RateGenius and Upstart both work with networks of lenders to match drivers with options to refinance their auto loans. Both loan marketplaces earn similar ratings from Bankrate. But they differ in important ways, including repayment terms and whether they allow co-signers.

RateGenius is fitting for those focused on securing a refinanced auto loan as soon as possible, while Upstart is good for bad credit borrowers.

RateGenius vs. Upstart at a glance

RateGenius and Upstart work with networks of lenders to help borrowers find loan options. RateGenius solely offers auto refinances and lease buyouts, while Upstart also offers debt consolidation and personal loans.

RateGenius Upstart
Bankrate score 4.1 4.0
Better for
  • Borrowers who want to refinance as fast as possible
  • Borrowers who want to buy their leased car
  • Borrowers with bad or limited credit
  • Borrowers who want to add a co-signer
Loans offered Auto refinances, lease buyout Auto refinances
Loan amounts $8,000–$100,000 $9,000–$60,000 ($50,000 maximum amounts in New Jersey and Oregon, and $75,000 max in Wyoming)
APRs From 4.99% 9.26%-29.99%
Loan term lengths 12–96 months 24–84 months
Fees Varies by lender Varies by lender
Minimum credit score Not specified 510
State footprint All states All states except Maryland
Time to funding 1-2 days 2 weeks
Autopay discount Varies by lender Not specified
Refinancing restrictions
  • Age: Car must be less than 10 years old
  • Mileage: Under 120,000 miles
  • Used for personal — not business — reasons
  • At least 24 months remaining on original loan
  • Age: Car must be less than 10 years old
  • Mileage: Under 120,000 miles
  • No commercial or business vehicles
  • At least 24 months remaining on original loan

RateGenius
Best for: Borrowers who want to refinance as fast as possible

RateGenius

4.1
Learn more in our Bankrate review

  • Founded in 1999, RateGenius works with more than 150 lenders to pair customers with an auto refinance or lease buyout option. RateGenius’s biggest selling point is speed. While refinancing with Upstart typically takes one to two weeks, RateGenius can refinance your auto loan in just one business day.

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    Pros

    • Fast funding: refinancing can happen as soon as one business day, ideal for those in a pinch.
    • Low starting rate: Few refinancing competitors offer a lower starting annual percentage rate (APR) than RateGenius.
    • Co-signers permitted: Adding a co-signer may increase your odds of approval.
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    Cons

    • Small max term: Some competitors offer terms up to 84 or even 96 months.
    • Limited amounts: Many competitors offer lower minimum and higher maximum funding amounts than RateGenius.
    • Possible fees: Some lenders may charge early repayment and title processing fees.

Upstart

4
Learn more in our Bankrate review

  • Upstart has been around since 2012, and its network of lenders includes around 70 banks and credit unions. The company’s AI-fueled lending experience translates to a quick application process. Two-thirds of applicants see an instant lending decision, according to the lender. 

  • Green circle with a checkmark inside

    Pros

    • Flexible lending criteria: Upstart claims to consider factors beyond just your credit score to make lending decisions.
    • No fees: According to Upstart, the lender doesn’t charge any fees.
    • Loan amounts: Upstart has a wider range of funding amounts than RateGenius, though some competitors offer even more flexibility.
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    Cons

    • No co-signers: Unlike with RateGenius, you can’t apply with a co-signer to improve your rates or approval odds, though co-owners are allowed.
    • Slow funding: The funding process can take up to two weeks.
    • Rates not shared online: Upstart does not share expected interest rates as they vary state-by-state.

How to choose between RateGenius and Upstart

RateGenius and Upstart both offer access to a network of lenders. The better choice for you will depend on your credit profile, whether you want to add a co-signer and how much of a hurry you’re in.

Choose RateGenius if you are focused on a fast refinance or need a bigger loan with a co-borrower

Many borrowers explore refinancing when they need new loan terms as soon as possible. If this is the case, RateGenius is an excellent option. It beats Upstart by promising funding in just 24 to 48 hours if you’re approved.

RateGenius also has benefits to offer borrowers in less-urgent financial situations. With excellent credit, borrowers may score an interest rate as low as 4.67 percent. This is below the industry average of 7.43 percent for used-car buyers with excellent credit in 2023’s third quarter. (Refinance rates tend to be similar to used car rates.)

Choose Upstart if you need flexible credit qualifications

Upstart is a fitting choice for borrowers who do not have a lengthy credit history or may have a damaged score. Unlike most traditional lenders, Upstart considers your employment and education history to determine your eligibility.

On top of that, Upstart accepts borrowers with bad credit scores as low as 510. That makes it a possible option if you have a limited credit history or bad credit. The lender also offers prequalification, which can give you an idea of your expected terms before you apply.

However, it’s important to note that Upstart’s lender network is less than half the size of RateGenius’ network. Your automated comparison shopping will draw from a much smaller pool.

Compare more lenders before applying

Both RateGenius and Upstart are worth a look to refinance and save some cash. However, both companies have fairly high minimum loan amounts to qualify. If you have an outstanding balance of less than $9,000, compare refinance rates from other lenders.