Criterion by criterion
Where each one wins
Norton9.0
Strong results in AV-TEST's consumer test series.
Protection record
35% weight
Avast8.5
Regularly participates in AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives with solid results.
Norton7.5
Moderate footprint given the size of the suite.
System impact
15% weight
Avast7.5
Moderate system impact in lab reports.
Norton6.5
Renewal pricing is high, offset by a 60-day refund window.
Value for money
20% weight
Avast8.5
Capable free tier; paid upgrades are reasonably priced.
Norton9.5
VPN, password manager, cloud backup and identity tools bundled.
Extra features
15% weight
Avast7.5
Free tier includes web protection; VPN and extras need upgrades.
Norton7.5
Covers all platforms, but the suite has many prompts and add-ons.
Ease of use & platforms
15% weight
Avast7.0
Apps on all major platforms, with frequent upgrade prompts.
Published facts
Side by side
| Fact | Norton | Avast |
|---|---|---|
| Free version | No | Yes |
| Money-back window | 60 days | Not published |
| Free trial | Not published | Not published |
| In AV-TEST or AV-Comparatives tests | Yes | Yes |
| Main platforms | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS |
| Company base | United States | Czech Republic |
Verdict
Which should you pick?
Choose Norton if…
You want something best for households wanting an all-in-one suite.
- + 60-day money-back guarantee
- + Very broad feature bundle
- + Strong lab protection results
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
Norton vs Avast: quick answers
Is Norton better than Avast?
Norton leads Avast by 0.1 points overall (8.1 vs 8.0). Norton scores higher on protection record, extra features, ease of use & platforms. Avast scores higher on value for money.
Who should choose Avast over Norton?
Avast is best for users wanting a full-featured free antivirus. Norton is best for households wanting an all-in-one suite.
How were Norton 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.