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The Best Rideshare Apps for All of Your Commuting Needs

No matter what you've got going on, you probably have places to be from time to time.

Of course, there are plenty of options. Many folks buy or lease a vehicle. But for a growing segment of the population, a more flexible arrangement makes sense.

Whether you're worried about the environment or just want convenience, the best rideshare apps might work for you. There's no maintenance, no parking to consider, and access to a vehicle when you need it. We've selected several of our favorites and hope you'll find the right one below.

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The Best Rideshare Apps for All Driving Needs

Need a ride? Rideshare apps are the new normal. Sure, you'll still see plenty of taxis and and public transportation options in cities. But as tech takes over more of our lives, more and more of us are looking to these apps as a solution. But do you know which ones are best for riders? That might depend on factors like your location and personal tastes. So we've included several options we believe are worth consideration.

Already have a ride? Well, you probably know that the best rideshare apps can probably help you, too. If you're looking to earn some extra money and enjoy driving, you can sign up on several of the apps below. Some are more selective than others. But a few even allow drivers who don't own a car to drive for them.

1. Uber

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Credit: Uber

Chances are, this is one of the first names that come to mind when you think of this industry. It's certainly among the most popular in hundreds of cities. But is it one of the best rideshare apps? 

Let's take a look at what you can actually expect by booking a ride through Uber. Interface is extremely easy once you download the app. Just select a few key details and your ride will be on its way in a matter of minutes. Since there are so many Uber drivers around the world, most locations have service around the clock. Paying is also easy in most cases. Riders can choose between cash or card payments and take care of it through the app.

Safety is also a big focus for Uber. Both drivers and riders benefit from transparency allowing you to see who's coming to pick you up. While Uber reflects much of the taxi industry it disrupted, there are some other innovations. A carpool option offers less expensive travel. Then there's Uber BLACK, a feature allowing riders to request luxury vehicles. Bigger vehicles and options with other upgrades are also available through the app.

2. Lyft

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Credit: Lyft

Millions of riders choose Lyft as an Uber alternative. Though the general concepts are the same among all the best rideshare apps, the details differ. And Lyft entered the fray with a few unique features of its own. 

The company promises more convenience and a lower cost than traditional taxis. And many riders feel they come through on that promise. In addition to allowing riders to pay through the app, they can easily split that cost with other riders. Plus, you can count on a thorough check of your driver's background and driving history. The liability insurance through which Lyft protects its users is also industry leading.

The platform also works out well for a lot of drivers. Lyft often offers sign up bonuses and other benefits as drivers remain with the program. You can get your payments quickly. Plus, riders have the option to tip their drivers.

3. Curb

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Credit: Curb

Trust a traditional taxi more than the best rideshare apps? Well, we included Curb in our list just for you. In fact, even if you just want to switch things up or have an alternative, it's worth checking out.

It's a way to easily hail a nearby taxi whenever you need a lift. And it's available in dozens of American cities already. There are more than 50,000 cabs available through the app, which gives riders a lot of options. You can hail an immediate taxi or reserve one up to a day in advance. Or, if you hail by hand, you can pay on the app in certain markets. A loyalty program allows frequent users to earn points toward free rides in the future.

You can make sure you have the perfect vehicle for your needs, too. In some cities, you can specify that you needs a handicapped accessible vehicle. Charge your trip to your card, pay with cash, or use your PayPal account to finish the transaction. And at the end, you'll have a virtual receipt to easily keep up with expenses.

4. Gett

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Credit: Gett

This one might not be a household name everywhere. But it's unique, almost everywhere, and backed by Volkswagen. Dig into that depiction a bit further and recognize why we think it's one of the best rideshare apps.

It was once only a common app throughout Europe. The parent company Gett obtained Juno, though, which introduced it to the U.S. You might have heard of Juno, which was poised to take on both Uber and Lyft in the states. It's based in New York and has allowed Gett to expand to a bigger market.

You might start to see the app accessible in American cities outside of the Big Apple. If so, it could peel drivers away from other services. And the fact that Gett drivers have to be specially certified, it could attract riders looking for the best. And with a higher pay rate plus the option for getting tips, Gett could be quite attractive to drivers. There are also bonuses and other perks available for drivers that further sweeten the pot.

5. Ola

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Credit: Ola

India's best rideshare apps include Ola, which provides riders with a range of options. Affordability is the name of the game for some of the smaller cars. AC vehicles are available for the lowest rates. And you can even split the fares with others heading in the same direction.

Of course, if you're looking for something a little -- or a lot -- more luxurious, you're also in luck. Ola has several lines of sedans and SUV, including luxury vehicles so you can arrive in style. Then there are sedans with lots of connectivity if you want to be entertained during the trip. Want to drive yourself? This app also includes an option to rent cars to drive yourself or taxis with dedicated drivers. And for those heading out of town without a need to return, there's an affordable option. 

No matter which vehicle you choose, you can count on a clear look at the process. You can track your route through GPS. Check the app to see the different ways you can get where you're going. It's a clever and intuitive system we think belongs on any list of the best rideshare apps.

6. Grab

Credit: Grab

For those living or traveling in Southeast Asia, Grab is a handy service. Not only does it offer access to private vehicles, you can also hail nearby cabs. The app can also arrange for food delivery and other convenient options. 

So far, Grab is available in eight countries across the region. And it is certainly one of the best rideshare apps available in those markets. Like Uber and some other options, there are various levels of vehicle you can hail. But it goes further to include traditional taxis, social carpools and even bicycle travel. Plus, there are options for tuktuk travel and other local options where available.

Traveling with little ones? Grab Family also provides child booster seats in their vehicles. The service also operates shuttles and other types of transit. Minivans and buses are available through a service geared toward coaches. And you can even rent your own Grab Car by the hour to serve as your own driver. Don't forget food delivery, grocery deliver and parcel package delivery. If that weren't enough, it provides an option to pay for things in the real world using Grab Pay.


Hailing a ride isn't what it used to be.

Now, the process has become much easier. In fact, the hardest part might be choosing the best rideshare apps for your. We hope our guide has helped you narrow down your search.

If you enjoyed our article, share it with the folks in your life. And leave us a comment below if you have any final thoughts or questions.

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