Bitdefender vs Norton 360
Bitdefender vs Norton is the modern detection leader against the legacy security giant. Both offer excellent protection, but they differ in approach and bundled features. I've run both through independent malware tests and daily usage.
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Quick Answer
Bitdefender beats Norton 360 for most users. It scores 9.5/10 vs 9.3/10 and best-in-class malware detection rates. Choose Norton 360 if you need excellent malware detection rates.
Bitdefender
WinnerTop-rated protection with minimal system impact
Starting from
$29.99/yr
Norton 360
Complete protection with identity theft monitoring
Starting from
$29.99/yr
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.5/10 | 9.3/10 |
| Starting Price | $29.99/yr | $29.99/yr |
| User Reviews | ||
| Protection | ||
| Malware Detection | 100% | 99.8% |
| Real-Time Protection | ||
| Ransomware Protection | ||
| Firewall | ||
| Extras | ||
| VPN Included | ||
| 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
Norton 360
- Excellent malware detection rates
- Identity theft protection included
- Unlimited VPN with no data caps
- Cloud backup storage included
- Dark web monitoring
- 100% virus protection promise
- Higher price point than competitors
- Can slow down older systems
- Auto-renewal at full price
Key Difference
Bitdefender focuses on detection excellence; Norton bundles everything imaginable. Bitdefender is lighter on systems; Norton includes more extras. Bitdefender costs less; Norton's extras might justify the premium if you'd use them.
Which Should You Choose?
Bitdefender
Choose Bitdefender if you want the highest detection rates, prefer lighter system impact, need protection without bloat, or want excellent value per device.
Norton 360
Choose Norton if you want a complete security suite, need included backup storage, want integrated VPN, or prefer the peace of mind of an established name.
Our Verdict
Bitdefender wins on detection and performance with consistently top test scores and lighter system impact. Norton wins on bundled features with its extensive security suite including backup and VPN. Protection versus features is the core tradeoff.
Thinking of Switching?
Uninstall one completely before installing the other - antivirus programs conflict. Don't run two simultaneously. Test the new program for a week before deciding it's working for your setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bitdefender better than Norton 360?
Bitdefender scores higher in our testing (9.5/10 vs 9.3/10). Bitdefender excels at best-in-class malware detection rates, while Norton 360 is better for excellent malware detection rates.
Which is cheaper, Bitdefender or Norton 360?
Norton 360 is more affordable at $29.99/mo vs $29.99/mo. Norton 360 offers 0% savings.
Bitdefender vs Norton 360: which should I choose?
Choose Bitdefender if you prioritize best-in-class malware detection rates. Choose Norton 360 if you need excellent malware detection rates. Both are solid antivirus software options.
What's the main difference between Bitdefender and Norton 360?
The main difference is Bitdefender offers top-rated protection with minimal system impact, while Norton 360 focuses on complete protection with identity theft monitoring.