If you are among the millions of users affected by the ban on Kaspersky sales by the US, then fear not. Rest assured that there is other equally, if not better, antivirus software to keep you protected online.
Equally important, you should try and find a reputable supplier that offers similar functionality so you do not miss out on any critical features that make your life easy.
Popular brands like Norton, Bitdefender, McAfee, Avira, Surfshark, etc. all have a great suite to sell you, but the one that is the best fit for ex-Kaspersky users is actually Bitdefender. Let’s take a look at why we think so.
Best alternative to Kaspersky
Both antiviruses are now full suits, moving away from offering a single function to now covering everything you will need to stay safe online. Bitdefender’s suite includes ransomware protection, exploit protection, SafePay, a secure browser for online transactions, a VPN and a password manager. We would like to note that on the entry plan the VPN is limited to 200 MB traffic per day, while higher plans offer unlimited traffic.
Kaspersky is known for its no frills UI which offers most of its functionality on the initial screen. Bitdefender manages to do the same thing while also leaving the option to the user to customize the quick access screen to their liking. Overall, we feel that Bitdefender has done a better job, especially if you’re not a fan of static user interfaces which are locked and do not allow any customization.
When it comes to the most basic function of malware protection, both Bitdefender and Kaspersky do a great job. However, according to the most recent tests from AV-comparatives Bitdefender comes on top by a slight margin. In addition, scans that Bitdefender runs on your local machine are executed more quickly and occupy fewer resources which makes it overall better in this category. Furthermore, both tools include real-time monitoring which is effective in preventing malware from entering your machine. Bitdefender enhances its functionality by using a global website reputation database in order to discern whether the links you’re trying to visit are dangerous.
A feature that is a bit harder to evaluate in terms of its effectiveness across both tools is the machine learning algorithm that is present in both of these suits. Bitdefender uses Shield while Kaspersky has the System Watcher feature which scan system logs in detail to detect any suspicious activity. Both seem equally effective in keeping your system functioning properly.
When it comes to firewall protection we give the advantage to Bitdefender thanks to the high granularity that it offers its users. You can tweak application access, rules and additional network settings. While we do like the firewall that comes with Windows, if you’re getting one with your AV suite, it should do an equally good job, and Bitdefender manages to do exactly that.
If you need identity theft protection features (dark web monitoring, data breach detection, etc.) you will need to go for higher tier plans with Bitdefender. Additionally, financial fraud protection is only available if you go for the highest tier plan. This protection covers identity theft protection for one person, stolen wallet protection, identity theft insurance up to $1 million, as well as credit reporting & monitoring from one bureau.
Talking about features and pricing plans, Bitdefender offers a total of four plans. All plans cover one account and up to five devices. The cheapest plan starts at $59.99 and offers almost everything from their device protection plan and limited functionality for privacy and identity protection. As you move along the plans, the pricing changes to $79.99, $89.99 and $119.99, respectively. The highest tier plan is hard to recommend since you get most of what you will need in the second tier called Premium Security.
When it comes to support, Bitdefender offers all types of support channels; from live chat, email or phone. There is a great community forum, but also an extensive knowledge base and how-to videos if you’re more of a DIY support person. Comparing this aspect with Kaspersky, we would certainly like to see more contact options and more proactive support.
In the end, both Kaspersky and Bitdefender are worthwhile options if you need a robust antivirus solution, however, Bitdefender does have a slight edge in privacy and security measures. Another advantage is the multiple pricing options which are competitive as well as advanced features in higher tiered plans that Kaspersky simply doesn’t have. Moreover, if you’re worried about the ban on sales in the US, then the choice is pretty clear. Bitdefender is the best overall alternative to Kaspersky!
Take a look at our full Bitdefender review.
Check out our guide to the best antivirus software for even more alternatives