B2B vs DTC: Best Payment Tech Solutions for Each Model

Introduction

The rise of e-commerce has led to two dominant sales models—B2B (Business-to-Business) and DTC (Direct-to-Consumer). Each has unique needs, expectations, and workflows—especially when it comes to payment technology. Choosing the best payment tech solutions is essential for streamlining transactions, improving customer experience, and ultimately driving growth. This guide will help you understand the payment needs of each model and explore the best payment solutions tailored for both B2B and DTC businesses.

Understanding the Differences: B2B vs DTC Payments

Before diving into specific tools, it’s important to distinguish how B2B and DTC payments differ:

B2B Payment Needs

• Larger transaction values
• Recurring or bulk purchases
• Invoices, purchase orders, and net terms (30/60/90 days)
• Multi-user account permissions
• Custom payment approval workflows

DTC Payment Needs

• Fast, frictionless checkout
• Mobile-first payment design
• Credit/debit card and digital wallets
• One-click checkout options
• Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL)

Each model’s payment system must align with its customer journey. A DTC brand thrives on speed and simplicity, while B2B platforms require structure, trust, and flexibility in payments.

Top Payment Tech Solutions for B2B eCommerce

B2B businesses need solutions that can handle high-value transactions, extended payment cycles, and detailed reporting. Here are the top choices:

1. Stripe for B2B

Stripe has evolved beyond basic payment processing. With Stripe Invoicing and Stripe Connect, businesses can create customizable payment workflows and manage vendor payouts seamlessly.

Why it’s good for B2B:

• Supports invoicing with net terms
• Easily integrates with CRMs and ERPs
• Accepts ACH, wire transfers, and cards

2. Authorize.net

A trusted name for decades, Authorize.net allows B2B merchants to accept a wide range of payments and supports manual or recurring billing, ideal for subscription-based or service-driven B2B companies.

Key features:

• Advanced fraud protection
• Recurring billing setup
• Virtual terminal for manual transactions

3. PayPal B2B Payments

PayPal isn’t just for consumers. Its B2B capabilities include PayPal Business Debit Mastercard, e-invoicing, and PayPal Credit options.

Benefits:

• Global recognition and trust
• Buyer and seller protection
• Works well for SMBs with flexible invoicing needs

4. MediusPay (for invoice automation)

For enterprises managing a high volume of invoices and suppliers, MediusPay helps automate approvals and track payments efficiently.

Top Payment Tech Solutions for DTC Brands

DTC brands need conversion-optimized solutions that make checkout lightning-fast and mobile-friendly. Here are the top options for DTC:

1. Shopify Payments

Shopify’s native payment system offers an all-in-one solution for DTC brands. It supports major cards, digital wallets, and regional payment methods.

Why it’s ideal:

• Seamless integration with Shopify stores
• Apple Pay, Google Pay, and BNPL options
• No third-party transaction fees

2. Klarna / Afterpay (Buy Now, Pay Later)

BNPL is becoming essential for DTC brands selling fashion, electronics, and lifestyle products. Klarna and Afterpay let customers split payments, boosting conversions.

Advantages:

• Increases average order value
• Reduces cart abandonment
• No interest for customers (in most cases)

3. Stripe (for DTC)

Stripe is flexible enough for both B2B and DTC. For DTC businesses using headless commerce or custom storefronts, Stripe offers a fast and secure checkout experience.

Standout features:

• One-click checkout with Stripe Link
• Subscription and membership billing
• Mobile-optimized experience

4. Apple Pay & Google Pay

Mobile wallets simplify the checkout process and enhance the user experience for mobile-first consumers.

Reasons to enable:

• Faster checkout
• Secure tokenized payments
• Works natively with mobile browsers and apps

Hybrid Stores: B2B + DTC Models

Some businesses sell both to other businesses and directly to consumers. If that’s you, your payment system needs to handle both workflows.

Recommended Strategy:

• Use Shopify Plus or BigCommerce B2B Edition to segment customer groups.
• Use Stripe or PayPal for flexible checkout flows.
• Implement payment rules by customer type using apps or custom logic.
• Offer invoice-based options for B2B and fast checkout for DTC.

What to Consider When Choosing Your Payment Tech

Whether you run a B2B, DTC, or hybrid business, here are the key things to evaluate before choosing:

• Checkout experience: Is it fast and intuitive?
• Payment methods: Do you offer what your customers prefer?
• Fees: Are the transaction and subscription fees sustainable?
• Security & compliance: PCI DSS, fraud detection, and GDPR compliance
• Integration: Can it plug into your eCommerce stack (CRM, ERP, etc.)?

Final Thoughts: Tailor Your Payment Tech to Your Business Model

There’s no one-size-fits-all in payment technology. The right payment solution depends on how your customers buy, what they expect, and how you want to manage finances.

For B2B, focus on invoicing, flexibility, and automation.
For DTC, prioritize speed, simplicity, and mobile-optimized experiences.

By investing in the right Custom Software Development Services or leveraging existing platforms smartly, you can set up a robust payment system that fits your growth goals.