Edge vs. National Processing: A 2023 Comparison

Understand payment processing essentials, compare Edge and National Processing, and find the best fit for your business. Make informed decisions today!

Running a business is no easy feat, and choosing the right payment processor can feel like another hurdle. It's a critical decision that impacts everything from customer experience to your bottom line. You need a system that's reliable, secure, and cost-effective. In this post, we'll break down the essentials of payment processing and compare two key players in the game: Edge vs. National Processing. We'll explore their strengths and weaknesses, pricing structures, and unique features to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're a small startup or a growing enterprise, understanding the nuances of payment processing is crucial for success. Let's get started.

Key Takeaways

• Payment processing involves a network of players: Understanding the roles of the customer, merchant, payment gateway, and processor helps you make informed decisions about your payment system.

• Edge prioritizes streamlined integrations and enhanced security: Features like subscription management, QuickBooks integration, and transaction risk scoring contribute to a more efficient and secure payment experience.

• National Processing offers flexible pricing and broad industry support: With various plans and a focus on transparent costs, National Processing caters to businesses of all sizes and across diverse sectors.

What is Payment Processing?

Payment processing describes the behind-the-scenes steps involved when a customer pays with a credit card, debit card, or other method. Think of it as a relay race, with information passing between different players. These key players include the customer, the merchant (that's you!), the payment gateway, and the payment processor.

Let's break down the race:

1. The Starting Line: It all begins when your customer enters their payment details, whether they're shopping in your physical store or browsing your online checkout. This information gets securely passed to the payment gateway, which acts like a messenger between you, the customer, and the payment processor (think of companies like Stripe). This initial handoff is crucial for protecting sensitive data.

2. The Handoff: The payment processor takes the baton next, contacting the customer's bank to verify they have the funds. The bank sends back an approval or decline message, which travels back through the network to your bank and finally to you. This authorization process is essential for ensuring smooth transactions.

3. The Finish Line (and Beyond): Once approved, the funds are transferred to your account, and the transaction is complete. But the race doesn't end there. The payments landscape is constantly changing, with new technologies like embedded payments and buy now, pay later options gaining traction. Staying on top of these evolving trends is key to staying competitive. Industry reports offer valuable insights into the future of payments and can help you adapt to the changing market. Further research highlights the importance of staying informed about these changes.

Choosing the right payment processor can significantly impact your bottom line and customer experience. Understanding the process is the first step toward making an informed decision.

Edge: A Closer Look

This section dives into what Edge offers, from its core features to its customer support. We'll explore how Edge can streamline your payment processes and contribute to your business's growth.

Core Services and Features

Edge focuses on providing a smooth and efficient payment experience. Think of it as your business's financial command center. They handle everything from subscription management (recurring billing made easy!) and seamless QuickBooks integration, which keeps your books tidy, to sophisticated transaction risk scoring that helps protect your business from fraud. This localized approach to data processing, similar to the principles of edge computing, means faster transaction times and a better experience for your customers. Plus, enhanced security measures, like minimizing data transmitted to the cloud, help protect sensitive information and reduce the risk of compromise. Ready to get started? Start building with Edge today.

Pricing and Fees

Transparency is key when it comes to payment processing. Edge offers clear and competitive pricing, focused on providing value for your business. They use a tiered pricing model, meaning your transaction fees decrease as your processing volume grows—a great incentive to scale. For a detailed breakdown of their fee structure, check out their official pricing page and explore their documentation for specifics on transaction fees and other costs associated with credit card processing and bank transfers.

Customer Support

Edge understands that reliable customer support is crucial for any business, especially when dealing with finances. They aim to provide responsive and helpful assistance whenever you need it. While many companies are turning to AI-powered solutions for 24/7 support, as discussed in this article on the future of customer service, Edge emphasizes a personalized approach. If you're ready to learn more, contact their sales team. You can also explore their hosted checkout options to see how they prioritize a smooth and user-friendly experience for your customers.

National Processing: A Deep Dive

National Processing is a popular choice for businesses looking for payment processing solutions. Let's take a closer look at what they offer.

Key Offerings and Capabilities

National Processing provides a range of merchant services designed for businesses of all sizes. From traditional point-of-sale (POS) systems to e-commerce solutions, they aim to cover a variety of needs. This includes credit card processing, a must-have for most businesses these days. Their diverse offerings make them a convenient one-stop shop for many merchants.

Pricing and Costs

National Processing promotes a flexible pricing structure. They offer various packages designed for different business sizes and transaction volumes, with options starting at $9.95 per month plus processing fees. For higher-volume businesses—those processing $10,000 or more each month—they offer a price guarantee and a $500 gift card if they can't beat your current rates. This commitment to competitive pricing can be particularly appealing for businesses experiencing growth.

Customer Service

National Processing highlights its commitment to customer support. They consider it a key differentiator, along with their product offerings and pricing. Generally positive online reviews from merchants back up this claim, indicating a solid reputation for service in the industry. Merchant Maverick also points to positive customer service feedback. This focus on support can be a major factor for businesses that want a reliable and responsive payment processor.

Edge vs. National Processing: A Comparison

This section compares Edge and National Processing, focusing on key areas for businesses seeking payment solutions. We'll look at how each provider handles transactions, eCommerce, security, and industry-specific benefits.

Transaction Processing

National Processing offers monthly plans starting at $9.95, plus per-transaction fees (Merchant Maverick), working with businesses across various industries, including high-risk merchants (USA Today). This makes them accessible to startups and smaller companies. Edge focuses on optimizing payment systems with features like subscription management and QuickBooks integration, streamlining financial operations for businesses of all sizes. For more details on Edge's pricing, visit their pricing page. This difference highlights the choice between a potentially lower initial cost with National Processing and a more robust, scalable solution with Edge.

eCommerce Solutions

Edge shines with its comprehensive services designed for online businesses. Features like hosted checkout and subscription management are tailored for eCommerce. While National Processing works with various businesses, their focus isn't specifically eCommerce. Azion explains how using edge computing for eCommerce can improve performance by bringing core functions closer to the user. This is where Edge potentially excels, offering specialized eCommerce tools.

Security and Fraud Prevention

Both providers prioritize secure transactions. Edge uses transaction risk scoring to identify and mitigate potential fraud. For more on how Edge handles security, explore their documentation. While we don't have specific details on National Processing's security measures here, understanding edge computing's role in security is important. Xailient explains how processing data closer to the source improves security by reducing data transmission to the cloud. This approach aligns with Edge's security focus.

Industry Benefits

National Processing's flat-rate pricing and month-to-month billing (Merchant Maverick) can benefit businesses with predictable transaction volumes. Edge, however, aims to improve customer satisfaction and reduce costs through specialized services. This suggests Edge might be a better fit for businesses with complex payment needs, like subscription services or high-risk industries. To discuss your specific industry needs, contact Edge's sales team. You can also start building with Edge to experience their platform firsthand.

Pricing Showdown: Edge vs. National Processing

When choosing a payment processor, pricing is a major factor. This section breaks down the costs associated with Edge and National Processing to help you make an informed decision.

Fee Structures

National Processing offers a variety of pricing packages designed for businesses of all sizes. With monthly plans starting at $9.95 plus transaction fees (USA Today), this flexible approach lets businesses select a plan that aligns with their transaction volume and budget. Edge, on the other hand, uses tiered pricing. Transaction fees decrease as your processing volume grows (Edge Documentation). This structure rewards growth and can lead to significant savings for high-volume businesses. Understanding these different approaches is crucial for selecting the right processor. Check out our pricing page for more details on Edge's tiered pricing.

Hidden Costs

Transparency is key when evaluating payment processing fees. National Processing is known for its upfront pricing, clearly outlining costs on its website (Merchant Maverick) and offering various transparent options (Forbes). This allows businesses to easily understand the full cost structure and avoid surprises. Edge also prioritizes transparent pricing. Connect with our sales team for a personalized consultation and a complete understanding of potential costs.

Value for Businesses

National Processing's competitive pricing, including a $0 starting monthly fee, can be attractive for small businesses or those with lower transaction volumes (Forbes). Their best-rate match guarantee for businesses processing over $10,000 per month (USA Today) makes them a practical choice for small to mid-sized businesses. Edge focuses on providing value through enhanced data security and improved performance, leveraging the benefits of edge computing (Datamation). This focus on technology and security can minimize fraud and downtime, translating to long-term cost savings. Explore our hosted checkout options to learn more about how Edge can streamline your payment processes.

Customer Support: Edge vs. National Processing

When your business relies on smooth payment processing, reliable customer support is crucial. Let's compare how Edge and National Processing handle your support needs.

Availability and Response Times

National Processing offers phone and email support, and some sources suggest 24/7 availability (directpaynet.com). However, details on response times are scarce on their website. At Edge, we prioritize rapid responses and offer various channels to reach our support team. We know payment issues are time-sensitive and work to provide prompt solutions. For quick answers, explore our support documentation.

Quality of Support

National Processing generally receives positive customer service reviews (Merchant Maverick), but experiences may differ. Some users appreciate their helpfulness (Trustpilot), while others report inconsistencies. Edge focuses on proactive support, anticipating and addressing potential issues before they affect your business. We build strong client relationships and offer personalized guidance. Contact our sales team to discuss your specific needs.

Self-Service Resources

National Processing provides online resources like FAQs and articles (several.com). However, their use of multiple back-end processors (Merchant Maverick) can sometimes make finding information difficult. Edge offers comprehensive documentation and resources designed to empower you to manage your payments effectively. We strive for clear, concise, and easily accessible information. Ready to experience the Edge difference? Start building your integrated payment solution.

Pros and Cons: Edge vs. National Processing

Choosing the right payment processor is a crucial decision for any business. This section compares Edge and National Processing, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed choice.

Advantages

Edge focuses on streamlining payment processes and improving customer satisfaction. Its emphasis on data-driven insights and cost reduction strategies can be a significant advantage for businesses looking to optimize their operations. Features like subscription payment management and QuickBooks integration cater to specific business needs, offering a tailored approach to payment processing. For a closer look at Edge's platform, you can explore their documentation or start building. Edge also offers a convenient hosted checkout solution to simplify online transactions.

National Processing offers versatile payment solutions suitable for various industries, as highlighted by Forbes. Their focus on customization, efficiency, and security, combined with a transparent pricing structure, makes them an attractive option. This transparent pricing, starting at $0 per month, is particularly appealing to smaller businesses. You can find more details on their pricing page.

Drawbacks

While Edge's focus on technology offers benefits, it also presents potential challenges. Ensuring robust security and managing data storage are key considerations. Businesses with limited technical expertise might require additional support to navigate these aspects. Contact Edge's sales team to discuss your specific needs and explore their pricing options.

National Processing, while generally well-regarded, may have limitations in terms of advanced features compared to some competitors. Website Planet notes that their simpler plans might not suit businesses requiring a wider range of functionalities. Additionally, their support for high-risk industries is selective, as pointed out by Merchant Maverick. Understanding these limitations is essential when evaluating if National Processing aligns with your business requirements.

Unique Features: Edge vs. National Processing

This section dives into the unique strengths of both Edge and National Processing, highlighting what sets them apart in the competitive payment processing landscape.

Edge's Offerings

Edge distinguishes itself through its focus on speed and security, leveraging the power of edge computing. This means data is processed closer to its source, resulting in faster transaction times and reduced latency for your customers. Think of it like this: instead of sending data across the country to a central server, it’s processed at a local hub, making the whole experience snappier. This localized processing also enhances security by minimizing the amount of data transmitted and keeping sensitive information more contained, reducing the risk of data breaches. For more on the benefits of edge computing, check out this article from Datamation. Plus, Edge's adaptable platform allows for seamless integration with various business tools and applications, streamlining your operations and giving you more control over your payment processes. Want to see how it works in action? Explore the Edge docs to get a better understanding of its capabilities. Ready to get started? Start building with Edge today.

National Processing's Benefits

National Processing shines in its flexibility and transparency. They offer a variety of pricing packages tailored to businesses of all sizes, so you can find a plan that fits your specific needs and budget. This Forbes review highlights National Processing's versatile solutions for various industries. Their pricing is clearly laid out on their website, so you know exactly what to expect – no surprises. They also offer month-to-month billing with no long-term contracts or early termination fees, providing greater freedom and control over your payment processing setup. This commitment to transparent pricing is a major plus for businesses looking for predictable costs, as detailed in this Merchant Maverick review. National Processing also prides itself on its customer support, offering multiple channels like phone and email to assist you with any questions or issues. You can find more on their customer service capabilities in this review from CardPaymentOptions. Interested in learning more about their pricing structure? Head over to their pricing page for a detailed breakdown.

Choosing the Right Payment Processor

Picking the right payment processor is a big decision. It's the foundation of your business's financial operations, impacting everything from customer satisfaction to your bottom line. Choosing poorly can lead to unnecessary expenses, frustrated customers, and a whole lot of headaches. This section breaks down the key factors to consider so you can make a smart choice.

Factors to Consider

Think of these factors as your non-negotiables. They're the must-haves for a smooth and cost-effective payment process.

• Pricing Structure: Don't just look at the initial price tag. Compare different pricing models. Some processors, like National Processing, offer flexible pricing structures designed for businesses of all sizes, while others have a less adaptable approach. Consider your transaction volume and average transaction size to find the most cost-effective solution.

• Customer Support Options: Problems happen. When they do with your payment processing, you need reliable support. Check which customer support channels each processor offers. Is there 24/7 phone support? Email? Live chat? Quick access to help can save you time and stress.

• Integration Capabilities: Your payment processor should integrate seamlessly with your existing business tools, like your eCommerce platform, accounting software, and CRM. Smooth integration streamlines your operations and saves you time. Look for a user-friendly interface, mobile responsiveness, and robust security.

• Transparency in Fees: Hidden fees can significantly impact your profits. Choose a processor with upfront pricing. Providers like National Processing, which emphasize transparent pricing and no hidden fees, allow you to accurately forecast costs and avoid surprises.

Aligning with Your Needs

Beyond the basics, consider your specific business needs. A solution that works for a small online boutique might not work for a large brick-and-mortar store.

• Customization and Flexibility: Your business will grow and change. Your payment processor should too. National Processing, for example, offers customized solutions for various industries, allowing you to tailor the system to your specific requirements.

• Support for High-Risk Industries: If you're in a high-risk industry, you need a payment processor that understands your unique challenges. National Processing works with high-risk merchants, offering tailored solutions to manage risk and maintain smooth transactions.

• Customer Experience: Your payment processor is a key part of your customer's overall experience. A clunky checkout process can lead to abandoned carts and lost sales. Prioritize a seamless and user-friendly experience. Customer reviews can offer valuable insights into a processor's performance.

• Ease of Use: Processing payments shouldn't be complicated. Choose a platform that's intuitive and easy to use. A user-friendly system simplifies your daily operations, freeing you to focus on other aspects of your business. National Processing, for instance, is known for its straightforward platform.

User Feedback and Common Issues

This section explores what users say about both Edge and National Processing, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. Since Edge is newer to the market and user feedback is still developing, we can learn from existing National Processing reviews to understand common priorities for businesses when choosing a payment processor. This information can help you make a smart decision about which platform best suits your needs.

Customer Experiences

National Processing generally receives positive feedback for its customer support. Reviewers on sites like Trustpilot and ConsumerAffairs frequently mention helpful service and a personal touch. Merchant Maverick also notes that positive customer support feedback stands out in this industry, where complaints are more frequent. This suggests National Processing prioritizes customer satisfaction and invests in quality support. If excellent customer support is a must-have for your business, exploring options like Edge, with its dedicated support team, might be worthwhile. You can learn more by contacting our sales team.

Areas for Improvement

While customer service appears strong for National Processing, some reviews highlight potential areas for growth. Website Planet notes that National Processing may offer fewer features than competitors, prioritizing simplicity and transparent pricing. This might work well for smaller businesses, but companies with more complex needs might find the platform limiting. Edge, on the other hand, offers a wider range of features like hosted checkout and robust QuickBooks integration, which might appeal to growing businesses. Additionally, Merchant Maverick mentions that National Processing doesn't work with every high-risk industry. If your business operates in a high-risk sector, it's crucial to confirm compatibility. Finally, CardPaymentOptions shows a mix of positive and negative reviews, with some expressing dissatisfaction. This mixed feedback reinforces the importance of carefully considering your specific business needs and researching thoroughly. You can explore Edge's documentation to see if our platform aligns with your requirements or start building your integration today.

Related Articles

• How Payment Processing Works: Unlocking the Secrets to Secure and Efficient Transactions - Edge

• Understanding Payment Gateways vs. Processors: A Simple Guide - Edge

• Large Payment Processors: What You Need to Know - Edge

• Payment Processing Technology: What Every Business Should Know - Edge

• Future Trends in High-Risk Payment Processing You Should Know - Edge

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Edge and National Processing for eCommerce businesses?

Edge offers features specifically designed for online businesses, like hosted checkout and subscription management, leveraging edge computing for faster processing and enhanced security. National Processing provides more general merchant services, so while they can handle online transactions, their focus isn't solely on eCommerce. This means Edge might be a better fit if you're primarily selling online and need specialized tools.

If I'm a small business with a limited budget, which payment processor is more cost-effective?

National Processing offers lower starting monthly fees, which can be attractive for businesses with tight budgets or lower transaction volumes. However, Edge's tiered pricing model, where fees decrease as your volume grows, could be more beneficial in the long run if you anticipate significant growth. It's worth comparing both pricing structures and considering your projected growth to determine the best long-term value.

How do Edge and National Processing handle security and fraud prevention?

Both providers prioritize secure transactions. Edge uses transaction risk scoring to identify and mitigate potential fraud, leveraging the security benefits of edge computing. While National Processing also emphasizes security, they haven't publicly detailed their specific measures. If robust security is a top priority, researching Edge's approach and contacting them for more information would be beneficial.

What if I need help with my payment processing? What kind of customer support can I expect?

National Processing generally receives positive reviews for its customer support, but specific response times aren't readily available. Edge emphasizes responsive support and offers multiple channels to reach their team. If quick and reliable support is crucial for your business, it's worth contacting both providers to discuss their support options and service level agreements.

I'm in a high-risk industry. Will either of these processors work for me?

National Processing works with some high-risk merchants, but not all. Edge's focus on security and risk management might make them a suitable option, but it's essential to contact their sales team to discuss your specific industry and ensure they can meet your needs. Don't assume either provider will automatically work for high-risk businesses; always confirm compatibility directly.