Paddle vs FastSpring: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Paddle and FastSpring comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Paddle
Payments infrastructure for SaaS
Best for you if:
- • You need payment processing features specifically
- • Complete payments infrastructure for SaaS
- • Merchant of Record handling all compliance
FastSpring
All-in-one digital commerce platform for SaaS, software, and digital goods, handling payments, subscriptions, and global tax compliance.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.6/10)
- • You need tax software features specifically
- • Manages global payments, subscriptions, and sales tax compliance for digital products.
- • Acts as a Merchant of Record, simplifying international sales and regulatory adherence.
| At a Glance |  Paddle |  FastSpring |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Payment Processing | Tax Software |
Rating | 86/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Paddle | FastSpring |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 86 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Payment ProcessingSubscription Billing | Tax SoftwarePayment Processing |
How Paddle and FastSpring Compare
Paddle
Payments infrastructure for SaaS
Paid · 86/100 score
FastSpring
All-in-one digital commerce platform for SaaS, software, and digital goods, handling payments, subscriptions, and global tax compliance.
Paid · 88/100 score
Paddle is a payment processing tool. FastSpring is in tax software.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: FastSpring
Want the highest-rated option?
Paddle: 86/100. FastSpring: 88/100.
Go with: FastSpring
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: FastSpring
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Paddle is a payment processing tool. FastSpring is in tax software. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
FastSpring scores higher: 88/100 vs 86/100.
Key Takeaways
FastSpring
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 86
- Our pick for this comparison
Paddle
- Better fit for payment processing
The Bottom Line
FastSpring (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paddle or FastSpring better?
FastSpring scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Paddle and FastSpring used for?
Paddle: Payments infrastructure for SaaS. FastSpring: All-in-one digital commerce platform for SaaS, software, and digital goods, handling payments, subscriptions, and global tax compliance..
What does Paddle cost vs FastSpring?
Paddle is a paid tool. FastSpring is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.