Bitdefender vs Norton: which antivirus is better in 2024?

When choosing the best antivirus software for 2024, the comparison between Bitdefender vs Norton often stands out among the top providers. These two companies have dominated the market for almost two decades, consistently vying for the top spot.

As cyber threats become more advanced, it’s essential to have antivirus software that offers more than just basic virus elimination. Contemporary antivirus programs must provide advanced threat detection, real-time scanning, ransomware protection, secure browsing, identity theft protection, and system optimization to ensure comprehensive security.

For my Bitdefender and Norton comparison, I extensively tested Norton 360 Deluxe and Bitdefender Total Security, evaluated their performance in various scenarios, and thoroughly assessed their cybersecurity capabilities. Read on to discover which provider best suits your needs!

Bitdefender vs Norton

Winner:

Visit Norton Antivirus

Norton vs Bitdefender: Which has the best features?

Both Bitdefender and Norton offer a range of features to safeguard your digital life. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which is the best antivirus.

Bitdefender offers a free version with limited features, whereas Norton does not. Additionally, Norton supports monthly payments and provides a 60-day money-back guarantee, compared to Bitdefender’s 30-day and no monthly plans. Bitdefender’s pricing starts from $2.92/month, while Norton’s ranges from $29.99 to $99.99 for the first year, depending on the plan you choose. Both providers offer VPN add-ons and 24/7 customer support. With all the features compared, Norton wins once more.

Winner:

Visit Norton Antivirus

Features comparison

Based on my testing, Bitdefender offers a comprehensive suite of security features, including robust real-time protection with a 99.9% malware detection rate and effective anti-phishing capabilities that block 88-96% of phishing attempts. Additionally, it includes a VPN with a 200 MB/day limit in lower tiers and unlimited data in premium plans, an intelligent firewall, and basic system optimization tools. While it lacks file encryption, it does provide advanced ransomware remediation, parental controls, and a secure browser for online transactions. 

Norton, on the other hand, delivered extensive real-time protection with an absolute malware detection rate of 100% and effective anti-phishing measures. It offers a VPN with unlimited data in higher-tier plans, a robust two-way firewall, and advanced system optimization tools. Norton includes file encryption, a comprehensive password manager across all plans, and robust ransomware protection. It also provides extensive parental controls and secure online banking features. 

Try Norton 360

Bitdefender vs Norton: pricing overview

Bitdefender and Norton each provide strong antivirus protection but target different user preferences. Bitdefender Total Security, priced at $19.99/year, is a more budget-friendly antivirus option and includes a free version with limited features. In contrast, Norton 360 Deluxe, available for $19.99/year, distinguishes itself with a more generous 60-day money-back guarantee, the option for monthly payments, and unlimited VPN data. However, Norton’s extensive customization options and superior malware detection capabilities provide an advantage over Bitdefender.

Norton 360 cost

Norton offers several antivirus plans without LifeLock, including the entry-level Antivirus Plus. Here are the main options: 

1. Norton Antivirus Plus: $59.99/year for one device.
2. Norton 360 Standard: $94.99/year for up to three devices.
3. Norton 360 Deluxe: $119.99/year for up to five devices.
4. Norton 360 with LifeLock Select: $179.99/year for up to ten devices.

Here’s what you get with each plan: 

Try Norton Antivirus today

Bitdefender cost

Bitdefender also offers a variety of subscription plans to meet your device security needs. Here are some options: 

1. Bitdefender Mobile Security: $14.99/year for one device (Android and iOS)​
2. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus: $29.99/year for three devices (Windows)​ 
3. Bitdefender Internet Security: $34.99/year for three devices (Windows)​
4. Bitdefender Total Security: $39.98/year for five devices (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS)​ 

Here’s what you get with each plan: 

For additional features, Bitdefender offers Premium Security ($59.99/year), Ultimate Security ($74.99/year), and Ultimate Security Plus ($89.99/year). These plans protect up to ten devices and provide email and crypto mining protection. The Ultimate and Ultimate Plus plans also include credit monitoring and identity theft insurance. 

Try Bitdefender today

Customer reviews: Bitdefender or Norton

Redditors vividly discuss various advantages and disadvantages of both Bitdefender and Norton 360. Some Bitdefender users report high system resource usage, while others praise its effective performance. Similarly, Norton 360 users have varied opinions, with some commending its comprehensive security features and others noting issues like occasional slowdowns.

Norton 360 users frequently mention issues with frequent notifications, but many believe that the antivirus’s overall reliability and robust security features make up for this minor inconvenience.

Bitdefender receives a 3.7 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot from over 8,100 reviews, reflecting a mix of positive and negative feedback. Some users express dissatisfaction with its malware scans and customer support. In contrast, Norton 360 holds a higher rating of 4.2 out of 5 from more than 22,000 reviews, with fewer one-star ratings. Most Norton users commend the software for its dependable protection and user-friendly interface. 

Overall, user experiences with Bitdefender and Norton 360 vary, highlighting the importance of considering individual preferences and priorities when selecting an antivirus. 

Winner:

Visit Norton Antivirus

Norton vs Bitdefender: the best protection

In the March 2024 Malware Protection Test by AV-Comparatives, Bitdefender exhibited strong performance, with 96.1% offline and online threat detection rates and an impressive 99.92% online protection rate. Despite listing eight false alarms, its efficacy remains noteworthy.

Norton 360, however, displayed a lower offline detection rate of 81%, with 26 false positives. Nevertheless, it redeemed itself with outstanding online detection and protection rates of 98.9% and 99.97%, respectively.

AV-TEST’s February 2024 assessment revealed the efficacy of Bitdefender and Norton 360 in preventing zero-day malware attacks and identifying widespread threats. SE Lab results from April 2023 and March 2024 also affirm their reliability, each achieving a commendable 100% protection score against various attack types.

Winner:

Visit Norton Antivirus

Protection from Malware

Bitdefender and Norton 360 both emphasize strong malware protection, using sophisticated detection methods to secure users’ devices against diverse cyber threats. Bitdefender employs a multi-layered defense strategy, incorporating real-time scanning, heuristic analysis, and machine learning algorithms to identify and block malware instantly. It has an outstanding reputation for high detection rates and low false positives, as confirmed by independent testing organizations like AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives.

Similarly, Norton 360 provides thorough malware protection via its extensive threat intelligence network and behavioral analysis technology. It continuously monitors system activity, detecting and neutralizing potential threats before they can inflict damage. Norton’s malware protection has consistently received high ratings from industry experts, ensuring users peace of mind against evolving cyber threats.

Firewall

Both Bitdefender and Norton 360 come with built-in firewalls that monitor and regulate incoming and outgoing network traffic, preventing unauthorized access and cyber-attacks. Bitdefender’s firewall provides detailed control over network permissions, enabling users to customize settings according to their specific security needs. It actively oversees network activity, identifying and blocking suspicious connections in real time to guard against malicious intrusions. 

Norton 360’s firewall offers similar capabilities. It uses a combination of rule-based filtering and application control to manage network traffic and prevent threats. It continuously monitors network connections, automatically blocks suspicious activities, and alerts users of potential security risks. Norton’s firewall is well-known for its reliability and effectiveness in protecting users’ devices from unauthorized access and malicious attacks.

Virus Scanning

Bitdefender and Norton 360 offer robust virus scanning capabilities, enabling users to perform thorough system scans to detect and remove malware. Bitdefender’s scanning engine combines signature-based detection with heuristic analysis to identify and eradicate both known and unknown threats. It provides quick, complete, and custom scan options, allowing users to customize their scanning preferences according to their specific needs.

Likewise, Norton 360’s scanning feature uses advanced detection methods to identify and eliminate malware from infected systems.

It provides multiple scanning options, including quick, complete, and custom scans, enabling users to thoroughly check their devices for potential threats. Norton’s scanning engine is celebrated for its speed and accuracy, offering users dependable protection against malware and other security risks.

Additional features: Bitdefender or Norton?

Still not decided which of the two providers suits your needs best? Here are additional features you can expect from these antivirus software tools:

Password Manager

Both Bitdefender and Norton 360 feature built-in password managers, enabling users to securely store and manage their passwords for various online accounts. These password managers provide encryption and secure storage to protect users’ login credentials from unauthorized access or theft. Users can generate strong, unique passwords for each account and conveniently access them across multiple devices.

Secure VPN

Bitdefender and Norton 360 also provide a secure VPN (Virtual Private Network) service as part of their antivirus packages. A VPN encrypts users’ internet traffic and routes it through a secure server, enhancing online privacy and security. This feature enables users to browse the web anonymously, access geo-restricted content, and protect their sensitive data from hackers or snoopers on unsecured networks.

SafeCam

Both Bitdefender and Norton 360 include a SafeCam feature to protect users’ privacy by blocking unauthorized access to their device’s webcam. SafeCam monitors webcam activity and notifies users of any attempts by malicious software or unauthorized individuals to access their webcams without permission. This feature helps prevent potential privacy breaches and ensures that personal information remains secure.

Cloud Backup

Bitdefender and Norton 360 also include cloud backup solutions within their antivirus suites, enabling users to securely back up and restore essential files and data. These services automatically store files in encrypted cloud storage, offering extra protection against data loss from hardware failure, theft, or malware infection. Users can schedule regular backups and access their stored files from any device with internet access.

App Lock for Android Devices

Both Bitdefender and Norton 360 provide app lock functionality for Android devices. This feature allows users to secure individual apps with a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint authentication. It protects sensitive apps and data from unauthorized access, ensuring privacy and security on mobile devices.

WearON

Bitdefender offers WearON, which extends protection to wearable devices like smartwatches. WearON enables users to remotely locate, lock, or wipe their lost or stolen wearable devices, safeguarding personal data and ensuring privacy on these gadgets. This feature enhances overall device security and provides peace of mind to users who depend on wearable technology.

Platforms, interface, and ease of use

My testing proved that Bitdefender is user-friendly and easy for beginners to set up. It offers a free trial so you can test it before buying. The desktop apps are intuitive, with features organized into customizable sections. The mobile app is also well-designed, although the iOS version is less feature-rich than the Android one, a common issue with many cybersecurity tools. Nonetheless, Bitdefender ensures a seamless experience across both platforms.

Setting up Norton 360 can be initially complex, as the desktop app acts as a central hub for various services. However, once configured, the separate apps for different functions become advantageous.

WRAPPING UP – IT’S A DRAW.
Bitdefender offers an all-in-one app, while Norton splits services into separate apps. Both methods work well with no significant drawbacks. Overall, Norton 360 is my top choice.

Desktop Apps

Bitdefender and Norton 360 provide extensive antivirus protection through their desktop applications, which are compatible with Windows and MacOS. Bitdefender’s desktop app features advanced threat detection and prevention, including real-time scanning, behavior-based analysis, and heuristic scanning to identify and block malware, ransomware, phishing attempts, and other cyber threats. It offers a user-friendly interface with customizable settings, automatic updates, and seamless integration with other Bitdefender security features.

Similarly, Norton 360’s desktop app offers strong security features, including antivirus and anti-malware protection, firewall, identity theft protection, and a secure VPN. It uses artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to proactively defend against evolving threats and ensure optimal system performance. The desktop app also includes additional features such as cloud backup, password manager, and parental controls to enhance overall security and privacy.

Mobile Apps

Bitdefender and Norton 360 extend their antivirus protection to mobile devices through dedicated mobile applications available for both Android and iOS platforms. 

Bitdefender’s mobile app provides extensive security features, including real-time malware scanning, web protection, anti-theft tools, and a privacy advisor to protect smartphones and tablets from online threats. It also offers app lock, VPN, and account privacy features to ensure secure mobile usage.

Comparably, Norton 360’s mobile app delivers advanced security features designed for mobile devices, including malware protection, web protection, Wi-Fi security, and anti-theft functionality. It also includes safe browsing, call blocking, and an app advisor to safeguard users’ personal information and privacy. Both Bitdefender and Norton 360 mobile apps prioritize user experience with intuitive interfaces, minimal impact on device performance, and regular updates to address emerging threats.

Customer support

Both Bitdefender and Norton 360 offer responsive customer support via email, 24/7 live chat, and phone. Let’s look at what kind of assistance you can get from both.

Norton’s customer support is available through online forums, live chat, and phone, providing multiple channels for assistance. As a paid service, it typically offers short wait times, allowing quick access to support agents. When I tested Norton 360’s live chat, I was connected with an agent in under a minute, finding the service efficient.

The agent’s response was professional and helpful, ensuring a smooth support experience. Both Bitdefender and Norton prioritize customer satisfaction by providing reliable support channels for users facing issues.

WRAPPING UP: IT’S A DRAW
Both antivirus services provide excellent customer support, making it a tie in this category. However, our overall top recommendation remains Norton 360.

Bitdefender vs Norton – which one wins?

In conclusion, Norton 360 emerges as the preferred choice over Bitdefender, supported by comprehensive research showcasing its effectiveness in 2024. Nevertheless, both Norton 360 and Bitdefender excel in protecting operating systems against malware, offering impressive detection rates, real-time protection, and versatile scan options. Additionally, both provide valuable supplementary features to enhance security. While each has its strengths and weaknesses, users can rely on either Norton 360 or Bitdefender for robust antivirus protection tailored to their needs.

Winner:

Visit Norton Antivirus

Bitdefender consistently ranks among the top antivirus options, offering comprehensive cybersecurity with minimal resource usage. However, its pricing may not be the best compared to Norton 360 antivirus. While Bitdefender excels on Windows, it is less effective on macOS and iOS. Despite the potential for higher costs, Bitdefender delivers robust security benefits. Ultimately, Norton 360 stands out as the superior choice, providing top-tier malware protection and additional features at more competitive prices, as reflected in user reviews.

9.7 /10

Best Antivirus 2024

The best antivirus with outstanding malware removal

Special deal

80% OFF

Get the deal

9.1 /10

Reliable & fast anti-malware solution

Special deal

75% OFF

Get the deal

9.4 /10

Best antivirus software with minimal impact

Special deal

78% OFF

Get the deal

You may also like to read:
Surfshark vs NordVPN: which VPN is better in 2024
Norton vs Kaspersky: choose the best antivirus
NordVPN vs IPVanish in 2024
NordVPN vs Proton VPN: Which is better in 2024?
NordVPN vs PIA (Private Internet Access) in 2024
Norton VPN review
Best antivirus with a VPN
Best antivirus for Chromebook
Best Kaspersky alternatives
Norton Antivirus Black Friday deals

FAQ

Which is better, Bitdefender or Norton?

Norton is a better antivirus. While both Norton and Bitdefender provide excellent protection, Norton 360 slightly outperforms in detection and protection across all platforms. It offers comprehensive features at competitive prices, making it the superior choice for many users. Bitdefender is also strong but is less effective on macOS and iOS and can be pricier.

Can you trust Bitdefender?

Yes, you can trust Bitdefender. It is widely recognized for its strong performance in malware detection and prevention, consistently receiving high marks from independent testing labs. Bitdefender employs advanced technologies, including real-time scanning, behavioral analysis, and cloud-based threat detection, to ensure robust security. Additionally, it has a proven track record of protecting users’ data and maintaining minimal impact on system performance, making it a reliable choice for comprehensive cybersecurity.

Is Bitdefender better than Norton?

Whether Bitdefender is better than Norton depends on your specific needs. Bitdefender offers excellent malware detection, minimal system impact, and a user-friendly interface, making it ideal for Windows users. However, it is less effective on macOS and iOS and can be pricier. Norton Antivirus, on the other hand, provides robust protection across all platforms, including macOS and iOS, and offers additional features at more competitive prices. Both are highly reputable, but Norton may offer better overall value.

How much does Norton cost?

Norton offers several pricing plans depending on the level of protection and features you need. Prices typically range from $19.99 per year for basic antivirus protection to around $99.99 per year for comprehensive plans that include features like VPN, password manager, and identity theft protection.