This does vary according to location (as the article says), but I've used cabs, Uber and Lyft in SF. I prefer Uber and Lyft by far over the standard cab services. The cars and drivers are generally nicer. I don't really have a preference for Uber vs Lyft and tend to go with the cheaper/more convenient option in the moment. However, I do find that Lyft drivers are generally more social while Uber drivers will let you keep to yourself more easily, so I also book based on mood sometimes.