Auto Insurance Comparison
Root vs National General
Side-by-side comparison of Root vs National General auto insurance — ratings, cost, coverage, customer experience, pros, cons. No sales pitch, just the research.
Quick verdict
Root edges ahead National General 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.
| Root | National General | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 3.60 /5 ★★★★★ Highest overall | 3.55 /5 ★★★★★ |
| Best for | 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 | National General is Allstate's non-standard and specialty subsidiary, acquired in 2021 |
| Read full review | Root review → | National General review → |
Rating breakdown
How each carrier scores on the dimensions we weight.
| Category | Root | National General |
|---|---|---|
| Customer experience | 3.50 | 3.40 |
| Coverage breadth | 3.50 | 3.70 |
| Affordability | 3.80 | 3.60 |
Pros and cons, side by side
What each carrier wins on, and where each one falls short.
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
National General
Full review →Pros
- Available in all 50 states for non-standard auto
- Strong specialty lines including RV and motorcycle insurance
- Backed by Allstate financial strength
- Accepts SR-22 and high-risk profiles
Cons
- Customer satisfaction trends below industry averages
- Not competitive for standard-risk drivers
- Coverage menu varies meaningfully by state and risk profile
Coverage at a glance
What each carrier offers in standard policies.
Root
National General
The bottom line
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 reviewNational General
National General fits the non-standard niche or specialty needs (RV, motorcycle). Standard-risk auto shoppers will find better rates and service at mainstream carriers.
Read the full National General 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.