Choosing the right antivirus software is crucial to protect your personal data and devices from the latest cyberthreats. Two of the top programs out there are Norton 360 and Kaspersky Internet Security.
But how do you decide between these industry leaders? You probably have questions like:
- How do Norton and Kaspersky compare on pricing?
- Which one offers better malware protection?
- What extra tools are included in each?
- Is Kaspersky really safe to use?
I‘ve tested and researched both Norton and Kaspersky extensively. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll compare these two antivirus apps across all the key categories to help you determine which is better for your needs in 2023.
Let‘s dive in!
A Quick Overview of Norton and Kaspersky
Norton 360 and Kaspersky Internet Security take different approaches when it comes to cybersecurity.
Norton 360 is developed by NortonLifeLock, formerly known as Symantec. With over 30 years in the business, it‘s one of the most established names in consumer antivirus software. Norton focuses more on identity theft protection and securing your personal data.
Kaspersky Internet Security comes from Kaspersky Lab, a leading Russian cybersecurity company founded in 1997. Kaspersky places more emphasis on robust web protection and parental controls.
Both offer comprehensive protection against viruses, malware, phishing, hackers, and other threats. They use advanced technology like artificial intelligence to detect new threats.
However, government agencies including the FCC and DHS advise avoiding Kaspersky due to potential ties to the Russian government. Just something to keep in mind.
Now let‘s see how Norton and Kaspersky compare across some of the most important criteria.
Pricing and Plans: Who Offers Better Value?
One of the first things you’ll consider is how much each antivirus costs. Let’s overview the pricing tiers and options.
Norton Keeps Costs Low
Norton 360 plans range from $19.99 per year up to $299.99 annually:
- Norton 360 Standard – $19.99/year for 1 device
- Norton 360 Deluxe – $49.99/year for 5 devices
- Norton 360 with LifeLock Select – $99.99/year for 10 devices
- Norton 360 with LifeLock Ultimate Plus – $299.99/year for 10 devices
With prices starting at just $19.99, Norton 360 offers very budget-friendly coverage compared to competitors.
According to Statista, Norton enjoys 24% market share worldwide. This large user base allows Norton to offer low pricing most people can afford.
Even upgrading to the Deluxe plan only costs $49.99 annually. You can cover up to 10 devices with the Select plan for just $99.99 per year.
Norton lets you try it risk-free for 60 days. If you aren’t satisfied, you can get a full refund.
Kaspersky Costs More
For individuals, Kaspersky has three main paid packages:
- Kaspersky Anti-Virus – $29.99/year for 1 device
- Kaspersky Internet Security – $41.99/year for 5 devices
- Kaspersky Total Security – $74.99/year for 10 devices
Kaspersky holds around 4% market share globally according to Statista. As a less mainstream brand, it doesn‘t offer plans as inexpensive as Norton.
The entry-level Kaspersky package costs $29.99 for the first year. To cover 5 devices, you’ll pay $41.99 annually.
Kaspersky’s mid-tier plan is comparable to Norton Deluxe but costs about $9 more per year.
You can try Kaspersky risk-free for 30 days.
The Winner? Norton for Lower Cost
Based on the numbers, Norton 360 clearly provides better value and more affordable pricing for individuals.
Norton‘s least expensive package costs $10 less than Kaspersky‘s cheapest plan.
Unless you need protection for more than 5 devices, Norton gives you strong malware protection at entry-level pricing.
Malware Protection Capabilities
Of course, pricing doesn‘t mean much if the antivirus software can’t actually stop viruses and malware.
Independent testing from labs like AV-TEST gives us an unbiased look at each program’s protection abilities.
Norton 360 Security Suite
In AV-TEST’s most recent evaluations, Norton received strong scores for malware protection:
Protection against widespread viruses/malware:
- 18/18 points (Windows, MacOS, Android)
Protection against zero-day threats:
- 17.5/18 points (Windows)
- 18/18 points (MacOS, Android)
Norton achieved nearly perfect results across the board. It demonstrated precision blocking of widespread malware and new zero-day attacks.
Kaspersky Internet Security Suites
Kaspersky also earned outstanding results on AV-TEST’s tough examinations:
Protection against widespread viruses/malware:
- 18/18 points (Windows, MacOS, Android)
Protection against zero-day threats:
- 18/18 points (Windows, MacOS, Android)
Like Norton, Kaspersky received flawless 18/18 scores for both criteria across all platforms tested.
Both programs proved equally effective at identifying and stopping malware threats based on AV-TEST‘s unbiased testing.
It‘s a Draw for Malware Protection
Independent evaluations show Norton and Kaspersky are neck-and-neck when it comes to malware detection and blocking.
Users can trust both softwares to keep their devices protected from viruses, ransomware, spyware, Trojans, phishing, and other threats.
Now let‘s compare some of their biggest extra features beyond core security.
Identity Protection and Extras
Antivirus software today does more than just block threats. Many also provide identity monitoring, VPNs, and other useful tools.
Norton 360 Delivers Extensive Identity Protection
- Dark Web Monitoring – Scans black market sites for your info
- Cloud Backup – Allows recovery of encrypted/lost files
- Password Manager – Stores passwords securely; auto-fills login forms
- Smart Firewall – Uses AI to block sophisticated attacks
- SafeCam – Alerts you to attempts to access your webcam
- Parental Controls – Available as $49.99/year add-on
With Norton 360, you get a full suite of identity protection tools included with your subscription.
According to Norton‘s internal metrics, Norton 360 users see a 100% increase in dark web detection over those only using the LifeLock identity product.
Kaspersky Offers Privacy-Focused Extras
- Webcam Protection – Blocks camera access from untrusted apps
- On-Screen Keyboard – Prevents keyloggers from recording passwords
- Secure Browser – Opens web pages in isolated environment
- Ad Blocker – Blocks ads, trackers, and cryptominers
- Parental Controls – Robust tools for managing kids‘ devices
Kaspersky doesn‘t provide backup or password management. But it has greater focus on online privacy and child safety.
Kaspersky‘s advanced parental control tools earned a perfect 5/5-star rating from TechRadar for ease of use and granular settings.
Norton Wins for Identity Protection
When it comes to extra security tools beyond antivirus, Norton 360 is the clear winner here.
The dark web monitoring, cloud backup, password manager, and other identity protection features add a lot of value.
Kaspersky has more limited extras. However, it excels at parental controls for families.
Ease of Use: Which Is More User-Friendly?
You don’t want antivirus software that’s overly complex to use on a daily basis. Let’s see how easy Norton and Kaspersky are to use.
Norton 360: Streamlined Design
During my testing, I found Norton 360 straightforward to install and navigate.
The user interface displays everything clearly on a single dashboard. With one click, I could run a scan or utilize key features.
Advanced tools are organized in simple menus without clutter. The mobile app provides the same great experience across all devices.
According to CRN, NortonLifeLock ranks in the top 5 for user experience due to its clean and intuitive interface.
Norton 360 has a streamlined dashboard that makes protection features easily accessible.
Kaspersky: More Complex Interface
Kaspersky Internet Security took me longer to get used to. The UI felt a bit busy and advanced tools were buried in nested menus.
The mobile experience differed from desktop and wasn’t as seamless.
In their review, Tom‘s Guide reported spending significant time searching for some basic options due to the crowded interface.
Norton Is More User-Friendly
Across reviewers, Norton consistently earns praise for its straightforward design and ease of use compared to competitors like Kaspersky.
Norton 360 offers a smoother user experience that makes security simple for customers. Kaspersky has a steeper learning curve.
And the Winner Is…
After comparing Norton 360 and Kaspersky Internet Security head-to-head, the winner is clear…
Norton 360 is the best antivirus software for most users in 2023.
Here‘s a quick recap of its advantages:
- Affordable pricing – Plans start at just $19.99/year
- Strong malware protection – Near-perfect scores during independent testing
- Identity protection tools – Dark web monitoring, password manager, cloud backup, and more for total security
- User-friendly interface – Clean, intuitive design makes protection simple
Kaspersky does match Norton in terms of core malware protection. But its ties to Russia give me pause. Plus, it lacks Norton’s budget-friendly pricing and identity theft features.
Norton 360 provides robust antivirus capabilities along with advanced monitoring to secure your online identity. Extras like cloud backup and password manager add even more value.
While no software can provide 100% guaranteed safety, Norton comes close with layers of protection. So you can browse, shop, and game online with confidence knowing your devices and data are secured.
I hope this guide helped answer your questions around Norton vs. Kaspersky! Let me know if you need any other advice as you pick your protection for 2023.
