For borrowers looking for a personal loan, LightStream provides quick funding for cost-conscious borrowers. On the flip side, SoFi offers flexible repayment options, catering to borrowers desiring financial protection.
| LightStream | SoFi | |
|---|---|---|
|
| |
| Finder rating | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Loan products offered | Kitchen and bath remodel, landscaping, solar, swimming pool, aircraft, boat, credit and debt consolidation, wedding, medical, dental, education (K-12 only) and many others | Personal loans for credit card consolidation, home improvements, family planning, travel, IVF, weddings and more |
| Interest rates | Varies by loan purpose | 7.74%–35.49% with autopay and member discounts (0.25% each) |
| Fees | No fees | No fees |
| Loan amounts | $5,000 to $100,000 | $5,000 to $100,000 |
| Turnaround time | As soon as same day | Same day (if approved and signed by 5:30 p.m. ET) |
| Eligibility requirements |
|
|
| Ratings |
|
|
| State availability | Not available in: Iowa, West Virginia | Available in all states |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
LightStream and SoFi both offer unsecured personal loans. LightStream serves as a more compatible fit for most borrowers due to its Rate Beat program, guaranteeing lower rates than competitors and 0.5% autopay discounts, which is larger than SoFi’s 0.25%.
LightStream, a subdivision of Truist Bank, is ideal for borrowers with good to excellent credit looking for the lowest minimum APRs. SoFi, which started later than Lightstream in 2011, might be a good fit for borrowers looking for financial assurance through a suite of repayment options. Both might be a good fit, depending on your financing needs.
LightStream is a compatible fit for borrowers who want:
SoFi is a great fit for borrowers who prefer:
While both SoFi and LightStream have different consumer ratings, both have an independent A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, prefer good to excellent borrowers and offer autopay discounts to lower your monthly costs.
Here are three alternative products similar to both LightStream and SoFi.
Compare up to four lenders side by side to see how they stack up.
We currently don't have that product, but here are others to consider:
How we picked theseThe Finder Score crunches 6+ types of personal loans across 50+ lenders. It takes into account the product's interest rate, fees and features, as well as the type of loan eg investor, variable, fixed rate - this gives you a simple score out of 10.
Check out other side-by-side comparisons of lenders that can help you find the best personal loan for your financial needs.
Compare the best jet ski loans of 2026, including top unsecured personal loan lenders with no collateral required, competitive APRs and fast funding. Find the right option for your credit profile.
Find out what boat financing options are available to you and all the different types of boats you can finance. Compare loans and apply today.
Cash advance apps and personal loan providers that offer small loans.
Emergency payday loans can give you quick and easy access to funds. Compare your options and find a lender to help see you through.
A simple online form to find lenders — but it lacks specific information to help guide your choice.
Learn what happens to your loan when your lender closes down or goes bankrupt.
Your income is a crucial factor in determining how much you can borrow and if you’re even eligible. Find out exactly what you need to know before you apply.
Applying for a loan can be a stress-free experience. Here’s what lenders need to verify your income, employment, identity and more.
Find out what assets you can use as collateral for personal loans, car loans and business loans. Compare lenders that offer secured loans.
Personal loans can help you cover many types of costs. Learn about funding limits and how to qualify for the maximum loan amount available.
