Comparing crypto payment gateways in 2026

As cryptocurrency adoption continues expanding across global commerce, businesses evaluating how to accept digital assets must choose the right infrastructure partner. In 2026, crypto payments have become part of a broader digital payment strategy, as merchants recognize clear demand for more flexible, digital payment options.

Two platforms frequently considered in this space are ForumPay and NOWPayments. Both allow companies to accept Bitcoin (BTC), stablecoins and other cryptocurrencies, but they differ in settlement structure, token strategy and operational focus.

This in-depth comparison explores how each platform works, where they differ and which type of business may benefit most from each solution.

The role of a crypto payment gateway in 2026

Before comparing specific providers, it’s important to understand the purpose of a crypto payment gateway.

A crypto payment gateway acts as a bridge between a merchant’s checkout system and blockchain networks. Instead of manually managing wallets and confirmations, businesses use these platforms to:

• Generate payment addresses

• Monitor on-chain confirmations

• Notify merchants of completed transactions

• Manage settlement preferences

• Handle compliance and reporting

In 2026, this type of modern gateway offers functionality comparable to traditional payment processors, but with blockchain infrastructure underneath.

The main distinction between providers today lies not in whether they can process crypto, but in how they manage settlement, volatility, and integration with traditional financial systems.

Overview: What is ForumPay?

ForumPay is designed to help businesses accept cryptocurrency while offering structured settlement options, including instant conversion into fiat currencies and stablecoins.

The platform focuses on enabling companies to integrate crypto payments without exposing themselves to unnecessary volatility. Businesses can choose whether to:

• Receive payments in crypto

• Automatically convert to fiat

• Settle in stablecoins such as USDT or USDC

This flexibility makes ForumPay particularly attractive for ecommerce brands, SaaS companies and international businesses seeking operational stability while expanding into crypto-enabled markets.

ForumPay’s positioning often centers on bridging crypto infrastructure with traditional business workflows, an increasingly important factor as regulatory clarity improves globally.

Overview: What is NOWPayments?

NOWPayments is a crypto payment gateway known for supporting a wide range of digital assets.

The platform allows merchants to accept numerous cryptocurrencies, including many altcoins beyond mainstream assets like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). It is often adopted by businesses operating within crypto-native ecosystems, such as online services, gaming platforms and Web3 projects.

NOWPayments typically emphasizes flexibility in crypto acceptance and token diversity. Merchants comfortable holding crypto assets may find this model aligned with their strategy.

Key differences between ForumPay and NOWPayments

Although both platforms fall under the same category, their operational strengths differ.

1. Settlement and volatility management

One of the most significant differences between the two platforms is settlement structure.

ForumPay places strong emphasis on instant fiat conversion and stablecoin settlement. For businesses concerned about price volatility, this reduces exposure to market swings and simplifies accounting processes.

NOWPayments, while flexible, is often associated with direct crypto receipt. For companies comfortable managing digital assets internally, this may be sufficient.

However, for businesses integrating crypto into traditional financial systems, especially those with established accounting frameworks, structured fiat settlement can be a decisive advantage.

In this context, ForumPay’s automatic crypto-to-fiat conversion and volatility management approach tends to align well with risk-averse or compliance-focused organizations.

2. Cryptocurrency support

NOWPayments supports a broader selection of cryptocurrencies, including smaller-cap tokens.

ForumPay focuses primarily on widely used cryptocurrencies and stablecoins that are common in commercial transactions.

For businesses seeking maximum token diversity, NOWPayments may offer broader compatibility. However, for companies prioritizing mainstream assets and stablecoins used in B2B and ecommerce environments, ForumPay’s streamlined support list may provide greater operational simplicity.

3. Target business profile

NOWPayments is frequently adopted by crypto-native businesses that already operate within blockchain ecosystems.

ForumPay is often chosen by businesses seeking to integrate crypto payments into more traditional financial structures, including small businesses, international ecommerce brands, SaaS providers and global service companies.

This difference influences onboarding processes, compliance considerations and treasury management preferences.

4. Integration and implementation

Both platforms provide API integrations and plugin support for ecommerce systems.

NOWPayments is often implemented by online businesses comfortable navigating crypto-native tools. Their Payment Button allows online merchants to easily integrate crypto payments into an online portal, but can be more restrictive regarding consumers’ payment flexibility. 

ForumPay’s infrastructure is typically positioned toward businesses seeking structured onboarding and integration that aligns with broader financial operations. ForumPay also allows the consumer to choose which cryptocurrency or stablecoin they wish to pay in, giving them full flexibility and control over their payment. 

In practice, implementation for both platforms can be completed without deep blockchain expertise, but settlement configuration and treasury alignment may influence the integration experience.

5. Compliance and business alignment

As governments and financial authorities around the world continue to improve regulatory clarity in 2026, compliance alignment plays a growing role in payment decisions.

Businesses evaluating crypto payment gateways should consider:

• AML monitoring standards

• KYC onboarding processes

• Reporting capabilities

• Regulatory framework alignment

Both platforms operate within evolving compliance environments. However, companies prioritizing volatility mitigation and integration with traditional banking workflows may find ForumPay’s structure more aligned with enterprise requirements.

Practical Use Case Scenarios

To better illustrate the differences, we suggest considering the following scenarios.

Scenario 1: International ecommerce brand

A global ecommerce brand wants to accept Bitcoin and stablecoins while minimizing volatility exposure.

In this case, a gateway offering structured fiat settlement and stablecoin options, such as ForumPay, may align well with operational goals.

Scenario 2: Web3 or gaming platform

A Web3-native platform looking to accept a wide range of altcoins and operate fully within crypto ecosystems may prioritize token diversity.

NOWPayments may be particularly suitable in this context.

Scenario 3: SaaS company expanding cross-border payments

A SaaS provider expanding into emerging markets may seek reduced cross-border friction while maintaining stable financial reporting.

Settlement flexibility becomes a key factor in decision-making.

Cost considerations

Both platforms operate on transaction-based pricing models, though exact fees depend on configuration and usage.

Businesses should compare:

• Transaction fees

• Conversion spreads

• Settlement fees

• Blockchain network costs

Beyond headline rates, transparency and predictability of settlement can significantly impact operational planning.

Which crypto payment gateway is better in 2026?

There is no universal answer. The best solution depends on business priorities.

NOWPayments may be preferable for:

• Crypto-native projects

• Businesses seeking wide altcoin support

• Merchants comfortable holding digital assets

ForumPay may be particularly well suited for:

• Businesses seeking instant fiat settlement

• Companies prioritizing volatility mitigation

• International ecommerce brands

• Organizations integrating crypto with traditional financial systems

• Companies prioritizing consumer flexibility

In many real-world business environments,  especially those balancing innovation with financial stability, structured settlement and treasury flexibility tend to play a decisive role.

For that reason, businesses focused on operational predictability and global payment workflows may find ForumPay slightly better aligned with long-term infrastructure strategy.

Final Thoughts

Accepting crypto payments in 2026 is no longer about following trends, nor does it require technical expertise. It is a strategic decision that has received demonstrable demand from consumers around the world.

Both ForumPay and NOWPayments offer viable pathways into the digital asset payment ecosystem. The choice depends on whether a business prioritizes token diversity or settlement structure, crypto-native flexibility or volatility management.

For companies seeking a balanced, business-oriented approach to crypto acceptance, particularly those operating internationally, ForumPay’s settlement flexibility and structured integration model may provide a more stable foundation for long-term growth.

Ultimately, the best crypto payment gateway is the one that aligns not only with your customer base, but with your financial strategy and operational model.