Finder makes money from featured partners, but editorial opinions are our own. Advertiser disclosure

Compare fixed rate vs. variable rate personal loans

Find out whether you should lock your rate.

As well as choosing a lender, deciding on your loan term and choosing between secured and unsecured, you also have to decide whether you want your rate to be fixed or variable. These two rate options offer different benefits and drawbacks. The guide below will take you through the differences between fixed and variable interest rates and help you decide which option is right for you.

The key differences between fixed and variable interest rates on personal loans

Description

Your rate remains the same throughout the specified term.

Your rate may fluctuate throughout the loan term.

Main benefit

Your repayments remain the same no matter what’s happening in the market.

Your starting rate is usually lower than that of fixed rate loans and could possibly remain lower.

What are fixed and variable interest rates on personal loans?

Personal loans come with two types of interest rates: fixed or variable. Fixed interest rates remain the same throughout the specified term, which may be for the entire loan term or for an introductory period. If you opt for a variable rate personal loan, you’ll receive the advertised rate, but this rate may change throughout the loan term depending on interest rate movements in the market.

Compare a range of fixed and variable rate personal loans

1 – 6 of 6
Name Product Filter Values APR Min. credit score Loan amount
Best Egg personal loans
Finder Rating: 3.8 / 5: ★★★★★
Best Egg personal loans
8.99% to 35.99%
640
$2,000 to $50,000
Fast and easy personal loan application process. See options first without affecting your credit score.
Upstart personal loans
Finder Rating: 4.15 / 5: ★★★★★
Upstart personal loans
5.20% to 35.99%
300
$1,000 to $50,000
This service looks beyond your credit score to get you a competitive-rate personal loan.
SoFi personal loans
Finder Rating: 4.45 / 5: ★★★★★
SoFi personal loans
8.99% to 25.81%
680
$5,000 to $100,000
A highly-rated lender with competitive rates, high loan amounts and no required fees.
First Premier Lending
Not rated yet
First Premier Lending
5.99% to 35.99%
All credit types
$100 to $20,000
Short-Term Loans to Fit Your Needs
Smart Advances
Not rated yet
Smart Advances
5.99% to 35.99%
All credit types
$100 to $20,000
Smart Advances was designed to help you request the loan you need, for any reason.
Credible personal loans
Finder Rating: 4.3 / 5: ★★★★★
Credible personal loans
4.60% to 35.99%
Fair to excellent credit
$600 to $100,000
Get personalized prequalified rates in minutes and then choose an offer from a selection of top online lenders.
loading

What are the benefits of each interest rate type?

Fixed rate personal loans

  • Your repayments remain unchanged throughout the specified term, so you know what to expect.
  • You may be able to secure a low rate.

Variable rate personal loans

  • The starting rate is usually lower than that of the comparable fixed rate loan.
  • It’s possible for the lower interest rate to remain low throughout the term of your loan.

What are the drawbacks of each interest rate type?

Fixed rate personal loans

  • The starting rate is usually higher than that of comparable variable rate loans.

Variable rate personal loans

  • Your interest rate could increase and make your loan more expensive over time.
  • You may find less competitive rates.

How do I work out which rate type is best for me?

The right type of interest rate for you will depend on a few different factors. Here are a couple of questions you can ask yourself to help you decide:

  • What interest rate can I get? When you find the most competitive rate, be sure to check the eligibility criteria of that loan to see if you qualify.
  • How affordable are the monthly payments? If your repayments are only just working with your budget, a fixed rate loan will ensure they won’t increase.

Frequently asked questions

More guides on Finder

Ask an Expert

Finder.com provides guides and information on a range of products and services. Because our content is not financial advice, we suggest talking with a professional before you make any decision.

By submitting your comment or question, you agree to our Privacy and Cookies Policy and finder.com Terms of Use.

Questions and responses on finder.com are not provided, paid for or otherwise endorsed by any bank or brand. These banks and brands are not responsible for ensuring that comments are answered or accurate.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Go to site