#2 of 7 in Antivirus software
ESET review
A Slovak security company known for its light-touch NOD32 engine and consistent lab results. Home plans are paid, with a 30-day free trial.
Last checked · Available: Global
8.3/10, Very good
5 criteria
Strongest on protection record (9.0).
See every score and reasonScorecard
How ESET scores
Long-standing strong results in AV-Comparatives testing.
Known for very low system impact in lab performance tests.
Fair mid-range pricing and a generous 30-day trial.
Firewall, banking protection and anti-theft on higher tiers.
Clean apps, plus Linux support; advanced settings are detailed.
Best for
People who want strong protection with minimal slowdown.
Not ideal for
Anyone looking for a free real-time antivirus.
Trade-offs
Pros and cons
What stands out
- Very light on system resources
- Strong lab track record
- 30-day free trial
- Linux support
Worth knowing
- No free real-time edition
- Fewer bundled extras than some suites
At a glance
Key facts and pricing
- Free version
- No
- Money-back window
- Not published
- Free trial
- 30-day free trial
- In AV-TEST or AV-Comparatives tests
- Yes
- Main platforms
- Windows, macOS, Linux, Android
- Company base
- Slovakia
- Price band
- Mid-range
- Founded
- 1992
- Based in
- Slovakia
Pricing: Paid ESET HOME Security tiers by device count, with a 30-day free trial. Free plan: no (free online scanner only).
Head to head
Compare ESET with
Also consider
ESET alternatives
Questions
ESET: common questions
Is ESET good?
ESET scores 8.3 out of 10 in our antivirus software scorecard, rank 2 of 7. A Slovak security company known for its light-touch NOD32 engine and consistent lab results. Home plans are paid, with a 30-day free trial.
Who is ESET best for?
Best for people who want strong protection with minimal slowdown. Less suited to anyone looking for a free real-time antivirus.
How much does ESET cost?
Paid ESET HOME Security tiers by device count, with a 30-day free trial. Free plan: no (free online scanner only).
What are ESET's key terms and features?
Free version: No; Free trial: 30-day free trial; In AV-TEST or AV-Comparatives tests: Yes; Main platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android; Company base: Slovakia. As published by the brand, last checked 2026-11-01.
What is a good alternative to ESET?
Bitdefender (8.7/10) is the top-scoring option in the same list. See the full antivirus software ranking for every alternative.
Transparency
Sources and how we make money
Sources we used
Checked 1 Nov 2026. Brands change terms often; confirm on the brand's site before you buy.
How we make money
Some links to brands may earn AltFTool a commission. That never changes a score, a rank or whether a brand is listed. Scores come only from the criteria above.
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