Criterion by criterion
Where each one wins
ESET9.0
Long-standing strong results in AV-Comparatives testing.
Protection record
35% weight
Avast8.5
Regularly participates in AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives with solid results.
ESET9.0
Known for very low system impact in lab performance tests.
System impact
15% weight
Avast7.5
Moderate system impact in lab reports.
ESET7.5
Fair mid-range pricing and a generous 30-day trial.
Value for money
20% weight
Avast8.5
Capable free tier; paid upgrades are reasonably priced.
ESET7.5
Firewall, banking protection and anti-theft on higher tiers.
Extra features
15% weight
Avast7.5
Free tier includes web protection; VPN and extras need upgrades.
ESET7.5
Clean apps, plus Linux support; advanced settings are detailed.
Ease of use & platforms
15% weight
Avast7.0
Apps on all major platforms, with frequent upgrade prompts.
Published facts
Side by side
| Fact | ESET | Avast |
|---|---|---|
| Free version | No | Yes |
| Money-back window | Not published | Not published |
| Free trial | 30-day free trial | Not published |
| In AV-TEST or AV-Comparatives tests | Yes | Yes |
| Main platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS |
| Company base | Slovakia | Czech Republic |
Verdict
Which should you pick?
Choose ESET if…
You want something best for people who want strong protection with minimal slowdown.
- + Very light on system resources
- + Strong lab track record
- + 30-day free trial
Choose Avast if…
You want something best for users wanting a full-featured free antivirus.
- + Full-featured free tier
- + Covers all major platforms
- + Regular lab participation
Checked 1 Nov 2026.
Questions
ESET vs Avast: quick answers
Is ESET better than Avast?
ESET leads Avast by 0.3 points overall (8.3 vs 8.0). ESET scores higher on protection record, system impact, ease of use & platforms. Avast scores higher on value for money.
Who should choose Avast over ESET?
Avast is best for users wanting a full-featured free antivirus. ESET is best for people who want strong protection with minimal slowdown.
How were ESET and Avast scored?
Both were scored on the same 5 weighted criteria for antivirus software, using public information such as published plans and terms. We do not lab-test products.