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Comparison · Antivirus software

Bitdefender vs Microsoft Defender Antivirus: which is better in 2026?

BitdefendervsMicrosoft Defender Antivirus

Bitdefender ranks higher in our list of antivirus software (#1 against #2, score 90.5 against 89.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need.

Choose Bitdefender if you want

Multi-device protection with a free starter.

A free Antivirus version and paid suites that cover five devices per account, with VPN and identity tools bundled. Its many product tiers make the right plan harder to pick.

Choose Microsoft Defender Antivirus if you want

Windows PCs that need no extra software.

Built into Windows Security at no extra cost and needs no setup. It covers Windows only, and tools such as a VPN come from third-party suites like the ones in this list.

The main differences

  • Only Bitdefender runs on macOS.
  • Only Bitdefender runs on iOS.
  • Only Bitdefender runs on Android.
  • Bitdefender is free plan, paid upgrades; Microsoft Defender Antivirus is free.

Side by side

BitdefenderMicrosoft Defender Antivirus
Score90.589.0
Rank in list#1 of 7#2 of 7
PriceFree plan, paid upgradesFree Antivirus version; paid suites such as Total SecurityFreeIncluded with Windows; no separate purchase
Free to useYesYes
Open sourceNoNo
PlatformsWindowsmacOSAndroidiOSWindows, macOS, Android, iOSWindowsWindows
Made byBitdefenderMicrosoft
Free versionYesYes
Extra toolsVPN, identity protection, scam toolsPersonal subscription for other devices
Best forMulti-device protection with a free starterWindows PCs that need no extra software
Strengths
  • Free Antivirus version available
  • Paid suites cover up to five devices
  • VPN and identity tools in paid suites
  • Included with Windows at no extra cost
  • Needs no separate install or setup
  • Personal subscription available for other devices
Limits
  • Many product tiers make the right plan harder to pick
  • Business products are separate from home plans
  • Built-in version covers Windows only
  • The built-in version is antivirus only, without a VPN
LinksVisit site Visit site

Questions about Bitdefender vs Microsoft Defender Antivirus

Is Bitdefender better than Microsoft Defender Antivirus?
Bitdefender ranks higher in our list of antivirus software (#1 against #2, score 90.5 against 89.0), but the gap is small and the better choice depends on what you need. Bitdefender is best for: multi-device protection with a free starter. Microsoft Defender Antivirus is best for: windows PCs that need no extra software.
Which is cheaper, Bitdefender or Microsoft Defender Antivirus?
Bitdefender: Free Antivirus version; paid suites such as Total Security. Microsoft Defender Antivirus: Included with Windows; no separate purchase.
Do Bitdefender and Microsoft Defender Antivirus run on the same platforms?
Bitdefender supports Windows, macOS, Android, iOS. Microsoft Defender Antivirus supports Windows.