Introduction

Choosing the right payment gateway can make or break your business's cash flow. With QR Ph payments becoming the backbone of Philippine commerce, merchants need a provider that delivers competitive fees, reliable payouts, and comprehensive features. (Best Payment Gateways in the Philippines)

E-commerce is expanding rapidly in the Philippines, necessitating secure, efficient, and user-friendly payment solutions for businesses. (Best Payment Gateways in the Philippines) Digital wallet payments accounted for 34% of electronic transactions in 2024, while card payments represent 31% of the market. (HitPay vs PayMongo Fees)

This comprehensive comparison examines HitPay and PayMongo head-to-head across merchant discount rates (MDR), payout speeds, built-in BNPL options, plugin availability, and cross-border QR support. We'll analyze a real-world scenario with ₱200,000 monthly sales to demonstrate potential savings and guide you through migration considerations.

Payment Gateway Landscape in the Philippines

The Philippine payment ecosystem has transformed dramatically, with businesses demanding more than basic card processing. HitPay and PayMongo are major players in the Philippine payment gateway space, each offering distinct advantages for different business types. (HitPay vs PayMongo Fees)

Concerns about fraud are growing as online transactions increase, making security features a critical consideration. (Best Payment Gateways in the Philippines) Both platforms support QR Ph, the national QR code standard, ensuring compliance with local payment preferences.

Head-to-Head Comparison Table

*Note: Although HitPay often advertises next banking day payouts for non-card transactions (such as QR, e-wallet, or bank transfers), card transactions can experience delays up to T+3 in certain cases.

Fee Structure Deep Dive

Card Transaction Fees

For card transactions, HitPay consistently offers lower rates. (HitPay vs PayMongo Fees)
On a ₱10,000 transaction, HitPay charges 3% (₱300) while PayMongo charges 3.5% (₱350).

The savings become more significant with volume:

• Small transaction (₱500): HitPay saves approximately ₱2.50 per card transaction.

• Large transaction (₱50,000): HitPay saves about ₱250 per card transaction.

Digital Wallet and QR Ph Fees

Digital wallet processing shows even more dramatic differences. For GCash transactions, HitPay charges 1.0% while PayMongo charges 1.5%. (HitPay vs PayMongo Fees)
On a ₱500 GCash transaction, HitPay saves around ₱1, while on a ₱50,000 transaction, the savings reach approximately ₱100.

Transparent Pricing Model

HitPay operates on a transparent pay-per-transaction model with no setup or monthly fees. (HitPay vs PayMongo Fees)
PayMongo, on the other hand, charges varying rates across different payment methods, which can complicate cost calculations for businesses processing multiple payment types.

Payout Speed Analysis

Cash flow timing can make or break small businesses. Both platforms offer competitive payout schedules, but with subtle differences that matter for working capital management.

HitPay Payout Structure

HitPay often provides next banking day payouts for non-card transactions (such as QR code payments, e-wallet transfers, or bank transfers). However, it’s important to note that card payouts may take up to T+3 due to additional processing time. (Best PayMaya Alternative)

PayMongo Payout Structure

PayMongo also offers next banking day payouts, matching HitPay's speed in many cases. However, the consistency and reliability of these payouts can vary based on banking partnerships and transaction volumes.

Feature Comparison: Beyond Basic Payments

Built-in BNPL Options

Buy-now-pay-later services are becoming essential for customer acquisition and larger order values. HitPay offers BillEase integration, providing customers with flexible payment options directly within the checkout flow. (Best PayMaya Alternative)
PayMongo's BNPL options include support for BillEase BNPL at a 1.5% fee, offering customers a comparable flexible payment solution.

E-commerce Platform Integration

Seamless integration with existing e-commerce platforms saves development time and reduces technical complexity.
HitPay offers extensive plugin support including Shopify, WooCommerce, Wix, Magento, OpenCart, and PrestaShop. (International Payment Gateway)
Contrary to earlier assumptions, PayMongo also supports a broader range of plugins—not just Shopify and WooCommerce—making integration with various platforms a viable option.

Cross-border QR Support

For businesses serving international customers or tourists, cross-border QR code acceptance could open new revenue streams. However, for the Philippines specifically, there is no confirmed public documentation that HitPay supports QRIS, PromptPay, or VietQR—this feature is not currently offered in PH. (International Payment Gateway)

Real-World Scenario: ₱200,000 Monthly Sales

Let's analyze the cost impact for a typical SME processing ₱200,000 monthly across different payment methods:

Transaction Mix Assumptions

• 40% Card payments (₱80,000)

• 50% GCash/QR Ph (₱100,000)

• 10% Other digital wallets (₱20,000)

HitPay Monthly Costs

• Card fees: ₱80,000 × 3% + (transactions × ₱15) = ₱2,400 + transaction fees

• GCash fees: ₱100,000 × 1.0% = ₱1,000

• Total estimated: ~₱3,400 + transaction fees

PayMongo Monthly Costs

• Card fees: ₱80,000 × 3.5% + (transactions × ₱15) = ₱2,800 + transaction fees

• GCash fees: ₱100,000 × 1.5% = ₱1,500

• Total estimated: ~₱4,300 + transaction fees

Monthly Savings with HitPay

Potential monthly savings: Approximately ₱900+ depending on transaction frequency and mix.

For a low volume business with ₱100,000/month, the monthly savings with HitPay are approximately ₱440. (HitPay vs PayMongo Fees)
Scaling this to ₱200,000 monthly volume nearly doubles the savings potential.

Business Tools and Value-Added Services

HitPay's Comprehensive Platform

HitPay positions itself as more than a payment processor, offering an all-in-one business platform. (Best PayMaya Alternative)
Key tools include:

• Point of Sale (POS) for in-person transactions

• Online Store Builder for quick e-commerce setup

• Invoicing & Billing for B2B transactions

• Payment Links for social commerce and messaging apps (Payment Link Software Comparison)

PayMongo's Focus

PayMongo concentrates primarily on payment processing, yet its plugin ecosystem extends beyond just Shopify and WooCommerce, supporting multiple platforms for integration. This focused yet broad approach works well for businesses that already have established systems for invoicing, POS, and e-commerce management.

Technical Integration Considerations

API and Developer Experience

Both platforms offer REST APIs, but with different levels of documentation and SDK support. HitPay provides comprehensive API documentation with SDKs for multiple programming languages, making integration smoother for development teams. (International Payment Gateway)

No-Code Solutions

For non-technical merchants, HitPay offers extensive no-code options including payment links, hosted checkout pages, and drag-and-drop store builders. (Best PayMaya Alternative)
This approach enables businesses to launch payment acceptance within minutes—without the need for coding expertise.

Security and Compliance

Regulatory Standing

HitPay operates as a Major Payment Institution regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), providing enterprise-grade security standards. (HitPay LinkedIn)
The platform is PCI-DSS compliant and integrates Stripe’s fraud protection system (Radar) for advanced security.

Fraud Protection

With online transaction fraud being a growing concern, both platforms implement robust security measures. HitPay's integration with Stripe’s Radar system offers advanced machine-learning-based fraud detection, providing additional peace of mind. (Best Payment Gateways in the Philippines)

Migration Considerations

From PayMongo to HitPay

Businesses considering migration should evaluate:

1. Cost Analysis: Calculate potential monthly savings based on your transaction mix.

2. Feature Requirements: Assess the need for additional business tools beyond basic payment processing.

3. Integration Complexity: Review compatibility with your existing e-commerce platforms.

4. Customer Impact: Plan clear communication regarding any changes to the checkout experience.

Migration Steps

1. Setup HitPay Account: Complete the verification process (typically 1-2 business days).

2. Parallel Testing: Run both systems simultaneously during the transition.

3. Update Integrations: Install HitPay plugins or update API endpoints accordingly.

4. Customer Communication: Notify your customers about the enhanced payment options.

5. Monitor Performance: Track transaction success rates and gather customer feedback.

Regional Payment Method Support

HitPay's strength lies in its comprehensive regional payment method coverage. While regionally HitPay supports over 700+ payment methods across Asia-Pacific, it's important to note the local scope differs.

Philippines-Specific Methods

Both platforms support core Philippine payment methods:

• QR Ph (national QR standard)

• GCash (leading e-wallet)

• UnionBank transfers

• InstaPay real-time transfers

• PESONet batch transfers

• Over-the-counter payments

Note: While HitPay's regional coverage spans 700+ methods, in the Philippines the platform supports roughly 10–15 local options (e.g., QR Ph, GCash, UnionBank, InstaPay, PESONet, OTC, BillEase, and cards).

Customer Support and Onboarding

HitPay's Approach

HitPay emphasizes quick verification and instant onboarding, complete with real-time transaction alerts and unified reporting across both online and offline channels. (Best PayMaya Alternative)
The platform is designed for SMEs, offering business software such as invoice generators and online store builders tailored to specific regional needs.

Support Infrastructure

Both platforms provide customer support; however, HitPay’s regional presence across 8 APAC markets ensures localized support that is attuned to the nuances of Philippine business needs and local banking systems.

Future-Proofing Your Payment Infrastructure

Scalability Considerations

As your business grows, your payment infrastructure needs will evolve. HitPay's comprehensive platform approach minimizes the hassle of managing multiple vendor relationships as you integrate invoicing, POS, and e-commerce capabilities. (Popular Payment Link Malaysia)

Cross-Border Expansion

For businesses planning regional expansion, HitPay’s presence in multiple key APAC markets provides an integrated payment solution that streamlines operations across borders. (HitPay Blog)

Industry-Specific Considerations

E-commerce Businesses

Online retailers benefit from HitPay’s extensive plugin ecosystem and built-in store builder capabilities. Its payment link functionality also paves the way for social commerce through messaging apps and social media. (Payment Link Software Comparison)

Service-Based Businesses

Professional services, consultants, and freelancers can leverage HitPay’s invoicing and recurring billing features—where available—to streamline client payments and reduce cash flow uncertainties.

Retail and Hospitality

Brick-and-mortar businesses gain from HitPay’s QR code-enabled in-person payment acceptance, particularly in regions where traditional card terminals are unavailable. (International Payment Gateway)

Making the Decision: Key Questions

Before choosing between HitPay and PayMongo, consider:

1. What’s your monthly transaction volume and mix? Higher volumes amplify fee differences.

2. Do you need integrated business tools? HitPay offers a more extensive suite of features.

3. Are you planning regional expansion? HitPay’s multi-market presence can offer a competitive edge.

4. How important are cross-border payments? For the Philippines, note that HitPay’s cross-border QR support is not currently offered.

5. What’s your technical capability? Both offer APIs and no-code options—with HitPay providing a wider range of user-friendly tools.

Conclusion

The choice between HitPay and PayMongo ultimately depends on your business priorities and growth plans. For cost-conscious merchants processing significant volumes, HitPay’s lower MDR rates—3% versus PayMongo’s 3.5% on cards—can lead to substantial monthly savings. (HitPay vs PayMongo Fees)

Beyond fees, HitPay’s comprehensive platform provides additional value through integrated business tools, extensive payment method support, and a scalable solution for regional expansion. While some features—such as cross-border QR support for the Philippines—are not currently offered, HitPay still delivers robust non-card next-day payouts and a broad suite of tools ideal for SMEs. For businesses seeking a payment partner that combines cost efficiency with strong technical support and a wide range of features, HitPay presents a clear, attractive proposition.

The Philippine e-commerce landscape is evolving rapidly, making the choice of payment infrastructure more critical than ever. Whether your primary focus is on cost savings, enhanced features, or future-ready scalability, both platforms offer solid foundations for digital commerce success.

For merchants ready to make the switch, HitPay’s transparent pricing, diverse payment method support, and integrated business tools provide a clear pathway towards reducing costs and boosting operational efficiency in the competitive Philippine market.

FAQ

What are the main differences between HitPay and PayMongo for QR Ph payments in 2025?

HitPay offers next-day payouts and no setup fees, making it ideal for small businesses needing fast cash flow. PayMongo provides competitive rates but with different payout schedules. HitPay supports over 50 payment methods including GCash, InstaPay QR PH, and PESONet, while both platforms offer comprehensive QR Ph payment solutions for Philippine merchants.

Which payment gateway has lower fees for Philippine businesses - HitPay or PayMongo?

Fee structures vary based on transaction volume and payment methods used. HitPay eliminates setup fees and offers transparent pricing with next-day payouts, which can improve cash flow significantly. PayMongo has its own competitive fee structure. The best choice depends on your business size, transaction volume, and specific payment method preferences.

How fast are payouts with HitPay compared to PayMongo for QR Ph transactions?

HitPay offers next-day payouts as a key differentiator, allowing businesses to access their funds quickly and improve cash flow management. This is particularly beneficial for small businesses and merchants who need faster access to their revenue. Payout speed can be a critical factor when choosing between payment gateways for your Philippine business operations.

What payment methods do HitPay and PayMongo support for Philippine merchants?

HitPay supports over 50 payment methods including credit cards, GCash, InstaPay QR PH, PESONet, Billease BNPL, and UnionBank transfers. Both platforms offer comprehensive QR Ph payment solutions. HitPay's extensive coverage includes local e-wallets, bank transfers, and over-the-counter payments, making it suitable for diverse customer preferences in the Philippines.

Are there setup fees when choosing HitPay vs PayMongo for QR Ph payments?

HitPay offers no setup fees, making it an attractive option for small businesses and startups looking to minimize initial costs. This no-setup-fee approach, combined with next-day payouts, positions HitPay as a cost-effective alternative for Philippine merchants. Setup fee structures can significantly impact your initial investment when launching payment processing capabilities.

Which platform is better for small businesses in the Philippines - HitPay or PayMongo?

HitPay is specifically designed as a faster and more affordable alternative for small businesses and merchants in the Philippines. With over 15,000 businesses trusting the platform globally, HitPay offers next-day payouts, no setup fees, and seamless integration with all e-commerce platforms. The platform also provides free business software, making it comprehensive for growing Philippine businesses.

Citations

1. https://blog.hitpayapp.com/

2. https://blog.hitpayapp.com/best-payment-gateways-philippines/

3. https://blog.hitpayapp.com/paymaya-philippines-alternative/

4. https://blog.hitpayapp.com/payment-link-software-comparison-singapore/

5. https://blog.hitpayapp.com/popular-payment-link-malaysia-small-businesses/

6. https://hitpayapp.com/blog/hitpay-vs-paymongo-fees-in-2025-which-payment-gateway-saves-philippine-smes-more

7. https://hitpayapp.com/payment-gateway

8. https://sg.linkedin.com/company/hit-pay