Kaspersky vs Bitdefender
Kaspersky and Bitdefender are both solid antivirus options, but they prioritize different aspects of security. After testing both with real malware samples and measuring system impact, Bitdefender edges ahead at 9.5/10.
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Quick Answer
Bitdefender beats Kaspersky for most users. It scores 9.5/10 vs 6/10 and best-in-class malware detection rates. Choose Kaspersky if you need outstanding malware detection rates (international).
Kaspersky
BANNED IN US - Still available internationally
Starting from
$27.99/yr
Bitdefender
WinnerTop-rated protection with minimal system impact
Starting from
$29.99/yr
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 6.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Starting Price | $27.99/yr | $29.99/yr |
| User Reviews | ||
| Protection | ||
| Malware Detection | 100% | 100% |
| 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
Kaspersky
- Outstanding malware detection rates (international)
- Safe Money protects online banking
- Low system impact
- User-friendly interface
- Good parental controls
- Competitively priced internationally
- BANNED in United States since September 2024
- Cannot receive updates for US customers
- Russian government ties led to Commerce Dept. ban
- US users auto-migrated to UltraAV
- VPN has daily data limits (300MB on Standard)
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
The key difference: Kaspersky offers safe money while Bitdefender provides gaming mode. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
Kaspersky
Choose Kaspersky if you prioritize outstanding malware detection rates (international), or value safe money protects online banking.
Bitdefender
Choose Bitdefender if you prioritize best-in-class malware detection rates, or value minimal performance impact on system.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, Bitdefender is our winner with a rating of 9.5/10 compared to Kaspersky's 6/10. Bitdefender stands out for its best-in-class malware detection rates and minimal performance impact on system. While Kaspersky is more affordable, Bitdefender's advantages justify the price difference for most users. However, Kaspersky remains an excellent choice if outstanding malware detection rates (international) is your priority. There's no universally "wrong" choice here - both are quality options that serve their target audiences well.
Thinking of Switching?
Consider the migration effort before switching. Most services offer data export, but rebuilding workflows and configurations takes time. Evaluate whether the benefits outweigh the switching costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kaspersky better than Bitdefender?
Bitdefender scores higher in our testing (9.5/10 vs 6/10). Bitdefender excels at best-in-class malware detection rates, while Kaspersky is better for outstanding malware detection rates (international).
Which is cheaper, Kaspersky or Bitdefender?
Kaspersky is more affordable at $27.99/mo vs $29.99/mo. Kaspersky offers 7% savings.
Kaspersky vs Bitdefender: which should I choose?
Choose Kaspersky if you prioritize outstanding malware detection rates (international). Choose Bitdefender if you need best-in-class malware detection rates. Both are solid antivirus software options.
What's the main difference between Kaspersky and Bitdefender?
The main difference is Kaspersky offers banned in us - still available internationally, while Bitdefender focuses on top-rated protection with minimal system impact.