> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.ripio.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Choose your integration

> Decide between the Ramps API and the embeddable Widget to add On-Ramp and Off-Ramp to your platform.

There are two ways to add On-Ramp (fiat → crypto) and Off-Ramp (crypto → fiat) to your platform. Both run on the same underlying service and support the same [countries and payment methods](/ramps-api/overview/countries/overview) — they differ in how much of the user experience you build yourself.

## The two paths

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="API integration" href="/ramps-api/guides/on-ramp-integration">
    Call the REST API directly and build your own UI. Maximum control over the experience.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Widget integration" href="/ramps-api/widget/introduction">
    Embed Ripio's pre-built, themeable UI. Fastest way to ship.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Which one should you use?

| Feature                | API integration                                | Widget integration                                  |
| ---------------------- | ---------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------- |
| **Integration type**   | Direct API calls, backend-to-backend primarily | Embeddable UI, frontend integration                 |
| **User experience**    | Fully customizable by the partner              | Pre-built UI, themeable via CSS                     |
| **Development effort** | Higher — you build the UI and handle API logic | Lower — mainly token generation and URL redirection |
| **Control**            | Granular control over each step                | Streamlined flow managed by the widget              |
| **Use case**           | Deep, custom financial integrations            | A quick, easy way to add on/off-ramp                |
| **Authentication**     | OAuth2 Client Credentials for API access       | JWT token generated via API for the widget session  |

**Choose the API** if you want to own the end-to-end experience and embed the flows natively in your product.

**Choose the Widget** if you want to go live quickly with minimal development.

## Next steps

Once you've decided:

* **API** → [Authenticate](/ramps-api/authentication/acquire-access-token), then follow the [On-Ramp](/ramps-api/guides/on-ramp-integration) or [Off-Ramp](/ramps-api/guides/off-ramp-integration) walkthrough.
* **Widget** → [Widget integration](/ramps-api/widget/introduction).

Either way, check [Countries & payment methods](/ramps-api/overview/countries/overview) for what's available in your market.