Auto Insurance Comparison
Quick verdict
Hanover 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.
| Hanover | Root | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 3.85 /5 ★★★★★ Highest overall | 3.60 /5 ★★★★★ |
| Best for | Hanover is a multi-line carrier whose personal auto sits within a broader portfolio including commercial and specialty lines | 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 | Hanover review → | Root review → |
Rating breakdown
How each carrier scores on the dimensions we weight.
| Category | Hanover | Root |
|---|---|---|
| Customer experience | 3.90 | 3.50 |
| Coverage breadth | 4.10 | 3.50 |
| Affordability | 3.60 | 3.80 |
Pros and cons, side by side
What each carrier wins on, and where each one falls short.
Hanover
Full review →Pros
- Available across 38 states — broader than most regional mutuals
- Strong multi-line bundling potential including specialty coverage
- Solid claims-handling reputation
- Independent agent distribution with shop-around flexibility
Cons
- No online quoting — independent agents only
- Pricing is mid-market, not a budget option
- Customer satisfaction is solid but not standout
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.
Hanover
Root
The bottom line
Hanover
Hanover is a mid-tier option that's most attractive when bundled with home, umbrella, or specialty coverage through an independent agent. Standalone, mainstream carriers will usually beat it on price.
Read the full Hanover 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.