McKinsey vs Deloitte S&O: MBB vs Big 4 Strategy
Updated January 2026·10 min read
Head-to-Head: McKinsey vs Deloitte S&O
9/10
Interview Difficulty
7/10
5/10
Work-Life Balance
6/10
10/10
Compensation
8/10
10/10
Prestige
7/10
10/10
Exit Opportunities
7/10
McKinseyDeloitte S&O
Quick Summary
Both McKinsey & Company and Deloitte Strategy & Operations are excellent consulting firms with strong reputations. McKinsey is known for those prioritizing brand and exits, while Deloitte S&O excels at those who prefer implementation work. Your choice should depend on your career goals, preferred working style, and cultural fit.
Detailed Comparison: McKinsey vs Deloitte S&O
| Category | McKinsey | Deloitte S&O |
|---|---|---|
| Prestige | Top-tier MBB brand globally recognized | Respected but tier below MBB |
| Interview Process | Interviewer-led cases, PEI, Solve game | Candidate-led cases, group exercises, Immersive |
| Compensation | ~$115K undergrad, ~$190K MBA base | ~$100K undergrad, ~$175K MBA base |
| Work Type | Pure strategy, C-suite focus | Strategy plus implementation, broader scope |
| Work-Life Balance | Demanding, high travel | Still demanding but slightly better |
| Exit Opportunities | Opens all doors | Good but may require explanation |
Key Takeaways
- Prestige: McKinsey for maximum brand value
- Interview Process: McKinsey more standardized; Deloitte more varied
- Compensation: McKinsey pays 15-20% more at all levels
- Work Type: McKinsey for strategy; Deloitte for variety
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose McKinsey if you...
- ✓Those prioritizing brand and exits
- ✓Candidates targeting C-suite advisory
- ✓People who got into both and can choose
Choose Deloitte S&O if you...
- ✓Those who prefer implementation work
- ✓Candidates valuing slightly better lifestyle
- ✓People interested in Big 4 network benefits
Interview Process Comparison
McKinsey Interview Process
- • Online assessment/screening
- • 2-3 rounds of case interviews
- • Behavioral/fit interviews
- • Final round with partners
Deloitte S&O Interview Process
- • Online assessment/screening
- • 2-3 rounds of case interviews
- • Behavioral/fit interviews
- • Final round with partners
Prepare for Both McKinsey and Deloitte S&O
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Start PracticingFrequently Asked Questions
Is McKinsey worth it over Deloitte S&O?
If you have both offers, McKinsey is generally the better choice for long-term career optionality. The brand premium and exit opportunities are meaningfully stronger, worth the slightly harder lifestyle.
Can I transfer from Deloitte to McKinsey?
Yes, but it's competitive. Strong performers at Deloitte S&O can lateral to MBB after 1-2 years, though you'll interview like an external candidate. Having Deloitte experience helps but doesn't guarantee entry.
How much more does McKinsey pay than Deloitte?
McKinsey typically pays 15-20% more at comparable levels. Entry-level difference is ~$15K base; at manager level the gap widens to $30-50K+ including bonus.
Is Deloitte S&O interview easier than McKinsey?
Yes, generally. McKinsey is more selective and the interview process is more standardized. Deloitte S&O is still competitive but acceptance rates are higher (around 3-5% vs under 1%).