Trend Micro vs Microsoft Defender
Trend Micro and Microsoft Defender 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 Trend Micro for most users. It scores 8.8/10 vs 8.5/10 and completely free with windows 10/11. Choose Trend Micro if you need strong 97% malware detection rate.
Trend Micro
Cross-platform security with Pay Guard banking protection
Starting from
$19.95/yr
Microsoft Defender
WinnerFree built-in Windows protection with perfect test scores
Starting from
$69.99/yr
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
| Starting Price | $19.95/yr | $69.99/yr |
| User Reviews | ||
| Protection | ||
| Malware Detection | 97% | 99.94% |
| Real-Time Protection | ||
| Ransomware Protection | ||
| Firewall | ||
| Extras | ||
| VPN Included | ||
| Password Manager | ||
| Parental Controls | Basic | |
| Coverage | ||
| Devices | Up to 10 | Unlimited Windows |
| Gaming Mode | ||
| Webcam Protection | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Trend Micro
- Strong 97% malware detection rate
- Pay Guard secure browser for online banking
- Excellent anti-phishing protection
- Supports 5 platforms including Chromebook
- $1M identity theft insurance (US only)
- No auto-renewal requirement
- Scans can slow system performance
- Higher false positive rates than competitors
- Limited VPN features compared to rivals
- Renewal prices nearly double after first year
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
Key Difference
The key difference: Trend Micro offers password manager while Microsoft Defender provides cloud protection. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
Trend Micro
Choose Trend Micro if you prioritize strong 97% malware detection rate, or value pay guard secure browser for online banking.
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.
Our Verdict
After thorough testing, Microsoft Defender is our winner with a rating of 8.8/10 compared to Trend Micro's 8.5/10. Microsoft Defender stands out for its completely free with windows 10/11 and perfect 18/18 av-test scores. Microsoft Defender also offers better value at its price point. However, Trend Micro remains an excellent choice if strong 97% malware detection rate 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 Trend Micro better than Microsoft Defender?
Microsoft Defender scores higher in our testing (8.8/10 vs 8.5/10). Microsoft Defender excels at completely free with windows 10/11, while Trend Micro is better for strong 97% malware detection rate.
Which is cheaper, Trend Micro or Microsoft Defender?
Microsoft Defender is more affordable at $0.00/mo vs $19.95/mo. Microsoft Defender offers 100% savings.
Trend Micro vs Microsoft Defender: which should I choose?
Choose Trend Micro if you prioritize strong 97% malware detection rate. Choose Microsoft Defender if you need completely free with windows 10/11. Both are solid antivirus software options.
What's the main difference between Trend Micro and Microsoft Defender?
The main difference is Trend Micro offers cross-platform security with pay guard banking protection, while Microsoft Defender focuses on free built-in windows protection with perfect test scores.