Streamlabs vs StreamElements for Donations
Both platforms are free and don't take a cut from donations. So what's the difference? Here's everything you need to know.
Last updated: 2026-01-13
Which platform takes a smaller cut?
Neither Streamlabs nor StreamElements takes a percentage of your donations. Both platforms are free to use for basic features.
However, both route donations through PayPal or credit cards, so processing fees typically start around 2.89% plus a fixed fee per transaction. Depending on the donor's location and the currency used, the total cost can be higher due to international surcharge and higher fixed fee. In total, they can add up to 6-10% for smaller donations.
Which has more payment options?
Streamlabs supports PayPal and credit/debit cards.
StreamElements supports PayPal and their native payment method SE.Pay, which allows other donation options such as credit cards, iDEAL and more. It's worth noting SE.Pay is only available in a selection of countries.
Which has better free features?
StreamElements wins on free content. All their overlay templates and widgets are completely free. Streamlabs locks many premium templates behind their "Ultra" subscription at $27/month.
Both platforms offer customizable alerts for donations, follows, and subs with comparable functionality.
Does either platform protect against chargebacks?
Neither platform fully protects you. Since donations go through PayPal, donors can dispute transactions and take their money back weeks later.
StreamElements' SE.Pay claims to cover chargeback fees (not the donation itself), but only for SE.Pay transactions - not PayPal. Streamlabs offers no native chargeback protection.
Which should you choose?
StreamElements offers more donation methods (if your region supports SE.Pay) and can partially protect you from chargebacks.
Consider alternatives if chargebacks are a concern or you want faster access to your money than PayPal provides.
Comparison
| Feature | Streamlabs | StreamElements |
|---|---|---|
| Platform fee | 0% | 0% |
| PayPal support | ||
| Credit card support | ||
| Crypto support | ||
| International payments (Skrill) | ||
| Free overlay templates | Limited | All free |
| Chargeback protection | SE.Pay only |
Frequently asked questions
Does Streamlabs take a cut of donations?
No. Streamlabs does not take any percentage of your donations. You only pay standard payment processor fees (PayPal, credit card, etc.).
Does StreamElements take a cut of donations?
No. StreamElements also does not take a cut. Like Streamlabs, you only pay the payment processor's transaction fees.
Which has lower fees?
Fees are effectively identical since both use the same payment processors. PayPal charges at least 2.89% plus a fixed fee regardless of which platform you use. In practice, the total cost can be higher depending on the donor's location and the currency used. This can reach up to 10% effectively for smaller donations after including an international surcharge and the fixed fee.
Can I use both at the same time?
Yes, but it's not recommended. Using two donation links can confuse viewers and split your donation alerts. Pick one and stick with it.
Is there a better alternative for chargebacks?
If you want instant payouts, lower fees, or chargeback protection, consider platforms like IDRISS that offer these features without the PayPal middleman.
Note: Fees, payout schedules, and platform policies can change over time. The information in this article reflects standard rates and practices as of the last update of this article. For the most up-to-date details, check the official documentation of each platform.