Updated April 2026 · 8 min read · Reviewed by WiseIQ Editorial Team
Quick Comparison: Avant vs Upgrade
UpstartFeature
Avant
Personal Loans
Upgrade
Personal Loans
APR Range
9.95% - 35.99%
7.74% - 35.99% Winner
Loan Amounts
$2,000 - $35,000
$1,000 - $50,000 Winner
Loan Terms
24 - 60 months
24 - 84 months Winner
Origination Fee
Up to 9.99%
1.85% - 9.99%
Minimum Credit Score
550
600
Funding Speed
Next business day
Next business day
Prepayment Penalties
None
None Winner
Joint Applications
No
Yes Winner
WiseIQ Verdict: Avant vs Upgrade
Choose Avant if: You have a fair credit score (as low as 550) and need a loan between $2,000 and $35,000 with predictable fixed payments. Avant is a solid option for those with less-than-perfect credit who prioritize a straightforward application process and quick funding.
Choose Upgrade if: You have a credit score of 600 or higher, need a larger loan amount (up to $50,000), or desire more flexible repayment terms (up to 84 months). Upgrade also offers potential APR discounts for secured loans and allows joint applications, which can be beneficial for qualifying for better rates or higher amounts.
Avant: Full Review
Avant Personal Loans
Overall Rating: 4.0/5.0
9.95%-35.99%
APR Range
$2,000-$35,000
Loan Amounts
24-60 Months
Loan Terms
550
Min. Credit Score
Pros
- Accepts lower credit scores (down to 550)
- Fixed interest rates for predictable payments
- Fast funding, often next business day
- Simple online application process
Cons
- Higher starting APR compared to some competitors
- Origination fees up to 9.99%
- Lower maximum loan amount ($35,000)
- Does not offer joint applications
Avant specializes in personal loans for borrowers with fair to good credit, making it an accessible option for many who might not qualify for prime rates elsewhere. With a minimum credit score requirement of 550, Avant opens doors for individuals looking to consolidate debt, cover emergency expenses, or fund home improvements. The application process is entirely online and designed for speed, often providing a decision within minutes and funds as soon as the next business day.
While Avant's APRs can be on the higher side, reaching up to 35.99%, the fixed interest rate ensures that monthly payments remain consistent throughout the loan term. This predictability can be a significant advantage for budgeting. However, borrowers should be aware of the administration fee, which can be as high as 9.99% and is deducted from the loan proceeds, effectively reducing the amount received.
Avant's loan terms range from 24 to 60 months, offering a reasonable repayment window. Although it doesn't offer the highest loan amounts or the longest terms in the market, its focus on serving a broader credit spectrum with a streamlined process makes it a strong contender for those seeking personal loans with fair credit.
Upgrade: Full Review
Upgrade Personal Loans
Overall Rating: 4.2/5.0
7.74%-35.99%
APR Range
$1,000-$50,000
Loan Amounts
24-84 Months
Loan Terms
600
Min. Credit Score
Pros
- Lower starting APR (7.74%)
- Higher maximum loan amount ($50,000)
- Longer repayment terms (up to 84 months)
- Allows joint applications
- Offers secured loan options for potential APR discounts
- No prepayment penalties
Cons
- Higher minimum credit score requirement (600)
- Origination fees range from 1.85% to 9.99%
- Secured loan options require collateral
Upgrade provides personal loan options for a wide range of borrowers, particularly those with fair to good credit. With a minimum credit score requirement of 600, Upgrade offers competitive starting APRs as low as 7.74%, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking more favorable rates. Loan amounts can go up to $50,000, and repayment terms extend up to 84 months, providing significant flexibility for larger financial needs or longer repayment horizons.
One of Upgrade's standout features is its flexibility, including the option for joint applications, which can help applicants qualify for better terms or higher loan amounts. Additionally, Upgrade offers secured loan options, allowing borrowers to use collateral like a car or home fixtures to potentially secure a lower APR. While origination fees range from 1.85% to 9.99%, there are no prepayment penalties, giving borrowers the freedom to pay off their loan early without extra charges.
Upgrade's commitment to transparent and predictable payments, coupled with its diverse loan offerings and customer-friendly features, positions it as a strong choice for borrowers who meet its credit criteria and are looking for a customizable personal loan solution.
Who Should Choose Avant?
Avant is an excellent choice for borrowers who:
- Have a fair credit score, typically between 550 and 600.
- Need a personal loan for debt consolidation, emergency expenses, or home improvements.
- Prefer a straightforward online application process with fast funding.
- Value predictable, fixed monthly payments.
Who Should Choose Upgrade?
Upgrade is ideal for borrowers who:
- Have a good to excellent credit score, generally 600 or higher.
- Require a larger loan amount, up to $50,000.
- Desire longer repayment terms, up to 84 months.
- Are interested in potential APR discounts through secured loan options.
- Want the flexibility of applying with a co-borrower.