Auto Insurance Comparison
Quick verdict
Sentry 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.
| Sentry | Root | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 3.75 /5 ★★★★★ Highest overall | 3.60 /5 ★★★★★ |
| Best for | Sentry Insurance is a major Wisconsin-based mutual whose primary business is commercial insurance — fleet, business owners, group programs | 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 | Sentry review → | Root review → |
Rating breakdown
How each carrier scores on the dimensions we weight.
| Category | Sentry | Root |
|---|---|---|
| Customer experience | 3.80 | 3.50 |
| Coverage breadth | 3.90 | 3.50 |
| Affordability | 3.60 | 3.80 |
Pros and cons, side by side
What each carrier wins on, and where each one falls short.
Sentry
Full review →Pros
- Strong financial strength and Wisconsin-mutual heritage
- Solid claims-handling reputation across all lines
- Group programs and affiliations can produce competitive rates
- Multi-line bundling when combined with business or other Sentry products
Cons
- Personal auto is a smaller focus than commercial lines
- Limited geographic availability for personal auto
- Less brand recognition in personal lines than national carriers
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.
Sentry
Root
The bottom line
Sentry
Sentry's personal auto makes sense primarily if you already have a relationship through commercial or group programs. As a standalone personal-auto carrier, mainstream options will typically fit better.
Read the full Sentry 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.