security is amazing with Apple Pay
• Accepted by millions of websites and apps
• Can make purchases using Apple Cash, Apple Card, and any other credit and debit cards that you add to Wallet

Transaction Charges for Apple Pay: Apple Pay does not charge any fee.

Pros and Cons of Apple Pay

7. Samsung Pay

Samsung Pay allows you to use your Samsung device to make secure transactions for various merchants. With compatibility across magnetic stripe, NFC, and MST, Samsung Pay ensures flexibility and convenience.

It allows you to make contactless payments using compatible Samsung smartphones and smartwatches. Samsung Pay is compatible with a wide range of payment types and is a versatile and convenient mobile payment solution.

Why Use Samsung Pay Online Payment Application?

• Users can earn points for every purchase made using the app
• The security of Samsung Pay is powered by Knox
• Make purchases from your device without any physical cards by just your gesture
• Great deals, gift cards, offers and promotions from thousands of local and global retailers

Transaction Charges of Samsung Pay: There are not any fees or charges to use Samsung Pay.

Pros and Cons of Samsung Pay

8. Freecharge

Freecharge by Axis Bank is a well-known payment app with over 100 million users across India. It supports multiple payment methods, including Wallet apps, UPI, and various cards, for seamless transactions.

With user-friendly interfaces and robust security measures, Freecharge is definitely a reliable online payment application. Freecharge also offers an ‘On the go’ feature where users can make payments in offline mode or with a poor internet connection.

Why Use Freecharge Online Payment Application?

• Supports both UPI as well as BHIM payment options
• Applies zero payment charges and transaction fees on UPI payments
• It offers a unique chat and pay feature where users can pay using chat window
• Users can invest in mutual funds and buy insurance directly in the app
• Supports offline payment options

Transaction Charges for Freecharge: For most services, such as prepaid recharges and postpaid bill payment, there are no charges. However, in case of utility bills there is a minimum fee to make this payment.

Pros and Cons of Freecharge

9. Stripe

Stripe is one of the most used online payment applications in the world. It is a complete financial toolbox for businesses to accept payments from anywhere on any website or app. It comes with built-in fraud protection options.

Stripe simplifies complex financial tasks and lets you focus on building your business. With Stripe, businesses of all sizes can accept payments, manage subscriptions, and optimize financial operations effortlessly.

Why Use Stripe?

• Stripe is a global payment solution to receive and send payment internationally
• Users can integrate Stripe to their website and accept payment from customers
• The app can accept a variety of payment methods, such as debit and credit cards and PayPal
• Can accept payments in more than 135 currencies

Transaction Charges for Stripe: Stripe charges 2% fees on cards issued in India and 3% for cards issued outside India.

Pros and Cons of Stripe

10. CRED

CRED was basically designed for credit card payments. You can pay bills, scan & pay offline, send money, and even manage credit cards conveniently to unlock exclusive rewards. With its user-friendly interface, CRED simplifies financial transactions, enhances credit scores, and offers premium perks for better credit usage.

With CRED, you can easily manage credit cards, earn rewards, and pay bills easily with exclusive perks and cashbacks. It is one of the best apps for credit card bill payments.

Why Use CRED Online Payment Application?

• Provides a short-term loan for an emergency fund
• Get cashbacks with every credit card bill payment
• Check credit score for free with CRED application
• Also, offers a CRED online store where you can purchase products at special prices and discounts

Transaction Charges for CRED: CRED charges a transaction fee of 1–1.5% for paying rent using a credit card.

Pros and Cons of CRED

11. Venmo

Venmo is a mobile payment app that simplifies settling payments with friends and family. It lets you send and receive money instantly, perfect for splitting bills, paying rent, or sending gifts.

This application is easy to use and keeps track of who owes what for managing shared expenses amongst your friend circles. Users can add a payment method like a credit card, debit card, or bank account. Venmo was founded in 2009, and later it was acquired by PayPal in 2013.

Why Use Venmo Online Payment Application?

• Offers a Mastercard to its users. They can use it to shop anywhere online or in store
• You can set up automatic payments for expenses like bills and rent
• Users can buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrency directly within the app
• Can shop at your favorite brands in-store or online
• Offers a Credit card, Debit card and a card for 13-17 years old

Transaction Charges for Venmo: If you pay bills using a credit card, Venmo charges a 3% fee and 1.75% for fast bank transfers.

Pros and Cons of Venmo

How Does Online Payment App Work?

Online payment apps allow users to link their bank account on its platform. After adding your account and cards, you can send and receive money, pay bills, and make purchases with just a few taps on your smartphones.

These apps use advanced secure encryption methods to safeguard sensitive information, ensuring a safe and seamless financial experience.

Benefits of Using Online Payment Application

Online payment applications have made sending and receiving payments easy, enabling secure payments, low transactional charges and more. Here are some of the benefits of using online payment apps.

• Convenience: With online payment applications, you can perform transactions anytime, anywhere, without the need for physical cash. It gives you freedom to send and receive money 24×7 without visiting the bank.
• Speed: Unlike traditional banking methods, sending payments online is very fast and it significantly reduces the transaction time.
• Recordkeeping: Online payments apps allow you to easily track and manage transactions for better financial planning.
• Rewards and Cashbacks: Many apps offer rewards and cashbacks for regular usage, providing additional benefits to users.

Drawbacks of Using Online Payment App

Apart from benefits, there are some drawbacks like security concerns, technical issues, potential for frauds etc. Here are some of the limitations of online payment apps to consider:

• Transaction Fees: Online payment apps often charge transaction fees or platform fees while transferring money or bill payments.
• Technical Glitches: It is one of the most common drawbacks of using an online payment application. Users may experience technical issues which lead to delayed and sometimes failed transactions.
• Dependency on Internet: Online payment apps rely on an internet connection, posing challenges in areas with poor connectivity.
• Security Concerns: Users can face cyberattacks such as phishing, hacking, fraud, etc. This poses security concerns if proper precautions are not taken.

How to Choose the Right Payment App for Your Business?

When choosing the right online payment application for your business, consider factors like fast and secure transfers, robust security features, multiple payment options and device compatibility.

• Low Transaction Fees: Make sure to evaluate the fees associated with each transaction and it should align with your financial goals.
• Multiple Payment Options: The online payment app you choose must support multiple payments like UPI, credit card, debit card, NEFT, RTGS and more.
• Security Features: Look for apps with robust security measures to safeguard both your business and customer information.
• Compatibility: Choose apps that are compatible with multiple devices such as Android, iOS, Desktop etc.
• Customer Support: Ensure that the payment app provides reliable customer support to address any issues promptly.

How We Tested These Online Payment Apps?

We evaluated over 20 online payment apps available on the market and considered factors such as transaction speed, security features, user interface, customer reviews, and overall reliability.

We also conducted hands-on tests to assess the performance of each app in various scenarios, including transaction types, charges and customer support. After we were satisfied with the test, we compiled the list of best online payment applications.

Conclusion: Which is the Best Payment App Online?

In the rapidly evolving landscape of online payments, the best online payment applications listed above offer diverse options catering to various needs. From the versatility of PhonePe to the simplicity of Google Pay and the security of Apple Pay, each platform has its strengths.

As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for consumers and businesses to stay informed about the latest developments in online payment solutions to ensure they are utilizing the best options.

FAQs Related to Online Payment Applications