Bitdefender Antivirus Review in 2025

John Sayasa | January 3, 2025

Security Specialist

Bitdefender is a leading antivirus software designed to protect your devices from the most advanced cyber threats. With robust malware detection, ransomware protection, and cutting-edge features, Bitdefender offers unmatched security for users across all platforms—Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

Image

Why Bitdefender is Crucial in a Cybersecurity Plan?

Bitdefender provides multi-layered protection against malware, ransomware, and online threats. It covers multiple devices, offers real-time updates, a built-in VPN for privacy, and ransomware defense. Its minimal impact on performance and user-friendly interface make it an essential tool for both personal and business cybersecurity.

2025 Editor's Pick
TotalAV

9.8

Average Review

TotalAV

Rated #1 Antivirus Software of 2025. Protect your devices with our award-winning antivirus solution, featuring advanced privacy and performance tools.

  • Save $80 - First Year Offer $19/yr For Desktop & $1.99/yr iPhone
  • Real-Time antivirus protection & Removes viruses and other malware
  • Protects all your devices + 2 Additional Licenses Included
  • Trusted by millions of people worldwide
  • Safeguards your identity online
  • Ultra fast antivirus + Mac cleaner Included
  • Award Winning Antivirus & Security Software
  • Eliminate Malware
Bitdefender

9.2

Average Review

Bitdefender

Offers excellent virus protection, a wide range of features, and minimal system impact.

  • Highly-rated virus detection capability
  • Chat safely in popular social networks
  • Extends battery life on laptops and tablets
  • Protects mobile devices from physical theft
  • Includes a basic package with premium features
  • Surf the web safely and anonymously
Norton

9.0

Average Review

Norton

High-accuracy, low-impact antivirus solution with online backup capabilities.

  • Detects viruses without raising false flags
  • Protects usernames and passwords
  • Prevents hackers from infiltrating your system
  • Allows you to manage your devices from an online portal
  • Prevents and helps you to recover from identity theft
  • Backs up data and stores it in the cloud
Panda

8.9

Average Review

Panda

Powerful security protects you from numerous forms of online and offline danger

  • Prevents virus infections from USB drives
  • Spots dangerous processes with ease
  • Identifies potential security risks in public Wi-Fi networks
  • Strong encryption for your private files
  • Allows you to store essential documents in the cloud
  • Cleans and optimizes your computer
Mcafee

8.4

Average Review

McAfee

Highly accurate security solution for computers and mobile devices.

  • Protects an unlimited number of devices
  • Allows you to fix security issues remotely
  • Removes malware or your money back
  • Almost no false/positives were recorded
  • Prevents scam attempts in their tracks
  • Includes an encrypted folder for document storage
AVG

8.4

Average Review

AVG

Highly effective, low-impact, and affordable antivirus solution.

  • Antivirus protection for an unlimited number of devices
  • Features a powerful firewall that prevents hackers from infiltrating your devices
  • Identifies and corrects performance-related issues
  • Capable of removing camouflaged and deep-rooted malware
  • Allows for safe online shopping
  • Prevents hackers from accessing your webcam
Avira

8.0

Average Review

Avira

Award-winning premium antivirus solution suitable for all devices.

  • Recipient of high ratings from independent testers
  • Blocks all online threats
  • Blocks suspicious websites and phishing attempts
  • Prevents zero-hour threats in real-time
  • Cleans and optimizes your computer
  • Protects your data from hackers
EsEt

7.5

Average Review

ESET

Well-balanced security solution with powerful antivirus capabilities.

  • Blocks and eliminates the latest virus threats
  • Allows you to use your device with limited interruption
  • Secure browser for safe online shopping
  • Prevents hackers from stealing personal data
  • Allows you to store passwords in a secure database
  • Encrypts photos and protects your private memories
Avast

9.0

Average Review

Avast

Smart, fast, and reliable antivirus solution with limited impact on system performance.

  • Ultimate - $69.99 SAVE 50% OFF - Cover 10 Devices
  • Try Free Antivirus
  • 435+ million users
  • Advanced virus and malware protection
  • Home Wi-fi network security
  • Compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Easy to install, effortless to use
  • 30+ years of cybersecurity experience
Surfshark

8.5

Average Review

Surfshark

Privacy-focused antivirus combines the power of real-time scanning with cloud protection and other comprehensive security features.

  • Real-time scanning and cloud protection
  • Virus Bulletin and AV-Test certified
  • Part of Microsoft Virus Initiative
  • Performance-optimized antivirus
  • Scans up to 5 devices simultaneously
  • Focused on respecting user privacy

Compare The Best Antivirus Software

Criteria
Rating
Detection Capabilities
System performance
Features
Removes Malware
-
TOTALAV
9.8
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Visit Site
Bitdefender
9.2
Excellent
Good
Excellent
Good
Visit Site
Norton
9.0
Excellent
Excellent
Good
Good
Visit Site
Panda
8.9
Good
Good
Good
Fair
Visit Site
Surfshark
8.5
Fair
Good
Good
Good
Visit Site
Image

Why You Should Trust Us

Selecting the right antivirus solution is not just about finding the cheapest or most popular option—it’s about making an informed decision based on accurate and trustworthy information. Unfortunately, the internet is full of scams and unreliable review websites that prioritize profit over honesty. Many so-called "Top 10 antivirus lists" are compiled without proper testing or research, often driven by affiliate commissions rather than a genuine commitment to helping users.

We set out to do things differently. From the start, our mission has been to become the most trusted and transparent buyer’s guide for antivirus software. Instead of promoting the highest-paying affiliate programs, we focused on researching the market to identify reputable antivirus providers with proven track records. We only include established brands that excel in quality and enjoy industry-wide recognition. To ensure accurate reviews, we personally purchased premium packages from each provider and tested them using a proprietary scoring system. (Learn more about our methodology on our blog.)

But who are we? We are a team of software testing and reviewing experts with over 30 years of combined experience. Our reviews are built on integrity, trust, and transparency to provide you with honest recommendations for your antivirus needs.

Finding The Best Antivirus

We’ve invested significant time researching the most reputable antivirus testing labs, gathering extensive data on virus and malware detection. Reliable sources like AV Comparatives and AV Test formed the foundation of our research. We also examined white papers and articles from respected organizations and publications, including The Anti-Malware Testing Standards Organization, PCMag, Google's Project Zero, and Ars Technica, among others. This thorough approach allowed us to identify key technical components and requirements for antivirus software and assign a detection score to each solution.

While detection capability is a crucial factor, it’s not the only one. Choosing the best antivirus solution also involves considering features, ease of use, and system performance. To evaluate these aspects, we tested the software on various PCs and Macs in our office. After finalizing a list of features to analyze and creating a scoring system for each, we installed and tested individual antivirus solutions. Although the process was time-consuming, it provided valuable insights into how different products compare. (We’ll be sharing some of these findings on our blog in the coming weeks, so stay tuned!)

A great antivirus solution must deliver strong performance and features at a competitive price, ensuring value for users.

Image
Best Antivirus For Tablets

The Right Price

It’s not uncommon for a premium antivirus solution with advanced features to come with a hefty price tag. Some companies even include less practical “exotic features” to justify higher prices. But are these extras worth the cost? Alongside strong detection capabilities, we’ve focused on must-have features such as usability, system performance, and affordability when evaluating antivirus packages. During our research, we discovered that some highly-priced solutions with excessive features were actually overpriced.

Many antivirus companies offer significant discounts that aren’t always visible on their websites. In some cases, prices can drop by as much as 50%. Who wouldn’t want a solution offering essential features at a lower price than competing brands? To simplify your decision-making process, we’ve partnered with affiliate programs to provide direct links to discounted antivirus packages. These offers, along with our rigorous evaluation criteria, ensure you get the best value for protecting your digital footprint.

Top Features of Bitdefender Antivirus

Bitdefender Antivirus is a comprehensive security solution designed to protect users from a wide range of digital threats. The software stands out for its ability to provide real-time threat detection powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning. This advanced technology allows Bitdefender to monitor and block threats before they can cause any damage, ensuring your device remains secure from malware and other malicious software.

One of the standout features of Bitdefender is its multi-layer ransomware protection, which prevents ransomware from encrypting important files, such as documents and personal data. By detecting and blocking ransomware attempts early, Bitdefender offers peace of mind, ensuring that your data stays safe from extortion.

Bitdefender includes anti-phishing and anti-fraud tools that protect users from online scams. These features work by detecting fraudulent websites and phishing emails designed to steal personal and financial information. By blocking access to harmful sites and warning about suspicious emails, Bitdefender safeguards users from identity theft and online fraud.

Bitdefender offers a built-in Virtual Private Network (VPN), which encrypts your internet traffic, ensuring that your online activities are private.

This feature is particularly valuable when using public Wi-Fi, as it protects against potential surveillance and data interception. Complementing the VPN is Bitdefender’s Anti-Track tool, which prevents advertisers and third parties from tracking your browsing habits and collecting sensitive data, giving you greater control over your online privacy.

Despite its robust security features, Bitdefender is designed to run efficiently in the background with minimal impact on system performance. It ensures your device operates at peak performance while also providing system optimization tools to improve speed and remove unnecessary files.

Bitdefender is also compatible across various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, allowing users to protect multiple devices under a single subscription. This cross-platform compatibility makes it an ideal solution for individuals who want seamless protection across their digital ecosystem.

Bitdefender’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to manage security settings, whether you are a beginner or an experienced user. The software also provides 24/7 customer support, ensuring that help is always available whenever you need it.

Why Choose Bitdefender?

When it comes to cybersecurity, choosing the right antivirus solution is critical to ensuring your devices and data remain secure. Bitdefender stands out as one of the leading options in the industry, offering unbeatable security, ease of use, and affordable packages to suit a variety of needs.

Bitdefender provides unmatched security by incorporating multiple layers of protection against the latest threats. With cutting-edge technology and a proactive approach, it continuously evolves to combat new and emerging cyber risks, making it one of the most reliable antivirus solutions available today. The software’s ability to detect, block, and neutralize malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats ensures that users can browse, work, and interact online with confidence.Another key reason to choose Bitdefender is its user-friendly interface. 

The reviews, rankings, and content on AntivirusGuide.com reflect the informed opinions of our reviewers. Our mission is straightforward: to help our visitors choose the antivirus solution that best suits their needs. Please note that we may receive monetary compensation when users purchase products through the links provided on our site. While our company may earn commissions from these affiliate links, our editorial team is dedicated to delivering accurate, unbiased information, and we invest significant time and effort into ensuring the content remains as reliable as possible, regardless of any compensation.

Transparency Disclosure

The reviews, rankings, and content on AntivirusGuide.com reflect the informed opinions of our reviewers. Our mission is straightforward: to help our visitors choose the antivirus solution that best suits their needs. Please note that we may receive monetary compensation when users purchase products through the links provided on our site. While our company may earn commissions from these affiliate links, our editorial team is dedicated to delivering accurate, unbiased information, and we invest significant time and effort into ensuring the content remains as reliable as possible, regardless of any compensation.

Image

Frequently Asked Questions

These answers might help.

Yes, it’s user-friendly with a simple installation process and automatic protection, making it ideal for beginners.

Bitdefender’s VPN is basic, offering encryption and privacy, but lacks advanced features compared to dedicated VPN providers.

No, it has minimal impact on system performance and runs efficiently in the background without noticeable slowdowns.

Yes, Bitdefender allows protection for multiple devices, with some plans supporting up to 10 devices.

Yes, its parental controls are excellent on Windows and macOS, providing monitoring and content filtering for children.

Yes, it includes advanced ransomware protection that blocks unauthorized file encryption attempts.

Bitdefender starts at about $39.99/year for a single device, with multi-device plans costing more.

Yes, Bitdefender offers a 30-day free trial for its paid plans.

Download from the Bitdefender website, follow installation instructions, and activate your license to get started.

Yes, it’s a reputable and secure antivirus solution with strong protection and privacy standards.