WHMCS Alternative
Tired of managing servers, PHP updates, and security patches? PayRequest offers modern billing without the infrastructure headache.
The Key Difference
WHMCS
- Need PHP hosting ($10-50/month)
- Manual security updates
- Database management required
- Hours to set up and configure
- Module compatibility issues
PayRequest
- Fully hosted — no server needed
- Automatic updates & security
- Everything managed for you
- Ready in minutes
- All features built-in
Why Switch from WHMCS?
No Server Required
WHMCS needs PHP hosting, a database, and server management. PayRequest is fully hosted — just sign up and start.
10x Faster Setup
WHMCS takes hours to install and configure. PayRequest is ready in minutes — connect Stripe and go.
Zero Maintenance
No more security patches, PHP updates, or module conflicts. We handle everything.
Modern Payment Methods
Native support for iDEAL, SEPA, Bancontact, and Apple Pay. No expensive third-party modules.
Built for Europe
Mollie integration, EU VAT handling, GDPR compliance — all built-in, not bolted on.
Simpler for Customers
Clean, modern checkout experience. No outdated interfaces or confusing client areas.
Feature Comparison
Pricing & Hosting
| Feature | PayRequest | WHMCS |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | €5/month | $15.95/month |
| Hosting included | ||
| No server required | ||
| Automatic updates | Manual | |
| SSL included | Self-managed |
Billing Features
| Feature | PayRequest | WHMCS |
|---|---|---|
| Recurring billing | ||
| One-time payments | ||
| Invoicing | ||
| Payment links | ||
| Dunning management | ||
| Customer portal | ||
| Multi-currency | 135+ | Yes |
Payment Methods
| Feature | PayRequest | WHMCS |
|---|---|---|
| Stripe | ||
| PayPal | ||
| Mollie (EU) | Add-on | |
| iDEAL | Via modules | |
| SEPA Direct Debit | Via modules | |
| Apple Pay / Google Pay | Via Stripe |
Setup & Maintenance
| Feature | PayRequest | WHMCS |
|---|---|---|
| Setup time | Minutes | Hours/Days |
| Technical knowledge | None required | PHP/Server admin |
| Maintenance | Zero | Regular |
| Security patches | Automatic | Manual |
| Backup management | Automatic | Manual |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose PayRequest if:
- You want simple recurring billing without server hassle
- You're a freelancer, agency, or small SaaS
- You need European payment methods (iDEAL, SEPA)
- You don't want to manage hosting or updates
- You need payment links and invoicing
- You're starting fresh or migrating from spreadsheets
Stick with WHMCS if:
- You run a web hosting company with domain registration
- You need deep cPanel/Plesk/DirectAdmin integration
- You have existing WHMCS modules you depend on
- You have dedicated sysadmin resources
- You need highly customized provisioning automation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PayRequest suitable for hosting companies?
PayRequest is ideal for recurring billing, but it doesn't have built-in hosting provisioning (cPanel, Plesk integration). If you need automatic server provisioning, WHMCS is more suitable. For simple subscription billing, PayRequest works great.
How does pricing compare?
WHMCS starts at $15.95/month for the license alone — you still need hosting ($10-50/month). PayRequest is €5/month all-inclusive with hosting, SSL, and updates. No hidden costs.
Can I migrate from WHMCS to PayRequest?
Yes, you can export your customer data and recreate subscriptions in PayRequest. For active subscriptions, customers will need to re-subscribe, but you can do this gradually as renewals come up.
What about WHMCS modules and add-ons?
WHMCS has a large module ecosystem for specific hosting functions. PayRequest focuses on billing and payments — it's simpler but doesn't have hosting-specific integrations. Consider what you actually need.
Which has better payment gateway support?
For European payment methods, PayRequest wins with native Mollie integration for iDEAL, Bancontact, and SEPA. WHMCS requires third-party modules for these, which cost extra and may have compatibility issues.
Is PayRequest secure for billing?
Absolutely. PayRequest is PCI-DSS compliant through Stripe/Mollie, uses bank-level encryption, and handles security updates automatically. With WHMCS, security depends on your server management.
Ready for Simpler Billing?
Try PayRequest free for 14 days. No server setup, no configuration headaches. Just connect Stripe or Mollie and start billing.