OUR VERDICT
LightStream wins on rate for borrowers with excellent credit (720+). SoFi wins on loan size, unemployment protection, and member benefits.
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Unique advantage: Rate Beat Program — beat any competitor's rate by 0.10% (with conditions)
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
Unique advantage: Unemployment protection — pause payments if you lose your job
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
| Feature | LightStream Personal Loans | SoFi Personal Loans |
|---|---|---|
| APR Range | 6.99%–25.49% | 8.99%–29.49% |
| Loan Amount | $5,000–$100,000 | $5,000–$100,000 |
| Loan Terms | 2–12 years | 2–7 years |
| Minimum Credit Score | 720+ | 680+ |
| Origination Fee | None | None |
| Pre-Qualification | No (hard pull) | Yes (soft pull) |
| Same-Day Funding | Yes | Yes |
| Unemployment Protection | No | Yes |
| Rate Beat Program | Yes | No |
| Mobile App | No | Yes |
LightStream is best for borrowers with excellent credit (720+) who want the absolute lowest rate and longest repayment term.
SoFi is best for borrowers with good credit (680–719) who want to pre-qualify without a hard pull and value unemployment protection.
Is LightStream or SoFi better for personal loans?
LightStream has lower rates (starting at 6.99% vs 8.99%) and longer terms (up to 12 years). SoFi has a lower minimum credit score, pre-qualification with a soft pull, and unemployment protection. For excellent credit borrowers who want the best rate, LightStream wins. For good credit borrowers who want flexibility, SoFi wins.
Does LightStream do a hard pull?
Yes. LightStream does not offer pre-qualification — applying triggers a hard credit pull. This is a significant disadvantage vs SoFi, which allows you to check your rate with a soft pull before committing.
What credit score do you need for LightStream?
LightStream requires approximately 720+ credit score. They also look at income, assets, and overall credit profile. Even with a 720+ score, approval isn't guaranteed if your debt-to-income ratio is high.