Let’s be real—when you’re looking for a personal loan, the last thing you want is a robot-generated list that doesn’t tell you what it’s actually like to borrow money from these companies.
So we did the digging.
We checked Reddit threads, Trustpilot reviews, customer service horror stories, and real borrower feedback to find the best personal loan companies in 2025, based on how they actually treat people.
This list isn’t sponsored. It’s honest, people-first, and focused on what real users say matters: speed, transparency, fairness, and trust.
1. SoFi – Best Overall (If You’ve Got Good Credit)
Loan Amounts: $5,000 – $100,000
APR: 8.99% – 25.81%
Minimum Credit Score: 680
Origination Fee: None
Repayment Terms: 2 to 7 years
What Real People Say:
SoFi is loved for its sleek app, zero fees, and fast approval process. Borrowers say the experience feels premium—with perks like unemployment protection and free financial planning.
“It didn’t feel like taking a loan. It felt like a smart move.” — SoFi user on Reddit
2. LightStream – Best for Big Loans & Low Rates
Loan Amounts: $5,000 – $100,000
APR: 7.49% – 25.99% (with AutoPay discount)
Minimum Credit Score: 660–680
Origination Fee: None
Repayment Terms: 2 to 12 years
What Real People Say:
LightStream is a go-to for large loans—especially for home improvement or debt consolidation. Users say the process is ridiculously fast—sometimes within 24 hours.
“Hands down the best rates I could find anywhere. Whole thing was done in a day.” — Trustpilot review
3. Upgrade – Best for Fair Credit Borrowers
Loan Amounts: $1,000 – $50,000
APR: 8.49% – 35.99%
Minimum Credit Score: 580
Origination Fee: 1.85% – 9.99%
Repayment Terms: 2 to 7 years
What Real People Say:
Upgrade is one of the few companies that welcomes people with average credit and doesn’t make you feel like a second-class citizen.
Borrowers say the platform is clear about fees and quick with funds.
“I had a 630 credit score and still got approved at a fair rate. Life saver.” — Reddit review
4. Upstart – Best for Credit Newbies or Thin Credit Files
Loan Amounts: $1,000 – $50,000
APR: 7.80% – 35.99%
Minimum Credit Score: 300 (or none!)
Origination Fee: 0% – 12%
Repayment Terms: 3 or 5 years
What Real People Say:
Upstart uses AI that actually helps you, especially if you don’t have much credit history. People with limited or no credit say it’s one of the few lenders who gave them a real shot.
“I had no credit score at all, and Upstart approved me based on my job and income. Respect.” — Upstart borrower
5. Marcus by Goldman Sachs – Best for No-Fee Simplicity
Loan Amounts: $3,500 – $40,000
APR: 6.99% – 24.99%
Minimum Credit Score: 660
Origination Fee: None
Repayment Terms: 3 to 6 years
What Real People Say:
Marcus is no-frills and no-BS. No fees, no surprises, and no pressure. Borrowers love that they can defer one payment after 12 months of on-time payments—without penalty.
“Solid option if you want peace of mind. No tricks, no hidden stuff.” — Reddit thread
6. Best Egg – Best for Fast Approval with Mid Credit
Loan Amounts: $2,000 – $50,000
APR: 8.99% – 35.99%
Minimum Credit Score: 600
Origination Fee: 0.99% – 8.99%
Repayment Terms: 3 to 5 years
What Real People Say:
Best Egg is praised for its fast, nearly instant prequalification and high approval rates, even for borrowers with less-than-perfect credit.
“Best Egg gave me a second chance when others said no.” — Verified Trustpilot reviewer
7. Discover Personal Loans – Best for Strong Customer Support
Loan Amounts: $2,500 – $40,000
APR: 7.99% – 24.99%
Minimum Credit Score: 660
Origination Fee: None
Repayment Terms: 3 to 7 years
What Real People Say:
Discover is known for stellar customer service and zero fees. Borrowers say it feels more personal, and you can actually talk to a helpful human.
“They walked me through everything and made me feel like I mattered.” — Discover borrower
How to Choose the Right Personal Loan for You
Here’s a no-fluff checklist:
Good Credit? SoFi or LightStream
Fair Credit? Upgrade or Best Egg
New to Credit? Upstart
Want No Fees? Marcus or Discover
Need It Fast? LightStream or Best Egg
Always compare offers (using prequalification tools) before you sign anything. And make sure you understand:
APR (not just the interest rate)
Origination fees
Late fees
Repayment options
Final Take
There are plenty of personal loan companies out there, but only a few treat you like a person, not a risk score.
If you’re borrowing in 2025, do it smart:
Read real reviews
Know your credit standing
Choose a lender that aligns with your financial goals
The best loan isn’t always the lowest rate. It’s the one that respects your time, your money, and your peace of mind.
