Singapore is internationally known for its world-class infrastructure, clean streets, and public transportation system that just works. The city-state’s flagship airport, Changi Airport, regularly leads international lists of best airports, providing a hassle-free experience for visitors. But after arriving, the big question lingers: How do you get to your hotel or final destination?
When airport transfers in Singapore are considered, the most popular two are Maxi Cabs and Regular Taxis. Although both find their niche in the market, your decision rests on a series of factors: group size, luggage quantity, budget, comfort level, and timing.
We’ll provide you with a detailed, head-to-head analysis of Maxi Cabs and Regular Taxis for airport pickups in this blog post, with the aim of assisting you to make the optimal choice for your trip. Whether you’re an individual, a family of six, or a corporate group with presentation gear, this detail guide will make your arrival or departure at Changi as seamless as your flight.
What Is a Maxi Cab?
A Maxi Cab is a luxury group transport service that provides larger vehicles—usually 6-seaters, 7-seaters, 9-seaters, and even 13-seater minibuses. It’s a bit like having your own private chauffeur-driven drive, but designed to accommodate small to medium-sized groups with additional room for luggage and passengers.
A Maxi Cab is not usually hailed from the street like a regular taxi, but instead booked in advance. They are commonly used for:
- Group airport transfers
- Family travel
- Corporate transport
- Wheelchair-accessible transportation
- Luxury chauffeuring
Maxi Cabs can be booked in advance, and they often provide fixed rates for popular services such as Changi Airport pick-up and drop-off.
Vehicle Types:
- 6-seater (Toyota Alphard / Vellfire)
- 7-seater
- 9-seater (Toyota Hiace Commuter Van)
- 13-seater minibus
What Is a Regular Taxi?
A regular taxi in Singapore is generally a sedan or small MPV that can hold a maximum of 4 persons with average-sized luggage. You can flag one down on the road, order through mobile apps (such as ComfortDelGro or Grab), or wait at taxi stands, including those found at Changi Airport.
- Seating Capacity and Luggage Space
Maxi Cab:
- Specifically designed for larger families or groups.
- Ample legroom and boot space.
- Easily fits heavy items, strollers, and several suitcases.
- Adequate for special needs passengers, such as wheelchairs.
Ideal For:
- Large families of 5+
- Travelers with heavy bags
- Business teams
Regular Taxi:
- Accommodates up to 4 passengers, including driver.
- Luggage capacity is only 1-2 big suitcases and hand-carry bags.
- Not suitable for heavy equipment or big families.
Ideal For:
- Individuals or couples
- Light packers
Winner: Maxi Cab – More suitable for groups and heavy luggage.
- Ride Comfort Experience
Maxi Cab:
- Roomy, high-quality interiors, frequently with leather seats and air conditioning.
- Smooth rides with professional, uniformed drivers.
- Some come equipped with entertainment systems, USB charging, and climate control.
Regular Taxi:
- Functional but minimalist comfort levels.
- Less interior room, which can feel cramped if you’re exhausted from a long flight.
- Clean and efficient but not luxurious.
Winner: Maxi Cab – Provides better comfort, particularly after long-haul flights.
- Cost Comparison
Maxi Cab:
- Flat-rate airport transfer prices.
- Typically SGD $60–$90 one-way depending on the type of vehicle.
- When shared amongst several passengers, economical per person.
- Example: 7-seater Maxicab for SGD $70 shared amongst 7 = SGD $10 per person.
Standard Taxi:
- Metered fare, starting at about SGD $4–$5.
- Changi Airport charge: $3–$5 depending on the time of day.
- Fare may increase rapidly during peak hours or in the event of traffic jams.
- Example: SGD $30–$45 for a 30-minute ride, though you will possibly require two cabs for 5+.
Winner: Maxi Cab – Group-friendly; better pricing predictability.
- Booking and Availability
Maxi Cab:
- Advance booking advisable (through websites, WhatsApp, or telephone).
- Operates 24/7, including holiday and late nights.
- Pickup entails meet-and-greet service at arrival hall with signboard (optional).
- Flight monitoring is usually available for early/delayed flights.
Regular Taxi:
- Quite readily available from airport taxi ranks.
- No need to book—just stand in line and go.
- Can be unavailable during rush hours, special events, or holidays.
Winner: Draw
Regular taxis provide on-call availability, but Maxicabs score on guaranteed availability and pre-arrangement.
- Suitability for Certain Travelers
- Traveler Type Best Option Why
- Solo traveler Regular Taxi Quick, available on demand
- Couple with light luggage Regular Taxi Practical and efficient
- Family with kids Maxi Cab Room for stroller, bags, comfort
- Corporate group Maxi Cab Professional and efficient for groups
- Tour group Maxi Cab Can accommodate all together, cost-effective
- Wheelchair users Maxi Cab (wheelchair-accessible models) Vehicles customized to needs
Winner: Maxi Cab – Convenient and accommodating for various travel needs.
- Luggage Handling and Extras
Maxi Cab:
- Drivers help with loading/unloading luggage.
- Additional features: child seats, WiFi, in-car refreshments, VIP transfers.
- Pet-friendly or wheelchair-accessible options available.
Regular Taxi:
- Driver can help with bags, but there is no space.
- No additional features or services provided.
Winner: Maxi Cab – Increased service with greater care.
- Punctuality and Peace of Mind
Maxi Cab:
- Reputable for being on time and reliable.
- You can reserve days or even weeks in advance.
- Drivers monitor your flight number and adjust pickup accordingly.
Regular Taxi:
- No guaranteed availability.
- Longer waits during busy times (rain, holidays, or early morning flights).
Winner: Maxi Cab – Provides more peace of mind and assured service.
- Flexibility and Customization
Maxi Cabs enable you to personalize your airport transfer in a manner taxis just can’t. Choices include:
- Stopovers along the way (e.g., hotel to airport with a stop at a relative’s residence)
- Multiple pick-ups or drop-offs
- Hourly bookings if your group is indecisive regarding timing
This renders Maxicabs extremely versatile for:
- Diplomatic missions
- Film crews
- VIP visitors
Winner: Maxi Cab – More flexibility and tailoring.
- Cleanliness and Safety
Maxi Cab:
- Cars sanitized regularly, kept in good condition, and inspected.
- Drivers trained professionally and commonly vaccinated (particularly post-COVID).
- Ability to order contactless rides and barriers for safety.
Regular Taxi:
- Typically safe and clean but depends on the operator.
- More challenging to maintain standards of hygiene unless booking with a reputable company.
Winner: Maxi Cab – Better consistency in cleanliness and trained staff.
- Overall Convenience
Whereas standard taxis are convenient and fast, Maxi Cabs provide a one-stop solution. You book once and it’s all sorted:
- Correct-sized vehicle
- Friendly, professional driver
- Baggage service
- Clear pricing
- Reserved seating for all
Winner: Maxi Cab – Convenience all the way.
- Testimonials and Real-World Examples
Case Study 1: Business Team Arrival
A group of 6 executives arrived at Changi for a tech convention. With samples, equipment, and presentations, a normal taxi was not feasible. They booked a 7-seater Maxi Cab in advance, which awaited them at Terminal 3. The driver helped with baggage and dropped them at Marina Bay Sands, all within 30 minutes. No fuss. Cost: SGD $75 divided by 6 = SGD $12.50 per person.
Case Study 2: Family Vacation
A 5-member family came with three bags, two carry-ons, and a stroller. They were concerned about airport lines and kids getting tired. They pre-booked a 6-seater Maxi Cab with a child seat. The driver was at the arrival gate waiting with a signboard. Cost: SGD $65 flat.
Case Study 3: Budget Traveler Alone
Alex came from Australia with one hand baggage and one backpack. He stood in the queue at the airport taxi rank and hailed a metered taxi to Orchard Road. Total charge: SGD $28 (with airport surcharge). Efficient and hassle-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I book a Maxi Cab on short notice?
Yes, most providers allow urgent bookings within 30–60 minutes, but advance booking is recommended.
Q2: Do I have to pay extra for luggage in a Maxi Cab?
No. Luggage handling is included in the flat-rate fee.
Q3: Are Maxi Cabs available 24/7?
Yes. Services operate around the clock, including public holidays and late nights.
Q4: How do I book a Maxi Cab?
You can book through official websites, WhatsApp, phone, or apps. Providers like MaxiCabSingapore, 13cabs, and SGMaxi are popular.
Comparison Summary Table
| Feature | Maxi Cab | Regular Taxi |
| Seating Capacity | 6–13 passengers | Up to 4 passengers |
| Luggage Space | Ample (bulky items OK) | Limited |
| Comfort | Premium & spacious | Basic comfort |
| Cost per Person (Group) | Low | Higher (if splitting) |
| Booking | Advance required | On-demand at airport |
| Flexibility | High (stopovers, VIP) | Low |
| Special Needs | Wheelchair/pet/kids OK | Not available |
| Safety & Cleanliness | Consistent | Varies |
Conclusion: Which Is Better?
The better choice depends on your specific needs.
- Opt for a Regular Taxi if:
- You’re a couple or single traveler with little luggage.
- You prefer an instant, spur-of-the-moment ride without prior booking.
Opt for a Maxi Cab if:
- You’re in a family or group.
- You carry heavy or bulky bags.
- You prefer comfort, reliability, and peace of mind.
- You prefer customization and value for money.
Briefly, for individual riders or light packers, standard taxis are just as good. But for groups, families, and for those who appreciate convenience and comfort, Maxi Cabs are the best bet for airport transfers in Singapore.