Avast One vs Bitdefender
Bitdefender vs Avast compares excellent paid protection against popular free protection. Bitdefender's free tier is limited but its paid is superb; Avast's free tier is capable but its company has faced scrutiny.
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Quick Answer
Bitdefender beats Avast One for most users. It scores 9.5/10 vs 8.4/10 and best-in-class malware detection rates. Choose Avast One if you need excellent free antivirus option.
Avast One
Strong free tier with comprehensive paid options
Starting from
$35.88/yr
Bitdefender
WinnerTop-rated protection with minimal system impact
Starting from
$29.99/yr
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.4/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Starting Price | $35.88/yr | $29.99/yr |
| User Reviews | ||
| Protection | ||
| Malware Detection | 99.98% | 100% |
| Real-Time Protection | ||
| Ransomware Protection | ||
| Firewall | ||
| Extras | ||
| VPN Included | ||
| Password Manager | ||
| Parental Controls | ||
| Coverage | ||
| Devices | Up to 30 | Up to 10 |
| Gaming Mode | ||
| Webcam Protection | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Avast One
- Excellent free antivirus option
- Good malware detection
- Built-in VPN included
- Performance optimization tools
- Cross-platform support
- Modern, easy-to-use interface
- Free version has ads for upgrades
- Past data privacy controversies (2020)
- VPN limited to 5GB/week on free tier
- No parental controls
- Higher false positive rates in lab tests
Bitdefender
- Best-in-class malware detection rates
- Minimal performance impact on system
- Excellent ransomware protection
- VPN included (200MB/day free)
- Advanced threat defense with behavioral monitoring
- Cross-platform protection for all devices
- VPN data limit on basic plans
- Some features require internet connection
- Premium plans can be pricey
Key Difference
Bitdefender paid is arguably the best antivirus available. Avast free is arguably the best free antivirus. The question is whether you'll pay. Bitdefender has a cleaner privacy record; Avast has faced controversies.
Which Should You Choose?
Avast One
Choose Bitdefender if you can invest in security, want the best protection available, prefer a privacy-respecting company, or want light system impact.
Bitdefender
Choose Avast if you need free antivirus that actually works, accept some ads and upselling, want browser security features in free tier, or have multiple computers to protect cheaply.
Our Verdict
Bitdefender wins on protection quality with the highest detection rates and cleanest reputation. Avast wins on free tier capability if you need protection without paying. Paid vs free determines the practical winner.
Thinking of Switching?
If moving from free Avast to paid Bitdefender, expect meaningfully better protection and fewer interruptions. Uninstall Avast completely including its browser components.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Avast One better than Bitdefender?
Bitdefender scores higher in our testing (9.5/10 vs 8.4/10). Bitdefender excels at best-in-class malware detection rates, while Avast One is better for excellent free antivirus option.
Which is cheaper, Avast One or Bitdefender?
Avast One is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $29.99/mo. Avast One offers 100% savings.
Avast One vs Bitdefender: which should I choose?
Choose Avast One if you prioritize excellent free antivirus option. Choose Bitdefender if you need best-in-class malware detection rates. Both are solid antivirus software options.
What's the main difference between Avast One and Bitdefender?
The main difference is Avast One offers strong free tier with comprehensive paid options, while Bitdefender focuses on top-rated protection with minimal system impact.