When your stomach’s growling and time is tight, the drive-thru is a modern-day miracle. But the experience can vary wildly depending on where you go. Some chains have mastered the art of speed and order accuracy, while others leave you waiting in your car, double-checking your bag for missing items. So which drive-thrus actually deliver?

We took a look at recent data and real-world experiences to rank the best national fast food chains for those craving both speed and precision.

At the top of the list is Chick-fil-A, known for its famously long lines—but even more famous for how quickly they move. Their system of double-lane ordering, tablet-wielding staff, and meticulous customer service means even a packed parking lot feels efficient. You might spend a few more minutes than at other chains, but your order will almost never be wrong.

If time is your biggest concern, Taco Bell consistently delivers. The chain ranks among the fastest in the country, with many locations turning around drive-thru orders in under four minutes. Even better, their accuracy scores remain high despite a highly customizable menu. For fast and flexible, it’s hard to beat.

KFC has quietly stepped up its drive-thru game. Fried chicken isn’t always the easiest item to prep quickly, but thanks to smart kitchen organization and better tech, service times are faster than ever. And when it comes to order accuracy, KFC performs surprisingly well across the board.

McDonald’s is a familiar choice for a reason. With dual-lane ordering and consistent mobile app integration, they’ve fine-tuned the drive-thru process at most of their locations. While not the absolute fastest, McDonald’s offers a reliable balance between speed, convenience, and accuracy—especially if you use the app to skip ahead.

Wendy’s lands in the middle of the pack. They’re improving drive-thru efficiency thanks to kitchen updates and redesigned workflows, and at many locations, you’ll find good balance between wait time and quality. Accuracy is solid, and the food quality makes the short wait worth it.

For those who don’t mind a few extra minutes, Arby’s is a strong contender. Their meats take a little longer to prep, but Arby’s consistently scores high for getting orders right the first time. If you’re not in a hurry, it’s a worthwhile stop.

Burger King, unfortunately, remains hit-or-miss. Some locations are quick and consistent, while others suffer from long waits and frequent order issues. Your best bet is to check your local reviews before committing if you’re on a schedule.

If you’re looking to streamline your own drive-thru experience, order ahead through restaurant apps when available, avoid peak lunch hours, and steer clear of overly customized items when speed is your priority.

Drive-thrus may have started as a quick fix, but they’ve become a full-blown battleground for speed, service, and precision. Knowing which chains can handle your cravings with efficiency and care? That’s the real win.