I tried Burger King’s upgraded Whopper, which the chain says is helping drive sales. I can see why.

Released in 1957, just four years after the chain opened, the Whopper was 37 cents compared to Burger King’s original burger, which cost 18 cents.

Whoppers — and all Burger King burgers, for that matter — are flame-grilled, giving their burgers a distinct smoky flavor. Another difference between Burger King’s premium burgers and those of other chains, like McDonald’s, is that Burger King’s burgers are typically wrapped in paper rather than served in a cardboard box.

This new presentation is the most obvious change from the original Whopper.

The chain announced on February 26 that it would change its Whopper packaging in response to negative customer feedback.

“So the Whopper being smushed, literally, I’ve heard it… and we’ve seen it,” Curtis told CNN.

Another change to the burger was the bun itself — it was described in a press release as “a more premium, better-tasting bun.”

After I bought the burger, I agreed that the bun looked much thicker, shinier, and better than previous iterations.

While Whoppers don’t typically come with cheese, I always order mine with cheese. The other toppings include sliced onions and tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, and a new, “better-tasting” mayo, according to the chain.

When I ordered a Whopper with cheese on February 14, 2026, it cost $9.17, excluding tax, at my local Burger King in Brooklyn.

When I ordered the same burger on February 27, 2026, it cost $8.58, excluding tax, at the same location.

Burger King’s prices can vary by location and franchise. CNN reported that Burger King recommended that franchisees not raise prices for the new elevated Whopper.

Unlike the original Whopper — which could turn soggy from its thinner mayonnaise and heavy condiments — this version was less saucy and stayed intact much better.

The new, creamier mayonnaise had more flavor, without making the burger a soggy mess. Combined with the still-flavorful flame-grilled burger patty, crunchy lettuce, and fresh tomato slices, this burger still remained my top pick among the most famous fast-food signature burgers.

When updating a fast-food burger as iconic as the Whopper, there’s a risk in changing too much — longtime fans may not respond well if it strays too far from what they know and expect.

However, I thought this slightly upgraded version of the Whopper hit all the right notes, and as fast-food customers seek out value more than ever, this burger delivered on that promise, too.

It maintained the same flavor profile while addressing the burger’s biggest problem areas: flat, soggy buns and a slightly too high price point.

As a result, I understand why it’s helping bring customers through Burger King’s doors. It’s still the same Whopper you know and love — just with a tune-up.

Editor’s note: This story was first published in February 2026 and most recently updated in August 2026.