LendingClub vs Upgrade

LendingClub, founded in 2007 and headquartered in San Francisco, initially gained fame as a peer-to-peer lender but shifted away from this model in 2020. The company now specializes in personal loans, business loans, and auto loan refinancing, boasting over 4.7 million members and having facilitated more than $85 billion in loans. LendingClub offers auto loan refinancing ranging from $4,000 to $55,000 and APRs between 4.99% and 24.99%. Notably, the application process is entirely online, allowing potential borrowers to check their rates without impacting their credit scores. The absence of origination fees and penalties for early repayment enhances their appeal. However, LendingClub does not provide new or used car loans and has restrictions based on vehicle age and mileage. Customer feedback highlights a generally positive experience, with a 96% recommendation rate among LendingTree users. The company’s transparency regarding rates and fees is also praised. Despite their limitations—such as availability only in certain states—LendingClub remains a competitive option for those looking to refinance their auto loans. Prospective borrowers can explore LendingClub's website for detailed insights into eligibility and specific terms.

Upgrade, founded in 2016 and headquartered in San Francisco, is a fintech company specializing in personal loans, credit cards, and auto financing solutions, including refinancing options designed to lower monthly payments and save on interest costs. With a user-friendly online platform, they facilitate a seamless application process, often providing approvals within 24 hours and funding shortly after. Their services extend to both individual customers and auto dealerships, thanks to extensive partnerships with many financial institutions. Their customers benefit from features such as a soft credit pull for rate checks, fixed fees, and no origination fees, enhancing transparency and reducing costs. They also offer competitive loan terms, with options up to 84 months and the ability to pre-qualify without impacting credit scores. Their commitment to customer service is reflected in their A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and accolades from industry leaders. Read our review to have a full-on breakdown of Upgrade and their services in detail.