The original McDonald's $1 $2 $3 menu was an iconic national value menu launched in early 2018, offering a range of popular items at clear, tiered price points. The menu was a direct successor to the classic Dollar Menu, expanding options by adding $2 and $3 price points to the mix. Over time, however, the fast-food landscape changed, and by late 2024 and early 2025, McDonald's in the United States pivoted to a new, more flexible approach called the McValue Platform. This shift reflects how the company adapts to rising costs and local market needs, while still trying to attract customers with appealing deals. The key takeaway for value-seekers is that while the specific $1 $2 $3 menu is gone, its spirit lives on through the McValue Platform and various limited-time offers.
The McValue Platform: Current Offers for 2025
For 2025, the primary national value offer at McDonald's is the Buy One, Add One for $1 deal. This promotion allows customers to purchase one qualifying full-priced item from the McValue selection and add another eligible item for just an additional dollar. The specific items available through this offer can change and often include popular choices. The convenience of this deal is that the "add one" price remains consistent, even though regular menu prices can vary significantly between locations.
Buy One, Add One for $1: A Closer Look
The items available for the McValue "Buy One, Add One for $1" offer are typically divided into breakfast and all-day selections. While subject to change, the standard lineup includes some fan-favorites:
McValue Breakfast Menu Items:
- Sausage McMuffin
- Sausage Biscuit
- Sausage Burrito
- Hash Browns
McValue Lunch/Dinner Menu Items:
- Double Cheeseburger
- McChicken Sandwich
- 6-Piece Chicken McNuggets
- Small World Famous Fries
By leveraging this offer, a customer could, for example, order a regular Double Cheeseburger and get a McChicken for only an extra dollar. This strategy provides more flexibility and variety than the old fixed-price model.
Local Deals and the McDonald's App
Beyond the national promotions, many of the best value deals at McDonald's today are found on the company's official mobile app. Franchise owners and operators have more control over local pricing and specials, and they often use the app to promote exclusive discounts and unique meal bundles. These can include temporary offers, loyalty rewards, and other location-specific savings.
The Importance of the McDonald's App
- Exclusive Discounts: Many deals are app-only and are not advertised on the in-store menu boards.
- Customization: The app allows for easy customization of orders while still applying eligible discounts.
- Loyalty Rewards: Customers can earn points on purchases, which can be redeemed for free food and drinks.
- Up-to-Date Pricing: The app provides the most accurate and real-time pricing, reflecting local franchise variations.
Comparison of Value Menu Strategies
To understand the evolution of McDonald's value offerings, it's helpful to compare the old system with the new one. The shift from a fixed-price dollar menu to a more dynamic platform is a direct response to a changing economic environment and consumer behavior.
| Feature | Original $1 $2 $3 Menu (pre-2025) | McValue Platform (2025+) |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Fixed tiered prices ($1, $2, $3) | Flexible offers, including Buy One, Add One for $1 |
| Item Selection | Nationally consistent list, though varied by daypart | Varies by deal; core items consistent, but app offers more |
| Availability | Available nationwide at participating locations | Mostly app-based and includes local, franchise-specific offers |
| Consumer Focus | Transparency and simplicity of pricing | Customization and reward-based savings through the app |
| Pricing Consistency | Fairly consistent across regions, with some exceptions | Pricing can vary by location, making the app crucial for accuracy |
Conclusion: The New Way to Find Value
The iconic McDonald's $1 $2 $3 menu is now a part of the chain's history, replaced by the more modern and flexible McValue Platform. For those wondering what is on McDonalds $1 $2 $3 menu today, the answer is a dynamic array of deals, headlined by the "Buy One, Add One for $1" offer. These new value strategies, which lean heavily on the mobile app, provide customers with more personalized and timely deals than the static menu of the past. To find the most current and best deals, customers should rely on the McDonald's app, which provides real-time information based on their location. This allows savvy consumers to maximize their savings and enjoy their favorite menu items without breaking the bank.
For more official details on the McValue Platform and current offers, visit the McDonald's Deals page.
