ESET vs Microsoft Defender
ESET leads Microsoft Defender by 0.2 points overall (8.3 vs 8.1).
8.3/10, Very good
8.1/10, Very good
Criterion by criterion
Where each one wins
ESET9.0
Long-standing strong results in AV-Comparatives testing.
Protection record
35% weight
Microsoft Defender8.5
Tested in AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives series with generally good results.
ESET9.0
Known for very low system impact in lab performance tests.
System impact
15% weight
Microsoft Defender7.0
Lab reports have shown more slowdown in some tasks than the lightest rivals.
ESET7.5
Fair mid-range pricing and a generous 30-day trial.
Value for money
20% weight
Microsoft Defender10.0
No extra cost on Windows.
ESET7.5
Firewall, banking protection and anti-theft on higher tiers.
Extra features
15% weight
Microsoft Defender5.5
Core protection and firewall; few consumer extras.
ESET7.5
Clean apps, plus Linux support; advanced settings are detailed.
Ease of use & platforms
15% weight
Microsoft Defender8.0
On by default with nothing to install, but Windows only.
Published facts
Side by side
| Fact | ESET | Microsoft Defender |
|---|---|---|
| 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 (built in) |
| Company base | Slovakia | United States |
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 Microsoft Defender if…
You want something best for windows users who want solid no-cost protection.
- + No extra cost
- + Enabled by default
- + Tested by major independent labs
Checked 1 Nov 2026.
Questions
ESET vs Microsoft Defender: quick answers
Is ESET better than Microsoft Defender?
ESET leads Microsoft Defender by 0.2 points overall (8.3 vs 8.1). ESET scores higher on protection record, system impact, extra features. Microsoft Defender scores higher on value for money, ease of use & platforms.
Who should choose Microsoft Defender over ESET?
Microsoft Defender is best for windows users who want solid no-cost protection. ESET is best for people who want strong protection with minimal slowdown.
How were ESET and Microsoft Defender 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.