Tap, Pay and Go: The Most Convenient Ways to Pay Using Your Phone in Ireland

Paying for goods with your phone has become second nature for many people in Ireland. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee in Cork, shopping online in Limerick, or catching a Luas in Dublin, mobile payment apps offer a fast, secure and hassle-free way to pay. But with so many options available, which are the best payment apps to use in Ireland?

We’ve rounded up the top mobile payment apps Irish consumers are using in 2025—across both Apple and Android devices.

1. Apple Pay – Ideal for iPhone Users

Apple Pay is one of the most seamless ways to pay using your iPhone or Apple Watch. Simply hold your device near the card reader and authorise with Face ID or Touch ID—no need to open an app.

Key Features:

• Accepted at any terminal with contactless support
• Works in shops, apps, and online
• Supported by major Irish banks: AIB, Bank of Ireland, Revolut, N26, and more

Best for: iPhone users who want secure and quick everyday payments.

2. Google Pay – The Go-To for Android Users

Android users in Ireland can rely on Google Pay, which works similarly to Apple Pay and is widely accepted in stores and online.

Key Features:

• Fast, contactless payments using your phone
• Supports loyalty cards and transit tickets
• Linked to banks like Bank of Ireland, Revolut, N26, and bunq

Best for: Android users who want an integrated, all-in-one wallet.

3. Revolut – Beyond Banking

Revolut has become hugely popular in Ireland for its blend of banking and tech-savvy tools. It offers instant spending alerts, budgeting tools, and works with both Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Key Features:

• Virtual and physical debit cards
• Peer-to-peer payments between users
• Supports multiple currencies (ideal for travel)
• Linked to contactless wallets for in-store purchases

Best for: Budget-conscious users and digital nomads.

4. Bank Apps (AIB, BOI, etc.) – For Traditional Bank Users

Most Irish banks now offer mobile apps that support Apple or Google Pay integration, so you can pay directly using your main bank card.

Key Features:

• Trusted institutions
• In-app tools like spending insights and direct debit management
• May include additional security or ID verification features

Best for: People who prefer sticking with their traditional bank.

5. PayPal – Best for Online Shopping

Though not commonly used for in-store payments in Ireland, PayPal remains one of the most popular online payment platforms globally.

Key Features:

• One-click payments for online purchases
• Accepted on thousands of global sites like eBay, Etsy, and Booking.com
• Can link to your bank account or card

Best for: Secure online transactions and international shopping.

6. SumUp Pay / Zettle Go – Perfect for Small Business Owners

If you’re a trader, freelancer or small business owner, apps like SumUp or Zettle allow you to accept payments directly using your phone or via a mobile card reader.

Key Features:

• Easy to set up with minimal hardware
• Competitive transaction fees
• Some also offer digital wallets for consumer use

Best for: Market stall traders, hairdressers, and mobile service providers.

Honourable Mentions:

• Klarna – For “buy now, pay later” online shopping.
• Samsung Pay – Limited support in Ireland.
• Skrill – Niche use in gaming and online betting but less suitable for daily purchases.

Final Word

Whether you’re paying for your morning coffee, sending money to a friend, or checking out online, mobile payment apps in Ireland have never been easier to use. Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Revolut lead the pack with ease, speed, and security—while PayPal remains the king of online shopping.

For small businesses, apps like SumUp offer practical, affordable solutions to take card and digital payments on the go.

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