Microsoft Forms is a trusted platform for collecting data. But, like all tools, it’s not quite solid. While it offers ease of use and basic customization, it has some limitations that might make you consider other online form builders.
If you’re looking for more flexibility, advanced features, or something that better suits your needs, this post will introduce you to some of the best alternatives available.
We’ll explain what makes each one special, their standout features, and who they’re perfect for. We’ll also answer a few common questions you might have.
What is Microsoft Forms used for?
MS Forms is a web-based tool that allows users to easily create surveys, quizzes, polls, and feedback forms. It is part of the Microsoft 365 Suite designed for businesses, educators, and individuals to collect and analyze responses in real-time.
MS Forms can:
- Create surveys and polls
- Make quizzes with auto-grading
- Gather feedback
- Run registrations
- Embed forms into Teams and SharePoint
People choose MS Forms because it’s easy. No design work or coding needed. It’s beginner-friendly but still lets you track responses at the same time. Answers are automatically sorted into charts or sent to Excel for deeper analysis.
Since it’s part of the Microsoft suite, you can connect it with Excel, Power Automate, and Teams to streamline workflows, automate tasks, and improve collaboration. It’s a simple yet efficient way to collect and manage data without the hassle.
Limitations of MS Forms
MS Forms is a great tool for basic data collection. It’s easy to use, works well with Microsoft suite platforms, and helps create surveys, quizzes, and feedback forms quickly. But if you need more advanced features, you might run into some limitations:
- Limited customization: It’s easy to create a form, but you have little control over advanced design or layout.
- No conditional or trigger logic: It lacks the ability to show if/then questions based on previous answers, which can be crucial for more dynamic forms.
- No third-party integrations: Unlike other builders, you can’t integrate with external apps like CRMs or marketing tools.
- Non-customizable QR codes and links: The QR codes and links are pretty basic and not customizable.
- Needs an internet connection: You can’t fill out forms offline, so it’s not ideal for field data gathering.
- No payment collection: MS Forms doesn’t support payment gateways, so it’s not great for transactions.
MS forms alternatives with more features
1. TIGER FORM for QR code forms
TIGER FORM stands out from other form makers because it lets you create and customize your forms and their counterpart QR codes all in one place. This makes it easy to share and access forms quickly.
With TIGER FORM, you can customize your QR codes by changing their shape, color, and design and adding logos to match your style or brand. Other form makers may offer QR codes, too, but they usually only provide one basic design and don’t let you customize them as TIGER FORM does.
Features:
- Integrated, customizable QR Codes
- Scans and form submissions tracking
- Advanced password protection and expiration dates function
- Ad targeting features
- Tri-mode sharing via email, link, or QR code
- Bulk and batch form QR code download
- Printable codes—perfect for event registration forms
- Allows API requests
| Pros | Cons |
| • Simple and easy to use • QR code generation for quick access | • Limited advanced features • Fewer integrations |
2. Google Forms for simple basic forms
It is a form maker from Google Workspace. You can create simple basics for quizzes, surveys, opinion polls, and feedback events. It can also conveniently integrate with other apps in Google Workspace, such as compiling the answer in a Google sheet.
Features:
- Google Workspace integration
- Real-time collaboration
- Basic customization
- Free to use
| Pros | Cons |
| • Free with unlimited responses • Seamless integration with Google Workspace (Sheets, Drive) • Real‑time collaboration | • Basic design customization • Limited if/then logic and analytics • Some features require a Google account |
3. Formstack for workflow automation
Formstack takes form-building to the next level by allowing you to integrate forms into workflows. If you’re managing processes like registrations, payments, or approvals, Formstack’s process automation makes these tasks much easier. So, if your workflow includes volunteer registration forms or sign-ups, it’s a perfect fit.
Features:
- Process automation
- HIPAA compliance & security
- CRM & email integrations
- Form analytics & reporting
| Pros | Cons |
| • Advanced task automation and detailed analytics • Enterprise‑grade security and secure payment processing • Strong multi‑user collaboration tools | • Higher costs may be prohibitive for small businesses • A more complex interface with a steeper learning curve • Customization options can be less flexible |
4. Cognito forms for advanced conditional logic
Cognito Forms excels at advanced logic-based form building. It’s perfect for payment forms, order forms, and calculations. The platform allows you to create complex forms, automatically generate documents, or automate tasks.
Features:
- Trigger logic & real-time calculations
- Secure payment collection
- Data encryption
- Customizable form designs
| Pros | Cons |
| • Affordable with a generous free plan • Strong calculation and trigger logic support • Robust security (HIPAA‑compliant) and user-friendly | • Smaller template library and fewer integrations • Occasional minor technical glitches • Limited visual design customization |
5. Ninja Forms for WordPress integrations
Ninja Forms is an excellent choice for WordPress users seeking a versatile and user-friendly form builder. Whether you’re running a blog, an e-commerce store, or a business site, this tool offers flexibility to create custom forms with ease.
The free version covers the basics, and while advanced features require add-ons, they provide valuable customization and functionality. Its flexibility and ease of use make it a favorite among users.
Features:
- Drag-and-drop interface
- Unlimited forms and submissions
- Spam protection
- Add-on integrations
| Pros | Cons |
| • Intuitive interface suitable for all user skill levels. • A wide range of add-ons allow functionality. • The base plugin is free, offering essential features without cost. | • Advancements require purchasing individual add-ons. • Support for free users may take up to three working days. |
Online form maker features you should look out for
Advanced customization options
Can you customize your forms to reflect your brand?
The builders must offer enough design flexibility and not limit your customization. If branding matters to you, pick a builder that lets you tweak your forms how you want.
Smart if/then logic
Will your form adapt based on user answers?
Make sure the platform supports conditional logic. It makes forms more efficient and user-friendly by showing only relevant fields.
Integration options
Does the builder integrate well with other tools you use?
You’ll likely need your form data to sync with email platforms, CRM integrations, or storage tools. To avoid manual data transfers, check if it works with Mailchimp or Salesforce.
Mobile-optimized design
How do your forms look and work on mobile?
With so many people using smartphones and tablets, make sure the form maker offers responsive designs so your forms work well on all screen sizes.
Built-in payment collection
Do you need to accept payments through your form?
If you’re collecting payments for events, registrations, or sales, look for a builder that integrates secure payment options like PayPal or Stripe.
The verdict: Which form maker works best for you
So, which one’s the best? It really depends on your needs.
If you’re looking for something easy to access and use, TIGER FORM is a solid pick. TIGER FORM even lets you create customizable QR codes, which is pretty handy.
On the other hand, Google Forms is a solid option if you’re on a tight budget and just need basic functionality with smooth integration into Google’s ecosystem.
For those who want more advanced features and automation, Formstack is for you. It is better suited for enterprise users needing powerful workflow automation.
Cognito Forms sits right in the middle—it’s affordable yet still offers advanced logic features, making it a great pick for businesses that need more than the basics without going over budget.
If you need something with WordPress integration and features a user-friendly interface, Ninja Forms is a great option. It lets you create professional-looking forms with drag-and-drop simplicity.
Each tool has its own strengths. Consider what matters most to you—customization, ease of use, or advanced features—and choose the one that best suits you. Beyond these quick takes, all mentioned platforms have amazing features and a range of templates worth exploring.
FAQs
Which platform works best on mobile?
TIGER FORM works well on mobile and is especially handy because its forms can be scanned easily with phones and devices with scanning features.
Which tool is easiest for beginners?
Google Forms and TIGER FORM are both super easy to use, even if you’re new to making forms.
What’s the best free option with good features?
Google Forms and MS Forms are free and work well, but if you want more features and add-ons, try Ninja Forms.
Which platform is best for people filling out forms?
TIGER FORM is best for filling out forms; it is quick and easy since you can scan and access forms right away.
Which tool is most like Microsoft Forms?
Google Forms is MS Forms’ closest competitor. Both are easy to use, customizable and work well with their suite apps.