Subway vs. Quiznos — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on September 27, 2023
Subway and Quiznos are both fast-food chains specializing in sandwiches, with Subway being more widespread globally and Quiznos known for its toasted subs.
Difference Between Subway and Quiznos
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Subway and Quiznos are two popular fast-food franchises that primarily focus on sandwich offerings. Subway, established in 1965, has grown to become one of the world's largest sandwich chains. With a simple and health-conscious menu, Subway has positioned itself as a healthier alternative within the fast-food industry. Quiznos, founded later in 1981, differentiates itself with its signature toasted sandwiches.
While both Subway and Quiznos provide a range of sandwiches, salads, and wraps, their preparation methods and flavor profiles differ. Subway emphasizes customization, allowing patrons to select their choice of bread, fillings, and toppings, creating a tailored sandwich experience. In contrast, Quiznos boasts its toasting technique, which gives its sandwiches a warm, crispy texture and enhanced flavor.
In terms of global presence, Subway undeniably leads, with thousands of locations spread across numerous countries. Its recognizable brand and consistent menu items have made it a go-to choice for many. Quiznos, though smaller in comparison, has carved a niche with its unique approach to sandwiches. The chain's toasted offerings and distinct flavor combinations set it apart in a crowded market.
Marketing strategies of Subway and Quiznos also differ. Subway's campaigns often highlight the fresh ingredients and potential health benefits of their sandwiches. Famous for its "Eat Fresh" slogan, Subway has utilized spokespersons and testimonial advertising in the past. Quiznos, on the other hand, has often leaned into humor and quirkiness in its promotions, emphasizing the taste and quality of its toasted subs.
Comparison Chart
Founding Year
1965
1981
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Specialty
Customizable sandwiches.
Toasted sandwiches.
Global Presence
Extensive, one of the largest sandwich chains worldwide.
More limited compared to Subway.
Marketing Focus
Health benefits and fresh ingredients.
Taste and quality of toasted subs.
Sandwich Preparation
Cold or toasted upon request with customizable fillings and toppings.
Primarily toasted with specific flavor combinations.
Compare with Definitions
Subway
A global fast-food chain known for sandwiches.
I grabbed a veggie delight from Subway for lunch.
Quiznos
A brand that emphasizes the quality and taste of its subs.
Quiznos often promotes the superior taste of its toasted offerings.
Subway
A sandwich franchise emphasizing fresh ingredients.
Subway's Eat Fresh slogan promotes its use of fresh produce.
Quiznos
A fast-food chain known for toasted sandwiches.
I love the crispy texture of Quiznos' subs.
Subway
A brand synonymous with health-conscious fast food.
Many choose Subway for a healthier fast-food option.
Quiznos
An American franchise with distinct sandwich flavors.
Quiznos offers a different taste profile compared to other sandwich chains.
Subway
One of the world's largest sandwich chains.
There's a Subway outlet in almost every major city worldwide.
Quiznos
Known for quirky and humorous advertising campaigns.
The commercials from Quiznos often make me chuckle.
Subway
An underground urban railroad, usually operated by electricity.
Quiznos
An establishment smaller than Subway but unique in offerings.
Though less widespread, Quiznos has a loyal customer base.
Subway
A passage for such a railroad.
Quiznos
Quiz Holdings, LLC, doing business as Quiznos, is an American franchised fast-food restaurant based in Denver, Colorado, that specializes in offering toasted submarine sandwiches. It was founded in 1981 by Jimmy Lambatos and sold to Rick and Richard Schaden ten years later, before growing to nearly 5,000 restaurants afterwards.
Subway
An underground tunnel or passage, as for a water main or for pedestrians.
Subway
An underground railway, especially for mass transit of people in urban areas. Rail transportation
Subway
A train that runs on such an underground railway.
Subway
A rapid transit system, regardless of the elevation of its right of way; a metro system.
Subway
(British) An underground walkway, tunnel for pedestrians (called pedestrian underpass in US).
Subway
An underground route for pipes, sewers, etc.
Subway
To travel by underground railway.
Subway
An underground way or gallery; especially, a passage under a street, in which water mains, gas mains, telegraph wires, etc., are conducted.
Subway
An underground railroad, usually having trains powered by electricity provided by an electric line running through the underground tunnel. It is usually confined to the center portion of cities; - called also tube, and in Britain, underground. In certain other countries (as in France or Russia) it is called the metro.
Subway
Electric underground railway
Subway
An underground tunnel or passage enabling pedestrians to cross a road or railway
Subway
An establishment offering customizable sandwich options.
At Subway, you can choose your bread, fillings, and toppings.
Common Curiosities
What's the primary focus of Subway's marketing?
Subway's marketing often emphasizes fresh ingredients and health benefits.
How does Quiznos differentiate from Subway?
Quiznos is best known for its toasted sandwiches and unique flavor combinations.
Does Quiznos offer non-toasted sandwiches?
While Quiznos is known for its toasted subs, they may offer non-toasted options upon request.
Which one has a more extensive global presence?
Subway has a more extensive global presence compared to Quiznos.
Can I customize my sandwich at both establishments?
Yes, but while customization is a hallmark of Subway, Quiznos emphasizes specific flavor combinations.
Which chain is larger in terms of outlets?
Subway is larger, with more outlets worldwide.
What is Subway known for?
Subway is known for its customizable sandwiches and global presence.
Are both Subway and Quiznos American brands?
Yes, both Subway and Quiznos originated in the United States.
When were Subway and Quiznos founded?
Subway was founded in 1965, while Quiznos started in 1981.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.