Ride-sharing apps have become the norm for people who don’t want to drive a car or use a cab. Sometimes it’s safer and more convenient to leave the driving and traffic headaches to someone else. Ride-hailing apps have revolutionized how we get about and may help you save a lot of money on travel expenditures. Especially during the pandemic in New York City, there’s been a shift from subways to Uber or Lyft, the two most popular ride-sharing apps. But is one better than the other?

So without any further ado, here’s our comprehensive guide: Uber or Lyft for traveling around NYC.

Which is better, Uber or Lyft in NYC?

Lyft offers better customer service

You want quick customer assistance when anything goes wrong, especially if your money is on the line. Email, website, in-app help, and an emergency line are all available by both apps.

Unfortunately, both companies have fallen behind on customer service as they have expanded, but Lyft has received higher overall customer service scores. Uber’s support section includes a lot of predefined solutions, whereas Lyft takes more time with specific concerns and delivers more clear answers.

They cost more or less the same!

Basic rideshare costs for both are approximately $1 to start, $2 per mile, and $0.25 per minute. Actual pricing depends on the base fare, distance traveled, drive duration, and a flat booking charge. Prices for both services might fluctuate depending on demand and traffic, making it difficult to determine which is less expensive at any one time. For example, if there are fewer drivers on the road during rush hour, any app may be more expensive, costing up to 1.5 times the regular fee.

Related: Uber or Taxi in NYC: Which is Better?

When it comes to discount offers, which is better, Uber or Lyft?

Uber and Lyft both have several pooling options to help you save money. You share your trip with other nearby passengers for a cheaper fee in carpooling ride-shares. Although carpooling takes longer than regular rides, but it’s significantly less expensive.

Uber’s ride-sharing service is UberPool, whereas Lyft provides Shared and Shared Saver rides. Before booking your journey, you may check out your carpooling possibilities on both. UberPool rides need a short walk to a convenient meeting place for the driver. Also, Lyft’s Shared Saver rides require a short walk, whereas Shared rides do not.

Roomi Tip: A shared ride on Uber or Lyft doesn’t guarantee your driver will pick someone else up, but the discounts apply regardless.

Related: Traveling by NYC’s Transit System: A Guide To NYC’s Subway

Safety Measures: A close run

Uber and Lyft take driver and passenger safety seriously, taking proactive measures to keep riders as safe as possible. Both businesses use comparable safety precautions, including background checks, giving riders driver information, and panic buttons in the app. Riders may check the name of their driver, car model and color, and license number.

Uber’s app also includes a RideCheck function that helps users stay safe. This function is said to employ GPS data and sensors to identify unusual behavior in Uber’s app. Lyft has recently added new safety features to the app, including the ability to call 911 within the app. Moreover, it sends your location to emergency services and for the app to detect when a ride has “unexpected delays”.

Related: Where Are The Actual TV Show Sets Of NYC Sitcoms

Subscription Plans: Which is better, Uber or Lyft?

Both Uber and Lyft offer subscription options for frequent users, but it’s important to know which one can save you more money. Regardless of traffic, weather, or time of day, Uber’s Journey Pass subscription service for UberX and Uber Pool claims to “consistently” save you money on each ride. Uber claims that you can save up to 15%, but that amount is subject to change. Also, it’s unclear if you’ll save more than 10% or closer to 15%.

But that’s a little too generic, especially considering Ride Pass costs $25 each month.

Lyft offers more subscription plans than Uber, giving users additional alternatives if they don’t use the service daily. Lyft also offers a Commute Plan and a Personal Plan, which differ from the Smart Savings and All Access plans. Lyft’s plans can help you save more clearly!

Base	Lyft Smart Savings	Lyft All Access (Entry-level)	Lyft All Access (Premium)
Cost	$15 per month	$189	$299 per month
Benefit	10% off each ride, unlimited	30 rides, up to $8 off per ride	30 rides, up to $15 off per ride
How much you spend or ride to break even	$150 per month	Average of $6.30 a ride per month	Average of $10 a ride per month

Related: Traveling by NYC’s Transit System: A Guide To NYC’s Subway

Which ride-hailing app wins: Uber or Lyft?

Uber caters to business travelers, offering a quiet and professional ride from point A to point B. In contrast, Lyft’s catchphrase “Your Friend with a Car” is quite evident as customers can have a joyful and friendly conversation with the drivers.

Team Roomi favors Lyft for its many small benefits, including a slightly better high-demand pricing reputation and a more convenient support channel. Moreover, it also creates a more personalized user experience. If you’re a US-based frequent rider, Lyft’s new Pink subscription service may be the best option to help you save some money.

Related: Hacks To The Subway In NYC We All Need

However, if you want more features- estimated arrival time before booking a ride, Uber caters to that better. With Lyft, you have to request a ride first to get an ETA. Further, with Uber, there are way more types of rides available. Due to the availability of more luxury car services, riders have more opportunities to get matched to commercially licensed professional drivers.

We suggest you play around with both apps and see which suits your needs. And while you’re exploring, take advantage of money-saving options like instant fare comparison to get easy rides and low prices!

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