Bitdefender vs ESET: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Bitdefender and ESET comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Bitdefender
Antivirus and cybersecurity for consumers and business
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.0/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • You need password managers features specifically
- • Bitdefender is a cybersecurity company providing antivirus and threat protection
- • It protects devices from malware, ransomware, and online threats
ESET
Cybersecurity solutions for businesses and consumers
Best for you if:
- • You need vulnerability scanning features specifically
- • ESET provides enterprise endpoint security with antivirus and threat protection
- • It detects malware, ransomware, and zero-day threats with low system impact
| At a Glance |  Bitdefender |  ESET |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Password Managers | Vulnerability Scanning |
Rating | 80/100 | 78/100 |
| Feature | Bitdefender | ESET |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 78 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Password ManagersSecurity Monitoring | Vulnerability ScanningIdentity & Access |
How Bitdefender and ESET Compare
Bitdefender
Antivirus and cybersecurity for consumers and business
Paid · 80/100 score
ESET
Cybersecurity solutions for businesses and consumers
Paid · 78/100 score
Bitdefender is a password managers tool. ESET is in vulnerability scanning.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Bitdefender
Want the highest-rated option?
Bitdefender: 80/100. ESET: 78/100.
Go with: Bitdefender
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Bitdefender
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Bitdefender is a password managers tool. ESET is in vulnerability scanning. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Bitdefender scores higher: 80/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
Bitdefender
- Higher score: 80/100 vs 78
- Our pick for this comparison
ESET
- Better fit for vulnerability scanning
The Bottom Line
Bitdefender (80/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bitdefender or ESET better?
Bitdefender scores 80/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Bitdefender and ESET used for?
Bitdefender: Antivirus and cybersecurity for consumers and business. ESET: Cybersecurity solutions for businesses and consumers.
What does Bitdefender cost vs ESET?
Bitdefender is a paid tool. ESET is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.