When you dive into the vast sea of cybersecurity to look for the best antivirus software, one of the choices you’ll likely encounter is Malwarebytes vs. Windows Defender. These are two of the oldest players in the antivirus industry.
Malwarebytes is renowned for its specialized malware detection capabilities and has protected many devices threatened by the new varieties of malware entering the digital landscape every day. On the other hand, Windows Defender from Microsoft is built directly into the operating system and has been silently protecting countless computers around the globe.
But which one is right for your business? The distinctions might be more intricate than you think because each business has its unique needs. In this article, we will compare and contrast these two tools to find the perfect match for your company’s digital safety.
Featured Partners
1
Norton Antivirus
$29.99 / year (first year)
Yes
Yes
2
TotalAV
$19 / year (first year)
Yes
Yes
3
AVG
$49.99 / year (first year)
Yes
Yes
Malwarebytes vs. Windows Defender: At a Glance
Malwarebytes is popular for its aggressive malware detection capabilities. It offers features including remediation, anti-ransomware, anti-exploit and anti-rootkit tools. For businesses that encounter a broad range of malware threats or require a robust second layer of protection, Malwarebytes stands out. It’s particularly useful for swiftly “cleaning up” post a malware attack, making it a top choice for those who prioritize specialized protection.
Windows Defender is embedded within the Windows OS and provides a seamless cybersecurity experience. It includes real-time protection, cloud-delivered defense, ransomware protection and integration with Windows Sandbox for testing suspicious files in a secure environment. It’s an optimal solution for businesses seeking a straightforward, cost-effective tool, especially those deeply rooted in the Microsoft ecosystem. Over the years, its detection capabilities have been refined, making it a strong contender even against dedicated third-party antiviruses.
When diving into the Malwarebytes vs. Windows Defender debate, it’s essential to understand their strengths. While Malwarebytes is excellent for hunting a wide array of threats, it’s often viewed more as a complementary tool. On the other hand, Windows Defender’s integration with Windows ensures a hassle-free experience. You need to weigh your specific needs, infrastructure and the threats you face to make an informed decision.
Malwarebytes
Starting Price
$3.75 per device per month
Free Trial Available
Yes
Standout Features
Multifactor authentication, VPN add-on, identity protection
$3.75 per device per month
Yes
Multifactor authentication, VPN add-on, identity protection
Malwarebytes is designed to detect and neutralize a variety of digital threats. Though it was originally developed to tackle advanced malware, it has since evolved into a multifaceted security tool. It offers protection against a wide range of threats, from traditional viruses to more sophisticated ones, including zero-day exploits, ransomware and malicious website attacks. Its adaptive technology ensures that as cyberthreats evolve, so does its defense mechanism, protecting devices and networks dynamically.
In addition to its powerful detection engine, Malwarebytes is known for its user-friendly interface. This ensures that businesses, whether tech-savvy or not, can easily deploy and manage the software with ease. Regular updates ensure that its real-time protection and swift remediation tools are more effective against the latest threats.
Whether you use it as a primary defense tool or alongside other antivirus solutions, Malwarebytes offers a robust layer of security to any digital environment.
- Excellent detection and removal of malware
- Fast and efficient scanning
- Minimal slowdown during scans
- Real-time protection
- Advanced AI-powered threat detection
- Simple and intuitive interface
- Not a comprehensive security solution
- VPN available only for top tiers
Windows Defender
Starting Price
Free with Microsoft 365 subscription
Free Trial Available
Yes
Standout Features
Firewall, identity theft protection, web browsing protection
Free with Microsoft 365 subscription
Yes
Firewall, identity theft protection, web browsing protection
Windows Defender, now known as Microsoft Defender, is an integral part of the Windows operating system, ensuring that users get a basic layer of protection from the moment they boot up their PCs. Users have automatic, real-time protection without the hassle of downloading, installing or regularly updating third-party software. It’s a straightforward solution that offers peace of mind, especially to users who might not be tech-savvy or who prefer an antivirus that demands minimal user intervention.
Once considered very basic in its protection, Windows Defender has transformed into a robust antivirus tool with improved detection rates that rival many premium third-party solutions. Its cloud-based analytics, combined with machine learning, allows it to quickly identify and counteract new threats.
Furthermore, its deep integration with the Windows ecosystem, such as the SmartScreen feature for web browsing protection and integration with the Windows Sandbox for safely testing suspicious files, provides a multilayered defense. For users seeking a no-extra-cost, maintenance-light, yet effective antivirus solution, Microsoft Defender is a compelling choice.
- Comprehensive solution
- Firewall included
- Minimal system impact
- Real-time protection
- Automatic response to sophisticated attacks
- No anti-spam protection
- Needs Microsoft 365 subscription
How Malwarebytes and Windows Defender Stack Up
If you are considering Malwarebytes and Windows Defender, it will help you to have a head-to-head comparison of the two tools. Here is a comparison of some of the common features you expect to be provided by any cybersecurity tool.
|   | Malwarebytes | Windows Defender |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $3.75 per device per month | Free with Microsoft 365 |
| Impact on device performance | Minimal | Minimal |
| Anti-spam protection | No | No |
| Phishing protection | Yes | Yes |
| Ransomware protection available | Yes | Yes |
| Identity protection available | Yes | Yes |
| Password manager | Third-party add-on | No |
| Firewall available | No | Yes |
| VPN included | Add-on | Yes |
| Support and service | Live chat, limited phone support, email, self-help knowledge base | Live chat, limited phone support, self-help knowledge base |
| Platforms available | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android | Windows, Mac, iOS, Android |
| Read Review |
Firewall Protection
Firewall is a critical component of any cybersecurity strategy. Built directly into the Windows OS, Microsoft Defender Firewall provides a comprehensive, integrated solution to regulate both incoming and outgoing network traffic. It offers customizable rules for applications, allowing users precise control over network communications. The firewall also provides timely notifications when new apps are blocked, granting users the flexibility to make informed decisions.
Malwarebytes, while renowned for its malware detection and remediation capabilities, does not feature a built-in firewall like Microsoft Defender. Instead, its focus centers on preventing malware threats and offering web protection to guard against malicious sites and downloads. Malwarebytes is designed to work alongside other security tools, including firewalls. You can pair Malwarebytes with Microsoft Defender Firewall or other third-party firewalls for a comprehensive security solution.
VPN Feature
Malwarebytes Privacy, Malwarebytes’ no-logs VPN solution, is designed to enhance user privacy by encrypting internet traffic and masking the user’s IP address. The primary focus is to ensure online privacy and protect users from digital tracking, thereby making online activities more anonymous. With a streamlined interface, the VPN feature is easy to use, even for those unfamiliar with VPN services.
Microsoft Defender, as a primary antivirus and security tool integrated with Windows, does not come with a built-in VPN feature. Its main functionalities revolve around malware detection, real-time protection and system security features. While Microsoft offers various tools and services for businesses and enterprise-level users, including secure network solutions, a direct VPN feature comparable to Malwarebytes Privacy isn’t part of the standard Microsoft Defender package.
Identity Theft Protection
Malwarebytes Identity Theft Protection service is aimed at monitoring and protecting users’ personal information from potential identity theft, all backed by a theft insurance policy of up to $2 million. It provides alerts if personal information, such as Social Security numbers or bank account details, appears in breaches or on suspicious platforms. Malwarebytes also offers assistance in case of identity theft, helping users navigate the recovery process.
Microsoft Defender for Identity is a robust enterprise-level solution tailored for organizations. It’s a cloud-based tool designed to protect organizational identities by monitoring both on-premises Active Directory and cloud-based identities. By integrating with Microsoft Defender, it provides a holistic security view, helping organizations identify, detect and investigate advanced threats targeted at them. It goes beyond just personal identity theft protection and is designed to safeguard an entire organization’s identity infrastructure against sophisticated attacks, thus ensuring business continuity and data integrity.
Cost of Malwarebytes vs. Windows Defender
Malwarebytes has a free version as well as premium versions. The free version has limited features, primarily manual scanning for malware. The premium versions are paid plans that provide real-time protection, ransomware protection and additional features. The cost can vary, but it started at $3.75 per device per month (billed annually) for a single device when Forbes Advisor checked last. Pricing can change based on the number of devices and the length of the subscription.
Malwarebytes has other products and services, such as its VPN and identity theft protection, which have separate costs.
Microsoft Defender is integrated into the Windows operating system and comes at no additional charge for Windows users. It offers real-time protection, ransomware protection, cloud-delivered protection and other features without any subscription fee.
Microsoft 365 Defender for businesses is part of the Microsoft 365 security suite. The pricing for this can vary based on the exact plan and the number of users, but it encompasses more than just antivirus protection, offering comprehensive security solutions for businesses.
It’s important to note that costs and offerings can change over time. You should always check the official websites of Malwarebytes and Microsoft for the most up-to-date pricing and available features.
Featured Partners
1
Norton Antivirus
$29.99 / year (first year)
Yes
Yes
2
TotalAV
$19 / year (first year)
Yes
Yes
3
AVG
$49.99 / year (first year)
Yes
Yes
Customer Reviews and Reputation
It is important to read customer reviews and ratings for any software tool you are considering for your business. On the review platforms analyzed by Forbes Advisor, Malwarebytes consistently receives high ratings. Microsoft Defender also garners strong ratings, but it has significantly fewer reviews compared to Malwarebytes. It has no presence at all on Trustpilot at the time of analysis.
|   | Malwarebytes | Windows Defender |
|---|---|---|
| Trustpilot |  (3,983 ratings) | No reviews or ratings |
| G2 |  (700 reviews) | (31 reviews) |
| Capterra | (2,393 ratings) | (56 reviews) |
Top Malwarebytes and Windows Defender Alternatives
Both Malwarebytes and Windows Defender have made it to Forbes Advisor lists of best antivirus software. Malwarebytes was found to be the best option for real-time protection in the list of the 10 best antivirus software. Microsoft Defender was deemed best for Microsoft 365 subscribers in Forbes Advisor’s best free antivirus software list. However, you should explore other antivirus options before settling on one of these.
|   | Money-back guarantee | Firewall | VPN | Starting price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bitdefender | 30 days | Yes | Yes | $19.99 per year for personal plans; $77.69 per year for business |
| McAfee | 30 days | Yes | Not for all plans or in all regions | $29.99 per year
(for one device) |
| ESET | 30 days | Add-on | No | $211 for first year for five devices (minimum for business plan) |
| Norton | 60 days | Yes | Add-on | $19.99 per year for first year |
| Avira | 60 days | Yes | Yes | Free; Avira Internet Security is $34.99 for the first year (one device) |
Bottom Line
Malwarebytes and Microsoft Defender have their own distinct features, origins and use cases that bring unique advantages to the table.
Malwarebytes offers specialized tools for malware detection and remediation, coupled with additional services, including VPN and identity theft protection. Microsoft Defender provides a comprehensive, integrated security solution with the Windows operating system, focusing on real-time protection, ransomware prevention and cloud-based analytics.
Malwarebytes is best for:
- Businesses encountering stubborn malware attacks on their systems and network
- Organizations looking for an additional security layer
Windows Defender is best for:
- Businesses already using Windows OS and seeking a no-extra-cost security solution
- Businesses that desire a “set once and forget” approach to antivirus protection
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is better, Windows Defender or Malwarebytes?
Both Windows Defender (now known as Microsoft Defender) and Malwarebytes offer robust protection, but their strengths vary. Microsoft Defender provides a comprehensive, integrated solution with Windows, offering reliable real-time protection at no additional cost. Malwarebytes, on the other hand, excels in specialized malware detection and offers features such as VPN and identity theft protection. The best choice depends on your specific needs.
Do I need Windows Defender if I have Malwarebytes?
No, you do not necessarily need Microsoft Defender if you have Malwarebytes but using both can offer layered protection. While Malwarebytes provides specialized malware detection, Windows Defender offers comprehensive integrated security. Together, they can bolster your system’s defense.
What is better than Windows Defender?
Several antivirus solutions rival Windows Defender in features and protection. Bitdefender, Norton Antivirus and McAfee are frequently cited for their advanced tools and high malware detection rates. However, your best option depends on your specific needs and the desired feature set.
