2026

Malwarebytes vs Norton

Malwarebytes and Norton compared side by side: protection, performance, pricing, and features. Which antivirus suits you better?

Malwarebytes

8.5

/ 10

Malwarebytes has built its reputation as a specialist in malware detection and removal. The Premium version offers real-time protection against malware, ransomware, and malicious websites. The software is particularly lightweight and works well as a complement or replacement for heavyweight suites. The VPN add-on provides extra privacy. The feature set is intentionally focused – those looking for extras like password managers or parental controls will need to look elsewhere.

1st Year PriceCHF 44.90 RenewalCHF 79.90 PlatformsWindows, Mac, Android, iPhone / iPad

Protection 8.9

Performance 9.2

Best for 9.0

First-year price 8.0

Key features 7.8

Support 8.3

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Norton

9.0

/ 10

Norton 360 Deluxe is one of the most comprehensive security suites available. Beyond strong virus protection, the package includes unlimited VPN, a password manager, parental controls, and dark web monitoring. The suite is particularly well suited for families and seniors who want easy operation combined with broad protection. The entry price is attractive, but the renewal more than doubles.

1st Year PriceCHF 44.90 RenewalCHF 99.90 PlatformsWindows, Mac, Android, iPhone / iPad

Protection 9.6

Performance 8.7

Best for 9.0

First-year price 8.1

Key features 9.5

Support 8.9

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Our Verdict

Norton narrowly wins – Malwarebytes is the leaner choice.

Norton scores 9.0 / 10 overall and is the stronger pick on protection and feature scope. If you value maximum performance, low resource use and lower renewal costs, Malwarebytes is the better fit. Both are excellent options for Swiss users.

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Our verdict

Norton takes a slight lead in our comparison with an overall score of 9.0 out of 10 – an advantage of 0.5 points over Malwarebytes. The gap is small but consistent across multiple test dimensions.

On price, Malwarebytes currently sits at CHF 45 in year one, Norton at CHF 45. Watch the renewal price closely: both are transparently listed in the table above and matter more long-term than the introductory price.

Strength profiles: Malwarebytes scores highest on system impact, Norton on protection. If you care most about one of those dimensions, the choice is clear. For all-round needs, either product is a safe pick.

Feature-by-feature comparison

Criterion	Malwarebytes	Norton
Real-time protection	Yes	Yes
Built-in VPN	Yes	Yes
Password manager	No	Yes
Anti-tracking / anti-phishing	No	No
Parental controls	No	Yes
Identity protection	No	Yes
Low system impact	Yes	No
Platforms	Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone / iPad	Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone / iPad
Number of devices (standard licence)	5	5
System impact in daily use	Very low	Moderate

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Frequently asked questions about Malwarebytes vs Norton

Which scores higher on protection, Malwarebytes or Norton?

Both reach top scores in AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives – the differences are small. The exact scores are in the comparison table above.

Which is cheaper in year 1 and on renewal – Malwarebytes or Norton?

Look at the price columns above: year-one price and renewal price are stated transparently side by side. The renewal delta is often the bigger cost factor over 3 years.

Which is better for families, Malwarebytes or Norton?

Both offer family plans for 5–10 devices. What matters: does the product have a dedicated parental-controls mode, screen-time management and a smooth setup. Details in the feature table.

Do I get better Mac/mobile support with Malwarebytes or Norton?

Platform support is listed in the comparison above. Generally: macOS performance is best with Bitdefender and Intego; Android protection is most mature with Bitdefender, Norton and Kaspersky.