Microsoft Forms vs SurveyMonkey: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Microsoft Forms and SurveyMonkey comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: SurveyMonkey is our overall pick for survey tools workflows. Pick Microsoft Forms if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Microsoft Forms
Create surveys and quizzes with Microsoft 365
Best for you if:
- • Microsoft Forms is an online survey and quiz creation tool.
- • It allows users to create forms for data collection, feedback, and assessments.
SurveyMonkey
Gather feedback faster with pre-built templates and powerful analysis
Best for you if:
- • Survey platform with AI-powered creation, 400+ templates, and advanced analytics tools.
- • Features skip logic, data piping, HIPAA compliance, and integration with major CRMs.
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Included/moMicrosoft 365 | $35/monthIndividual |
Best For | Survey Tools | Survey Tools |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Microsoft Forms or SurveyMonkey?
Choose Microsoft Forms if
Create surveys and quizzes with Microsoft 365
- Included with Microsoft 365
- Easy to use
- Good for quizzes
Choose SurveyMonkey if
Gather feedback faster with pre-built templates and powerful analysis
- Industry standard
- Analytics
- Integrations
| Feature | Microsoft Forms | SurveyMonkey |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 770 reviews | ★4.5/5 24,337 reviews |
| Categories | Survey ToolsProductivity | Survey ToolsCustomer Feedback |
In-Depth Analysis
Microsoft Forms
Create surveys and quizzes with Microsoft 365
Strengths
- +Included with Microsoft 365
- +Easy to use
- +Good for quizzes
- +Teams integration
Weaknesses
- -Limited customization
- -Basic design
- -Microsoft ecosystem required
Key features
SurveyMonkey
Gather feedback faster with pre-built templates and powerful analysis
Strengths
- +Industry standard
- +Analytics
- +Integrations
Weaknesses
- -Limited free tier
- -Can get expensive
Key features
Pricing: Microsoft Forms vs SurveyMonkey
| Plan | Microsoft Forms | SurveyMonkey |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Basic |
| Tier 2 | Included Microsoft 365 | $35 month Individual |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Microsoft Forms pricing and SurveyMonkey pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Microsoft Forms
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Microsoft Forms
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: SurveyMonkey
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are survey tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
SurveyMonkey
- Larger review base (24,337 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Microsoft Forms
- Choose if you want create surveys and quizzes with Microsoft 365
The Bottom Line
SurveyMonkey is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Microsoft Forms or SurveyMonkey better?
SurveyMonkey is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Microsoft Forms and SurveyMonkey used for?
Microsoft Forms: Create surveys and quizzes with Microsoft 365. SurveyMonkey: Gather feedback faster with pre-built templates and powerful analysis.
What does Microsoft Forms cost vs SurveyMonkey?
Microsoft Forms is freemium (free tier + paid plans). SurveyMonkey is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.