Auto Insurance Comparison
Quick verdict
AAA edges ahead Root in our overall scoring — but each carrier wins on different dimensions. See the breakdown below before deciding.
Head-to-head
Overall scores, key facts, and what each is known for.
| AAA | Root | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 3.75 /5 ★★★★★ Highest overall | 3.60 /5 ★★★★★ |
| Best for | AAA sits at the intersection of insurance and membership — its auto coverage is competitive on service and roadside, but headline rates frequently run above more pure-play competitors like GEICO or Progressive | Root is a digital-native carrier built around a test-drive model — you install the app, drive for ~3 weeks, and Root prices your policy based on actual driving behavior |
| Read full review | AAA review → | Root review → |
Rating breakdown
How each carrier scores on the dimensions we weight.
| Category | AAA | Root |
|---|---|---|
| Customer experience | 4.30 | 3.50 |
| Coverage breadth | 4.00 | 3.50 |
| Affordability | 3.00 | 3.80 |
Pros and cons, side by side
What each carrier wins on, and where each one falls short.
AAA
Full review →Pros
- Roadside assistance and member benefits genuinely earn the brand's reputation
- Strong claims-handling and agent service in most regions
- Broad coverage options with consistent multi-state availability
- Solid bundling discounts for members with home or life policies
Cons
- Headline rates typically run above the national average for non-members or light users
- Quality varies meaningfully by regional AAA club — service and pricing aren't uniform
- Not the best fit for high-risk drivers or drivers seeking the lowest possible rate
Root
Full review →Pros
- Low-mileage drivers
- Drivers who do everything to keep themselves safe on the road
- Prospective customers want to save on renters and vehicle insurance.
Cons
- high-risk drivers in the high-risk categories.
- Insurance agents who prioritize work
- drivers who seek a comprehensive insurance plan
Coverage at a glance
What each carrier offers in standard policies.
AAA
Root
The bottom line
AAA
AAA makes sense if you'd use the membership perks anyway. If you're a careful driver who just wants the cheapest competent coverage, USAA (if eligible) or GEICO typically beat AAA on price by a comfortable margin.
Read the full AAA reviewRoot
Root is worth trying if you're a genuinely safe driver who's comfortable with a 3-week test and digital-only service. If you need immediate coverage or prefer human agents, look elsewhere.
Read the full Root reviewBefore you decide
Rankings are a starting point — your profile decides the rest.
These scores reflect our editorial research across cost, coverage, and customer experience. The right carrier for you still depends on your record, location, and vehicle, so read the full reviews before you commit.