Grab vs. Xanh SM vs. Gojek: Which Ride-Hailing App Should You Use in Vietnam?
Vietnam has become one of the easiest places in Southeast Asia to get around thanks to ride-hailing apps. But with Grab, Xanh SM, and Gojek all available, travelers often wonder: Which one should I use?
This article compares the three apps in terms of pricing, availability, pros and cons, and helps you decide which app fits your travel style best.
目次
1. Overview of the Three Main Apps
- Grab: The most popular app in Vietnam, covering cars, bikes, and food delivery.
- Xanh SM: Vietnam’s first EV taxi fleet, run by Vingroup.
- Gojek: Indonesia’s giant, focusing on affordable motorbike rides.
2. Grab – Reliable and Widely Available
Grab is the safest choice for most travelers.
- Pros: Huge driver network, easy to use, English-friendly app
- Cons: Surge pricing during peak hours
- Best for: First-time visitors, business travelers, anyone who values reliability
3. Xanh SM – Eco-Friendly EV Taxis
Xanh SM offers a cleaner, more comfortable ride with its all-electric fleet.
- Pros: Clean cars, eco-friendly, modern feel
- Cons: Limited to major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh
- Best for: Travelers who want comfort and sustainability
4. Gojek – Cheap and Fast Motorbike Rides
Gojek is perfect for budget-conscious travelers or those who want to beat the traffic.
- Pros: Cheapest option, quick in heavy traffic
- Cons: Not great with luggage, uncomfortable in rain
- Best for: Solo travelers, short-distance rides
5. Comparison Table
| App | Service Type | Typical Fare (city ride) | Coverage | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grab | Cars, bikes, food delivery | 30,000–100,000 VND (USD 1–4) | Nationwide major cities | Reliable, easy to use | Surge pricing |
| Xanh SM | EV taxis | Similar to Grab, sometimes cheaper | Mainly Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh | Eco-friendly, clean | Not yet everywhere |
| Gojek | Motorbikes (some cars) | 10,000–20,000 VND (< USD 1) | Big cities | Very cheap, fast | Not for luggage/rain |
6. Conclusion: Which App Should You Choose?
- Grab if you want the safest, most reliable choice.
- Xanh SM if you value comfort and eco-friendly rides.
- Gojek if you want the cheapest and fastest option on two wheels.
Ultimately, the best strategy is to download all three apps and choose depending on your needs at the moment.
（Photo by Unsplash.com）
