Bitdefender vs ESET
Bitdefender vs ESET compares the popular detection leader against the technical users' favorite. Both score excellently on tests, but their approaches differ. Bitdefender automates everything; ESET offers more control.
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Quick Answer
Bitdefender beats ESET for most users. It scores 9.5/10 vs 9.2/10 and best-in-class malware detection rates. Choose ESET if you need av-comparatives product of the year 2024.
Bitdefender
WinnerTop-rated protection with minimal system impact
Starting from
$29.99/yr
ESET
Award-winning protection with minimal system impact
Starting from
$49.99/yr
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| Starting Price | $29.99/yr | $49.99/yr |
| User Reviews | ||
| Protection | ||
| Malware Detection | 100% | 100% |
| Real-Time Protection | ||
| Ransomware Protection | ||
| Firewall | ||
| Extras | ||
| VPN Included | Ultimate only | |
| Password Manager | ||
| Parental Controls | ||
| Coverage | ||
| Devices | Up to 10 | Up to 10 |
| Gaming Mode | ||
| Webcam Protection | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
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
ESET
- AV-Comparatives Product of the Year 2024
- Perfect 6/6 AV-TEST scores across all categories
- Extremely lightweight - minimal system resource usage
- Multi-platform support (Windows, macOS, Android)
- Advanced threat detection with low false positives
- 30-day money-back guarantee and free trial
- No iOS support available
- VPN only included in Ultimate tier
- Interface less modern than some competitors
- Identity protection requires Ultimate plan
Key Difference
Bitdefender is automated and simplified; ESET is controllable and detailed. Both protect equally well. Bitdefender has more features; ESET has more settings. Different interfaces for different users.
Which Should You Choose?
Bitdefender
Choose Bitdefender if you want set-and-forget protection, prefer automated security decisions, want the lightest system impact, or don't want to configure security settings.
ESET
Choose ESET if you prefer more control over security settings, want detailed logging and information, appreciate a technical interface, or like customizing detection behavior.
Our Verdict
Bitdefender wins for most users with its automated protection and intuitive interface. ESET wins for technical users who want more control over security settings. Technical comfort level determines the better fit.
Thinking of Switching?
Both are excellent - switch based on interface preference. Uninstall completely before installing. ESET users moving to Bitdefender may miss granular control; Bitdefender users moving to ESET may appreciate the detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bitdefender better than ESET?
Bitdefender scores higher in our testing (9.5/10 vs 9.2/10). Bitdefender excels at best-in-class malware detection rates, while ESET is better for av-comparatives product of the year 2024.
Which is cheaper, Bitdefender or ESET?
Bitdefender is more affordable at $29.99/mo vs $49.99/mo. Bitdefender offers 40% savings.
Bitdefender vs ESET: which should I choose?
Choose Bitdefender if you prioritize best-in-class malware detection rates. Choose ESET if you need av-comparatives product of the year 2024. Both are solid antivirus software options.
What's the main difference between Bitdefender and ESET?
The main difference is Bitdefender offers top-rated protection with minimal system impact, while ESET focuses on award-winning protection with minimal system impact.