McDonald’s vs. In-N-Out Prices 2026: Burger Comparison
McDonald’s vs. In-N-Out Prices (2026)
In 2026, an In-N-Out Double-Double generally costs about $5.20–$6.50 before tax, while publicly listed McDonald’s Big Mac estimates commonly fall around $5.39–$5.99, depending on restaurant. Complete meals from either chain frequently land between roughly $8 and $13, with location, app deals and customizations determining the winner.
Compared: August 1, 2026
Price basis: Independent observed ranges; before tax
Note: Neither chain has one guaranteed nationwide restaurant price.
Quick Price Comparison
| Item | Estimated price | Official calories |
|---|---|---|
| In-N-Out Hamburger | $3.30–$4.20 | 360 |
| McDonald’s Hamburger | $2.00–$3.00 | 250 |
| In-N-Out Cheeseburger | $3.80–$4.70 | 430 |
| McDonald’s Cheeseburger | $2.19–$2.99 | Check current official listing |
| In-N-Out Double-Double | $5.20–$6.50 | 610 |
| McDonald’s Big Mac | $5.39–$5.99 typical estimate | 580 |
| McDonald’s Quarter Pounder with Cheese | $5.49–$7.59 typical estimate | 520 |
| In-N-Out Combo #1 | $9.75–$12.50 | Varies by drink; burger + fries alone 970 |
| McDonald’s Big Mac Meal | $8.00 promotional to about $12.39 | Varies by size and drink |
Prices are not perfectly comparable: portions, fries, drinks and promotions differ. McDonald’s app offers can materially reduce its effective price, while In-N-Out generally uses straightforward menu pricing rather than app-only deals.
Double-Double vs. Big Mac
The Double-Double contains two beef patties and two cheese slices with lettuce, tomato, spread and optional onion. The Big Mac contains two beef patties, one cheese slice, pickles, onions, lettuce and Big Mac sauce on a three-part bun.
| Feature | Double-Double | Big Mac |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 610 | 580 |
| Typical 2026 estimated price | $5.20–$6.50 | $5.39–$5.99 |
| Standard cheese slices | Two | One |
| Ordering | Restaurant counter/drive-through | Counter, drive-through, app and delivery where available |
| Rewards program | None | MyMcDonald’s Rewards at participating restaurants |
Neither is automatically the better value for everyone. The Double-Double may appeal to someone prioritizing two cheese slices and a simple standard menu. The Big Mac may cost less when an app promotion or rewards redemption applies.
Double-Double vs. Quarter Pounder With Cheese
McDonald’s officially lists the Quarter Pounder with Cheese at 520 calories and four ounces of beef before cooking. In-N-Out does not advertise the Double-Double by a comparable pre-cooked patty weight, so this page does not make a precise beef-per-dollar claim.
Meal Price Comparison
In-N-Out Combo #1 includes a Double-Double, fries and medium drink. A Big Mac Meal includes a Big Mac, fries and drink, with price and size selected by the restaurant. In 2025–2026, McDonald’s promoted selected $8 meals in participating markets, while ordinary published menu estimates could exceed $10.
For a fair local comparison:
- Select nearby restaurants.
- Use the same date and before-tax basis.
- Match fry and drink sizes as closely as possible.
- Show app discounts separately from menu price.
- Include delivery fees only when comparing delivery on both sides.
Which Chain Is Cheaper?
- Basic burger: McDonald’s is generally cheaper.
- Signature double burger: Prices overlap; local restaurant decides the result.
- Meal without promotions: In-N-Out is often competitive.
- Meal with app deal: McDonald’s can be cheaper.
- Delivery: McDonald’s offers delivery in many markets; In-N-Out does not offer authorized delivery or mobile ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Double-Double cheaper than a Big Mac?
Sometimes. Their typical price ranges overlap, so compare the two local restaurants.
Which has more calories?
The standard Double-Double has 610 calories; McDonald’s lists the Big Mac at 580.
Which has the cheaper meal?
It depends on location and McDonald’s promotions. Compare standard prices separately from app deals.
Does In-N-Out have rewards like McDonald’s?
No comparable public points program is offered. McDonald’s has app-based rewards at participating locations.
Sources
- Official In-N-Out nutrition information
- Official McDonald’s Big Mac information
- Official McDonald’s Quarter Pounder information
- McDonald’s full menu
In-N-OutPrices.com is independent and is not affiliated with In-N-Out Burgers or McDonald’s. Prices and promotions vary.
