Content Credits SDK vs Steady
Content Credits SDK
contentcredits.comSteady
steady.pageSide by side
| Figure | Content Credits SDK | Steady |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | Yes |
| API | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 2 | 1 |
| Spec score · Paywall Software | 8.8 (#2) | 7.7 (#12) |
| Security | The privacy policy says it uses industry-standard security practices to protect user data but cannot guarantee absolute security. | Steady’s API is accessible only over HTTPS and uses OAuth 2.0 for application authorization. |
| Support | The maker says it assists publishers with integration and provides analytics and support; the publisher page invites interested organizations to contact its team. | The creator success team helps creators price membership tiers, plan launches and maintain momentum after launch. |
| What it does | Content Credits lets readers unlock premium articles with pay-per-article micropayments, while publishers earn from casual readers. | Steady helps independent media makers build newsletters and memberships to earn directly from their audiences. |
Plans
Content Credits SDK
- PublisherFree
- Reader pay-per-articlePrice not published
In their own words
Content Credits SDK
Content Credits SDK lets publishers charge for individual premium articles while giving readers a way to pay only when they want access. Readers use one account and wallet across participating publishers, without a monthly subscription. The SDK can keep paid content hidden until a reader pays the article’s credit price, then reveal it without a page reload. Readers buy credits using credit cards or digital wallets; PayPal processes payments, and Content Credits says it does not store payment details. Publishers choose article prices and access rules and can use the service alongside an existing paywall. Integration options include a WordPress plugin, JavaScript SDK, npm package, and custom paywalls; named supported stacks include WordPress, custom CMSs, Next.js, React, and Vue. Publisher tools cover reader behavior and article performance, with features intended to encourage longer visits and deeper scrolling. Publisher participation is free, but Content Credits takes a percentage of micropayments; payouts are monthly with detailed reports. Credits have no cash value, are non-refundable and non-transferable, and may expire after 12 months of inactivity.
Steady
Steady is a web and API platform for independent media makers, including magazines, newsletters, podcasts and video channels. It helps creators publish newsletters and memberships and earn directly from audiences. Newsletter sending is free without audience limits or escalating costs. Memberships use recurring billing, with monthly or annual charges, and Steady takes a 10% commission on membership revenue once earning begins; payment-provider fees and VAT also apply. The service supports full-site content gating, flexible paywalls, embedded buttons and supporter prompts. Newsletter tools can welcome readers automatically, resurface selected work and re-engage quiet subscribers. Externally hosted podcasts can be gated by membership tier and distributed through Spotify or private RSS. Steady Code adds website layers and embeds regardless of a site’s CMS. Creator income is transferred in lump sums, and failed payments are retried automatically. The Free plan is free. Custom domains are not supported.