Malwarebytes offers excellent malware protection, but Windows Defender is a built-in, free antivirus option for Windows users that offers solid protection with minimal impact on system performance.
Windows Defender’s real-time protection and frequent updates make it a viable option for Windows PC users who want basic protection without the cost.
Key Features
- Built-in Protection: Windows Defender comes pre-installed and automatically updates for the latest security patches.
- Real-Time Scanning: Offers real-time scanning to detect and remove threats as they occur.
- Minimal Impact: Works in the background without noticeably slowing down your system.
- Cloud-Backed Protection: Cloud-based security features help identify new threats more quickly.
- Pricing: Windows Defender is free and built into Windows 10 and 11.
Price Verdict
Malwarebytes starts at $39.99 per year, while Windows Defender offers free protection with basic antivirus features.