Auto Insurance Comparison
Quick verdict
Safeco 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.
| Safeco | Root | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 3.70 /5 ★★★★★ Highest overall | 3.60 /5 ★★★★★ |
| Best for | Safeco Insurance is Liberty Mutual's independent-agent brand — same parent company, different distribution model | 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 | Safeco review → | Root review → |
Rating breakdown
How each carrier scores on the dimensions we weight.
| Category | Safeco | Root |
|---|---|---|
| Customer experience | 3.60 | 3.50 |
| Coverage breadth | 4.00 | 3.50 |
| Affordability | 3.50 | 3.80 |
Pros and cons, side by side
What each carrier wins on, and where each one falls short.
Safeco
Full review →Pros
- Shoppers hunting for deals.
- Those who drive passengers for profit (in certain states)
- Those searching for a house and vehicle insurance package
Cons
- People who want to get the best customer service and claims experience available
- People who decline to bundle their coverage
- People only interested in basic coverage
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.
Safeco
Root
The bottom line
Safeco
Safeco is a fine choice if you're working with an independent agent — they can compare it against other carriers in real time. Direct shoppers will get the same financial backing through Liberty Mutual.
Read the full Safeco 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.