Upgrade vs. Avant: Which Personal Loan Is Better?
Last updated 08/13/2025 by
Ante MazalinEdited by
Andrew LathamSummary:
When comparing personal loans, Upgrade and Avant stand out as two popular online lenders catering to borrowers with fair to good credit. While both companies offer fast funding and flexible terms, there are some key differences in fees, APR ranges, and borrower requirements that may sway your decision.
In this comparison, we break down everything you need to know to help you decide whether Upgrade or Avant is the better fit for your financial needs.
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Side by Side Comparison Upgrade vs. Avant
| Feature | Upgrade | Avant |
|---|---|---|
| Loan Amounts | $1,000 - $50,000 | $2,000 - $35,000 |
| APR Range | 7.74% - 35.99% | 9.95% - 35.99% |
| Loan Terms | 24 months - 84 months | 24 months - 60 months |
| Minimum Credit Score | 600 - 850 | 600 - 760 |
| Origination Fees | 1.85% - 9.99% | Up to 9.99% |
| Late Payment Fee | $10 | $25 |
| Prepayment Fee | No | No |
| Checking Account Required | Yes | Yes |
| Pre-Qualified Soft Credit Inquiry | Yes | Yes |
| SuperMoney User Score | strongly recommended | strongly recommended |
Upgrade Personal Loans Overview
Upgrade is a leading online lender that offers personal loans with flexible terms, high borrowing limits, and digital tools to help users stay on track financially. It’s ideal for borrowers with fair to good credit who want to consolidate debt or finance large expenses.
Key Features:
- Loan amounts: $1,000 - $50,000
- APR range: 7.74% - 35.99%
- Loan terms: 24 months - 84 months
- Credit score requirement:600 - 850
Avant Personal Loans Overview
Avant is a personal loan provider that focuses on helping borrowers with average credit get access to fast funding. While it doesn’t offer the highest loan limits, it does provide quick approvals and flexible terms, making it a solid choice for emergency expenses or short-term borrowing.
Key Features:
- Loan amounts: $2,000 - $35,000
- Credit score requirement: 600 - 760
- APR range: 9.95% - 35.99%
- Loan terms: 24 months - 60 months
Key Differences Between Upgrade and Avant
Loan Amounts and Terms
Upgrade offers significantly higher loan amounts ($1,000 - $50,000), while Avant caps at $2,000 - $35,000. If you need a larger loan, Upgrade is the better choice.
Avant provides shorter loan terms (24 months - 60 months), which may benefit borrowers looking to repay quickly and minimize interest.
Fees and Rates
Both lenders charge an origination or administration fee. Upgrade’s can go up to 1.85% - 9.99%, while Avant’s fee caps at Up to 9.99%. Both can carry high APRs depending on your credit profile.
Credit Requirements
Avant accommodates lower credit scores, requiring 600 - 760. Upgrade typically looks for a minimum score of 600 - 850 and may offer better terms to qualified applicants.
Joint Applications
Upgrade supports joint applications (), which can boost approval odds or improve rates. Avant does not allow joint applications ().
Best For: Who Should Choose Upgrade or Avant
Upgrade is best for:
- Borrowers with fair to good credit (600 - 850)
- Those who want to borrow larger amounts ($1,000 - $50,000)
- People interested in joint applications ()
- Individuals consolidating debt or financing a large expense
Avant is best for:
- Borrowers with average credit (600 - 760)
- Those needing quick funding for smaller expenses ($2,000 - $35,000)
- People looking for shorter loan terms (24 months - 60 months)
- Applicants who want a fast, simple application experience
SuperMoney User Ratings
Upgrade
User Rating: strongly recommended
“Upgrade made it easy to consolidate my debt. The process was fast, and I appreciated the clear communication throughout. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a personal loan.” – SuperMoney Reviewer
What users like most:
- Smooth application and funding process
- Helpful customer support
- Competitive interest rates for qualified borrowers
- Access to budgeting tools and free credit monitoring
Avant
User Rating: strongly recommended
“Avant helped me get a loan when others wouldn’t. The interest rate was higher, but I was grateful for the fast approval and excellent support.” – SuperMoney Reviewer
What users like most:
- Willingness to work with borrowers who have fair or limited credit
- Quick approval and next-day funding
- Transparent terms and easy-to-use online dashboard
- No prepayment penalties
What Next
Still not sure whether Upgrade or Avant is the right lender for you? Don’t worry — we’ve got you covered with more in-depth comparisons to help you make the best financial decision:
To explore even more options, visit our main guide:
This page lets you compare lenders side by side, check your rates with no impact on your credit score, and find the best personal loan for your needs — whether you’re consolidating debt, paying for a big expense, or just want a better interest rate.
- Upgrade offers higher loan amounts ($1,000 - $50,000) and supports joint applications.
- Avant is more accessible to borrowers with average credit but has lower loan limits ($2,000 - $35,000).
- Both lenders fund loans quickly and charge origination fees — 1.85% - 9.99% and Up to 9.99% respectively.
- Upgrade is ideal for debt consolidation, while Avant suits smaller, short-term needs.
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