Norton vs Malwarebytes – which is better?

Norton and Malwarebytes are both well-known antivirus companies in the market, each serving different needs. Norton 360 is known for its comprehensive security suite, which includes features like a firewall, password manager, and cloud backup, offering top protection across multiple devices. On the other hand, Malwarebytes excels in its specialized focus on malware detection and removal, providing an extra layer of security, particularly against advanced threats like zero-day exploits and ransomware.

However, there are areas where each could improve. In this comparison, I will take a close look at both options to explore their strengths and weaknesses. To provide you with an unbiased review, I joined forces with the Cybernews research team to conduct hands-on tests with Norton and Malwarebytes, evaluating their capabilities in various situations. I hope that reading this review will help you decide which antivirus best meets your needs.

Malwarebytes vs Norton overview

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Norton and Malwarebytes both offer solid protection, but they cater to slightly different needs. Norton’s all-in-one security solution, with features like a firewall, VPN, and parental controls, makes it appealing if you’re looking for comprehensive coverage.

On the other hand, Malwarebytes shines in its specialized focus on malware detection and removal. It’s straightforward and efficient, which might make it a better fit for dealing with specific threats like ransomware.

Ultimately, Norton provides a broad range of protections, while Malwarebytes excels at what it does best – targeting malware. It comes down to whether you need an all-encompassing solution or something more focused.

Malwarebytes vs Norton: which offers better protection?

When I set out to compare the protective capabilities of Norton and Malwarebytes, I wanted to see how they really stack up. So, with a Cybernews research team, we conducted our own in-house tests and also dug into the latest results from independent labs. While both Norton and Malwarebytes are solid performers, Norton consistently pulled ahead, especially when it came to detecting threats right off the bat. So, while both are great at cleaning up malware, Norton proved to be more reliable in spotting those threats during scans.

Let’s start with the AV-TEST Institute, which is like the gold standard for cybersecurity testing. Both Norton and Malwarebytes earned certifications, which didn’t surprise me given their reputations.

But here’s where things got interesting – Norton really shined in the 2023/2024 evaluations. In February 2024, Norton snagged a perfect score of 6 in both performance and usability, while Malwarebytes, which had previously been on par with Norton, slipped to 5.5 in October 2023. Norton also had zero false positives in early 2024, whereas Malwarebytes flagged one false positive in late 2023. And when it came to zero-day malware detection, Norton hit 100% consistently, while Malwarebytes had a bit of a rollercoaster – 98.4% in September 2023, then bouncing back to 99.2% the next month.

Then I looked at AV-Comparatives, where both Norton and Malwarebytes received the Advanced grade product award. But once again, Norton edged out by blocking 100% of threats, compared to Malwarebytes’ still-impressive 99.6%.

So, after looking at all this data and running our own tests, I have to say Norton takes the crown here. Both Norton and Malwarebytes are good, but Norton has consistently shown it’s better at identifying and handling malware threats. If you’re looking for top-notch security that you can trust, Norton is definitely the way to go.

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Real-time malware protection

Starting with Norton, the antivirus works proactively to block threats before they can even reach your device. It kicks off with the Norton Safe Web feature, which keeps you safe while browsing by flagging suspicious websites. Then there’s Isolation Mode, which adds an extra layer of protection by isolating potentially dangerous sites, so even if you accidentally visit one, Norton’s got your back. And if any malware does manage to sneak through, Norton quarantines the infected files to prevent them from causing harm.

On the other hand, Malwarebytes also offers solid real-time protection with features like Ransomware Protection, Malware Protection, and Web Protection. As the names suggest, the first two are all about keeping your device safe from malicious software, while Web Protection stops you from accessing dangerous, malware-laden websites. One feature that stands out in Malwarebytes is Exploit Protection. This advanced security measure is similar to Norton’s vulnerability assessment and is designed to protect against security flaws that hackers might exploit.

In summary, both Norton and Malwarebytes provide robust real-time protection, but they approach it a bit differently. Norton excels with its comprehensive suite that blocks threats before they can cause harm, while Malwarebytes offers targeted protection against specific threats like ransomware and exploits.

Firewall security

A firewall is like a security guard for your internet traffic, keeping unwanted visitors out and making sure your data stays safe. Norton comes with a built-in firewall, which is a big plus if you’re looking for an all-in-one security solution. This feature automatically monitors both incoming and outgoing traffic, adding an extra layer of protection against potential threats that might slip through.

Malwarebytes, however, doesn’t include a native firewall. This means you’ll need to rely on your operating system’s built-in firewall or opt for a third-party solution. While this adds a bit of extra work on your part, it also offers the flexibility to choose a firewall that matches your specific security needs. Norton’s integrated firewall offers convenience, but if you’re someone who likes to customize every aspect of your security, Malwarebytes’ approach might suit you better.

Norton vs Malwarebytes: features overview

Wrapping up – it's a draw

Norton and Malwarebytes both offer strong protection but in different ways. Norton’s all-in-one security suite is great for broad coverage, while Malwarebytes excels in specialized malware detection. Each has its strengths, making it hard to pick a clear winner – so it’s a draw.

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Password management

Managing your passwords securely is crucial, and this is an area where Norton shines. It includes a built-in password manager, making it easy to store and organize your passwords all in one secure place. This feature integrates smoothly with the rest of Norton’s security tools, offering a hassle-free experience for users who want everything under one roof.

Malwarebytes, however, takes a different approach. While it doesn’t include a native password manager, it allows for third-party add-ons. This might sound like an extra step, but it gives you the freedom to choose a password management solution that works best for you. Whether you prefer using a specific service or need features that Norton’s password manager doesn’t offer, Malwarebytes gives you the flexibility to customize your security setup to fit your needs.

Built-in VPN

In today’s world, where privacy is a top concern, having a VPN is more important than ever. Norton includes a built-in VPN with its higher-tier plans, offering secure, encrypted connections that are especially useful when you’re on public Wi-Fi networks. This built-in feature ensures that your online activities remain private and protected without the need for additional software.

Malwarebytes, on the other hand, offers VPN functionality as an add-on. While this means you have to take an extra step to secure your connection, it also gives you the option to incorporate a VPN if and when you need it. Norton’s all-in-one package is great for users who want everything bundled together, but Malwarebytes offers the flexibility to add VPN protection based on your individual needs.

Wrapping up

For features, Norton is the clear winner. It offers a complete suite with malware protection, firewall, password management, and a VPN – all in one package, making it ideal for those who want everything in one place. Malwarebytes focuses primarily on malware protection and does it well, but it doesn't offer the additional tools that Norton provides.

Winner: Norton

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Norton vs Malwarebytes: pricing

Both Malwarebytes and Norton offer several plans to choose from. While Malwarebytes has a free version, it’s quite basic compared to paid options. But if we compare only paid subscriptions, then Norton is not only better for the features it offers but also has far better value for money.

If you’re like me and just need solid protection for your personal laptop or phone, Norton might catch your eye first with its lower starting price. For example, Norton Antivirus Plus usually starts at around $39.99 for the first year if you’re covering just one device. It’s a good deal if you’re looking for basic, reliable security without breaking the bank.

On the other hand, if you’re someone who values a more specialized approach to malware protection, you might lean towards Malwarebytes. Their Premium plan, which comes in at about $50.99 per device per year, focuses heavily on keeping your devices squeaky clean from malware.

In the end, while Malwarebytes’ free version might seem appealing, it doesn’t offer the full protection you get with Norton.

Wrapping up

When it comes to value for money, Norton is the winner. Norton offers more budget-friendly subscription options, providing features like a firewall and VPN at a lower price, especially if you need to cover multiple devices. While Malwarebytes excels in specialized malware protection, Norton gives you more comprehensive features for your investment.

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Malwarebytes vs Norton: ease of use

I joined a team of experts to evaluate Norton and Malwarebytes, using specific testing criteria to compare their performance. The testing process took about two days, during which time, with a research team, we analyzed key features, security capabilities, and overall ease of use. I conducted these tests across multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

After thoroughly assessing both antivirus applications, I found that Norton is generally more user-friendly and easier to navigate on both desktop and mobile devices, offering a more seamless experience across various operating systems.

Desktop apps

Getting started with Malwarebytes or Norton on your desktop is straightforward. Simply download the applications from their official websites, install them on your OS, and you’re ready to go. Whether you’re using Windows or macOS, both offer user-friendly graphical interfaces, making navigation simple and intuitive.

The Malwarebytes desktop app is designed with simplicity in mind. The main page gives you quick access to Real-Time Protection, Detection History, VPN, and Scanner features, while identity protection is easily accessible from the sidebar. The layout is intuitive, making it easy to find and adjust product settings like scanning or real-time protection.

Norton, on the other hand, provides a slightly more guided experience. Upon installation, it walks you through the setup process, ensuring that all essential security features are enabled from the get-go. The main page presents all features clearly, with everything accessible in just one click. Norton’s Smart Scan is particularly convenient as it not only scans for malware but also evaluates your network security and checks your device’s performance, offering solutions for any issues it finds.

PC performance

When it comes to performance, Malwarebytes is generally light on your system when it’s running in the background. This means you likely won’t notice it slowing down your computer during everyday use. However, once you start a scan, it becomes more demanding on your system’s resources. You might see your computer’s CPU working much harder, with a significant increase in resource usage. While this might sound concerning, the good news is that Malwarebytes completes its scans relatively quickly, usually in just over 3 minutes, so any slowdown you experience won’t last long.

Norton is designed to be quite efficient with your system’s resources. When it’s just sitting idle in the background, it barely makes a dent, using only a small portion of your CPU and RAM – so you’re unlikely to notice any impact on your day-to-day tasks. Even when you run a scan, Norton is gentle on your system compared to other antivirus programs. While it does use more resources during a scan, it’s still relatively modest, and the scan itself is quick, usually finishing in about 2 minutes. This means that Norton provides strong protection without significantly slowing down your device, making it a more seamless experience overall.

Mobile apps

Malwarebytes and Norton both offer apps for Android and iOS devices, which can be easily downloaded from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

When exploring and testing these apps, I found both to be user-friendly and intuitive, making them easy to navigate even if you're not particularly tech-savvy.

Malwarebytes presents a clean and straightforward interface, immediately offering essential features like Scan, VPN, and security options, including Text Protection, Real-Time Protection (RTP), and Safe Browsing Scanner. Everything you need is right on the main screen, making it simple to access. However, during testing, I noticed that while the scan was thorough, taking a bit over 6 minutes, it did have a noticeable impact on device performance, which could be a drawback if you're multitasking.

Norton, on the other hand, automatically starts a scan as soon as you install the app, providing a security report covering your apps, internet, Wi-Fi network, and even SMS security. One feature that stood out is Norton’s ability to identify data-harvesting apps and unprotected apps without even needing to enable Real-Time Protection. The scan was impressively quick, finishing in under a minute, with no noticeable performance impact on the device, which is a big plus if you’re using your phone while the scan is running.

Malwarebytes vs Norton: customer support

Malwarebytes and Norton both offer multiple customer support options to assist users. While both provide support through live chat and ticket systems, there are some differences in how these services are delivered.

Malwarebytes offers live chat support, but it's exclusive to paid customers. The process begins with a chatbot that gathers necessary information about your issue. Once the bot has your details, you're connected to a live agent. When I tested this, I was connected to an agent in under a minute, and the overall experience was positive. The support agent was professional and provided the help I needed promptly. Malwarebytes also offers support through a ticketing system for those who prefer email communication.

Norton similarly offers live chat and ticket support. However, the experience can be less efficient. The initial contact is made through a chatbot that collects information and confirms your identity. However, getting connected to a live agent and receiving a correct answer took longer than expected. Despite the slower response time, Norton’s support agents are available to assist with more complex issues.

Wrapping up

Both services ensure that users can get the help they need, but Malwarebytes’ quicker response time and ease of access make it a slightly more efficient option, especially for those who prefer immediate assistance through live chat.

Winner: Malwarebytes

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Customer reviews about Malwarebytes and Norton 360

When comparing customer feedback for Malwarebytes and Norton, both antivirus programs receive strong ratings but cater to slightly different needs.

On Trustpilot, Malwarebytes holds a rating of around 4.2 out of 5, with users praising its ease of use and effective malware removal. However, some note the lack of advanced features, such as a built-in VPN or firewall. Norton, on the other hand, scores a slightly higher 4.3 out of 5 on Trustpilot, with customers appreciating its comprehensive security suite, including a firewall and VPN. Some users, however, mention that Norton can be resource-intensive, especially on older systems.

On Capterra, Malwarebytes shines with a 4.7 out of 5, with users loving its minimal impact on system performance. Norton follows closely with a 4.5 out of 5, where its rich feature set, including identity protection and multi-device coverage, is often highlighted.

G2 ratings reflect a similar trend, with Malwarebytes at 4.4 out of 5 and Norton at 4.5 out of 5. Norton’s extensive features are a big draw, but its higher cost, especially after the first-year discount, is a common concern.

Bottom line

In 2024, Norton stands out as a more comprehensive antivirus solution compared to Malwarebytes. Norton offers a wide range of features, including a firewall, VPN, and identity theft protection, all within an easy-to-use interface. It also provides superior customer support with 24/7 live chat and phone options, making it ideal for users who need reliable, all-around protection.

Malwarebytes excels in specialized malware detection and removal, making it a strong choice for those focused on combating specific threats like ransomware. However, it lacks the broader feature set and round-the-clock support that Norton provides, making Norton the better overall option for most users.

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How we tested Malwarebytes and Norton

I collaborated with the research team to test the functionality and security of Malwarebytes and Norton. The tests were aimed to understand their performance under regular conditions and help determine the better provider. Here’s an overview of the antivirus testing process:

1. I assessed their overall security practices to ensure they provide robust protection against threats. This involved analyzing their malware detection capabilities, encryption standards, privacy policies, and results from independent third-party audits like AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives.
2. I downloaded and installed each antivirus on multiple devices to evaluate how effectively they perform core tasks, such as real-time protection, system scans, and threat removal. During this testing, I also monitored the impact on system performance and took note of the overall user experience.
3. I examined the availability and effectiveness of additional security features like VPN, firewall, password manager, and parental controls. This helped us identify any unique advantages one antivirus might offer over the other.
4. I reached out to customer support for both providers to gather more detailed information about their services. This also allowed us to evaluate the response times and the quality of assistance provided, ensuring that users can rely on timely support when needed.
5. After completing these tests, I summarized our findings and assessed whether each antivirus's overall package is worth the subscription price. This evaluation took into account the balance between features, performance, ease of use, and cost.

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