As more Kenyans turn to digital solutions for quick financial support, mobile loan apps have become a go-to for instant cash.

Whether you’re looking to handle an emergency, grow a small business, or manage bills before payday, mobile loans are now more accessible than ever. But with so many options, how do you know which loan app is right for you?

In this guide, we break down the top 5 loan apps in Kenya in 2025, focusing on their features, interest rates, and suitability for different types of borrowers.

Whether you’re searching for mobile loans with no CRB check, or comparing Tala vs Branch vs Zenka, this article helps you make an informed decision.

1. Tala Loan App Kenya

Tala remains one of the best loan apps in Kenya, offering fast and convenient loans directly to your M-Pesa. New users can qualify for amounts between KES 500 and KES 50,000, depending on their repayment behaviour.

1. Loan amount: KES 500 – KES 50,000
2. Repayment period: Up to 61 days
3. Interest rate: 0.3%–0.6% daily (approximately 15%–35% monthly)
4. CRB Check: Not required
5. Best for: First-time borrowers, small businesses, and users with poor credit

Tala uses alternative data from your phone e.g., M-Pesa transactions and usage patterns, to build your credit score.

As a CRB-check-free option, it’s one of the most reliable mobile loan apps in Kenya, registered with the Data Protection Commissioner for privacy compliance.

2. Branch Loan App Kenya

Often compared side by side with Tala, Branch loan app Kenya has built a strong reputation for instant loan disbursement and competitive interest rates.

1. Loan amount: KES 500 – KES 300,000
2. Repayment period: 4 weeks to 12 months
3. Interest rate: 2%–22% monthly (approximately 17%–35% annually)
4. CRB Check: Not required
5. Best for: Long-term loans and users seeking growing limits

Branch vs Tala Kenya is a common comparison because Branch offers longer repayment options and significantly higher loan limits over time.

It’s ideal for people who want to build credit without CRB scrutiny, with added savings features as a neobank.

3. Zenka Loan App Kenya

Zenka stands out in the crowded Kenya digital lending apps market by offering the first loan for free (0% interest), making it appealing to new users.

1. Loan amount: KES 500 – KES 30,000 up to KES 50,000 for loyal users.
2. Repayment period: 61 days extendable to 12 months with Flexi option.
3. Interest rate: 9%–39% (0% on the first loan, plus processing fees of KES 45–870)
4. CRB Check: Not required initially
5. Best for: Users looking for interest-free first loans and flexible repayment for emergencies

If you’re comparing Tala vs Branch vs Zenka, Zenka is the only one offering an interest-free first loan, giving it an edge for emergencies and short-term borrowing. Its Flexi option allows extended repayment for subsequent loans.

4. iPesa Loan App

Among the instant loan apps Kenya offers, iPesa provides quick access to cash with relatively flexible terms. It’s particularly known for being accessible to users with poor or no credit history.

1. Loan amount: KES 500 – KES 50,000
2. Repayment period: 91 to 180 days (shorter terms like 14 days possible)
3. Interest rate: Up to 36% APR (2% daily penalty for defaults)
4. CRB Check: Not required
5. Best for: Users with bad credit and students needing quick loans

As a loan app with no CRB check in Kenya, iPesa appeals to borrowers seeking leniency in credit history. However, its high APR and penalties require careful budgeting. Payments are made via Paybill 192010.

5. Okash Loan App

Okash has gained traction among mobile loan apps in Kenya for its speed and efficiency. While the interest rates can be high, the app is often used for urgent cash needs.

1. Loan amount: KES 500 – KES 60,000
2. Repayment period: 91 to 365 days (shorter terms like 14 days possible)
3. Interest rate: Up to 36% APR (plus service fee of KES 100–3,000; 2% daily penalty for late payments)
4. CRB Check: Not required
5. Best for: Emergency loans for instant cash needs

Okash is a viable option for users who need instant cash loans Kenya-wide, though the high APRs and fees require careful budgeting to avoid penalties. Payments are made via Paybill 612224, and it’s exclusive to M-Pesa users.

READ ALSO:

Understanding CRB and Credit Scores in Kenya: What Every Borrower Should Know

Comparison of Best Loan App

When it comes to how to choose loan app Kenya, it depends on your needs:

1. For low interest: Zenka (first loan) or Branch (long-term)
2. For flexibility: Branch
3. For emergencies: Tala or Okash
4. For bad credit: iPesa or Zenka

Choosing the Right Loan App for You

With over 100 Kenya digital lending apps on the market, it’s important to compare features, not just headlines. Ask yourself:

1. Do I need a CRB-free option?
2. How fast do I need the money?
3. Can I repay within 30 days or need longer?
4. Am I okay with higher interest for instant approval?

If you’re a small business owner, consider apps like Branch or Zenka that increase your limit with good repayment. If you’re facing an emergency, Tala or Okash could get you funds within minutes.

Final Thoughts

The best mobile loan apps without CRB check give more Kenyans access to credit. Whether you need a few thousand shillings for a bill or capital for your side hustle, these top 5 loan apps in Kenya 2025 offer something for everyone.

Just be sure to read the terms and avoid borrowing more than you can repay.

Ronnie Paul is a seasoned writer and analyst with a prolific portfolio of over 1,000 published articles, specialising in fintech, cryptocurrency, and digital finance at Africa Digest News.