Bitdefender consistently ranks among the top-tested antivirus solutions worldwide. The Total Security suite offers strong real-time protection, a built-in VPN, password manager, and anti-tracking – making it ideal for families and power users who value a comprehensive security package. System impact stays moderate, especially on modern hardware. Note that the renewal price increases significantly compared to the introductory offer.
Documented product tests and assessments are pending. We therefore currently publish no scores or test winners. Selections use recorded product features.
Bitdefender vs Microsoft Defender
Bitdefender and Microsoft Defender compared side by side: protection, performance, pricing, and features. Which antivirus suits you better?
Microsoft Defender comes pre-installed on every Windows PC and provides solid baseline protection against malware, phishing, and ransomware. In independent tests, Defender now performs well and is often sufficient for users with cautious browsing habits. However, anyone who needs VPN, password manager, extended web protection, or parental controls should consider a paid suite. As a free reference point, Defender is the most important comparison benchmark.
Complete ratings are missing for an overall comparison.
Recorded overall rating: Bitdefender —/10, Microsoft Defender —/10. The overall score is the average of six criteria.
Performance rating: Bitdefender —/10, Microsoft Defender —/10. Higher points indicate a better rating for this criterion.
Prices are indicative. Check the current amount, currency, contract term and renewal conditions with the provider. Different contract terms are not directly comparable.
Feature-by-feature comparison
Listed features refer to the product range. They may require a different plan or an additional payment and may vary by platform. Check what your selected plan includes.
| Criterion | Bitdefender | Microsoft Defender |
|---|---|---|
| Real-time protection | In the product range | In the product range |
| Built-in VPN | In the product range | Not confirmed |
| Password manager | In the product range | Not confirmed |
| Anti-tracking / anti-phishing | In the product range | Not confirmed |
| Parental controls | Not confirmed | Not confirmed |
| Identity protection | Not confirmed | Not confirmed |
| Low system impact | In the product range | In the product range |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone / iPad | Windows |
| Number of devices (standard licence) | 5 devices | 1 device |
| System impact in daily use | — | — |