Whether we’re heading to the airport from home or from a hotel in a new city, our first step is almost always the same: open both Uber and Lyft and see which one will give us the better deal. We don’t have a strong preference between the platforms — drivers frequently drive for both, and the quality of service feels pretty similar. The choice usually comes down to whichever app has the shorter wait time or the lower price.
What continues to surprise me, though, is not just the price differences between Uber and Lyft, but sometimes the dramatic differences between ride types within the Uber app itself. In one recent booking, an unexpected option turned out to be significantly cheaper than the standard UberX — and in a nicer car, too.
UberX (Standard Ride)
This is Uber’s basic, most budget-friendly option. You’ll get a typical sedan that fits up to 4 passengers. We’ve had everything from a Toyota Corolla to a Jeep Wrangler to a Chevy Tahoe — it just depends on the driver who accepts the ride.
Select UberX for your everyday needs, whether that’s to run an errand or head to the airport.
Uber Comfort
Uber Comfort offers newer cars, more legroom, and more experienced drivers. We’ll sometimes choose this if we’re going farther or if the wait time is noticeably shorter.
Uber Comfort gives you newer vehicles with proper legroom and highly rated, experienced drivers.
Uber XL
For groups or extra luggage, XL seats up to 6 passengers. Great when traveling with friends or when you have multiple suitcases.
UberXL offers more space for groups up to 6 people.
Uber Electric (formerly Uber Green)
This one was the surprise winner on price. Uber Electric is Uber’s zero-emission vehicle option.
Uber Electric connects you with sustainable rides in electric vehicles
Price Differences
When comparing prices during an airport ride search, Uber Electric was the cheapest option — even lower than UberX.
| Ride Option | Price |
|---|---|
| Uber Electric (Zero-Emission) | $35.54 ✅ |
| UberX | $44.54 |
| Uber Comfort | $54.63 |
Final Thought
We’ve booked Uber Black before when it was only a few dollars more than UberX — not because we’re trying to be fancy, but sometimes a better experience is worth it.
Now that Uber Electric can be cheaper than UberX and offers zero-emission models, I’m willing to book if it’s less expensive than UberX. Saving money and riding in a newer, eco-friendly car? Win-win.
Cover Image by Josh from Pixabay
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