Secured vs Unsecured Loans

11 October, 2023

Loans have become an essential part of our lives. They help us accomplish our personal and professional goals. However, before applying for a loan, it is crucial to understand the different types of loans available and their features.

Secured and unsecured loans are two significant types of loans that you can apply for. In this article, we will discuss the complete difference between secured and unsecured loans, their pros and cons, and which loan is better for different purposes.

What is a secured loan?

A secured loan is a type of loan that requires the borrower to provide collateral to the lender. The collateral can be anything of value, such as a house, car or any other asset.

The collateral acts as security for the lender and provides assurance that if you default on the loan, the lender can recover the losses by selling the collateral. Some examples of secured loans include home, auto and mortgage loans.

Advantages of secured loans:

1. Lower interest rates: Since collateral is used to secure the loan, lenders have less risk and may offer lower interest rates.

2. Higher borrowing amount: Since secured loans have collateral, lenders can offer a higher borrowing amount than unsecured loans.

3. Longer repayment terms: Secured loans offer longer repayment terms than unsecured loans, making it easier for you to repay the loan.
   
   

Disadvantages of secured loans:

1. Risk of collateral: If you fail to repay the loan, the lender can seize and sell the collateral to recover their losses.

2. Time-consuming process: The process of obtaining a secured loan can be time-consuming as it involves the appraisal of the collateral.
   
   

What is an unsecured loan?

This type of loan does not require you to provide collateral to the lender. Instead, the lender considers your creditworthiness, income and other financial factors to determine whether to approve the loan or not. Examples of unsecured loans include personal, credit card and student loans.

Advantages of Unsecured Loans:

3. No collateral required: You do not have to provide any collateral to get an unsecured loan.

4. Quick approval: Unsecured loans can be approved faster than secured loans as there is no need for a collateral appraisal.

5. No risk of losing collateral: Since there is no collateral involved, there is no risk of losing any assets in case of loan default.
   
   

Disadvantages of unsecured loans:

4. Higher interest rates: Unsecured loans have higher interest rates than secured loans as lenders have more risk involved.

5. Lower borrowing amount: Lenders offer a lower borrowing amount for unsecured loans than secured loans.

6. Repayment terms: Unsecured loans have shorter repayment terms than secured loans, making it challenging for borrowers to repay the loan.
   
   

When it comes to deciding which loan is better for different purposes, it depends on your financial situation and needs.

For example, if you want to purchase a house or a car, a secured loan is a better option as it offers lower interest rates and higher borrowing amounts. However, if you need money for a medical emergency or to consolidate debt, an unsecured loan would be ideal as it does not require collateral, and the approval process is quick.

Loans for MSMEs

MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) in India have diverse financing needs. Lenders offer several secured and unsecured loan options to cater to these needs. Here are some examples of secured and unsecured loans for MSMEs -

Secured Loans for MSMEs:

5. Working Capital Loan: A Working Capital Loan provides MSMEs with short-term funding to meet their day-to-day operational expenses. You pledge their assets, such as inventory or accounts receivable, as collateral for the loan.

6. Loan Against Property (LAP): In this type of secured loan, you pledge property as collateral to obtain the loan. You can use the funds for business-related purposes, such as expansion, working capital or purchasing equipment.

7. Letter of Credit (LC): A letter of credit provides a guarantee of payment to suppliers, ensuring that they will receive payment once the goods or services are delivered.
   
   

Unsecured Loans for MSMEs:

6. Business line of credit: This unsecured loan provides MSMEs with flexible access to funds, which can be used as and when needed. You do not need to pledge any collateral, and interest is charged only on the amount used.

7. Unsecured term loan: In an unsecured term loan, the loan amount is fixed. You need to repay it over a fixed period, along with interest.

8. Invoice financing: Invoice financing is an unsecured loan where the lender provides funds against unpaid invoices. The lender charges interest on the funds advanced.
   
   

It is worth noting that various banks and financial institutions offer SME-focused loans. You can explore HDFC Business loans and choose the perfect financing option tailored to your unique business needs.

Deciding whether an unsecured loan is better than a secured loan depends on your financial situation and needs. It is crucial to evaluate the pros and cons of both types of loans before making a decision.


​​​​​​​Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. XXX Loan at the sole discretion of HDFC Bank Limited. Loan disbursal is subject to documentation and verification as per Bank's requirement. Interest rates are subject to change. Please check with your RM or closest bank branch for current interest rates.