Norton vs Malwarebytes – which is better?
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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, 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. 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. I joined forces with the Cybernews research team to conduct hands-on tests with Norton and Malwarebytes, hoping that it helps you decide which antivirus best meets your needs.
Malwarebytes vs Norton overview
Norton slightly outperformed Malwarebytes in malware detection in our in-house tests, offering a marginally better protection rate – 68% versus Malwarebyte’s 63.3%. Both Norton 360 and McAfee Total Protection provide reasonable performance and a solid feature set overall. However, when factoring in scan time, system impact, and pricing, Norton takes the lead as the more well-rounded option.
| Norton Antivirus | Malwarebytes | |
| ⭐ Rating: | ||
| 🥇 Overall rank: | #2 out of #30 | #4 out of #30 |
| 🔥 Coupons: | Norton coupon 60% OFF | Malwarebytes coupon 50% OFF |
| 💵 Price: | From $29.99/year | From $44.99/year |
| ✂️ Free version: | No | Yes |
| 🖥️ Platforms: | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | Windows, Android, macOS, ChromeOS, iOS |
Our team of researchers thoroughly tests antivirus software following a well-established testing process. In unison, our experts combine in-house and independent testing lab findings with first-hand experience to help you make informed decisions about each product. Learn how we test antivirus software.
Malwarebytes vs Norton: which offers better protection?
Multiple Norton 360 vs Malwarebytes tests tend to favor Norton – and the data backs it up. In our recent in-house tests, Norton’s full scan detected 102 out of 150 virus samples with a scan time of 22 minutes. In contrast, Malwarebytes detected 95 out of 150 virus samples during a full scan. While Malwarebytes scanned faster, completing in about 15 minutes, Norton clearly offered more reliable malware defense, making it the stronger choice for protection.
| Feature | Norton | Malwarebytes |
| In-house tests | Above average rating | Average rating |
| Real time protection | 65% | 0% |
| Firewall | Effective | Does not have Firewall feature |
| Scanning | Detected 102/150 threats | Detected 98/150 threats |
| Lab test results | Top product in AV-TEST, Advanced+ in AV-Comparatives, and AAA in SE Labs | Certified and approved in AV-TEST, Standard in AV-Comparatives, and AA in SE Labs |
To compare Norton and Malwarebytes, I teamed up with the Cybernews research team for hands-on testing and reviewed the latest independent lab results. Norton stood out – especially in real-time threat detection – making it the more reliable option of the two.
In April 2025, Norton earned a Top Product award from AV-TEST with a perfect 6 score in protection, performance, and usability. That’s an upgrade, since previously it only got top score in two out of three categories. Malwarebytes, last tested in October 2023, earned a CERTIFIED Windows award with a dip to 5.5 in protection and performance, though it held a 6 in usability.
Over at AV-Comparatives, Norton received the highest rating, Advanced+, while Malwarebytes settled for a Standard award, dropping by two positions since its last evaluation. Both achieved 99.5% protection, but Norton had far fewer false positives (9 vs 32), reinforcing its lead in accuracy and trustworthiness.
Real-time malware protection
Norton and Malwarebytes both claim to offer strong real-time protection – but our tests and the data suggest a clear difference in effectiveness.
In hands-on testing, Norton detected 98 out of 150 malware samples through its real-time protection, blocking 65.3% of threats in just under 15 minutes. Malwarebytes, however, failed to catch any threats in real-time, with a 0% detection rate during a similar test window. While Malwarebytes did consume slightly fewer system resources, its inability to block live threats is a serious drawback.
Despite having useful features like web and ransomware protection, Malwarebytes simply didn’t perform when it mattered most. Norton, with tools like Safe Web and Isolation Mode, delivered more proactive and dependable protection against real-time threats.
Firewall protection
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.
Scanning
Both Norton 360 and Malwarebytes include flexible scan options, but they take different approaches to system coverage. Norton stands out for its broader range of scans designed to address not just malware but also privacy and performance issues.
Norton 360 offers five scanning options: Smart scan, which checks for malware, vulnerabilities, and privacy risks; Quick scan, which targets high-risk areas; Full System scan, for a deep sweep of all files and applications; Custom scan, which lets users define exactly what to scan; and Norton Insight, which flags files that may warrant closer inspection. This layered setup makes it easy to tailor protection to your needs.
Meanwhile, Malwarebytes focuses on three main modes. Its Quick scan reviews memory and startup items, while the Threat scan – its recommended default – covers system memory, startup entries, and key file paths. For users who want more control, the Custom scan offers flexibility, including the option to check for rootkits. It’s a simplified setup focused on speed and ease of use.
Norton gives you more ways to scan and more control over how to secure your system, making it a better choice for layered protection.
Pricing and plans
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.
| Plan | Malwarebytes | Norton 360 |
| Free | $0.00 | – |
| Standard/Antivirus Plus | $44.99/year | $29.99/year |
| Malware Plus/Deluxe | $59.99/year | $49.99/year |
| Get our discount | Get our discount |
Overall, Norton provides more budget-friendly starting options, while Malwarebytes appeals more if specialized malware defense is your priority. Norton caught my attention mainly because of its affordable entry-level pricing. For instance, Norton Antivirus Plus typically costs around $29.99 per year, covering one device. It's perfect if you're like me looking for reliable, basic protection without overspending.
However, Malwarebytes targets users who prefer specialized malware defense. Its Premium plan, priced around $59.99 annually per device, specifically emphasizes thorough malware protection and cleaning tools. While Malwarebytes does offer a free version, in my experience, it lacks the comprehensive coverage you get with Norton’s paid plans.
Norton vs Malwarebytes: features overview
Norton provides significantly broader security coverage compared to Malwarebytes. Both include essential malware protection, but Norton goes further with features like built-in scam detection powered by advanced AI and a password manager to provide thorough security.
Below is the summary of Norton 360 vs Malwarebytes features.
| Feature | Norton | Malwarebytes |
| Scam protection | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Phishing protection | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Ransomware protection | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Identity protection | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (via add-on) |
| Password manager | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (third-party add-on needed) |
| VPN included | ✅ Yes | Add-on |
It is apparent that Norton delivers more features compared to Malwarebytes. Although both provide basic antivirus protection, Norton stands out by offering additional tools that are not available with Malwarebytes.
Norton’s extensive toolkit delivers top-level protection, no matter which plan you choose. Standout features include a built-in smart firewall, password manager, identity protection, and dark web monitoring, which alerts you if your data appears online. Additionally, its cloud backup helps secure your critical files, ensuring you’re protected even against ransomware attacks.
Malwarebytes is more focused on specific antivirus tools. It performs well in malware removal and ransomware protection, offering (at least in theory) real-time protection, phishing filters, and browser protection. However, Malwarebytes lacks many of Norton’s extras, which limits its usefulness as a complete cybersecurity solution.
Both providers include a VPN, but Norton stands out with unique features like the SafeCam, which blocks unauthorized webcam access – a notable advantage for privacy-conscious users. Also, Norton’s VPN is built-in, while Malwarebytes only has it as an add-on.
Apps and interface: which is more user-friendly?
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.
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.
Apps and interface
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.
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.
Customer support
Malwarebytes and Norton both offer multiple customer support options to assist users. While both provide support through live chat, there are some differences in how these services are delivered.
| Norton | Malwarebytes | |
| Email support | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| 24/7 live chat | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (only to paid customers) |
| Phone support | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Knowledge base | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Community forum | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
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, but no ticket support. Instead, there is a phone line available. 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.
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.
| Provider | Trustpilot | Capterra | G2 |
| Malwarebytes | 3.5/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Norton | 4.6/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.5/5 |
On Trustpilot, Malwarebytes holds a rating of around 3.5 out of 5 – a significant downgrade since the previous 4.2 score. Some users note the lack of advanced features, such as a built-in VPN or firewall. Norton, on the other hand, scores a much higher 4.6 out of 5 on Trustpilot (a 0.3 point increase), 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 4.4 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 both Malwarebytes and Norton at 4.54 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. However, Malwarebytes premium pricing is also an issue for return customers.
Video review
If you prefer video format and want a second opinion, check out our team’s Norton vs Malwarebytes comparison.
Final verdict
Norton emerges in 2026 as a more complete antivirus solution compared to Malwarebytes. Norton offers comprehensive security features including a firewall, VPN, and identity theft protection, all easily accessible through a user-friendly interface. Additionally, Norton’s reliable customer support is available 24/7 via live chat and phone, which provides peace of mind for users needing thorough protection.
| Norton | Malwarebytes | |
| Features | ✅ Wins | ❌ Loses |
| Malware protection | ✅ Wins | ❌ Loses |
| Pricing | ✅ Wins | ❌ Loses |
| User interface | ✅ Wins | ❌ Loses |
| Support | ❌ Loses | ✅ Wins |
Malwarebytes performs strongly in customer support, particularly useful if you're primarily concerned about ransomware or specific threats. But from my experience, it falls short when compared to Norton’s broader range of features and better in-house test results, making Norton the better choice overall.
How we tested Malwarebytes and Norton
To compare Norton and Malwarebytes, our research team and I conducted hands-on testing using real-world malware samples and evaluated both tools across critical performance categories. Our approach focuses on practical use cases and measurable outcomes in areas that matter most to users. The key categories were:
- Malware detection and removal
- Performance and user-friendliness
- Features and their functionality
- Real-time protection
- Customer support
- Price
Our testing process is structured to deliver reliable, up-to-date insights. For a closer look at how we rate antivirus software, explore our in-depth testing methodology.
FAQ
Which is better: Norton or Malwarebytes?
Norton is better than Malwarebytes for all-in-one security, offering features like a VPN, firewall, and identity theft protection. Malwarebytes is a strong choice for lightweight, focused malware protection, especially on older devices. I would advise to choose Norton for full coverage or Malwarebytes for fast, targeted threat defense.
Can I run Norton and Malwarebytes together?
Yes, you can run Norton and Malwarebytes together. Many users do this to benefit from Norton’s extensive feature set while leveraging Malwarebytes' specialized malware detection capabilities. Just make sure to configure them properly to avoid conflicts, such as disabling real-time protection in Malwarebytes if Norton is handling that task.
Is Malwarebytes still recommended?
Yes, Malwarebytes is still recommended for users needing strong malware removal and a simple interface. Its premium version adds a VPN, but it lacks extensive features. It’s best used as a secondary scanner or for lightweight protection, not as a standalone antivirus solution.
