Decide between test mode and Sandboxes
Learn about the differences between test mode and Sandboxes to help choose the most suitable environment for you.
Test mode and Sandboxes are testing environments that simulate creating real objects without the risk of affecting real transactions or moving actual money. Understanding when to use each can help you build your testing strategy.
We recommend that you continue using test mode if it meets your requirements; however, if you benefit from the additional functionality that Sandboxes provide, you can transition to using Sandboxes to enhance your testing capabilities.
View the table below to understand the differences and choose the most suitable environment for your needs.
| Test mode | Sandboxes | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of environments | Use one environment | Use up to five environments |
| Access control | Grant all users with roles the same roles and access. | Exercise granular control over access. Only admins automatically have access. Invite users to sandboxes only, without access to live mode. |
| Settings | Share settings between live mode and test mode. You can’t test many settings independently. | Isolate settings completely for each sandbox. Copy settings from live mode at creation time, and test independently from your live integration. |
| Product limitations | You can’t test IC+ pricing in a sandbox. | You can’t test IC+ pricing or Issuing, use Sigma, or install Stripe Apps in a sandbox. |
| Version support | Supports V1 only | Supports V1 and V2 (including products such as Usage-based billing and Event Destinations). |
| Rate limits | Keep the same between both | Keep the same between both |
| Test card numbers | Keep the same between both | Keep the same between both |
