SurveyMonkey vs Microsoft Forms: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between SurveyMonkey and Microsoft Forms 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:
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.
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.
| At a Glance |  SurveyMonkey |  Microsoft Forms |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $35/monthIndividual | Included/moMicrosoft 365 |
Best For | Survey Tools | Survey Tools |
Rating | - | - |
Choose SurveyMonkey or Microsoft Forms?
Choose SurveyMonkey if
Gather feedback faster with pre-built templates and powerful analysis
- Industry standard
- Analytics
- Integrations
Choose Microsoft Forms if
Create surveys and quizzes with Microsoft 365
- Included with Microsoft 365
- Easy to use
- Good for quizzes
| Feature | SurveyMonkey | Microsoft Forms |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 24,337 reviews | ★4.5/5 770 reviews |
| Categories | Survey ToolsCustomer Feedback | Survey ToolsProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
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
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
Pricing: SurveyMonkey vs Microsoft Forms
| Plan | SurveyMonkey | Microsoft Forms |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Basic | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $35 month Individual | Included Microsoft 365 |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on SurveyMonkey pricing and Microsoft Forms pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: SurveyMonkey
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: SurveyMonkey
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 SurveyMonkey or Microsoft Forms better?
SurveyMonkey is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are SurveyMonkey and Microsoft Forms used for?
SurveyMonkey: Gather feedback faster with pre-built templates and powerful analysis. Microsoft Forms: Create surveys and quizzes with Microsoft 365.
What does SurveyMonkey cost vs Microsoft Forms?
SurveyMonkey is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Microsoft Forms is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.