TotalAV vs. Malwarebytes 2024: Comprehensive Security or Fast Scanning? (2024)

TotalAV and Malwarebytes are products that cater to various demands and tastes in the antivirus market. While offering many features and an easy-to-grasp interface, TotalAV suits those who are not particularly tech-savvy but need malware protection.

Malwarebytes is designed for a quicker scanning process combined with a more streamlined approach, best suited for users looking for quick, reliable security without extra features.

We’ll go over TotalAV’s and Malwarebytes’ pricing, features, third-party test results, and more to help you pick the best antivirus.

Overview

Having robust antivirus software is essential. Cyberthreats are rapidly evolving, so choosing the right antivirus software is the key to shielding your online identity, personal information, and overall security.

Two of the most reputable contenders in this space are TotalAV and Malwarebytes. But which one best suits your purpose?

• TotalAV: Best for comprehensive cybersecurity
• Malwarebytes: Best for basic antivirus protection

TotalAV vs. Malwarebytes compared

TotalAV vs. Malwarebytes: prices

When it comes to pricing, TotalAV has a significantly lower starting price compared to Malwarebytes. Its top-tier plan, Total Security, is closer to Malwarebytes' starting price of $44.99/yr.

For the best value plan, TotalAV Antivirus Pro is priced at $29.00/yr (first year only), which is an exceptional value. This plan includes protection against viruses, trojans, malware, ransomware, and phishing, along with Total Adblock.

On the other hand, Malwarebytes' Basic Security plan starts at $39.00/yr (first year only). This is a competitive price for those who prefer straightforward, effective protection for multiple devices, including computers, phones, and tablets.

TotalAV’s higher-tier plans, like the Total Security for $49 in the first year, offer complete online protection, including a virtual private network (VPN). These plans are great for users needing advanced security features.

Malwarebytes also has higher-tier plans like Complete Protection for $10 per month ($120 annually), which covers device security, privacy, and identity protection with its VPN and other tools.

Both services offer money-back guarantees and a free version. TotalAV provides a 30-day guarantee for annual plans, and Malwarebytes provides a more generous 60-day guarantee.

TotalAV vs. Malwarebytes: features

Both TotalAV and Malwarebytes support manual and scheduled scans, real-time protection, phishing protection, and ransomware protection. However, TotalAV stands out with its additional security features.

TotalAV includes a password manager and device optimization tools, which Malwarebytes does not offer. The password manager is a significant addition because it can create and manage secure, complex passwords without the need to remember each one yourself. Device optimization tools are also beneficial as they help improve the performance of your device by cleaning unnecessary files and managing resources more efficiently.

On the other hand, Malwarebytes keeps its feature set more streamlined, which can be an advantage if you prefer an antivirus solution without bells and whistles.

TotalAV vs. Malwarebytes: test results

To objectively assess the performance of antivirus software, we refer to third-party tests. These tests provide an unbiased evaluation of how well an antivirus can detect, block, and remove malware, including zero-day and known threats.

For our comparison of TotalAV and Malwarebytes, we reference results from AV-TEST, a respected independent organization that regularly evaluates antivirus products based on protection, performance, and usability.

TotalAV vs. Malwarebytes malware protection scores

TotalAV's Windows AV-TEST scores are from Mar–Apr 2024.

Malwarebytes Windows AV-TEST scores are from July–Aug/2023.

TotalAV’s Android AV-TEST scores are from Mar/2024.

TotalAV showed great performance on its Windows platform. It received a score of 17/18, with partial points docked for protection and performance. TotalAV had a score that was 1% lower than the industry average for protection against zero-day malware attacks, which we consider inconsequential. It also slowed down computer speeds when installing frequently-used applications.

Malwarebytes last submitted its Windows program for AV-TEST in summer 2023. It received a score of 17/18 on the Windows platform, with partial points being docked for protection and performance. It had a lower protection rate against zero-day malware attacks compared to the industry average. It also slowed down computer speeds when launching popular websites and installing frequently-used applications.

The lack of macOS scores for both programs and lack of Android scores for Malwarebytes indicates that these companies might not submit for testing across all systems.

TotalAV vs. Malwarebytes: compatibility and customer support

TotalAV and Malwarebytes have extensive compatibility across the standard operating systems: Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. However, Malwarebytes slightly edges out with its browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari, which help block malicious sites and ads while web browsing.

TotalAV, known for its user-friendly interface, makes it easy for antivirus beginners to navigate and use its features with a straightforward setup process.

In contrast, Malwarebytes offers a simple interface, though some may find the deeper settings less intuitive, especially when customizing scans or adjusting protections.

Both TotalAV and Malwarebytes offer 24/7 customer support, which is crucial for receiving timely assistance. TotalAV provides a comprehensive range of support through phone, email, live chat, and online guides, catering to different user preferences for help.

While lacking phone support, Malwarebytes compensates with live chat, email, support forums, and online guides. Malwarebytes' support forums allow you to seek quick solutions from a knowledgeable community.

TotalAV vs. Malwarebytes FAQs

TotalAV vs. Malwarebytes: Which is better?

We’ll call it a draw. TotalAV and Malwarebytes both offer reliable protection against various forms of malware, but they cater to different needs.

TotalAV is best for those seeking comprehensive protection combined with user-friendly features. Its additional features include a password manager, VPN, ad blocker, and device optimization tools. The main drawback is the lack of a firewall, which some might expect at its price point.

Malwarebytes has a straightforward, efficient approach to malware protection. While it offers fewer features than TotalAV, it’s more suitable for tech-savvy users who might already have products for password management and device optimization. However, its inconsistent third-party test scores could be a concern if you’re looking for the highest possible security level.

TotalAV and Malwarebytes alternatives

If neither TotalAV nor Malwarebytes seems like the perfect fit, consider these best antivirus alternatives.