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Fast food chains: Burger King vs. Subway

Quick Verdict

Both Burger King and Subway offer convenient fast-food options with mobile ordering and a focus on fresh ingredients. Burger King stands out with its flame-grilled burgers and drive-thru availability, while Subway excels in customizable sandwiches and healthier kids' meal options. However, inconsistencies in cleanliness and customer service are concerns for both chains, and customers should check reviews for specific locations.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeBurger KingSubway
Price of a basic burger/sandwichA basic hamburger costs around $1.00. Cheeseburgers are also available for around $1.00.Prices vary by location and sandwich type. Black Forest Ham Kid's Meal is $4.99.
Drive-thru availabilityBurger King has drive-thrus at many locations.It is not clear whether all Subway locations have drive-thrus.
Indoor seating capacityThis information varies by location and isn't readily available.The indoor seating capacity varies by location and store size.
Speed of service during peak hoursWaiting times can be longer during peak hours.Wait times can be longer during busy periods. Mobile ordering is intended to reduce wait times.
Availability of vegetarian optionsBurger King offers the Impossible Whopper, veggie burgers, and other plant-based options.Subway provides vegetarian options, including the Veggie Delite sandwich.
Nutritional information transparencyBurger King provides nutritional information in-store and online.Nutritional information is available in-store and online. Subway also offers a nutrition menu.
Cleanliness of the restaurantCleanliness can vary by location.Cleanliness can vary by location. Some locations have had issues with cleanliness. Subway has increased cleaning and sanitizing, especially of frequently touched surfaces.
Customer service qualityCustomer service experiences can vary significantly. Some customers report negative experiences, while others have had positive interactions.Customer service quality can vary. Some customers report positive experiences, while others report rude or incompetent staff.
Availability of mobile orderingMobile ordering is available through the Burger King app and Google. However, mobile ordering may not be available at all locations.Subway has a mobile app for ordering. The app allows customers to place orders, customize meals, earn rewards, and choose pickup options.
Variety of side dishesBurger King offers French fries, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, and side salads. They also offer "Have-sies" which is a combination of fries and onion rings.Subway offers a variety of side dishes, including chips, cookies, apple slices, and soups at select locations.
Kids' meal optionsKids' meal options include a hamburger, cheeseburger, or chicken nuggets, with a choice of fries or applesauce and milk or chocolate milk.Subway offers "Fresh Fit for Kids" meals, including a mini sub, a side (apple slices or a cookie), and a drink.
Overall taste and freshness of ingredientsBurger King emphasizes the use of fresh ingredients, with team members preparing lettuce, tomatoes, and onions daily. They claim to use 100% beef patties grilled over real flames.Subway emphasizes fresh ingredients.

Overall Comparison

Burger King: Basic hamburger $1.00; Subway: Black Forest Ham Kid's Meal $4.99

Pros and Cons

Burger King

Pros:
  • Availability of drive-thru
  • Offers vegetarian options like the Impossible Whopper
  • Nutritional information is readily available
  • Mobile ordering is available
  • Variety of side dishes
  • Kids' meal options include applesauce and milk
  • Emphasizes fresh ingredients and flame-grilled cooking
Cons:
  • Indoor seating capacity varies by location
  • Waiting times can be longer during peak hours
  • Taste reviews of vegetarian options are mixed
  • Cleanliness varies by location
  • Customer service experiences can vary significantly
  • Mobile ordering may not be available at all locations

Subway

Pros:
  • Customizable meals
  • Affordable price
  • Mobile ordering available
  • Variety of side dishes
  • Vegetarian options available
  • Nutritional information available
  • Fresh ingredients
  • Kids' meals with healthy options
Cons:
  • Inconsistent cleanliness across locations
  • Inconsistent customer service quality
  • Wait times can be long during peak hours
  • Drive-thru availability not clear for all locations
  • Indoor seating comfort varies by location

User Experiences and Feedback