SurveyMonkey vs Qualtrics: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between SurveyMonkey and Qualtrics 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
SurveyMonkey
Online survey platform
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Survey platform with AI-powered creation, 400+ templates, and advanced analytics tools.
- • Features skip logic, data piping, HIPAA compliance, and integration with major CRMs.
Qualtrics
The leading Experience Management (XM) software, amplified with trusted AI to drive business growth.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • All-in-one Experience Management (XM) platform.
- • Uses AI to analyze customer and employee feedback for actionable insights.
| At a Glance |  SurveyMonkey | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Survey Tools | Survey Tools |
Rating | 84/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | SurveyMonkey | Qualtrics |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Survey ToolsWeb Analytics | Survey ToolsCustomer Feedback |
How SurveyMonkey and Qualtrics Compare
SurveyMonkey
Online survey platform
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Qualtrics
The leading Experience Management (XM) software, amplified with trusted AI to drive business growth.
Paid · 88/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
SurveyMonkey has a free tier. Qualtrics is paid only.
Go with: SurveyMonkey
Want the highest-rated option?
SurveyMonkey: 84/100. Qualtrics: 88/100.
Go with: Qualtrics
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Qualtrics
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
SurveyMonkey is freemium. Qualtrics is paid. SurveyMonkey lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are survey tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Qualtrics scores higher: 88/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Qualtrics
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 84
- Our pick for this comparison
SurveyMonkey
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Qualtrics (88/100) is our pick. SurveyMonkey has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SurveyMonkey or Qualtrics better?
Qualtrics scores 88/100 in our evaluation. SurveyMonkey is freemium and Qualtrics is paid.
What are SurveyMonkey and Qualtrics used for?
SurveyMonkey: Online survey platform. Qualtrics: The leading Experience Management (XM) software, amplified with trusted AI to drive business growth..
What does SurveyMonkey cost vs Qualtrics?
SurveyMonkey is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Qualtrics is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.