Microsoft Defender vs Bitdefender
Microsoft Defender 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.
Some products are sponsored. Rankings reflect our honest assessment. See our affiliate disclosure
Quick Answer
Bitdefender beats Microsoft Defender for most users. It scores 9.5/10 vs 8.8/10 and best-in-class malware detection rates. Choose Microsoft Defender if you need completely free with windows 10/11.
Microsoft Defender
Free built-in Windows protection with perfect test scores
Starting from
$69.99/yr
Bitdefender
WinnerTop-rated protection with minimal system impact
Starting from
$29.99/yr
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Starting Price | $69.99/yr | $29.99/yr |
| User Reviews | ||
| Protection | ||
| Malware Detection | 99.94% | 100% |
| Real-Time Protection | ||
| Ransomware Protection | ||
| Firewall | ||
| Extras | ||
| VPN Included | ||
| Password Manager | ||
| Parental Controls | Basic | |
| Coverage | ||
| Devices | Unlimited Windows | Up to 10 |
| Gaming Mode | ||
| Webcam Protection | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Microsoft Defender
- Completely free with Windows 10/11
- Perfect 18/18 AV-TEST scores
- 99.94% malware detection rate
- Zero performance impact on modern systems
- Seamless Windows integration
- No annoying upsells or popups
- Phishing protection only works in Microsoft browsers
- No VPN included
- No password manager
- Limited parental controls vs paid solutions
- No cross-platform support for Mac/mobile
- Ransomware protection less robust than premium options
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: Microsoft Defender offers cloud protection while Bitdefender provides vpn included. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
Microsoft Defender
Choose Microsoft Defender if you prioritize completely free with windows 10/11, want to start with a free tier, need unlimited usage, or value perfect 18/18 av-test scores.
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 Microsoft Defender's 8.8/10. Bitdefender stands out for its best-in-class malware detection rates and minimal performance impact on system. While Microsoft Defender is more affordable, Bitdefender's advantages justify the price difference for most users. However, Microsoft Defender remains an excellent choice if completely free with windows 10/11 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 Microsoft Defender better than Bitdefender?
Bitdefender scores higher in our testing (9.5/10 vs 8.8/10). Bitdefender excels at best-in-class malware detection rates, while Microsoft Defender is better for completely free with windows 10/11.
Which is cheaper, Microsoft Defender or Bitdefender?
Microsoft Defender is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $29.99/mo. Microsoft Defender offers 100% savings.
Microsoft Defender vs Bitdefender: which should I choose?
Choose Microsoft Defender if you prioritize completely free with windows 10/11. Choose Bitdefender if you need best-in-class malware detection rates. Both are solid antivirus software options.
What's the main difference between Microsoft Defender and Bitdefender?
The main difference is Microsoft Defender offers free built-in windows protection with perfect test scores, while Bitdefender focuses on top-rated protection with minimal system impact.