Auto Insurance Comparison
Quick verdict
GEICO comes out clearly 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.
| GEICO | Root | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 4.34 /5 ★★★★★ Highest overall | 3.60 /5 ★★★★★ |
| National rank | #4 | — |
| Best for | GEICO is the fourth-best car insurance company nationally with affordable rates and strong digital tools | 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 | GEICO review → | Root review → |
Rating breakdown
How each carrier scores on the dimensions we weight.
| Category | GEICO | Root |
|---|---|---|
| Customer experience | 3.95 · #8 | 3.50 |
| Coverage breadth | 4.10 · #7 | 3.50 |
| Affordability | 4.85 · #2 | 3.80 |
Pros and cons, side by side
What each carrier wins on, and where each one falls short.
GEICO
Full review →Pros
- Among the cheapest rates nationally — second-lowest in QuoteYeti's full-coverage rankings
- Excellent mobile app with comprehensive self-service capabilities
- 15+ stackable discounts including DriveEasy telematics (up to 26%)
- Strongest financial-strength rating in the industry (AM Best A++)
- Fast, digital-first claims process for straightforward incidents
Cons
- Below-average customer satisfaction for complex claims requiring human intervention
- Limited local agent network compared to State Farm and Allstate
- Higher rates for drivers with a DUI on record
- Mixed J.D. Power scores in digital service experience
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.
GEICO
GEICO offers a comprehensive coverage menu typical of major car insurance carriers, with several add-ons that set it apart from competitors. The table below details the main add-ons available.
Add-on coverage
- Emergency Roadside Service (ERS) — Towing, jump-start, lockout service, fuel delivery, and tire changes
- Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) — Repairs to mechanical parts after manufacturer warranty expires
- Rideshare Coverage — Fills coverage gaps when driving for Uber or Lyft during waiting periods
- Rental Car Reimbursement — Rental costs while your vehicle is being repaired from a covered loss
Root
The bottom line
GEICO
GEICO earns an overall score of 4.34/5 in QuoteYeti's car insurance provider rankings. The carrier ranks #4 nationally, with particular strength in affordability.
GEICO is best suited for drivers who prioritize the lowest possible rate. Below-average customer satisfaction for complex claims requiring human intervention is the most common drawback to weigh against the strengths.
As always, compare quotes from multiple insurers before committing. The right carrier depends on your specific profile — driving record, claims history, location, and coverage needs all shift the math.
Root
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.