Donation processing · head to head
Givebutter vs Zeffy
Givebutter and Zeffy are both donation processing tools. Givebutter fits shops running campaigns, events, and peer-to-peer on one modern platform; Zeffy fits fee-sensitive shops that want to keep every dollar of every gift. The table below lines up price, free tier, and fit so you can see which one matches your shop.
| Givebutter | Zeffy | |
|---|---|---|
| Entry price | Free with donor tips on (0% platform fee) | Free (no platform or processing fees) |
| Pricing model | Tips-on free or flat 3%; processing fees apply; optional Plus tier | 100% free to nonprofits; funded by optional donor tips |
| Free tier | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Shops running campaigns, events, and peer-to-peer on one modern platform | Fee-sensitive shops that want to keep every dollar of every gift |
| Last verified | Jul 2026 | Jul 2026 |
Givebutter
Strengths: Free platform spanning donations, ticketing, auctions, and peer-to-peer; The most modern donor-facing experience among the free options; Clean pricing switch: tips on for 0%, tips off for a flat 3%.
Watch for: Processing fees still apply either way; The free tier is a fundraising engine, not a full CRM; Complex recurring-gift programs get more from Donorbox.
Zeffy
Strengths: Zero fees to the nonprofit: a $100 gift deposits $100; Covers donations, ticketing, raffles, and memberships; Runs on Stripe underneath.
Watch for: Donors see an optional tip prompt at checkout; Payouts run on a schedule, not on demand; Fewer integrations than paid processors.