BillingExtensions vs ExtensionPay
ExtensionPay is a trademark of its respective owner. BillingExtensions is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by ExtensionPay. This page is a practical comparison to help you choose the right fit.
If you only need client-side paywalling inside a browser extension, both tools can get you there. BillingExtensions is built for that same “SDK-first” workflow, with two extra focuses: cleaner default permissions (no required content script) and an optional server-side verification API for extensions that call backends (LLMs, paid APIs, usage-based features).
| Capability | BillingExtensions | ExtensionPay |
|---|---|---|
| Client-side SDK (works without your own backend) | Yes | Yes |
| Subscriptions + one-time payments | Yes | Yes |
| Stripe Connect (direct payouts) | Yes | Yes |
| Content script required by default | No | Depends on approach |
| Optional server-side entitlement verification (for backends) | Built-in | Typically custom |
| Webhook → DB sync (optional) | Built-in | Typically custom |
| Good fit for LLM/API gating | Yes | Possible (varies) |
| Setup time (with init script) | < 1 minute | Varies |
| Platform fee | 4.5% | 5% |
Notes: “Typically custom” means you can always build these pieces yourself; the point is whether the provider offers them as a first-class feature.
Set up quickly (optional init)
Install the SDK and run the init script to wire up your manifest/service worker basics. You can also set everything up manually if you prefer.
$ npx -y -p @billingextensions/sdk bext init "appId" "publicKey"
Server-side verification when you actually need it
Many extensions are fine with client-side checks. But if your extension hits a backend (especially for expensive operations like LLM calls), server-side entitlement verification can reduce abuse and keep usage gating consistent. BillingExtensions supports this as an optional layer — you don’t need a backend to start.
Cleaner default permissions (no required content script)
BillingExtensions is designed to work without injecting scripts into pages by default. Your UI will still update after checkout when the user returns. If you want instant updates while the extension stays open, you can add a content script or set up webhooks — but it’s optional, not required.
Bottom line
Both tools can work well for paid extensions. If you’re staying purely client-side, pick the workflow you prefer. If you expect to add backend features later (LLMs/APIs/usage-based), BillingExtension’s optional server verification can save you a migration.
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