Skip to Content

7 Biggest Differences Between Sirloin Vs Filet + The Final Verdict

Sharing is caring!

Filet and sirloin are two different cuts of meat. The sirloin is a cut of meat located in the upper hindquarter, whereas the filet is taken from the upper end of the tenderloin muscle. 

Different kinds of steak cuts have different textures and flavor profiles. So, what is THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE between sirloin vs filet? 

The sirloin has a stronger beefy taste and a tougher texture, while the filet has a more delicate taste and a butter-like texture. Below you’ll find the main differences between sirloin vs filet explained in detail along with the final verdict! 

Sirloin Vs Fillet

SIRLOIN vs FILET

1. Location

The location of the cut is what determines how tender or tough the meat will be. The sirloin is cut from the cow’s upper hindquarters, whereas the filet is cut along the cow’s spine (cow’s upper end of the tenderloin muscle). 

Additionally, there are two types of sirloin steak cuts:

The inside cut (closer to the spine).
The outside cut (closer to the hip bone).

2. Appearance

The sirloin is thinner, flatter and more “marbled” than the filet. It has a classic steak shape. On the other hand, the filet mignon is thicker, and is more round in shape. Also, the filet has a subtly deeper color than the sirloin. 

DID YOU KNOW? Filet is a French word for “thick slice”. 

3. Texture

Cooked sirloin has a firmer texture than the filet. Contrary to it, cooked filet is known for its soft, delicate, and tender texture. Because of its tender texture, filet mignon is one of the most popular steak cuts globally.

In a nutshell, texture is one of the biggest differences between the two. Also, keep in mind that the sirloin can be a bit chewy if overcooked. In that case, it will have an extra firm texture. 

4. Taste

Another obvious difference between these two steaks is that cooked sirloin has a beefier (tougher) taste compared to filet. Cooked filet has a more subtle and juicy taste, which is not quite as intense as the sirloin flavor. 

Here are some of the factors that can affect the flavor of sirloin and filet mignon: 

The type of cut

The cooking method (The best way to cook these two cuts of meat is quickly with direct heat, preferably on the grill. Don’t forget to add some red pepper flakes or chili flakes to it!)

The animal used

The grade of the meat.

5. Fat content

Both sirloin steak and filet mignon contain similar nutrients, and the biggest difference lies in the fat content. The sirloin contains moderate levels of fat, whereas filet mignon contains higher levels of fat and cholesterol

WHY? Filet steaks are cut from an area that doesn’t get as much as exercise, and because of that the filet stores more fat. 

difference between Sirloin Vs Filet

6. Cost 

Because of its extra tender texture and delicate flavor, filet mignon is more expensive than sirloin steaks. Generally, you can expect to pay between $7 to $10.99 for a pound of sirloin steak, whereas the price for a pound of filet mignon is between $20 to $25.

Of course, the average price of these two steaks greatly depends on the type of cut, animal used, the grade of the meat, and your location. 

NOTE: These two steak cuts are most expensive at the restaurants and steakhouses. They are a lot cheaper if you buy them directly from the farmer. 

7. Size/weight

The sirloin is a larger cut of meat than the filet. Sirloin steaks often weigh 10 ounces or more, whereas a standard filet mignon cut of meat weighs about 8 ounces. The reason why filet mignons are smaller is that they are cut from the circular tenderloin muscle. 

The Verdict

Now that we’ve learned the main differences between sirloin vs filet, it’s time for the final verdict:

If you’re a steak enthusiast, then the sirloin is the best option for you because it has a beefier taste than the filet mignon. 

If you’re looking for a tenderer and juicer version of steak, then the filet is a better option. However, keep in mind that this cut of meat contains higher levels of fat content. 

If you’re on a tight budget, then the sirloin is DEFINITELY a better option for you. 

Enjoy your steak!
You might also be interested in: New York Strip vs Sirloin: 5 Major Differences Worth Knowing