PayPal is risky if you have a trade with unknown trade partner and if you are newbie in PayPal trading.
It can be charged back so if you trade with PayPal, only restrict yourself to choose trusted trade partners. Don't fall to offers with too good rates, they are likely scammers who will charge back.
Because it is risky, don't trade with too much value in a single trade.
Paxful is a great option if your planning to buy a small amount of BTC because paxful doesn't require id verification for small amount
On Paxful, check account age, total trading volume, total competed trades and feedback from previous trade partners. If you trade with PayPal, check feedback for PayPal.
You can check offers with Trusted badge or from vendors, or from VIP, Power traders. They are very less likely will scam you.