Antivirus software is one tool in your security toolkit to help defend your data and devices against threats like malware, ransomware, and phishing. While updated operating systems have decent built-in protection, third-party antivirus can up the level and add layers of security through extras like VPNs and firewalls.
Also: The best antivirus software
In our head-to-head comparison of popular antivirus options Bitdefender vs. Malwarebytes<!–>, Bitdefender comes out on top thanks to its robust, feature-rich protection and competitive price. When deciding which antivirus software is best for you, you’ll want to consider factors like compatibility across platforms and devices, types of threat protection, extra features, and price. Here’s a breakdown of two popular antivirus software options.
Specifications
| Bitdefender | Malwarebytes | |
| Free version | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free premium trial | 30 days | 14 days |
| Compatibility | Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, Linux | Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS |
| Malware protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Phishing protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Scan types | Scheduled, real-time | Scheduled, real-time |
| Customer support | Live chat, email, phone, support pages | AI and live chat, email, support pages |
| Price | Plans starting at $24 per year for one device or $35 per year for three devices | Plans starting at $45 per year |
You should choose Bitdefender if…
I tested Bitdefender, and it’s our current pick for the best antivirus software.
Screenshot by Emily Long/ZDNET
1. You want comprehensive protection across devices and browsers
As a known and trusted brand, Bitdefender is our top pick for the best antivirus software. It provides protection against viruses, malware, ransomware, spyware, rootkits, and adware on all major operating systems (Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS) to keep your data and devices safe from security threats. You also get anti-phishing protection against websites that aim to steal your personal information. On Windows, Bitdefender does continuous, real-time scans and has advanced performance settings so the software isn’t a drag on your machine while you’re gaming, streaming, or working. Plus, a subscription to Bitdefender Total Security ($60 per year) includes a privacy firewall for Windows users.
Bitdefender also has anti-tracking and anti-phishing browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge. Note that Bitdefender’s software for Windows and Android is more robust than the versions for MacOS and iOS, so not all features and settings are available on all platforms.
Also: The best free antivirus software: Expert tested
2. You want premium features at a competitive price
In addition to antivirus and anti-malware, Bitdefender Antivirus Plus comes with VPN service (up to 200MB of encrypted traffic per device per day) and data breach protection. An upgrade to Bitdefender Total Security adds password management to the package. Antivirus Plus starts at $24 per year, while Total Security costs $60 per year — comparable plans from Malwarebytes run anywhere from $60 to $100 annually. If you need additional privacy and security features, Bitdefender includes them in one package at a competitive price.
While Bitdefender’s free plan is limited to virus and malware protection, you do get real-time scanning and access to 24/7 customer support via live chat.
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You should choose Malwarebytes if…
I tested Malwarebytes, and found its interface to be very user-friendly.
Screenshot by Emily Long/ZDNET
1. You’re looking primarily for malware protection
Malwarebytes does anti-malware protection well. While other antivirus software — Bitdefender included — comes with a wide range of security features built-in even on free and basic paid plans, not everyone needs or wants an all-in-one solution. If you don’t plan to use lots of extras like VPN access, password management, or dark web monitoring, a free or standard subscription to Malwarebytes will get you all the malware, virus, ransomware, phishing, and rootkit protection you need.
If you do decide you want extra features under one umbrella, Malwarebytes Plus ($60 per year) comes with VPN and anonymous browsing, while Malwarebytes Ultimate ($120 per year) adds dark web monitoring, credit reporting, and data removal services.
2. You want to supplement existing security features
If you have a VPN or password manager already, Malwarebytes can supplement those services while focusing on its primary purpose: scanning your system for threats. Malwarebytes has VPN and identity protection add-ons, but you don’t need to upgrade to these plans to get solid antivirus and anti-malware protection. Otherwise, Malwarebytes offers rapid and real-time scanning, threat quarantining, and ad blocking in a simple, user-friendly interface (though the free plan comes with manual scanning only).
Alternatives to consider
The antivirus space is packed, so if neither Bitdefender or Malwarebytes offers what you need, there are numerous other antivirus software options available to choose from:
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