Top Antivirus Software for 2025: Norton, TotalAV, and Bitdefender Compared

Introduction

As we move further into 2025, the landscape of cyber threats continues to evolve, becoming increasingly sophisticated and dangerous. In response, antivirus software providers have stepped up their game, introducing new and improved features to keep users safe online. At CyberNews, we've tested numerous antivirus solutions, putting us in a unique position to reveal which apps will provide the best protection this year.

In this comprehensive review, we'll be comparing three industry leaders: Norton, TotalAV, and Bitdefender. We'll examine their performance in independent tests, analyze their features, assess their user-friendliness, and evaluate their pricing structures. By the end of this article, you'll have a clear understanding of which antivirus solution best suits your needs in 2025.

Independent Testing Results

When evaluating antivirus software, it's crucial to consider the results of independent testing. These tests provide an objective measure of an antivirus program's ability to detect and neutralize various types of malware.

According to the most recent results from AV-Test, all three antivirus solutions - Norton, TotalAV, and Bitdefender - performed exceptionally well:

• Detection Rates: All three successfully detected 100% of zero-day malware and 100% of four-week-old malware.
• Performance: Each scored 5.5 out of 6 in performance tests.
• Usability: All three achieved a perfect 6 out of 6 in usability tests.

These consistent and impressive results across the board indicate that Norton, TotalAV, and Bitdefender are all strong contenders for the title of best antivirus for Windows 11 and other operating systems.

CyberNews In-House Testing

To supplement the independent test results, our CyberNews research team conducted our own in-house tests. We planted 150 malware samples on a device and ran two separate tests for each antivirus: a full scan and a real-time protection test. Here's how each antivirus performed:

Norton

• Full Scan:

  • Duration: Approximately 13 minutes
  • CPU Usage: 20-30%
  • Detection Rate: 135 out of 150 malware samples (90%)

• Real-Time Protection:

  • Detection Rate: 119 out of 150 samples (79.3%)
  • CPU Usage: Fluctuated between 5-50%
  • Note: Detection time was considerably longer than the full scan

TotalAV

• Full Scan:

  • Duration: Approximately 12 minutes
  • CPU Usage: Around 30%
  • Detection Rate: 120 out of 150 malware samples (80%)

• Real-Time Protection:

  • Detection Rate: 120 out of 150 samples (80%)
  • CPU Usage: Consistently between 20-30%
  • Note: Threats were blocked immediately during the unzipping process, but the quarantine remained empty

Bitdefender

• Full Scan:

  • Duration: Approximately 33 minutes
  • CPU Usage: Average around 60%, with occasional spikes up to 90%
  • Detection Rate: 121 out of 150 malware samples (80.7%)

• Real-Time Protection:

  • Detection Rate: 125 out of 150 threats (83.3%)
  • Note: The app struggled to keep up with the speed of downloads

Analysis of Test Results

Based on our in-house testing, we can draw several conclusions:

1. Detection Rates: Norton showed the highest detection rate in the full scan (90%), followed closely by Bitdefender (80.7%) and TotalAV (80%). For real-time protection, Bitdefender led with 83.3%, followed by TotalAV (80%) and Norton (79.3%).

2. Scan Duration: TotalAV was the fastest, completing the full scan in about 12 minutes, closely followed by Norton at 13 minutes. Bitdefender took significantly longer at 33 minutes.

3. Resource Usage: TotalAV showed the most consistent and lowest CPU usage, making it an excellent choice for users with less powerful hardware. Norton's CPU usage was moderate, while Bitdefender's was the highest, occasionally spiking to 90%.

4. Real-Time Performance: TotalAV and Norton were faster at processing threats in real-time, while Bitdefender struggled to keep up with download speeds.

Overall, all three antiviruses performed well, with each showing strengths in different areas. Norton excelled in full scan detection, Bitdefender in real-time protection, and TotalAV in efficiency and resource management.

Feature Comparison

While malware detection is crucial, a comprehensive antivirus solution should offer additional features to enhance overall security. Let's compare the features offered by Norton, TotalAV, and Bitdefender:

Common Features

All three antivirus solutions offer:

• Real-time protection
• Multiple scanning options (full, quick, and custom scans)
• VPN service
• Password manager

Norton

Norton stands out with its extensive feature set:

• Smart Scan: Allows users to schedule automatic scans
• Insights Feature: Flags suspicious files for custom scans
• Firewall: Monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic
• PC Cloud Backup: Secure, encrypted remote storage for personal media
• Parental Controls: Customizable site and app restrictions, online activity tracking
• Norton Clean: Removes old, duplicated, or broken files to optimize device performance
• Startup Manager: Controls which applications launch at system startup (more suited for advanced users)

TotalAV

TotalAV offers a more streamlined set of features:

• Smart Scan: Schedules automatic scans
• Ransomware Protection: Safeguards against ransomware attacks
• System Tuneup: Clears out space on your device efficiently
• Web Shield: Browser extension that blocks malware and phishing attempts

Notably, TotalAV lacks a firewall, which is a significant omission for Windows 10 users.

Bitdefender

Bitdefender offers a balanced mix of essential and advanced features:

• Vulnerability Scan: Checks for weak passwords, outdated applications, and needed software updates
• Firewall: Monitors network traffic
• Anti-Theft Feature: Helps remotely locate and lock your device
• Anti-Tracker: Prevents online trackers from collecting and selling your data

Usability and User Interface

The ease of use and intuitiveness of an antivirus solution can significantly impact user experience. Here's how Norton, TotalAV, and Bitdefender compare in terms of usability:

Installation Process

All three antiviruses have similar installation processes:

1. Purchase a subscription
2. Download the installer from the provider's website
3. Follow the on-screen instructions (typically involves clicking 'agree' and 'continue' buttons)
4. Log in to the installed application

Bitdefender's installation process is notably more resource-intensive, using up to 500 MB of space and taking longer to download compared to Norton and TotalAV.

User Interface

• Norton: Functional but complex due to its numerous features and customization options. Better suited for advanced users.
• TotalAV: Well-organized and beginner-friendly. Each feature comes with an explanation, making it easy for new users to understand and navigate.
• Bitdefender: Minimalist and intuitive layout that users of all experience levels can easily navigate, despite its feature-rich nature.

Pricing and Value

Pricing is a crucial factor when choosing an antivirus solution. Here's how our three contenders compare:

Norton

• Entry-level plan: Covers one device, includes malware scans and password manager
• Deluxe plan: Best value, covers five devices, includes VPN and 50 GB cloud storage
• Note: Renewal prices are steep, consider switching providers before subscription renewal

TotalAV

• Standard plan: Covers up to five devices
• Internet Security package: Covers up to eight devices, includes VPN, password manager, and ad blocker

Bitdefender

• Entry-level plan: Cheapest option, but only protects a single device
• Total Security plan: Covers up to three devices, available on multiple operating systems
• Note: Renewal prices are typically double the initial cost

For all providers, it's advisable to opt-out of auto-renewal and use exclusive discount links to get the best deals.

Additional Antivirus Options

While Norton, TotalAV, and Bitdefender are excellent choices, there are other noteworthy antivirus solutions worth considering:

Malwarebytes

• Detection rates: 99.2% for zero-day threats, 99.9% for 4-week-old threats
• Performance: 5.5/6
• Usability: 6/6
• In-house test results: Detected 135 out of 150 planted malware samples
• Features: Detection history, Trusted Advisor, VPN
• Pricing: Standard plan for basic features, Plus plan includes VPN

Surfshark Antivirus

• Detection rates: 100% for both zero-day and 4-week-old malware
• Performance: 5.5/6
• Usability: 6/6
• In-house test results: Detected 135 out of 150 malware samples in full scan, 127 in real-time protection
• Features: Unlimited device coverage, includes VPN
• Pricing: Affordable, less than the cost of a coffee per month

ESET NOD32

• Detection rates: 100% for both widespread and zero-day malware
• Features: Real-time protection, anti-theft tools
• Pricing: On the higher end

Avira

• Detection rates: 100% for both zero-day and 4-week-old malware
• Performance and Usability: Perfect 6/6 scores
• Features: Safe Shopping, File Shredder, limited VPN
• Pricing: Not as affordable as some competitors

Windows Defender

• Comes free with Windows installations
• In-house test results: Detected only 1 out of 150 planted malware samples, 39 in real-time protection
• Not recommended as a standalone solution

Conclusion

After this comprehensive analysis, it's clear that Norton, TotalAV, and Bitdefender are all high-quality antivirus solutions for 2025. Each has its strengths and is suitable for different user needs:

• Norton: Ideal for users who want a feature-rich, customizable solution and don't mind a slightly more complex interface.
• TotalAV: Perfect for those who prioritize ease of use and efficient performance, especially on less powerful devices.
• Bitdefender: Great for users who want a balance of robust features and intuitive design, and don't mind slightly longer scan times.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific requirements, technical expertise, and budget. Whichever you choose, make sure to take advantage of available discounts and regularly review your subscription to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.

Remember, in the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats, having a reliable antivirus is just one part of maintaining your digital security. Stay informed about the latest threats, practice good digital hygiene, and regularly update all your software to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals in 2025 and beyond.

Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyNe29NF91M