Bitdefender Antivirus Review Pricing, Plan, Features, Customer Support, Pros & Cons

Bitdefender Antivirus a leading antivirus provider in 2023, is highly regarded for its exceptional performance in independent lab tests and its affordability compared to other competitors. It offers a range of useful security features and utilizes a cloud-based engine that ensures efficient scans without excessive resource usage. Bitdefender provides three different plans to cater to various user needs. The Bitdefender Antivirus Plus plan is suitable for regular users as it includes essential features. For those seeking comprehensive security packages, the Internet Security and Total Security plans offer all the necessary features.

While Bitdefender has numerous advantages, there is still room for improvement. Although most of its features are efficient and effective, the VPN tool currently lacks functionality, and web protection could be enhanced. To assist you in making an informed decision, this Bitdefender antivirus review delves into its features and protection capabilities while providing an overview of testing results.

Company Background

BitDefender, a company founded by Florin Talpes in Bucharest, Romania in 2001, is privately owned. Over the past few years, BitDefender has experienced continuous growth and in 2018 alone, they provided antivirus software to over 500 million users across the globe. Furthermore, as of 2018, they hold the fifth position in the global market share rankings for Windows antivirus vendors.

Bitdefender Antivirus Features

Bitdefender pros and cons

Pricing & Plans

Bitdefender offers 6 different plans: Free, Antivirus Plus, Internet Security, Total Security, Family Pack, and Small Office. Although the premium package cost is on a higher scale, each plan offers a wide variety of useful safety features to ensure the best security for your devices.

The best pick for those who need apps available on all available operating systems is Total Security or Family Pack plans. The latter is best for users who need a maximum of device connections that Bitdefender offers. For those who are looking to secure their business or enterprise and get full-stack endpoint protection, the GravityZone plan would fit the best. To ensure your investment security with this antivirus software, Bitdefender offers 30-day free trials for all of the paid plans and a 30-day money-back guarantee on top of that.

And here’s a quick summary of Bitdefender plans:

Security Features

Similar to other antivirus software, BitDefender offers both a free version and premium versions. The free edition includes essential features such as antivirus protection, threat defense, ransomware protection, and web attack prevention to keep you safe from harmful websites. However, if you want additional features like parental control, firewall, and file encryption, you will need to upgrade to one of their premium security packages.

When it comes to malware protection, BitDefender stands out among other antivirus software. In independent testing conducted by AV-comparatives, BitDefender consistently ranks highest in blocking unwanted attacks. While we have already mentioned the awards BitDefender has received, it is worth noting the positive results from third-party lab tests that continuously demonstrate the effectiveness of the software. In summary, BitDefender continues to impress with its exceptional performance and comprehensive range of features.

BitDefender, apart from winning the Product of the Year award mentioned earlier, has also been awarded a AAA certification from SE Labs and achieved the highest test scores from MRG-Effitas, an efficiency testing organization. Additionally, BitDefender received the maximum score of six points in each category tested by the AV-Test Institute, which follows a point-based ranking system for antivirus programs.

Additional Features

As previously mentioned, BitDefender offers parental controls, but this particular feature is only accessible in their premium packages. These packages also encompass webcam protection and a firewall. The mid-tier package offered by BitDefender is a comprehensive option that includes a VPN as well. However, it is important to note that the included VPN has a limitation of 200 MB of traffic per day per device. This limitation also applies to the top-tier package. One distinctive feature available in both the mid and top-tier packages is Online Banking Protection, known as Safepay. This unique feature provides users with a secure and dedicated browser that can be used for all shopping or banking activities.

Ease of Use & Performance

BitDefender prides itself on its fresh user interface, which features a security dashboard that is both user-friendly and easily navigable. This program operates seamlessly in the background, exerting minimal strain on system performance, alleviating any concerns about it impeding your productivity. Nevertheless, it should be noted that the initial disk scan after installation and setup may experience some noticeable sluggishness.

Number of Licenses & Package Details

The primary distinction among the three main Bitdefender packages lies in the fact that only the highest level package, ‘Total Security 2020’, provides protection for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. The remaining two packages are specifically designed for Windows PCs. Thankfully, the price difference is not substantial, so we suggest opting for the top tier package that offers coverage for up to five devices for a year.

Customer support

One of the standout features of Bitdefender’s customer support is that it is available to both free and paid users, without the need for a premium subscription. They offer various avenues for accessing support, ensuring that help is readily available whenever needed. Bitdefender’s live chat support is particularly impressive, as it connects users with reliable support agents in a matter of moments. These agents are quick to respond and efficiently address any questions or problems. This is a significant improvement compared to competitors like Norton, where we often had to endure waits of up to 20 minutes for a response.

To further facilitate user experience, Bitdefender provides a comprehensive collection of FAQs, guides, and other helpful information on their support website. While waiting in the queue, it may be worthwhile to browse through these resources as they may provide solutions to your issue even before your turn arrives. For those who prefer alternative methods of contact, Bitdefender offers phone and email support options. This flexibility ensures that users can reach out in the most convenient way for them. The exceptional level of customer support alone makes Bitdefender an easy recommendation.

Is Bitdefender good & should I get it?

Bitdefender is widely acknowledged as one of the top antivirus software options available in the market. It boasts an impressive track record in detecting and removing malware effectively. Moreover, with its real-time protection, web protection, and a range of personal security tools, Bitdefender proves to be a versatile choice for users. Another key advantage is its affordability compared to other premium antivirus programs like Norton and Total AV. Installing and navigating the Bitdefender antivirus program is remarkably straightforward. It is also compatible with various device types and operating systems. Depending on your chosen plan, you can enjoy additional features such as a VPN, password manager, webcam and microphone protection, and file shredder. Additionally, all Bitdefender plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, enabling you to try it out without any risk and determine if it suits your needs.

The Bottom Line

BitDefender is a highly impressive program that offers excellent value for money in the market. When it comes to security, there is minimal distinction between the mid-tier and top-tier packages. Furthermore, the price difference between the two is not significant. However, if you are aiming to save some money, the mid-tier package is more than sufficient. If nothing else, you can have full confidence in BitDefender’s ability to safeguard you and your family based on its positive reviews and numerous awards. This product provides all the internet security you might require.