Malwarebytes vs Bitdefender
Malwarebytes 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 Malwarebytes for most users. It scores 9.5/10 vs 8.2/10 and best-in-class malware detection rates. Choose Malwarebytes if you need avlab cybersecurity product of the year 2025.
Malwarebytes
Malware removal specialist with real-time protection
Starting from
$44.99/yr
Bitdefender
WinnerTop-rated protection with minimal system impact
Starting from
$29.99/yr
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Starting Price | $44.99/yr | $29.99/yr |
| User Reviews | ||
| Protection | ||
| Malware Detection | 97.8% | 100% |
| Real-Time Protection | ||
| Ransomware Protection | ||
| Firewall | ||
| Extras | ||
| VPN Included | ||
| Password Manager | ||
| Parental Controls | ||
| Coverage | ||
| Devices | Up to 20 | Up to 10 |
| Gaming Mode | ||
| Webcam Protection | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Malwarebytes
- AVLab Cybersecurity Product of the Year 2025
- Excellent at removing existing malware
- 100% stalkerware detection (only product to achieve this)
- Lightweight and fast scans
- Great as a second-opinion scanner
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- Higher false positive rates than competitors
- Lower AV-TEST scores (5.5/6 vs 6/6)
- No firewall included
- Real-time protection not in free version
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: Malwarebytes offers browser guard while Bitdefender provides firewall. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
Malwarebytes
Choose Malwarebytes if you prioritize avlab cybersecurity product of the year 2025, want to start with a free tier, or value excellent at removing existing malware.
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 Malwarebytes's 8.2/10. Bitdefender stands out for its best-in-class malware detection rates and minimal performance impact on system. While Malwarebytes is more affordable, Bitdefender's advantages justify the price difference for most users. However, Malwarebytes remains an excellent choice if avlab cybersecurity product of the year 2025 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 Malwarebytes better than Bitdefender?
Bitdefender scores higher in our testing (9.5/10 vs 8.2/10). Bitdefender excels at best-in-class malware detection rates, while Malwarebytes is better for avlab cybersecurity product of the year 2025.
Which is cheaper, Malwarebytes or Bitdefender?
Malwarebytes is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $29.99/mo. Malwarebytes offers 100% savings.
Malwarebytes vs Bitdefender: which should I choose?
Choose Malwarebytes if you prioritize avlab cybersecurity product of the year 2025. Choose Bitdefender if you need best-in-class malware detection rates. Both are solid antivirus software options.
What's the main difference between Malwarebytes and Bitdefender?
The main difference is Malwarebytes offers malware removal specialist with real-time protection, while Bitdefender focuses on top-rated protection with minimal system impact.