Microsoft Defender vs Norton 360
Microsoft Defender and Norton 360 are both solid antivirus options, but they prioritize different aspects of security. After testing both with real malware samples and measuring system impact, Norton 360 edges ahead at 9.3/10.
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Quick Answer
Norton 360 beats Microsoft Defender for most users. It scores 9.3/10 vs 8.8/10 and excellent 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
Norton 360
WinnerComplete protection with identity theft monitoring
Starting from
$29.99/yr
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.8/10 | 9.3/10 |
| Starting Price | $69.99/yr | $29.99/yr |
| User Reviews | ||
| Protection | ||
| Malware Detection | 99.94% | 99.8% |
| 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
Norton 360
- Excellent malware detection rates
- Identity theft protection included
- Unlimited VPN with no data caps
- Cloud backup storage included
- Dark web monitoring
- 100% virus protection promise
- Higher price point than competitors
- Can slow down older systems
- Auto-renewal at full price
Key Difference
The key difference: Microsoft Defender offers cloud protection while Norton 360 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.
Norton 360
Choose Norton 360 if you prioritize excellent malware detection rates, or value identity theft protection included.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, Norton 360 is our winner with a rating of 9.3/10 compared to Microsoft Defender's 8.8/10. Norton 360 stands out for its excellent malware detection rates and identity theft protection included. While Microsoft Defender is more affordable, Norton 360'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 Norton 360?
Norton 360 scores higher in our testing (9.3/10 vs 8.8/10). Norton 360 excels at excellent malware detection rates, while Microsoft Defender is better for completely free with windows 10/11.
Which is cheaper, Microsoft Defender or Norton 360?
Microsoft Defender is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $29.99/mo. Microsoft Defender offers 100% savings.
Microsoft Defender vs Norton 360: which should I choose?
Choose Microsoft Defender if you prioritize completely free with windows 10/11. Choose Norton 360 if you need excellent malware detection rates. Both are solid antivirus software options.
What's the main difference between Microsoft Defender and Norton 360?
The main difference is Microsoft Defender offers free built-in windows protection with perfect test scores, while Norton 360 focuses on complete protection with identity theft monitoring.