ESET vs Bitdefender
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.
ESET
Award-winning protection with minimal system impact
Starting from
$49.99/yr
Bitdefender
WinnerTop-rated protection with minimal system impact
Starting from
$29.99/yr
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Starting Price | $49.99/yr | $29.99/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
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
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 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?
ESET
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.
Bitdefender
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 ESET better than Bitdefender?
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, ESET or Bitdefender?
Bitdefender is more affordable at $29.99/mo vs $49.99/mo. Bitdefender offers 40% savings.
ESET vs Bitdefender: which should I choose?
Choose ESET if you prioritize av-comparatives product of the year 2024. Choose Bitdefender if you need best-in-class malware detection rates. Both are solid antivirus software options.
What's the main difference between ESET and Bitdefender?
The main difference is ESET offers award-winning protection with minimal system impact, while Bitdefender focuses on top-rated protection with minimal system impact.