LendingTree vs Upgrade

LendingTree, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a well-established online marketplace that connects consumers with a vast network of lenders, offering a comprehensive range of auto loan options. Thanks to their soft credit check policy, LendingTree is founded to streamline the loan process and facilitate quick and efficient prequalification without affecting credit scores. The platform caters to diverse credit profiles, including those with bad credit, bankruptcies, or no credit history, making it an inclusive solution for auto financing. LendingTree's services include new and used car loans, with flexible repayment terms ranging from 12 to 84 months and interest rates starting as low as 2.49%. The application process is straightforward, requiring basic personal and financial information, and typically yields multiple loan offers from various lenders within minutes. This marketplace model encourages competition among lenders, resulting in more favorable terms for borrowers. LendingTree also emphasizes security, employing industry-standard data encryption and robust physical and electronic protections for user information. While not a loan originator, LendingTree's role as a broker allows them to match customers with ideal lenders, providing educational resources and calculators to aid in informed decision-making. With their extensive network and flexible loan options, LendingTree stands out as a valuable resource for those seeking auto financing, particularly those with challenging credit histories.

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.