DQ Grill & Chill vs Sonic
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both DQ Grill & Chill and Sonic are quick-service restaurants franchises. DQ Grill & Chill requires an investment of $1.5M – $2.4M while Sonic requires $1.5M – $2.5M. In terms of revenue, Sonic reports higher average unit revenue at $1.6M. On SBA loan performance, Sonic has a lower charge-off rate (8.3%) compared to DQ Grill & Chill (10.7%). FranchiseVerdict rates DQ Grill & Chill A (Strongest tier) and Sonic A (Strongest tier).
| Metric | DQ Grill & Chill | Sonic |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | AStrongest tierStrongest tier | AStrongest tierStrongest tier |
| Investment Range | $1.5M – $2.4M | $1.5M – $2.5M |
| Franchise Fee | $45K | $15K |
| Royalty Rate | 4.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $1.4MOutlet subset | $1.6M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 10.7% (1190 loans) | 8.3% (144 loans) |
| Total Units | 1,954 | 3,412 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1962 | 1974 |
| FDD Year | 2022 | 2026 |
Investment Range
$1.5M – $2.4M
$1.5M – $2.5M
Franchise Fee
$45K
$15K
Royalty Rate
4.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$1.4MOutlet subset
$1.6M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
10.7% (1190 loans)
8.3% (144 loans)
Total Units
1,954
3,412
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1962
1974
FDD Year
2022
2026