Apple Pay vs Google Pay: Which is better?

Apple Pay and Google Pay are two of the most popular mobile payment systems that allow users to make transactions using their smartphones. Both systems offer a convenient and secure way to pay for goods and services, but they have some differences that may make one a better choice for you depending on your needs and preferences. 

In this article, we will compare Apple Pay and Google Pay in terms of their availability, fees, supported devices, and additional features. We will also discuss the pros and cons of each system, so you can decide which one is the best fit for you.

Apple Pay is developed by Apple and is available on iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac devices. Google Pay is developed by Google and is available on Android devices, as well as on the web. In this write-up, we will compare the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each platform to help users decide which one is the best fit for their needs.

Compatibility

Apple Pay is available on a wide range of Apple devices, including the iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Apple Watch. It can be used with devices running on iOS 10.3 or later, as well as on Macs running macOS Sierra or later. Apple Pay is available in over 50 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. 

Google Pay is available on Android devices running Android 5.0 or later, as well as on the web. It can be used with any device that has NFC (near-field communication) technology, which allows for contactless payments. Google Pay is available in over 30 countries, including the US, UK, India, and Australia.

Security

Both Apple Pay and Google Pay prioritize security and use several measures to protect users’ financial information. These measures include data encryption, fraud protection, and account recovery options.

Apple Pay uses a technology called tokenization, which replaces users’ actual payment card numbers with a unique code, or token, that is used for each transaction. This helps to protect users’ payment information from being stolen or misused. Apple Pay also uses Touch ID and Face ID for biometric authentication, which adds an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized access to users’ accounts.

Google Pay uses a similar technology called tokenization to protect users’ payment information. It also uses security measures such as a personal identification number (PIN) and biometric authentication to prevent unauthorized access to users’ accounts.

Ease of use

Both Apple Pay and Google Pay are designed to be easy to set up and use. To use either platform, users must first add their payment cards to their accounts. This can be done by scanning the card with the device’s camera or by manually entering the card information. 

Once the payment cards are added, users can make purchases or conduct financial transactions by simply holding their device near a contactless payment terminal and authenticating the transaction with Touch ID, Face ID, or a PIN.

Both platforms also offer the option to add loyalty cards, tickets, and other types of passes to the wallet for easy access and use.

Payment options

Apple Pay and Google Pay both support a wide range of payment options, including debit and credit cards, bank accounts, and digital wallets. Apple Pay supports Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover cards, as well as several regional and local payment cards. 

Google Pay supports Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover cards, as well as several regional and local payment cards, as well as Google’s digital wallet, Google Wallet. 

Rewards and loyalty programs

Both Apple Pay and Google Pay offer rewards and loyalty programs to incentivize the use of their platforms. Apple Pay offers the Apple Card, a credit card that is integrated with the Apple Pay platform and offers cash back on purchases made using the card. 

Google Pay offers Google Pay Rewards, a program that offers users points for every transaction made using the platform, which can be redeemed for a variety of 

Fees

Both Apple Pay and Google Pay may charge fees for certain transactions or services. Apple Pay does not charge any fees for adding payment cards or making purchases, but some banks and credit card issuers may charge fees for certain types of transactions, such as international payments or cash advances.

Google Pay also does not charge any fees for adding payment cards or making purchases, but it may charge fees for certain services, such as sending or requesting money through the platform.

Customer support

Both Apple Pay and Google Pay offer customer support to help users with any issues or questions they may have. Apple Pay offers support through its website, as well as through the Apple Support app or website. Users can also contact Apple Pay support by phone or email.

Google Pay offers support through its website, as well as through the Google Pay app or website. Users can also contact Google Pay support by phone or email, or by using the “Help and Feedback” section within the app.

Pros and cons of Apple Pay

Pros of Apple Pay

1. Wide compatibility: Apple Pay is available on a wide range of Apple devices, including the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac.

2. Strong security: Apple Pay uses advanced security measures, such as tokenization and biometric authentication, to protect users’ financial information.

3. Easy to use: Apple Pay is designed to be user-friendly, with a simple setup process and a streamlined payment process using Touch ID or Face ID.

4. Rewards program: Apple Pay offers the Apple Card, a credit card that is integrated with the platform and offers cash back on purchases.

Cons for Apple Pay

1. Limited availability: Apple Pay is only available in a limited number of countries, so users in other regions may not have access to the platform.

2. Possible fees: While Apple Pay itself does not charge fees, some banks and credit card issuers may charge fees for certain types of transactions.

Pros and cons of Google Pay

Pros of Google Pay

1. Wide compatibility: Google Pay is available on a wide range of Android devices and the web, making it accessible to a larger user base.

2. Strong security: Google Pay uses advanced security measures, such as tokenization and biometric authentication, to protect users’ financial information.

3. Easy to use: Google Pay is designed to be user-friendly, with a simple setup process and a streamlined payment process using a PIN or biometric authentication.

4. Rewards program: Google Pay offers Google Pay Rewards, a program that offers users points for every transaction made using the platform.

Cons for Google Pay

1.  Limited availability: Google Pay is only available in a limited number of countries, so users in other regions may not have access to the platform.

2. Possible fees: While Google Pay itself does not charge fees for adding payment cards or making purchases, it may charge fees for certain services, such as sending or requesting money.

Which one is better? 

Apple Pay and Google Pay are both strong contenders in the digital payment space, offering advanced security measures and rewards programs. Compatibility and availability may be key factors in choosing between the two platforms. Both offer a secure and easy-to-use payment experience.

Ultimately, which one is better will depend on the user. If you are deep into the Google ecosystem then Google pay will be the better option. However, if you are more into the Apple ecosystem then Apple pay will be the better option. Also, availability in your country will play a key part too.