Balance Transfer vs. Personal Loan: Which Is Better?

Balance transfer cards offer 0% APR for 12–21 months and typically charge a 3–5% transfer fee.

They're best for debts under $15,000 that you can pay off within the promotional period.

Personal loans offer fixed rates (8–25% for good credit) and fixed payments over 2–7 years — better for larger amounts or longer payoff timelines. The key question: can you pay off the balance before the 0% period ends? If not, a personal loan's predictable rate may be safer..