Earlier quoted context omitted.
I feel like we need to make a big overview map of what payment is like around the world. Because I believe you. But I also have only ever experienced PayPal as an entirely unnecessary middleman. So I think there may be regional differences in play. I can’t remember the last time I typed in a credit card number. Giving it to PayPal seems like a less secure option, given how free from consequences companies are. And th…
As a customer, you can still use your credit card at Paypal and file disputes with your issuer as usual. The merchant just does not get your card number directly, which anecdotally many users perceive as an advantage. As for German regional effects: Paypal allows payments via SEPA Direct Debit there too (~ACH), which are free but very risky for merchants. Many customers don’t have any online-usable debit card, so tha…
As an anecdote - not passing on my credit card details is one reason why I use paypal and then pay Paypal by credit card to get the good disputes process and I trust paypal more than a unknown random place on the web. I now do prefer to use Apple Pay in this case as I trust Apple more than paypal.
I do make larger purchases with my credit card to make any dispute easier.
For plumbers and others who don't take credit cards I use the direct bank payment.