Microsoft Defender vs Malwarebytes
Microsoft Defender leads Malwarebytes by 0.4 points overall (8.1 vs 7.7).
8.1/10, Very good
7.7/10, Very good
Criterion by criterion
Where each one wins
Microsoft Defender8.5
Tested in AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives series with generally good results.
Protection record
35% weight
Malwarebytes7.5
Good cleanup ability; we could not confirm a full set of recent lab results.
Microsoft Defender7.0
Lab reports have shown more slowdown in some tasks than the lightest rivals.
System impact
15% weight
Malwarebytes8.5
Lightweight scanner that runs alongside other antivirus.
Microsoft Defender10.0
No extra cost on Windows.
Value for money
20% weight
Malwarebytes7.5
Free scanner is genuinely useful; Premium is mid-priced.
Microsoft Defender5.5
Core protection and firewall; few consumer extras.
Extra features
15% weight
Malwarebytes6.5
Fewer extras than full suites.
Microsoft Defender8.0
On by default with nothing to install, but Windows only.
Ease of use & platforms
15% weight
Malwarebytes9.0
Very simple apps across many platforms, including ChromeOS.
Published facts
Side by side
| Fact | Microsoft Defender | Malwarebytes |
|---|---|---|
| Free version | Yes | Yes |
| Money-back window | Not published | Not published |
| Free trial | Not published | 14-day Premium trial |
| In AV-TEST or AV-Comparatives tests | Yes | Not published |
| Main platforms | Windows (built in) | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, ChromeOS |
| Company base | United States | United States |
Verdict
Which should you pick?
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
Choose Malwarebytes if…
You want something best for cleaning up an infected PC or getting a second opinion.
- + Useful free on-demand scanner
- + Simple, uncluttered apps
- + Works alongside other antivirus
Checked 1 Nov 2026.
Questions
Microsoft Defender vs Malwarebytes: quick answers
Is Microsoft Defender better than Malwarebytes?
Microsoft Defender leads Malwarebytes by 0.4 points overall (8.1 vs 7.7). Microsoft Defender scores higher on protection record, value for money. Malwarebytes scores higher on system impact, extra features, ease of use & platforms.
Who should choose Malwarebytes over Microsoft Defender?
Malwarebytes is best for cleaning up an infected PC or getting a second opinion. Microsoft Defender is best for windows users who want solid no-cost protection.
How were Microsoft Defender and Malwarebytes 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.