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Orb vs Paddle

Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.

Usage-based billing infrastructure.

Merchant of record for SaaS.

The verdict

Both Orb and Paddle are credible subscription billing tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.

Choose Orb if you want a higher overall rating (4.7/5). Usage-based billing infrastructure.

Paddle — Merchant of record for SaaS.

Orb vs Paddle: side by side

DimensionOrbPaddle
Starting priceCustomCustom
Free planNoNo
Pricing modelUsage-basedUsage-based
Best forSaas, DevelopersSaas, Indie Makers
PlatformsWeb, ApiWeb, Api
Rating4.7/5Winner4.4/5

Orb key facts

Vendor
Orb
Pricing
Usage-based — Custom
Free tier
No
Platforms
Web, Api
Best for
Saas, Developers
Editor rating
4.7 / 5
Founded
2021
Headquarters
San Francisco, CA, USA

Paddle key facts

Vendor
Paddle
Pricing
Usage-based — Custom
Free tier
No
Platforms
Web, Api
Best for
Saas, Indie Makers
Editor rating
4.4 / 5
Founded
2012
Headquarters
London, UK

Frequently asked questions

Is Orb better than Paddle?

Neither is universally better — Orb edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.

Is Orb or Paddle cheaper?

Orb is the more affordable of the two to get started, at custom. Orb starts at custom; Paddle starts at custom.

Can Orb replace Paddle?

Yes for most teams — both are subscription billing tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.