Webroot vs Norton 360
Webroot 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 Webroot for most users. It scores 9.3/10 vs 8/10 and excellent 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
Norton 360
WinnerComplete protection with identity theft monitoring
Starting from
$29.99/yr
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 8.0/10 | 9.3/10 |
| Starting Price | $49.99/yr | $29.99/yr |
| User Reviews | ||
| Protection | ||
| Malware Detection | 98.9% | 99.8% |
| 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
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: Webroot offers system optimizer while Norton 360 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).
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 Webroot's 8/10. Norton 360 stands out for its excellent malware detection rates and identity theft protection included. Norton 360 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 Norton 360?
Norton 360 scores higher in our testing (9.3/10 vs 8/10). Norton 360 excels at excellent malware detection rates, while Webroot is better for extremely lightweight - under 4mb install.
Which is cheaper, Webroot or Norton 360?
Norton 360 is more affordable at $29.99/mo vs $49.99/mo. Norton 360 offers 40% savings.
Webroot vs Norton 360: which should I choose?
Choose Webroot if you prioritize extremely lightweight - under 4mb install. Choose Norton 360 if you need excellent malware detection rates. Both are solid antivirus software options.
What's the main difference between Webroot and Norton 360?
The main difference is Webroot offers ultra-lightweight cloud-based protection with fast scans, while Norton 360 focuses on complete protection with identity theft monitoring.