Macaw vs Parakeet: (Pet Bird Comparison)

Learn about the differences in size, lifespan, vocalizations, diet, cost, training, and care between Macaw vs Parakeet. This guide will help you decide which bird will be best for your home.

Why is the Macaw vs Parakeet comparison important?

When someone thinks about getting a new pet parrot, the biggest question is — Macaw or Parakeet?

Although both are colorful, intelligent, and social birds, there are huge differences in their size, vocalizations, care, and cost.

Macaw – Large, long-lived, robust, expensive, and for experienced owners.

Parakeet – Small, affordable, easy to care for, and ideal for beginners.

In this article, we will compare the two species in detail so that you can make the right decision.

Quick Comparison Table: Macaw vs Parakeet

Feature	Macaw	Parakeet
Size	Large (30–100+ cm)	Small (15–25 cm)
Lifespan	30–60 years	7–15 years
Noise	Very loud, powerful calls	Soft, chirping sounds
Diet	Large nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables	Small seeds, pellets, fruits
Cage Requirement	Large flight cage or aviary	Small to medium cage
Cost	Very high	Low to moderate
Training	Best for experienced owners	Easy, great for beginners
Talking Ability	Loud and clear speech	Soft voice

What is a Macaw?

A Macaw is a large, large parrot native to the jungles of Central and South America.

Features

• Bright red, blue, green, yellow feathers
• Strong beak
• Length up to 3 feet
• Exceptional intelligence and mimicry

Macaws form deep bonds with their owners and are skilled at whistling, talking, and learning tricks. However, they are very vocal and require a lot of space.

What is a Parakeet?

Parakeets are a small parrot family. The most common is the Budgerigar (Budgie).

Features

• Only 6–10 inches long
• Playful and social
• Easy to care for and affordable
• Ideal for beginners

Budgie-type Parakeets learn tricks easily and can mimic human speech, although their voices are soft.

Detailed Comparison: Macaw vs Parakeet

1. Size and space requirements

Macaws – Large size, not possible to keep without a flight cage.

Parakeets – Do well in small, medium-sized cages.

Parakeets are a good choice if space is limited.

2. Noise Level

Macaw – Call can be up to 100 decibels, which is equivalent to a rock concert.

Parakeet – Soft chirps, songs and chatter.

Parakeet is ideal if you live in a flat or apartment.

3. Lifespan

Macaw – 30–60 years, more with good care.

Parakeet – Average 7–15 years.

Macaw if you want a long-term commitment, Parakeet if you want manageable.

4. Diet

Macaw- walnuts, cashews, large seeds, fresh fruits and vegetables.

Parakeet – Millet, small seeds, pellets, fruits.

Parakeet food is easily available and inexpensive.

5. Training and speaking ability

Macaw – Can imitate various words with a strong voice.

Parakeet – Budgies in particular learn extraordinary words, but their voices are soft.

Parakeet is easy for new bird owners.

6. Cost

Macaw – Costs up to several thousand dollars, cage and vet costs are also high.

Parakeet – Available under $50, inexpensive cage and food.

Parakeet is the best option if you are budget-friendly.

Macaw vs Parakeet: Pros and Cons

Macaw

Pros –

• Beautifully colored feathers
• Intricate mimicry and tricks
• Long life

Cons –

• Loud calls
• Expensive maintenance
• Requires large space

Parakeet

Pros –

• Small and easy to care for
• Ideal for beginners
• Affordable

Cons –

• Short lifespan
• Soft voice, less dramatic presence

FAQs

Which one should you choose?

Your decision will depend on—

Budget, space, and experience.

If you want a short-term pet – Parakeet

If you want a long-term companion – Macaw

Both can be wonderful companions if they are given the right care.