Choosing between Upstart and LightStream comes down to your credit profile, how much you need to borrow, and how quickly you need funds. Both are legitimate online lenders, but they serve different borrower profiles. This guide breaks down every key difference so you can make a confident decision.

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WiseIQ Pick
Upstart — No minimum credit score and higher loan amounts up to $75,000

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Upstart logoUpstart LightStream logoLightStream
APR Range 6.20% – 35.99% 6.49% – 24.89%
Loan Amounts $1,000 – $75,000 $5,000 – $100,000
Loan Terms 3 or 5 years 2 – 12 years
Min. Credit Score None (AI-based) ~660 (good credit)
Origination Fee 0% – 12% None
Time to Fund 1 business day Same day possible
Prepayment Penalty None None
Soft Pull for Rate Yes No (hard pull only)

When to Choose Upstart

Upstart is the better choice if you have a limited credit history, a credit score below 660, or if you need more than $40,000. Upstart's AI-based underwriting considers your education and work history, which can result in approval even when traditional lenders decline you.

  • You have a limited credit history or no credit score at all
  • You need more than $100,000 (Upstart goes up to $75,000)
  • You want funds in 1 business day
  • You want to check your rate without a hard credit pull
  • Your education or employment history is stronger than your credit score suggests
Check My Upstart Rate →

When to Choose LightStream

LightStream is ideal if you have a credit score of 720 or higher and want the lowest possible APR with zero fees. Their Rate Beat program guarantees to beat any competitor's rate by 0.10%, and they offer loan terms up to 12 years for home improvement projects.

Upstart: Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

  • No minimum credit score
  • AI-based underwriting (education + work history)
  • Loans up to $75,000
  • Funds in 1 business day
  • Soft pull for rate check
  • No prepayment penalty
  • Available in all 50 states

⚠️ Cons

  • Origination fee up to 12%
  • Only 3 or 5 year terms (no 7-year option)
  • Rates can be high for lower credit profiles
  • No co-signer option

LightStream: Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

  • APR from 6.49%
  • Loan amounts up to $100,000
  • Origination fee: None
  • Funding: Same day possible

⚠️ Cons

  • Requires min. credit score of ~660 (good credit)
  • Lower max loan than Upstart
  • May not accept thin credit profiles

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Upstart or LightStream have better rates? +
LightStream generally offers lower APRs (starting at 6.49%) for borrowers with excellent credit, while Upstart starts at 6.20% but charges an origination fee of up to 12%. For borrowers with good credit, LightStream is often cheaper overall. For borrowers with fair or thin credit, Upstart may be the only option.
Can I get an Upstart loan with bad credit? +
Yes. Upstart has no official minimum credit score and uses AI-based underwriting that considers your education and employment history. LightStream requires good to excellent credit (typically 660+).
Does LightStream do a soft pull? +
No. LightStream performs a hard credit inquiry when you apply, which temporarily affects your credit score. Upstart allows you to check your rate with a soft pull before committing.
Which lender funds faster? +
Both fund quickly. LightStream can fund the same day if you sign your agreement before 2:30 PM ET on a business day. Upstart typically funds within 1 business day after approval.
What is LightStream's minimum loan amount? +
LightStream's minimum loan amount is $5,000, compared to Upstart's $1,000 minimum. If you need a smaller loan, Upstart is the better option.

Related Guides

Best Personal Loans 2026 → Upstart Review 2026 → Personal Loans for Bad Credit → Personal Loan Calculator → Debt Consolidation Loans →

WiseIQ may earn a referral fee from some lenders on this page. This does not influence our editorial ratings or recommendations. Our reviews are independently researched and editorially independent. Updated April 08, 2026.