This free Medicare plan comparison tool helps you weigh Medicare Advantage against Original Medicare + a Medigap (Supplement) plan by estimating your realistic annual costs — premiums plus likely out-of-pocket spending — instead of comparing premiums alone.
Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap Comparison
Side-by-side guide to help you choose the right Medicare coverage.
| Feature | Medicare Advantage (Part C) | Medicare Supplement (Medigap) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | $0 – $150/mo (many $0) | $176 – $462/mo (Plan G/N) |
| Part A Deductible | Varies; often $0 in-network | Covered by Plan |
| Part B Deductible | Usually covered | $257/yr (Plan G); $0 after (Plan N) |
| Out-of-Pocket Maximum | $3,300 – $8,850/yr | Near $0 (Plan G) |
| Doctor Choice | Network-restricted (HMO/PPO) | Any Medicare-accepting doctor |
| Referrals Required | Yes (HMO) / No (PPO) | Never |
| Dental / Vision / Hearing | Often included | Not included (buy separately) |
| Prescription Drugs | Usually included (Part D) | Separate Part D plan required |
| Gym Memberships / OTC | Many plans include | Not included |
| Foreign Travel Coverage | Limited / none | 80% of costs (Plans G/N) |
| Part B Excess Charges | N/A in-network | Plan G covers; Plan N does not |
Medicare Advantage is Best For…
- Budget-conscious individuals seeking low or $0 premiums
- Those who want dental/vision/hearing bundled in
- People comfortable with network-based care
- Residents in areas with strong $0-premium plans
Medicare Supplement is Best For…
- Those who want to see any doctor, no referrals
- Frequent travelers or part-year residents
- People with complex health needs (predictable costs)
- Those willing to pay more for maximum flexibility
Our licensed Medicare advisors compare every plan available in your area. Free consultation — no obligation.
Talk to a Medicare Advisor →Why premium alone is misleading
Many Medicare Advantage plans advertise a $0 premium, but you pay copays and coinsurance as you use care, up to an annual out-of-pocket maximum. Medigap plans charge a higher monthly premium but cover most of those gaps, making costs predictable. The right choice depends on how much care you expect to use.
- Medicare Advantage: lower or $0 premium, network restrictions (HMO/PPO), often includes dental/vision/drug coverage, costs rise with usage.
- Medigap + Part D: higher premium, see any provider that accepts Medicare, minimal surprise costs, separate drug plan.
How to use it
- Enter the monthly premiums you’re comparing and your expected level of healthcare use.
- Review the estimated total annual cost for each path.
- Factor in provider access — if keeping specific doctors or hospitals matters, confirm networks before deciding.
Enrollment timing matters
Your one-time Medigap open enrollment (6 months from Part B start) is the only window with guaranteed-issue rights in most states — after it, insurers can medically underwrite. See our Medicare guide and Connecticut Medicare plans page for enrollment windows.
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch from Advantage to Medigap later? You can switch during the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15–Dec 7), but moving to Medigap may require underwriting unless your state has special rules — so the first choice matters.
Which is cheaper overall? For healthy, low-utilization years, Advantage often costs less. For frequent care or expensive treatment, Medigap’s predictability usually wins. The calculator shows the crossover for your situation.
Do you charge for help? No. Licensed Medicare brokers are paid by the carriers, so guidance and enrollment are free to you.
Want a real number from a licensed advisor?
A calculator is a starting point — our brokers shop 20+ carriers to match the estimate to real, guaranteed pricing at no cost to you. Talk to an advisor or explore all our free tools.