📋 Reviewed by WiseIQ Editorial Team · Updated April 2026 · Editorially independent
Updated April 2026 · 8 min read · Reviewed by WiseIQ Editorial Team
Quick Comparison: Best Egg vs Upstart
APR Range
6.99% - 35.99%
6.2% - 35.99% Winner
Origination Fee
0.99% - 9.99%
0% - 12%
Loan Amounts
$2,000 - $50,000
$1,000 - $75,000 Winner
Repayment Terms
3 to 5 years
3 or 5 years
Minimum Credit Score
640
None disclosed
Funding Time
1 to 3 business days
As fast as 1 business day Winner
Prepayment Penalty
None
None
Late Fees
Varies by state
$15
WiseIQ Verdict: Best Egg vs Upstart
Best Egg is generally better for borrowers with good to excellent credit (640+) who are looking for a straightforward personal loan with competitive rates and clear fee structures. Their focus on traditional credit metrics makes them a reliable choice for established borrowers.
Upstart is often the better choice for individuals with limited credit history or lower credit scores, as they use AI-powered underwriting that considers factors beyond just FICO scores, such as education and employment. This can make them more accessible for those who might not qualify for traditional loans.
Best Egg: Full Review
Pros
- Competitive rates for good credit borrowers
- Clear and transparent fee structure
- Fast funding, often within 1-3 business days
- Option for secured loans with vehicle equity
Cons
- Higher minimum credit score requirement (640)
- Origination fees can be up to 9.99%
- Maximum loan amount ($50,000) is lower than some competitors
- Not ideal for those with poor or limited credit history
Best Egg personal loans are offered by Marlette Funding, LLC, and are known for their streamlined online application process and quick funding times. They cater primarily to borrowers with solid credit profiles, offering competitive APRs starting from 6.99% for well-qualified applicants. While their origination fees can range up to 9.99%, these are deducted from the loan proceeds, meaning borrowers receive the net amount.
Best Egg provides loan amounts from $2,000 to $50,000, with repayment terms typically spanning three to five years. A minimum credit score of 640 is generally required, making them a suitable option for individuals who have established a good credit history and are looking for a reliable personal loan solution for various needs, from debt consolidation to home improvements.
Upstart: Full Review
Upstart Personal Loans
AI-Powered Lending Platform
$1,000 - $75,000
Loan Amounts
3 or 5 Years
Repayment Terms
No Min. Score
Min. Credit Score
Check Rates at Upstart
Pros
- Accessible for borrowers with limited credit history
- AI-driven underwriting considers more than just FICO score
- Lower minimum APR available (6.2%)
- Loan amounts up to $75,000
- Fast funding, often within 1 business day
Cons
- Origination fees can be higher (up to 12%)
- Higher APRs for borrowers with weaker profiles
- Late payment fee of $15
- Not available in all states
Upstart distinguishes itself by utilizing an artificial intelligence (AI) lending platform that looks beyond traditional credit scores. This approach allows them to assess a broader range of applicants, including those with thin credit files or lower FICO scores, by considering factors like education, area of study, and employment history. This innovative underwriting model can lead to higher approval rates for a diverse group of borrowers.
Upstart offers personal loans ranging from $1,000 to $75,000, with fixed repayment terms of either three or five years. While their APRs can go up to 35.99%, their minimum APR of 6.2% is quite competitive. Borrowers should be aware of origination fees, which can range from 0% to 12% and are deducted from the loan proceeds. Upstart is a strong contender for those who may have been turned down by traditional lenders due to their credit history.
Who Should Choose Best Egg?
Best Egg is an excellent choice for borrowers who:
- Have a good to excellent credit score (640 or higher).
- Are looking for a personal loan with predictable terms and competitive rates.
- Prefer a lender with a strong track record in traditional credit assessment.
- Need funds quickly and can meet Best Egg's credit requirements.
Who Should Choose Upstart?
Upstart is particularly well-suited for individuals who:
- Have a limited credit history or a lower credit score.
- Possess strong educational backgrounds or stable employment, which Upstart considers.
- Need a loan for debt consolidation, medical expenses, or other personal uses.
- Are seeking a lender that uses a more holistic approach to loan qualification.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Best Egg and Upstart?
The primary difference lies in their underwriting models. Best Egg relies more on traditional credit scores (FICO) and credit history, while Upstart uses an AI-driven approach that considers factors like education, employment, and income in addition to credit score, making it more accessible to those with limited credit history.
Which lender offers lower interest rates?
Both lenders offer competitive rates, but Upstart has a slightly lower minimum APR (6.2%) compared to Best Egg (6.99%). However, the actual rate you receive depends on your creditworthiness and other factors, and borrowers with excellent credit might find similar rates from both.
Can I get a loan from Best Egg or Upstart with bad credit?
Best Egg generally requires a minimum credit score of 640, so it's not ideal for those with bad credit. Upstart, on the other hand, is more accommodating to borrowers with limited or lower credit scores due to its AI-powered underwriting, which looks beyond just FICO scores.
Do Best Egg and Upstart charge origination fees?
Yes, both lenders charge origination fees. Best Egg's origination fees range from 0.99% to 9.99%, while Upstart's can range from 0% to 12%. These fees are typically deducted from the loan proceeds before you receive the funds.