12 January, 2026

London Minicab vs Black Cab – Which One Should You Choose?

When traveling around London, one of the most common questions people ask is:

“Should I take a London minicab or a black cab?”

Both options are widely available across the capital, but they work in very different ways. Choosing the right one depends on your budget, travel needs, convenience, and personal preferences.

In this detailed guide, we’ll compare London minicabs and black cabs side by side so you can decide which option is best for you.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into comparisons, let’s quickly define both services.

What is a London Minicab?

A London minicab (also known as a Private Hire Vehicle – PHV) is a car service that must be pre-booked in advance. You cannot hail a minicab on the street. Minicabs are booked via:

Phone
Website
Mobile apps
Local minicab offices

They operate on fixed fares and are usually a more affordable option.

What is a London Black Cab?

A black cab is London’s iconic taxi service. These vehicles can be:

Hailed directly from the street
Picked up from taxi ranks
Booked in advance

Black cabs use meters to calculate fares and are driven by highly trained drivers who have passed the famous “Knowledge of London” test.

Key Differences Between Minicabs and Black Cabs

Let’s break down the comparison into the most important factors.

1. Booking Method

Minicabs:

Must be booked in advance
Cannot be hailed on the street
Booked via app, phone, or website

Black Cabs:

Can be hailed anywhere in London
Available at taxi ranks
Can also be pre-booked

Winner: Black Cabs (for instant availability)

If you need immediate transport on the street, a black cab is more convenient.

2. Price Comparison

One of the biggest differences is cost.

Minicabs:

Fixed price confirmed at booking
Usually much cheaper
No meter running in traffic

Black Cabs:

Fares calculated by meter
Prices increase with traffic
Night and weekend rates apply

Journey	Minicab	Black Cab
5-mile trip	£12–£18	£20–£30
Heathrow Transfer	£45–£70	£80–£120
Central London Trip	£10–£20	£18–£35

Winner: Minicabs (much cheaper overall)

3. Pricing Transparency

Winner: Minicabs

If you want price certainty, minicabs are far more reliable.

4. Driver Training and Knowledge

Winner: Black Cabs

Black cab drivers are world-famous for their in-depth knowledge of London.

5. Availability

Winner: Black Cabs (for last-minute travel)

6. Airport Transfers

Winner: Minicabs

Minicabs offer fixed prices, meet & greet services, and flight tracking – making them ideal for airport travel.

7. Vehicle Options

Winner: Minicabs

Minicabs offer a wider range of vehicle choices including executive cars and larger vehicles.

8. Comfort and Experience

Result: Tie

9. Best Option for Tourists

Tourists often prefer:

Black cabs for short sightseeing trips
Minicabs for airport transfers and long journeys

When Should You Choose a Minicab?

You want the cheapest fare
You need an airport transfer
You prefer fixed pricing
You are planning a journey in advance
You need a specific vehicle type

When Should You Choose a Black Cab?

You need a ride immediately
You’re in Central London
You want a traditional taxi experience
You don’t want to pre-book

Final Verdict

There is no single “best” option – it depends on your needs.

Minicabs win for price, convenience, and planned travel.

Black cabs win for instant availability.

FAQs – London Minicab vs Black Cab

What is cheaper – minicab or black cab?

Minicabs are almost always cheaper than black cabs.

Can I hail a minicab like a black cab?

No. Minicabs must be pre-booked.

Are black cabs safer than minicabs?

Both are safe if licensed and regulated.

Which is better for airport transfers?

Minicabs are better due to fixed pricing.

Do black cabs charge more in traffic?

Yes, fares increase in traffic.

Can minicabs be booked at night?

Yes, most operate 24/7.

Do minicabs accept card payments?

Yes, most accept card and online payments.

Which is better for tourists?

Black cabs for short trips, minicabs for long trips.

Are minicab drivers licensed?

Yes, all are licensed by TfL.

Which option is more comfortable?

Minicabs often provide more flexible vehicle choices.

Tripze is a London-based taxi and minicab service provider dedicated to offering affordable, reliable, and professional transportation solutions. With a customer-first approach, Tripze delivers safe and convenient travel services across London, 24 hours a day. We Provide Minicab And taxi services in Ealing, Chiswick, Ladbroke Grove, Shepherds Bush, Leyton, Hammersmith , Forest Gate, South Woodford , East Dulwich, Paddington, Deptford , Hackney , Lewisham , Manor Park, Hanwell , Earls Court , Acton, New Cross, Clapham, Kings Cross, Crystal Palace, Walthamstow, Shoreditch, Dalston, Stratford , Leytonstone, Woolwich, Peckham, Abbey Wood, Camberwell , Greenwich, Chelsea, Catford, Waterloo, Eltham, West Ealing, Chingford, Barbican, Charlton, Mayfair, Kensington, Blackheath, Rotherhithe, Isle Of Dogs, Forest Hill , Sydenham, East Ham, Maida Vale, Dulwich, Clapton, Brockley, Ascot , Notting Hill , Pimlico, Covent Garden, Soho , Streatham Hill , Leicester Square , South Norwood , Russell Square, Anerley, Herne Hill, Beckton , West Norwood, Grove Park, Victoria Station , Bloomsbury, Charing Cross , Wapping, Homerton, West Kensington , Lambeth , St Pancras, Marylebone, Thamesmead And Clerkenwell.

Conclusion

Both London minicabs and black cabs play an important role in London’s transport system. The right choice depends on your budget, urgency, and travel distance.

If you plan ahead and want affordable travel, minicabs are the clear winner.
If you need a ride instantly in Central London, black cabs are the better option.

Understanding these differences will help you make smarter, cheaper, and more convenient travel decisions in London.

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London Minicabs