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Worldpay vs Elavon, A Comprehensive Comparison for Merchant Accounts and Payment Processing
Discover the key differences, fees, and features to find the best payment processor for your business needs
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Company’s History and Market Share
Worldpay has a long-standing reputation as one of the largest payment facilitators globally. Originating in the UK and now part of FIS, Worldpay boasts a significant market share in global payments, serving millions of merchants worldwide. Its extensive experience in credit card processing and merchant accounts has made it a preferred choice for many businesses, especially UK SMEs.
Elavon, on the other hand, is a subsidiary of U.S. Bancorp and has steadily grown its presence in the payment processing industry. While it may not have the same global footprint as Worldpay, Elavon has carved out a strong position in North America and Europe. Known for its robust payment gateway and API integration capabilities, Elavon appeals to businesses seeking more flexibility and advanced technology in their payment solutions.
Both companies have evolved with the market, offering support for digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and WeChat Pay, ensuring merchants can accept alternative payment methods that customers increasingly prefer.


Payment Solutions and Services
When comparing Worldpay vs Elavon, it’s crucial to examine the payment solutions each provider offers. Worldpay delivers a comprehensive array of services, including card payments, payment links, recurring payments, and support for both credit card and debit card transactions. Its platform is designed to accommodate omnichannel payments, allowing merchants to seamlessly handle in person and online sales through integrated POS systems.
Elavon similarly provides a wide range of payment processing options, emphasising security and ease of use. Its payment gateway supports online payments and integrates smoothly with various e-commerce platforms, making it an attractive choice for online businesses. Additionally, Elavon offers merchant accounts that facilitate currency conversion, enabling businesses to accept payments in multiple currencies, which is essential for companies with international customers.
Both providers support invoicing and payment facilitators, helping businesses manage cash flow effectively by streamlining payment collection. Moreover, they cater to different risk categories, ensuring that businesses with varying profiles can access appropriate merchant accounts and services.
Suitability for Different Business Types
Choosing between Worldpay vs Elavon also depends on the type and size of the business. Worldpay’s extensive experience and global reach make it ideal for medium sized businesses and enterprises that require comprehensive payment solutions with global payments capabilities. Its support for multiple payment methods and currencies suits businesses with diverse customer bases.
Elavon is often favoured by small businesses and online businesses looking for straightforward payment processing with reliable customer support. Its focus on API integration and seamless e-commerce compatibility makes it a strong contender for businesses aiming to expand their online presence. Moreover, Elavon’s services are well-suited for merchants requiring more flexibility in their payment processing and invoicing options.
Both providers support merchants accepting card payments in person and online, but businesses should consider their specific needs regarding POS systems, payment facilitators, and the ability to handle recurring payments.
Integration and Technology
In today’s digital economy, seamless integration with existing business systems is critical. Worldpay offers robust API integration options, enabling businesses to connect their payment processing with e-commerce platforms, accounting software, and other tools. Its payment gateway supports various online payment methods, including digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, enhancing the checkout experience for customers.
Elavon also excels in technology integration, providing merchants with customisable APIs and support for multiple payment channels. Its payment gateway is designed to handle high volumes of online transactions securely. Elavon’s POS systems are compatible with a range of hardware, including card cutters, which facilitate smooth in person payments.
Both companies prioritise security and compliance, ensuring that merchants and card holders are protected during every transaction. This focus on technology and security helps businesses maintain customer trust and optimise cash flow.
Fees, Costs, and Pricing Structure
A significant factor in deciding between Worldpay vs Elavon is understanding their fee structures. Worldpay typically charges transaction fees based on a percentage of the sale plus a fixed fee per transaction. These fees can vary depending on the card type used, whether it’s a credit card, debit card, or alternative payment method like Diners Club. Additionally, Worldpay may impose minimum monthly charges and other additional fees, which can impact the overall cost for merchants.
Elavon offers competitive transaction fees as well, often tailored to the merchant’s sales volume and industry. Like Worldpay, Elavon applies a combination of fixed fees and percentage-based charges. One advantage of Elavon is its transparency regarding hidden fees, which are often a concern for new businesses. Elavon tends to provide clearer breakdowns of costs related to currency conversion, chargebacks, and monthly account maintenance.
Both providers may charge fees for payment gateway access, API integration, and POS system usage. Therefore, merchants should carefully review the fee schedules to avoid unexpected charges and select the provider offering the better deal aligned with their business model.
We also offer a unique service to help you Compare Card Fees across providers, ensuring you get the most competitive rates available. Our service includes free appraisals and off-market fees, designed to provide you with a better deal and greater transparency in your payment processing costs.
Additional Considerations, Hidden Fees and Customer Support
When comparing Worldpay vs Elavon, merchants should be mindful of potential hidden fees that can affect the total cost of payment processing. Worldpay, while offering competitive rates, may have additional fees for chargebacks, statement fees, and early termination. Elavon tends to be more transparent but still requires merchants to scrutinise the contract details to avoid surprises.
Customer support is another key factor. Worldpay provides extensive resources and support channels, which is beneficial for businesses with complex payment needs. Elavon is known for its responsive customer service, making it a preferred choice for small businesses that may require more hands-on assistance.
Worldpay vs Elavon, Head to Head Comparison
Feature | Worldpay | Elavon |
|---|---|---|
Market Presence | Global, part of FIS, strong UK SME focus | Strong in North America and Europe |
Payment Methods Supported | Credit cards, debit cards, alternative payments including Diners Club | Credit cards, debit cards, digital wallets, alternative payments |
Payment Channels | In person payments, online transactions, omnichannel payments | In person payments, online payments, e-commerce integration |
Currency Conversion | Supported, suitable for global payments | Supported, with transparent currency conversion fees |
Fee Structure | Percentage + fixed fee per transaction, minimum monthly charges, potential hidden fees | Competitive, tailored fees, transparent pricing, fewer hidden fees |
API Integration | Robust API for e-commerce and accounting software | Customisable APIs, strong e-commerce compatibility |
POS System Compatibility | Integrated POS systems | Compatible with various hardware including card cutters |
Digital Wallet Support | Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, WeChat Pay | Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, WeChat Pay |
Recurring Payments | Supported | Supported |
Customer Support | Extensive resources, suited for larger enterprises | Responsive, preferred by small businesses |
Suitability | Medium to large businesses, global operations | Small to medium businesses, online-focused |
Final Verdict Which Payment Processor is Best for Your Business?
Deciding between Worldpay vs Elavon ultimately depends on your business’s specific payment processing needs, size, and growth plans. Worldpay is a powerhouse in global payments with a broad suite of services suitable for medium to large businesses seeking omnichannel payment solutions and extensive currency support. Elavon offers more flexibility and transparency, making it an excellent option for small businesses and online merchants focused on seamless integration and cost-effective payment processing.
Both merchant providers support essential features such as payment links, recurring payments, and acceptance of digital wallets like Samsung Pay and WeChat Pay. Assessing transaction fees, minimum monthly charges, and potential hidden fees will help you determine which company provides the better deal for your business.
By carefully evaluating your requirements and understanding the strengths of each provider, you can select the payment processor that best supports your business’s cash flow and customer payment preferences. Whether you prioritise global reach, technological integration, or transparent pricing, both Worldpay and Elavon remain top contenders in the competitive landscape of merchant accounts and payment processing services.
We are here to assist you in navigating these options, offering free appraisals and off-market fees to ensure you secure the best possible terms for your merchant account.
FAQs About Worldpay vs Elavon
Worldpay offers a broader global reach and supports more alternative payment methods, while Elavon focuses on flexible API integration and transparent pricing for small to medium businesses.
Transaction fees vary based on business size and sales volume, but Elavon often provides more transparent and tailored pricing, potentially resulting in lower overall costs for some merchants.
Yes, both providers support omnichannel payments, including online transactions and in person payments through compatible POS systems.
Yes, Elavon offers merchant accounts with currency conversion capabilities, allowing businesses to accept payments in multiple currencies.
Both providers support recurring payments, enabling businesses to automate subscription billing and improve cash flow management.
While Elavon is generally more transparent, both providers may charge additional fees for chargebacks, monthly account maintenance, or early termination. It’s important to review contract terms carefully.
Elavon is known for responsive customer service, especially for small businesses, while Worldpay offers extensive support resources suitable for larger enterprises.
Both providers offer API integration that can connect with popular accounting software, including Sage Pay, to streamline payment processing and financial management.
Yes, both support a variety of digital wallets such as PayPal, Google Pay, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and WeChat Pay to accommodate customer preferences.
Absolutely, both are established merchant providers serving UK SMEs, with Worldpay having a strong market share and Elavon offering tailored solutions for smaller businesses.
References & Citations
Worldpay by FIS
Worldpay Merchant Services
Apple Pay Digital Wallet Services
Elavon
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