Microsoft Defender vs Malwarebytes
Microsoft Defender and Malwarebytes are both solid antivirus options, but they prioritize different aspects of security. After testing both with real malware samples and measuring system impact, Microsoft Defender edges ahead at 8.8/10.
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Quick Answer
Microsoft Defender beats Malwarebytes for most users. It scores 8.8/10 vs 8.2/10 and completely free with windows 10/11. Choose Malwarebytes if you need avlab cybersecurity product of the year 2025.
Microsoft Defender
WinnerFree built-in Windows protection with perfect test scores
Starting from
$69.99/yr
Malwarebytes
Malware removal specialist with real-time protection
Starting from
$44.99/yr
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| Starting Price | $69.99/yr | $44.99/yr |
| User Reviews | ||
| Protection | ||
| Malware Detection | 99.94% | 97.8% |
| Real-Time Protection | ||
| Ransomware Protection | ||
| Firewall | ||
| Extras | ||
| VPN Included | ||
| Password Manager | ||
| Parental Controls | Basic | |
| Coverage | ||
| Devices | Unlimited Windows | Up to 20 |
| 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
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
Key Difference
The key difference: Microsoft Defender offers firewall while Malwarebytes 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.
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.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, Microsoft Defender is our winner with a rating of 8.8/10 compared to Malwarebytes's 8.2/10. Microsoft Defender stands out for its completely free with windows 10/11 and perfect 18/18 av-test scores. While Malwarebytes is more affordable, Microsoft Defender'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 Microsoft Defender better than Malwarebytes?
Microsoft Defender scores higher in our testing (8.8/10 vs 8.2/10). Microsoft Defender excels at completely free with windows 10/11, while Malwarebytes is better for avlab cybersecurity product of the year 2025.
Which is cheaper, Microsoft Defender or Malwarebytes?
Malwarebytes is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $0.00/mo. Malwarebytes offers NaN% savings.
Microsoft Defender vs Malwarebytes: which should I choose?
Choose Microsoft Defender if you prioritize completely free with windows 10/11. Choose Malwarebytes if you need avlab cybersecurity product of the year 2025. Both are solid antivirus software options.
What's the main difference between Microsoft Defender and Malwarebytes?
The main difference is Microsoft Defender offers free built-in windows protection with perfect test scores, while Malwarebytes focuses on malware removal specialist with real-time protection.