Metromile vs. The General
Though Metromile and The General both offer insurance, they serve different markets.
Metromile’s claim to fame is pay-by-mile insurance. Essentially, you’ll pay a flat monthly rate as well as a per-mile rate. This means you may pay very low premiums if you drive sparingly.
The General, on the other hand, caters to drivers whom other insurers may classify as “high risk.” The company claims to provide affordable premiums, even though insurance for riskier drivers tends to be more expensive. In contrast to other high-risk insurance providers, The General maintains a stellar rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Who do we recommend?
While Metromile is only available in 7 states, this company offers great rates for safe drivers. Your premiums are based on your actual driving risk, not your age, gender or other factors. Consider Metromile if you qualify for its coverage area and usage-based insurance.
Our top pick:
- Pay by miles driven
- Low base rates
- Drive less, pay less
Our top pick: Metromile
Drive less than 30 miles a day? Save on the coverage you need with pay-per-mile insurance from Metromile. Get a low monthly rate then pay just a few cents per mile. Available in CA, IL, NJ, OR, PA, VA and WA.
- Rates from $29/month plus pennies per mile
- Low-mileage drivers could save $611/year
- All miles over 250 a day are free
- Easy app and online claims plus 24/7 support
 The General |
 Metromile |
|
|---|---|---|
| About the provider | The General specializes in budget-friendly insurance plans for drivers who may be deemed “risky” elsewhere. Conveniently selling directly to customers online, insurance can be approved and put a driver on the road in no time. | Founded in San Francisco, Metromile is revolutionizing car insurance for drivers in metropolitan areas. Low-mileage drivers benefit from the pay-per-mile platform and their app, Pulse, offers a car health monitor and street sweeping alerts so you won’t get ticketed. |
| Price | Policy costs depend your personal situation. Visit The General for a quote based on your specific needs. | Policy costs depend your personal situation. Visit Metromile for a quote based on your specific needs. |
| States served | 46 | 7 |
| User satisfaction* | A+ | A+ |
| J.D. Power ratings** | N/A | N/A |
| Driver discounts | View driver discounts | View driver discounts |
| Vehicle discounts | View vehicle discounts | View vehicle discounts |
* Based on Better Business Bureau’s company rating
** Based on the 2016 U.S Auto Claims Satisfaction Study
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Driver discounts
The General |
Metromile |
|
|---|---|---|
| Good student | ||
| Defensive driver | ||
| Good driver | ||
| Pay in full discount | ||
| Multicar | ||
| Military | ||
| Homeowner | ||
| Other discounts | ||
Vehicle discounts
The General |
Metromile |
|
|---|---|---|
| Anti-theft device | ||
| Anti-lock brake | ||
| Passive restraints | ||
| Air bag | ||
| Other discounts | ||
Bottom line
If you have no trouble finding insurance, compare multiple providers. The General promises low prices, but it’s always worth shopping around to see if you’ll get a better deal elsewhere.
If you’re set on pay-by-mile insurance, Metromile is one of your few options. Other insurers offer a variation of pay-by-mile coverage; however, they deliver savings based mostly on how safely you drive, rather than calculating your rate based on mileage.
The General wins in states served. It covers 46 US states, while Metromile only operates in eight.
Both insurers are lightweights in discounts. The General offers a discount only if you pay your insurance in full. Meanwhile, Metromile offers a discount only if you insure multiple vehicles.
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