Protecting your devices from the latest cyberthreats gets more challenging every year. Malware and viruses evolve to bypass traditional antivirus software, while ransomware and phishing scams become more sophisticated. That‘s why relying on a reputable antivirus program from a leader in online security is so important.
In this in-depth comparison, we pit two of the top antivirus brands against each other: Avast vs Malwarebytes. Avast boasts over 435 million users worldwide, while Malwarebytes protects home consumers and businesses with its specialized anti-malware technology. I‘ll compare these two programs across criteria like pricing, features, malware protection, ease of use and more to reveal which one comes out on top in 2024.
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A Long History of Security Innovation
Founded way back in 1988, Avast has over 30 years of experience developing security software and preventing digital threats. Based in the Czech Republic, it has grown rapidly to offer a wide range of products beyond antivirus, including VPNs, passwords managers and PC/smartphone optimization tools. Avast leverages threat detection data from its massive 425 million-strong userbase to stay on top of emerging threats.
Malwarebytes is a relative newcomer, founded in 2008 and headquartered in California. Despite its young age, it has quickly established itself as a go-to solution for battling difficult-to-detect malware that traditional antivirus programs can miss. Its specialized scanner is designed to target zero-day exploits, ransomware, and other dangerous infections. Over 750 million downloads and thousands of business customers prove it gets results.
Pricing and Subscription Options
One key difference between Avast and Malwarebytes is the number of pricing tiers available. Avast offers four main paid packages:
- Avast Premium Security: $59.99/year for 1 PC
- Avast Internet Security: $79.99/year for 1 PC (adds firewall & anti-spam)
- Avast Premier: $109.99/year for 1 PC with complete software suite
- Avast Ultimate: $119.99/year for up to 10 devices
There‘s also a fairly comprehensive free version available.
Malwarebytes keeps things simple with just two pricing options:
- Malwarebytes Premium: $39.99/year for 1 device
- Malwarebytes Premium + Privacy: $59.99/year for up to 5 devices (adds privacy VPN)
Over a 2 year subscription, Avast‘s packages range from $120 to $240 total, while Malwarebytes will cost between $80 to $120. So Malwarebytes can provide savings, but Avast gives you more flexibility to choose the right tier based on your needs and budget.
Battle of the Features
One area where Avast pulls ahead is the number of security layers and bonus features it provides beyond core antivirus capabilities:
- Ransomware Shield – Proactively detects and blocks ransomware activity
- Webcam Shield – Prevents webcam spying and access by unauthorized apps
- WiFi Inspector – Scans your network for vulnerabilities and identifies intruders
- Avast SecureLine VPN – Encrypts connections to keep online activity private
- Passwords – Secure password manager protects logins and auto-fills them
- Browser Cleanup – Removes annoying extensions and toolbars
Malwarebytes focuses more on providing rock-solid malware removal abilities, with extras like:
- Browser Guard – Blocks access to malicious websites and infected ads
- Adware/PUP Blocker – Prevents annoying, unwanted programs and extensions
- Web Protection – Scans downloaded files and websites for threats
- Privacy VPN – Anonymizes your internet connection (premium version only)
So in terms of overall features, Avast gives you more security tools surrounding core antivirus capabilities, providing more value.
Malware Detection Showdown
At the end of the day, the most important benchmark is how well Avast and Malwarebytes can detect, block and remove viruses and malware.
Extensive testing by independent research labs like AV-Test and AV-Comparatives confirms both programs offer stellar protection against widespread, common threats with near perfect detection rates. However, extra layers like Avast‘s Ransomware Shield and Webcam Shield provide protection from more sophisticated attacks.
Malwarebytes utilizes unique technology optimized to catch dangerous zero-day exploits and malware strains that often evade standard antivirus scanners, living up to its reputation.
Based on testing, Avast appears to have a slight edge when it comes to malware detection thanks to its enhanced toolbox of security layers. But Malwarebytes still excels as a specialized scanner to seek out really sneaky malware. Running it occasionally alongside Avast would provide comprehensive protection coverage.
Performance Impact and System Resources
Antivirus software requires system resources to actively scan files and internet traffic, which can sometimes slow down your device. In my testing on a 3 year old Windows laptop, after installing Avast, there was minimal impact on performance thanks to efficient coding. Scans conveniently run in the background without interrupting your work.
Malwarebytes had a slightly more noticeable effect, with web pages and applications opening a bit slower following installation. I also found it occupied a bit more RAM in the background compared to Avast‘s lightweight impact.
So if you have an older computer, Avast‘s optimized performance may place less strain on your hardware when running scans. But for most modern devices, either software shouldn‘t significantly affect speed or responsiveness.
Simplicity for Beginners
Considering many home users aren‘t tech experts, the simplicity and usability of antivirus software is an important evaluation criteria.
Installing Avast only takes a few minutes and its interface is clean and intuitive. All the main security status details and scans are easily accessible in the sidebar. The software has a polished feel that‘s welcoming to newcomers.
Malwarebytes is even more streamlined and basic visually, with two main buttons for running scans or accessing the malware protection module. This simplicity makes it fast to install and figure out, though experienced users may desire more options.
Overall, both programs are straightforward to install and use for antivirus beginners, with Avast offering greater customization and flexibility for more advanced users.
Reliable Customer Support
No security software is perfect, so occasionally users require troubleshooting help from customer support teams.
Avast provides customer support via email, phone (for Premium users), and community forum. There are also extensive online knowledge base articles explaining how to handle common issues. However, Avast lacks 24/7 live chat, which some competitors offer.
Malwarebytes only provides customer assistance by email and through online DIY resources. There is no live chat or direct phone support option. So users may experience delays getting answers from Malwarebytes‘s more limited support channels.
Making the Final Call
So which antivirus solution emerges on top in this Avast vs Malwarebytes duel?
While Malwarebytes excels at targeting stubborn malware infections, Avast clinches victory as a complete internet security suite thanks to:
- Broader protection – More security layers defend againstviruses, ransomware, phishing, spies, and network threats
- Better value – More features included for the dollar, and packages tailored to your budget
- Smoother performance – Efficient performance puts less strain on system resources
- Superior usability – Intuitive navigation and ample customization options for all users
- Stronger support – Phone and forum support provide multiple assistance channels
However, Malwarebytes remains a smart supplemental tool to periodically scan for deeply hidden malware that standard antivirus software can miss. Taking advantage of both programs provides comprehensive defense tailored to your specific needs.
So while Avast takes the win in this matchup, both companies offer stellar software to keep your devices safe and secured in 2024 and beyond. The right solution comes down to your budget, desired features, and level of protection.
