Webroot vs Bitdefender
Webroot 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 Webroot for most users. It scores 9.5/10 vs 8/10 and best-in-class malware detection rates. Choose Webroot if you need extremely lightweight - under 4mb install.
Webroot
Ultra-lightweight cloud-based protection with fast scans
Starting from
$49.99/yr
Bitdefender
WinnerTop-rated protection with minimal system impact
Starting from
$29.99/yr
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Starting Price | $49.99/yr | $29.99/yr |
| User Reviews | ||
| Protection | ||
| Malware Detection | 98.9% | 100% |
| Real-Time Protection | ||
| Ransomware Protection | ||
| Firewall | ||
| Extras | ||
| VPN Included | Total Protection only | |
| Password Manager | ||
| Parental Controls | ||
| Coverage | ||
| Devices | Up to 10 | Up to 10 |
| Gaming Mode | ||
| Webcam Protection | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Webroot
- Extremely lightweight - under 4MB install
- Lightning-fast scans (20 seconds average)
- Cloud-based with minimal system impact
- Identity protection and dark web monitoring
- 70-day money-back guarantee
- LastPass password manager included
- No AV-TEST participation since 2019
- Lower detection rates than top competitors
- Web protection not as effective
- Limited macOS feature set
- Renewal prices double after first year
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: Webroot offers identity protection while Bitdefender provides vpn included. This fundamental distinction shapes who each product serves best.
Which Should You Choose?
Webroot
Choose Webroot if you prioritize extremely lightweight - under 4mb install, or value lightning-fast scans (20 seconds average).
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 Webroot's 8/10. Bitdefender stands out for its best-in-class malware detection rates and minimal performance impact on system. Bitdefender also offers better value at its price point. However, Webroot remains an excellent choice if extremely lightweight - under 4mb install 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 Webroot better than Bitdefender?
Bitdefender scores higher in our testing (9.5/10 vs 8/10). Bitdefender excels at best-in-class malware detection rates, while Webroot is better for extremely lightweight - under 4mb install.
Which is cheaper, Webroot or Bitdefender?
Bitdefender is more affordable at $29.99/mo vs $49.99/mo. Bitdefender offers 40% savings.
Webroot vs Bitdefender: which should I choose?
Choose Webroot if you prioritize extremely lightweight - under 4mb install. Choose Bitdefender if you need best-in-class malware detection rates. Both are solid antivirus software options.
What's the main difference between Webroot and Bitdefender?
The main difference is Webroot offers ultra-lightweight cloud-based protection with fast scans, while Bitdefender focuses on top-rated protection with minimal system impact.