E-ZPass vs SunPass: Which is Better for East Coast Travelers?

Ever found yourself approaching a toll plaza and fumbling for cash while cars zoom by in the express lanes? If you’re traveling along the East Coast, you’ve likely seen both E-ZPass and SunPass toll transponders in action. But which one deserves space on your windshield?

Let’s break down everything you need to know about these two popular toll systems, from coverage areas to costs and benefits. By the end, you’ll know exactly which transponder makes the most sense for your driving habits.

What Are E-ZPass and SunPass?

Both E-ZPass and SunPass are electronic toll collection systems that let you drive through tolls without stopping to pay cash. They work using transponders—small devices mounted on your windshield that communicate with toll plaza equipment.

E-ZPass Basics

E-ZPass is the largest interoperable toll network in America, covering 19 states primarily in the Northeast and Midwest. The system uses a hard-case transponder that mounts on your windshield.

When you drive through an E-ZPass lane, sensors detect your transponder and automatically deduct the toll amount from your prepaid account. The system is designed for high-speed toll collection, often allowing you to drive through at 30-50 mph without slowing down.

SunPass Basics

SunPass is Florida’s official toll collection system operated by Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise. It comes in two versions:

• SunPass Mini: A sticker transponder that permanently attaches to your windshield
• SunPass PRO: A portable plastic transponder that offers broader compatibility

Like E-ZPass, SunPass allows you to breeze through toll plazas without stopping, with the toll amount automatically deducted from your prepaid account.

Geographic Coverage: Where Can You Use Each System?

The coverage area is likely the most important factor when choosing between these systems.

E-ZPass Coverage States

E-ZPass works across 19 states:

• Delaware
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kentucky
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Virginia
• West Virginia

It’s the dominant system throughout the Northeast and extends into the Midwest.

SunPass Coverage

The standard SunPass Mini works in:

• Florida
• Georgia
• North Carolina
• Kansas
• Oklahoma
• Parts of Texas

The SunPass PRO significantly expands this coverage, working in all 19 E-ZPass states plus the SunPass regions. This makes the SunPass PRO comparable to E-ZPass in terms of geographic reach.

Using Both Systems Together

If you have both transponders in your vehicle while traveling in Florida, the SunPass will typically be the default account charged. However, on Central Florida Expressway Authority roads, having both active could result in double-charging.

To avoid this, it’s best to remove the E-ZPass transponder or place it in a RF shield bag while driving in Florida if you also have SunPass.

Cost Breakdown: Initial Fees and Ongoing Expenses

The financial aspects of each system include initial costs, potential recurring fees, and toll discounts.

E-ZPass Costs

*Monthly fee waived if used for 30+ single trips in a month

E-ZPass costs vary significantly by state, with some charging monthly or annual maintenance fees. The initial costs generally include both the transponder purchase price and a prepaid toll balance requirement.

SunPass Costs

SunPass has a simpler pricing structure with no monthly maintenance fees. The Mini is significantly cheaper, but the PRO offers much wider coverage.

Discounts and Benefits: Where Will You Save More?

Both systems offer various discounts and benefits that can save you money depending on where you drive.

E-ZPass Discounts

E-ZPass typically offers discounts to users in the state where the device was purchased. For instance:

• Maryland E-ZPass users receive approximately 25% off toll rates within Maryland
• New York offers discounts on bridges and tunnels for NY E-ZPass holders
• Massachusetts provides discounts on the Massachusetts Turnpike

However, these discounts generally don’t extend beyond your home state. Your New York E-ZPass won’t get you discounts in New Jersey, for example.

SunPass Benefits

SunPass offers several compelling benefits:

• 25% savings on tolls compared to cash and TOLL-BY-PLATE payments in Florida
• Florida residents can receive a 50% discount on tolls if they accumulate 35+ toll transactions in a month
• The SunPass PRO can be used for parking at most international airports in Florida, Port Canaveral, and the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami

Ease of Use: User Experience Comparison

The practical experiences of using each system can vary significantly.

E-ZPass User Experience

E-ZPass is designed for convenience in multi-state travel along the eastern seaboard. The transponders are durable and can be moved between vehicles when needed. Many highways have dedicated high-speed E-ZPass lanes that allow you to drive through without slowing down.

Account management varies by state, with some offering better online systems and customer service than others. Most allow you to manage your account online, add vehicles, review transaction history, and replenish your balance automatically.

SunPass User Experience

SunPass receives mixed reviews from users. The SunPass mobile app allows users to top up accounts, temporarily add vehicles like rental cars, and manage other account features.

Some users report billing issues with SunPass and describe its customer service as poor. Meanwhile, others appreciate the simplicity of the system and the substantial discounts it offers in Florida.

Some Florida residents prefer alternatives like E-Pass Uni from the Central Florida Expressway Authority, which works in the same states as SunPass PRO but reportedly offers better customer service.

Security and Privacy: What You Should Know

Both E-ZPass and SunPass have faced security challenges and privacy concerns.

Beware of Scams

Both systems have been targeted by scammers creating fraudulent websites and sending phishing messages. In early 2025, the Florida Attorney General’s Office announced the shutdown of hundreds of fraudulent SunPass websites targeting users with fake toll notices. Similarly, the FBI has received over 60,000 reports of fraudulent texts claiming to be from E-ZPass or other toll providers.

These scams typically work by:

• Creating websites that closely resemble official toll payment portals
• Sending phishing emails or text messages claiming unpaid tolls and fines
• Creating urgency to make you act without thinking

To protect yourself, verify any communication by contacting SunPass or E-ZPass directly using official customer service numbers, and avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages.

Read also:

• EZ-Pass Scams Text: What You Need to Know
• SunPass Text Message Scams: How to Protect Yourself

Privacy Considerations

Some users have expressed privacy concerns regarding E-ZPass, particularly after the contract for operating New Jersey’s E-ZPass system was awarded to TransCore, a Singapore-owned company with reported links to China. This has led some New Jersey drivers to consider switching to SunPass due to data privacy considerations.

Both systems track your vehicle movements through toll points, which creates an electronic record of your travel patterns. This information can potentially be accessed by law enforcement or through court orders.

Which System Is Right for You?

Based on this comparison, here are recommendations for different types of drivers:

Best for Florida Residents: SunPass

If you primarily drive in Florida, SunPass makes the most sense due to:

• The potential 50% toll discount after 35+ monthly transactions
• The consistent 25% savings compared to cash options
• Parking benefits at Florida airports and venues
• Lower initial cost (especially for the Mini)

Best for Northeast Corridor Travelers: E-ZPass

If you mainly travel in the Northeast, E-ZPass remains your best bet because:

• You’ll get state-specific discounts in your home state
• It’s widely accepted across major Northeastern highways and bridges
• You won’t need to worry about transponder compatibility when crossing state lines

Best for Coast-to-Coast Road Warriors: SunPass PRO

If you regularly travel both in Florida and the Northeast, the SunPass PRO offers the most flexibility:

• Works in all 19 E-ZPass states
• Provides all Florida-specific benefits
• Eliminates the need to maintain multiple transponder accounts
• Usually costs less than buying both systems separately

How to Get Started with Your Chosen Transponder

Setting Up E-ZPass

1. Visit the E-ZPass website for your state of residence
2. Complete an application and purchase a transponder
3. Fund your account with the required minimum balance
4. Install your transponder according to instructions (usually on the inside of your windshield behind the rearview mirror)
5. Register your vehicle(s)

Setting Up SunPass

1. Visit SunPass.com or purchase at retail locations (including Publix, CVS, or official SunPass service centers)
2. Create an account and register your new transponder
3. Fund your account with at least $10
4. For the Mini: carefully attach it to the inside of your windshield
5. For the PRO: mount it on your windshield using the included suction cups

Maintaining Your Account

Whichever system you choose, keep these tips in mind:

• Set up automatic replenishment to avoid a low balance
• Update your license plate and contact information when they change
• Keep your transponder properly mounted (and remove or shield the one you’re not using if you have both)
• Review your statements regularly to catch any errors or unauthorized charges
• Be alert for scams and always verify communications claiming to be from your toll provider

Making the Switch: Converting Between Systems

If you already have one system but want to switch, here’s what to know:

Switching from E-ZPass to SunPass

1. Purchase a SunPass transponder and create an account
2. Continue using your E-ZPass until you’ve depleted your balance or request a refund
3. Remove your E-ZPass transponder when driving in Florida to avoid double-charging

Switching from SunPass to E-ZPass

1. Apply for an E-ZPass in your state of residence
2. If you have a SunPass Mini, you’ll need to purchase a new E-ZPass transponder
3. If you have a SunPass PRO, you could potentially keep using it in E-ZPass states, but you’ll still pay the SunPass rate rather than any state-specific E-ZPass discounts

Future of Toll Interoperability

The trend is moving toward greater compatibility between different toll systems nationwide. The SunPass PRO’s compatibility with E-ZPass networks shows this progress.

Eventually, we may see a single nationwide toll collection system, but for now, knowing the differences between E-ZPass and SunPass will help you make the smartest choice for your driving patterns.

Whether you’re cruising Florida’s scenic highways or navigating the busy Northeast Corridor, having the right transponder can save you time, money, and frustration. Choose wisely, and enjoy the open road!