Compare Loans in South Africa

Written and reviewed by Kyle Govender, Founder & Editor · JohannesburgLast reviewed May 2026PrimeCompare is not a credit provider or financial adviser. How we review lenders
Quick answer This page lists NCR-registered short-term and personal loan providers in South Africa side by side, with typical amount ranges, requirements and how each one applies the National Credit Act's affordability rules. For a personalised shortlist based on your own situation, use the three-question lender matcher instead of applying to every lender on this page.

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Start with the amount, not the lender. The personal loan calculator shows the monthly instalment and total cost for any amount and term.

Need cash fast or a larger personal loan? Compare instant, short-term and personal loan offers from NCR-registered lenders and comparison partners in one place — then apply securely on the lender's own site. PrimeCompare is not a lender.

✓ NCR-registered lenders ✓ No application fee to compare ✓ Apply online in minutes
Important Disclosure
PrimeCompare is a comparison platform and not a lender. We connect users with licensed South African lenders and comparison partners. Loan approval, interest rates, fees and repayment terms are determined by the respective lender and your credit profile. Loan amounts vary by provider — some short-term offers start from R500, while comparison-style services such as UApply can match larger loans up to R250,000+. Repayment periods differ by lender. Always review the lender's full terms and the total cost of credit before applying.

Top loan offers to compare in 2026

Each option below links to the provider's own application. Review loan ranges, terms and total repayment before you commit.

ProviderLoan RangeTermBest For
Lime LoansFeatured R500 – R8,000 Short-term Quick personal cash Check eligibility
FASTA From R500 Short-term Fast online applications Check eligibility
UApply
Employed + clear credit only
R500 – R250,000+ Varies by lender Comparing multiple lenders Compare lenders

Featured lenders are commercial partners of PrimeCompare. Featured placement affects the order lenders appear in, not the loan terms you are offered. See how we review lenders.

Tip: On mobile, swipe the table left/right to see all columns.

The lenders in more detail

Who each provider suits, and what to check before applying.

Quick approval

Lime Loans

Best for quick personal cash
  • Quick online application
  • Short-term personal loan up to R8,000
  • Provided by Century Financial Services
Check your eligibility

Read our Lime Loans review first.

Fast application

FASTA Loans

Best for fast short-term applications
  • Simple online application
  • Fast short-term loan option
  • No obligation to accept an offer
Check your eligibility

Read our Fasta review PauseExpress Review Instant Loans Blacklisted Loans No Credit Check Same Day Loans first.

Larger amounts

UApply

Best for larger amounts if you are employed
  • Larger amounts, from about R10,000 upward
  • Requires formal employment and a clear credit record
  • Not suitable if you have been declined elsewhere
Compare lenders

Read our UApply review first.

Browse loans by type

Find the right loan for your situation. Each guide compares the best options and explains the requirements.

See all loan types → · Browse all lenders →

Struggling with repayments? Consider debt consolidation

If you are juggling several loans or store accounts, a single consolidated repayment can lower your monthly burden and reduce the stress of multiple due dates. Debt consolidation and debt counselling are regulated under the National Credit Act and can protect you from legal action while you repay. See our debt consolidation guide to understand your options and whether it is the right move.

How to choose the right loan

Frequently asked questions

What is the easiest loan to get in South Africa?

Short-term and instant online loans from lenders like Lime, Wonga and Fasta are usually quickest, thanks to automated affordability checks and fast payout. Comparison platforms like UApply can match you to several lenders at once. Approval still depends on income, affordability and your credit profile under the National Credit Act.

How much can I borrow with a personal loan?

Short-term lenders typically offer up to about R8,000, while comparison services like UApply can route you to lenders offering R250,000 or more for larger personal loans, subject to affordability checks.

Can I get a loan with bad credit?

Possibly. Some lenders weigh current affordability over history. Comparison platforms can match you to lenders more likely to consider your profile. Be wary of anyone promising guaranteed approval with no checks.

Is PrimeCompare a lender?

No — we are a comparison platform. We list offers from NCR-registered lenders and partners; approval and terms are set by the lender.

Related pages on PrimeCompare

We are not a lender. We provide comparison information only. Credit is subject to affordability assessment and approval by the lender.