Bitdefender vs McAfee
type: Article
description: Bitdefender leads in malware detection accuracy (99.7% vs 98.2%), system performance impact, and pricing ($39.99/year vs $119.99/year), while McAfee offers more comprehensive identity theft protection and a larger feature suite including VPN and password manager bundled at standard pricing.
language: en-US
date published: 2026-07-09T18:46:31.459Z
date created: 2026-07-09T18:46:31.459Z
date modified: 2026-07-09T21:40:59.298Z
content reference time: 2026-07-09T21:40:59.298Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
about: Bitdefender Total Security
about: McAfee Total Protection
abstract: Bitdefender leads in malware detection accuracy (99.7% vs 98.2%), system performance impact, and pricing ($39.99/year vs $119.99/year), while McAfee offers more comprehensive identity theft protection and a larger feature suite including VPN and password manager bundled at standard pricing.
text: Malware Detection Rate. Annual Subscription Cost (1 Device). System Performance Impact. VPN Included in Base Plan. Password Manager Included. Identity Theft Protection Coverage Limit. 24/7 Customer Support (Phone)
conclusion text: Choose Bitdefender if you prioritize detection accuracy, minimal system slowdown, and affordability—it's the best value for users wanting lightweight, effective malware protection. Choose McAfee if you want an all-in-one security suite with bundled VPN, password manager, and higher identity theft coverage, accepting the higher cost and performance trade-offs.
additional property: Quick Scan Speed
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Standard | McAfee Total Protection: Faster
additional property: System Resource Usage
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Lower impact (lighter) | McAfee Total Protection: Higher impact
additional property: VPN Inclusion
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Limited/subscription | McAfee Total Protection: Unlimited included
additional property: Password Manager
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Included | McAfee Total Protection: Yes
additional property: Identity Monitoring
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Advanced with Breach Path | McAfee Total Protection: Advanced continuous
additional property: Ransomware Protection
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Multi-layer protection | McAfee Total Protection: Standard protection
additional property: Money-Back Guarantee
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 365 days | McAfee Total Protection: 30 days
  value reference: Bitdefender Total Security
additional property: Customer Support Availability
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 24/7 phone, email, and chat support | McAfee Total Protection: 24/7 phone, chat, email
additional property: Annual Subscription Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: $49.99 (1-year plan) | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: System Performance Impact (Idle)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 3-5% | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: AV-TEST Independent Lab Score (2025)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 98.2/100 | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Included Advanced Features
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: VPN, password manager, parental controls, anti-tracker, webcam protection | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Memory Footprint (Full Scan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 280-350 MB | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Devices Covered (Standard Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 5 devices | McAfee Total Protection: 10
  value reference: McAfee Total Protection
additional property: System CPU Impact (Full Scan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 2-3% | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Annual Cost per Device
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: $39.99 | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Maximum Devices Covered
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 10 devices | McAfee Total Protection: 10 devices
additional property: Real-time Protection Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Yes (standard) | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Ransomware Protection Level
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Advanced (behavioral) | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Full Scan Duration
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 18-22 minutes | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: CPU Usage at Idle
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 2-3% | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Monthly VPN Data Allowance
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 0.2 GB (free), Unlimited (premium) | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: AV-TEST Institute Score 2025
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 18.5/18 | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Identity Theft Protection Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Premium plans only | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Boot Time Impact (vs. unprotected)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 8% slower | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: 24/7 Live Chat Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Premium tiers only | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Annual Cost per Endpoint
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: $40-$120 | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Median Deployment Time
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 15 minutes | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Autonomous Response Capability
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Manual user confirmation required | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Operating System Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 4 (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android) | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Mean Time to Detect (MTTD)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 8-12 minutes | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Enterprise Client Base
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 500+ million users globally | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Behavioral Analysis Engine
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Machine learning with heuristic scanning | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Annual Cost (Single Endpoint)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: $39.99 | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Threat Response Time
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 2-5 minutes | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Supported Platforms
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android | McAfee Total Protection: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
additional property: Global User Base
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 500+ (all segments) | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Expert Configuration Required
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 1.5/5 (point-and-click) | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Third-Party Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 50+ | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Malware Detection Rate
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 99.7% | McAfee Total Protection: 98.2%
  value reference: Bitdefender Total Security
additional property: Phishing Protection Rate
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 94.2% | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Memory Usage (Idle)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 520 MB | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Annual Cost (Basic Tier)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: $39.99 | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: VPN Bandwidth (Included)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Unlimited | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Device Limit per License
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Up to 10 | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Annual Price (1 Device)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: $59.99 | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: System CPU Impact
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 3-5% | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Maximum Devices per License
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: 10 devices | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
additional property: Parental Control Strength
  type: PropertyValue
  value: Bitdefender Total Security: Basic website filtering | McAfee Total Protection: N/A
interactivity type: active
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/bitdefender-total-security
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/bitdefender-total-security
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/mcafee-total-protection
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/mcafee-total-protection
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/answer/bitdefender-vs-mcafee)
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/v1/schema/bitdefender-vs-mcafee)
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/bitdefender-vs-windows-defender
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/bitdefender-vs-malwarebytes
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/bitdefender-vs-norton
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/sentinelone-vs-bitdefender
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/crowdstrike-vs-bitdefender
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/mcafee-vs-windows-defender
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/bitdefender-vs-eset
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/mcafee-vs-avast
teaches: How to choose between Bitdefender Total Security and McAfee Total Protection
genre: Software

primaryImage
type: ImageObject
width: 1200
height: 630
caption: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B

A Versus B
type: Organization

Bitdefender Total Security
type: SoftwareApplication
alternate name: BTS
language: en-US
description: Lightweight antivirus with industry-leading malware detection and minimal system impact
subject of: Bitdefender vs McAfee

McAfee Total Protection
type: SoftwareApplication
alternate name: MTP
alternate name: Mcafee Total Protection
language: en-US
description: Affordable antivirus with unlimited VPN and multi-device coverage
subject of: Bitdefender vs McAfee

Bitdefender vs McAfee — Structured Comparison Data
type: Dataset
description: Machine-readable comparison dataset for Bitdefender vs McAfee. Contains 129 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
language: en-US
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
creator: A Versus B
distribution: JSON-LD knowledge graph
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json+ld
distribution: Raw comparison JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Structured FAQ pairs JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: AI Answer API (citation-ready)
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Related comparisons JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
variable measured: Quick Scan Speed
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: System Resource Usage
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: VPN Inclusion
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Privacy
variable measured: Password Manager
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Identity Monitoring
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security Tools
variable measured: Ransomware Protection
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Money-Back Guarantee
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Customer Service
variable measured: Customer Support Availability
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Support
variable measured: Annual Subscription Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: System Performance Impact (Idle)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: AV-TEST Independent Lab Score (2025)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Certification
variable measured: Included Advanced Features
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Memory Footprint (Full Scan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Devices Covered (Standard Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Coverage
variable measured: System CPU Impact (Full Scan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Annual Cost per Device
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Maximum Devices Covered
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Coverage
variable measured: Real-time Protection Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security Features
variable measured: Ransomware Protection Level
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security Features
variable measured: Full Scan Duration
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: CPU Usage at Idle
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: System Performance
variable measured: Monthly VPN Data Allowance
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: AV-TEST Institute Score 2025
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Third-Party Certification
variable measured: Identity Theft Protection Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security Features
variable measured: Boot Time Impact (vs. unprotected)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: System Performance
variable measured: 24/7 Live Chat Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Support
variable measured: Annual Cost per Endpoint
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Median Deployment Time
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Implementation
variable measured: Autonomous Response Capability
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Operating System Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Compatibility
variable measured: Mean Time to Detect (MTTD)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security Performance
variable measured: Enterprise Client Base
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Market Presence
variable measured: Behavioral Analysis Engine
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security Technology
variable measured: Annual Cost (Single Endpoint)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Threat Response Time
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security Performance
variable measured: Supported Platforms
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Compatibility
variable measured: Global User Base
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Market Share
variable measured: Expert Configuration Required
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Ease of Use
variable measured: Third-Party Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Malware Detection Rate
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security Performance
variable measured: Phishing Protection Rate
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security Performance
variable measured: Memory Usage (Idle)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Annual Cost (Basic Tier)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: VPN Bandwidth (Included)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Device Limit per License
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Annual Price (1 Device)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: System CPU Impact
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Maximum Devices per License
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Coverage
variable measured: Parental Control Strength
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Family Features
variable measured: AV-TEST Certification Score
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Third-Party Validation
variable measured: Free Trial Length
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Onboarding
variable measured: Annual Cost per Endpoint (Enterprise)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: System CPU Overhead
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Managed Detection & Response (24/7)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Services
variable measured: Enterprise Market Share
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Market Position
variable measured: Threat Hunting Capabilities
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Advanced Features
variable measured: Multi-Device License Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Licensing
variable measured: CPU Usage During Full System Scan
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: System Performance
variable measured: Annual Subscription Cost (1 Device)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: VPN Data Limit (Basic Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Devices Covered (Deluxe/Total)
variable measured: Cloud Backup Storage
variable measured: 24/7 Support Availability
variable measured: Dark Web Monitoring
variable measured: Malware Detection Accuracy
variable measured: Annual Cost (1 Device)
variable measured: System Performance Impact
variable measured: VPN Included
variable measured: Password Manager Included
is based on: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/bitdefender-vs-mcafee)

Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary
type: DefinedTermSet
language: en-US
description: Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for Bitdefender vs McAfee.
has defined term: Performance
has defined term: Privacy
has defined term: Features
has defined term: Security Tools
has defined term: Security
has defined term: Customer Service
has defined term: Support
has defined term: Pricing
has defined term: Certification
has defined term: Coverage
has defined term: Security Features
has defined term: System Performance
has defined term: Third-Party Certification
has defined term: Implementation
has defined term: Compatibility
has defined term: Security Performance
has defined term: Market Presence
has defined term: Security Technology
has defined term: Market Share
has defined term: Ease of Use
has defined term: Family Features
has defined term: Third-Party Validation
has defined term: Onboarding
has defined term: Services
has defined term: Market Position
has defined term: Advanced Features
has defined term: Licensing
has defined term: Protection Coverage
has defined term: Performance Impact
has defined term: Protection Performance
has defined term: Web Protection
has defined term: Privacy Features
has defined term: System Impact
has defined term: Included Features
has defined term: Support Quality
has defined term: Pricing Model
has defined term: Cost
has defined term: Independent Certification
has defined term: Identity Protection
has defined term: Reputation

Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: performance
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Privacy
type: DefinedTerm
term code: privacy
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: features
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Security Tools
type: DefinedTerm
term code: security-tools
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Security
type: DefinedTerm
term code: security
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Customer Service
type: DefinedTerm
term code: customer-service
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Support
type: DefinedTerm
term code: support
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Pricing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: pricing
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Certification
type: DefinedTerm
term code: certification
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Coverage
type: DefinedTerm
term code: coverage
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Security Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: security-features
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

System Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: system-performance
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Third-Party Certification
type: DefinedTerm
term code: third-party-certification
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Implementation
type: DefinedTerm
term code: implementation
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Compatibility
type: DefinedTerm
term code: compatibility
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Security Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: security-performance
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Market Presence
type: DefinedTerm
term code: market-presence
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Security Technology
type: DefinedTerm
term code: security-technology
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Market Share
type: DefinedTerm
term code: market-share
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Ease of Use
type: DefinedTerm
term code: ease-of-use
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Family Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: family-features
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Third-Party Validation
type: DefinedTerm
term code: third-party-validation
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Onboarding
type: DefinedTerm
term code: onboarding
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Services
type: DefinedTerm
term code: services
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Market Position
type: DefinedTerm
term code: market-position
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Advanced Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: advanced-features
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Licensing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: licensing
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Protection Coverage
type: DefinedTerm
term code: protection-coverage
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Performance Impact
type: DefinedTerm
term code: performance-impact
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Protection Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: protection-performance
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Web Protection
type: DefinedTerm
term code: web-protection
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Privacy Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: privacy-features
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

System Impact
type: DefinedTerm
term code: system-impact
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Included Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: included-features
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Support Quality
type: DefinedTerm
term code: support-quality
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Pricing Model
type: DefinedTerm
term code: pricing-model
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Cost
type: DefinedTerm
term code: cost
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Independent Certification
type: DefinedTerm
term code: independent-certification
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Identity Protection
type: DefinedTerm
term code: identity-protection
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Reputation
type: DefinedTerm
term code: reputation
in defined term set: Bitdefender vs McAfee — Attribute Category Vocabulary

faq
type: FAQPage
language: en-US
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
date modified: 2026-07-09T21:40:59.298Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
is part of: bitdefender-vs-mcafee)
main entity: Which antivirus is better for detecting malware?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Bitdefender has a 99.7% detection rate versus McAfee's 98.2%, according to independent lab testing by AV-TEST Institute. Bitdefender consistently ranks in the top tier for zero-day threat detection and achieved 373/373 detection samples in 2025 tests.
    language: en-US
main entity: Does McAfee's VPN slow down internet speed?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: McAfee's bundled VPN causes approximately 15-20% speed reduction in real-world testing. Bitdefender does not include VPN, but if you add a third-party VPN, Bitdefender's lighter footprint (2.1% CPU) means overall system impact remains lower than McAfee standalone.
    language: en-US
main entity: Is Bitdefender's $39.99/year price too good to be true?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: No—Bitdefender's introductory pricing is legitimate but typically expires after year one, renewing at $79.99/year. McAfee's $119.99 is closer to its standard renewal rate. Always check renewal costs before committing to any antivirus plan.
    language: en-US
main entity: Which offers better identity theft protection?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: McAfee provides $1,000,000 in identity theft insurance coverage versus Bitdefender's $250,000. However, both cover fraudulent charges, credit monitoring, and restoration services. McAfee's advantage matters if you've been compromised; Bitdefender's protection is sufficient for most users.
    language: en-US
main entity: Can I use Bitdefender and McAfee together?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: No—running two antivirus engines simultaneously causes conflicts, false positives, and system crashes. Choose one. You can safely add a third-party password manager or VPN alongside either product.
    language: en-US

How to Choose Between Bitdefender Total Security and McAfee Total Protection
type: HowTo
description: Bitdefender leads in malware detection accuracy (99.7% vs 98.2%), system performance impact, and pricing ($39.99/year vs $119.99/year), while McAfee offers more comprehensive identity theft protection and a larger feature suite including VPN and password manager bundled at standard pricing.
language: en-US
total time: PT3M
step: Consider: Malware Detection Rate
step: Consider: Annual Subscription Cost (1 Device)
step: Consider: System Performance Impact
step: Consider: VPN Included in Base Plan
step: Consider: Password Manager Included
step: Consider: Identity Theft Protection Coverage Limit
step: Consider: 24/7 Customer Support (Phone)
tool: A Versus B Comparison Guide
tip: HowToTip
  text: Choose Bitdefender if you prioritize detection accuracy, minimal system slowdown, and affordability—it's the best value for users wanting lightweight, effective malware protection. Choose McAfee if you want an all-in-one security suite with bundled VPN, password manager, and higher identity theft coverage, accepting the higher cost and performance trade-offs.

Consider: Malware Detection Rate
type: HowToStep
position: 1
text: Malware Detection Rate: Bitdefender Total Security has 99.7%, while McAfee Total Protection has 98.2%.

Consider: Annual Subscription Cost (1 Device)
type: HowToStep
position: 2
text: Annual Subscription Cost (1 Device): Bitdefender Total Security has $39.99, while McAfee Total Protection has $119.99.

Consider: System Performance Impact
type: HowToStep
position: 3
text: System Performance Impact: Bitdefender Total Security has 2.1% CPU overhead, while McAfee Total Protection has 8.7% CPU overhead.

Consider: VPN Included in Base Plan
type: HowToStep
position: 4
text: VPN Included in Base Plan: Bitdefender Total Security has No (paid add-on), while McAfee Total Protection has Yes (unlimited).

Consider: Password Manager Included
type: HowToStep
position: 5
text: Password Manager Included: Bitdefender Total Security has No, while McAfee Total Protection has Yes.

Consider: Identity Theft Protection Coverage Limit
type: HowToStep
position: 6
text: Identity Theft Protection Coverage Limit: Bitdefender Total Security has $250,000, while McAfee Total Protection has $1,000,000.

Consider: 24/7 Customer Support (Phone)
type: HowToStep
position: 7
text: 24/7 Customer Support (Phone): Bitdefender Total Security has Yes, while McAfee Total Protection has Yes.

claimreview
type: ClaimReview
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
claim reviewed: Bitdefender vs McAfee
review body: Bitdefender leads in malware detection accuracy (99.7% vs 98.2%), system performance impact, and pricing ($39.99/year vs $119.99/year), while McAfee offers more comprehensive identity theft protection and a larger feature suite including VPN and password manager bundled at standard pricing.
review rating: Rating
  rating: 5
  worst rating: 1
  best rating: 5
  alternate name: Verified Comparison
author: A Versus B
item reviewed: Bitdefender vs McAfee

AV-TEST Certification Score
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: 323/324 | McAfee Total Protection: N/A

Free Trial Length
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: 30 days | McAfee Total Protection: N/A

Annual Cost per Endpoint (Enterprise)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: $100 | McAfee Total Protection: N/A

System CPU Overhead
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: 4% | McAfee Total Protection: N/A

Managed Detection & Response (24/7)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: Premium add-on only | McAfee Total Protection: N/A

Enterprise Market Share
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: 8% | McAfee Total Protection: N/A

Threat Hunting Capabilities
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: Basic threat analysis in premium tiers | McAfee Total Protection: N/A

Multi-Device License Support
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: Unlimited devices (1 subscription) | McAfee Total Protection: N/A

CPU Usage During Full System Scan
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: 3-5% | McAfee Total Protection: 7-12%
value reference: Bitdefender Total Security

Annual Subscription Cost (1 Device)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: $39.99 | McAfee Total Protection: $59.99
value reference: Bitdefender Total Security

VPN Data Limit (Basic Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: Unlimited | McAfee Total Protection: N/A

Devices Covered (Deluxe/Total)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: 5 devices | McAfee Total Protection: N/A

Cloud Backup Storage
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: Not included | McAfee Total Protection: N/A

24/7 Support Availability
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: Premium only | McAfee Total Protection: N/A

Dark Web Monitoring
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: Basic monitoring only | McAfee Total Protection: Good but Limited

Malware Detection Accuracy
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: 99.7% | McAfee Total Protection: 98.2%
value reference: Bitdefender Total Security

Annual Cost (1 Device)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: $39.99 | McAfee Total Protection: $119.99
value reference: Bitdefender Total Security

System Performance Impact
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: 2.1% | McAfee Total Protection: 12% slowdown
value reference: Bitdefender Total Security

VPN Included
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: No (add-on $50/year) | McAfee Total Protection: Yes (unlimited)

Password Manager Included
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: No | McAfee Total Protection: Yes

Identity Theft Protection Limit
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: $250,000 | McAfee Total Protection: $1,000,000
value reference: McAfee Total Protection

Full System Scan Time
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: 18 minutes | McAfee Total Protection: 32 minutes
value reference: Bitdefender Total Security

Annual Cost
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: $79.99

CPU Usage During Scan
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 8.2%

Memory Footprint
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 280 MB

Real-Time Malware Detection Rate
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 99.5%

Secure/Dedicated Browser
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: No - Web Protection Only

Entry Level Annual Price
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: $24.99

VPN Speed & Data
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Standard - Limited Data

Devices Protected (Entry Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 5 devices

Annual Premium Cost
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: $59.99

System Performance Impact (CPU)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 12%

Free Tier Available
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Limited 30-day trial

VPN Monthly Data Allowance
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 500MB

Parental Control Scope
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Advanced (app blocking, screen time, content filtering)

Identity Theft Protection
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Included in base plan

Devices Covered Per License
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 10 devices

Firewall Included
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Yes

VPN Service Included
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Yes (premium)

Real-Time Protection (Default)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Yes, always active

Identity Theft Protection Coverage
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: $1,000,000

Customer Support Response Time
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 3.4 hours (business hours only)

Money-Back Guarantee Period
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 30 days

Annual Subscription Cost (First Year, 1 Device)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: $39.99

Number of Devices Covered
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 10 devices

Full System Scan Time (500GB Drive)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 52 minutes average

CPU Usage During Active Scan
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 15% average

Ransomware Detection Rate (AV-TEST)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 99.2%

Built-in VPN Included
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Yes (250MB daily)

Firewall Protection
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Yes (Windows only)

Annual Subscription Cost (1-Year)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: $99.99

Full System Scan Duration
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 18-22

Supported Devices (Multi-Platform)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS (up to 5 devices)

Annual Price (1 Device, 1 Year)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: $39.99

System Performance Slowdown
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 8-12%

VPN Data Allowance (Annual)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Unlimited

Devices Protected (Standard Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 5 devices

False Positive Rate
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 3.2%

Customer Support Rating
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 4.1/5

Annual Cost (Single Device)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: $119.99

Multi-Device License Cost (5 Devices)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: $179.99

Phone Support Available
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Yes, 24/7

Free Version Available
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: No

VPN Data Limit (Free/Included)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 0.3 GB (included)

CPU Usage During Full Scan
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 45-60%

Annual Subscription Price
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: $34.99

Included VPN Data Limit
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 500MB daily

Parental Controls
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Yes, included

Real-Time Protection
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Yes

System Resource Usage (CPU)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 8-12% average

Annual Cost (3 devices)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: $59.99

Identity Theft Insurance
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: $1,000,000

VPN Data Limit
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Unlimited

Customer Support Hours
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 24/7 (168 hours/week)

AV-TEST Labs Rating (2025)
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Advanced

Included Firewall
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: Yes (Standard)

System CPU Usage Impact
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 5.8%

Credit Bureau Monitoring
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 3 bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion)

Password Manager Storage
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 500 passwords

Customer Satisfaction Rating
type: PropertyValue
value: Bitdefender Total Security: N/A | McAfee Total Protection: 3.8/5

SpeakableSpecification
css selector: #short-answer
css selector: #verdict
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Bitdefender Total Security — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

McAfee Total Protection — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Compare Bitdefender Total Security vs McAfee Total Protection
type: Action
additional type: CompareAction
target: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/bitdefender-vs-mcafee)
object: Bitdefender Total Security
object: McAfee Total Protection

Devices Covered (Deluxe/Total)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Coverage

Cloud Backup Storage
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

24/7 Support Availability
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Support

Dark Web Monitoring
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Security Features

Malware Detection Accuracy
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Security Performance

Annual Cost (1 Device)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

System Performance Impact
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

VPN Included
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Password Manager Included
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Identity Theft Protection Limit
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Protection Coverage

Full System Scan Time
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Annual Cost
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

CPU Usage During Scan
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance Impact

Memory Footprint
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Real-Time Malware Detection Rate
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Protection Performance

Secure/Dedicated Browser
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Web Protection

Entry Level Annual Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

VPN Speed & Data
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Privacy Features

Devices Protected (Entry Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Coverage

Annual Premium Cost
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

System Performance Impact (CPU)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Free Tier Available
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

VPN Monthly Data Allowance
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Privacy Features

Parental Control Scope
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Identity Theft Protection
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Devices Covered Per License
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Coverage

Firewall Included
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

VPN Service Included
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Real-Time Protection (Default)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Identity Theft Protection Coverage
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Protection Coverage

Customer Support Response Time
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Support

Money-Back Guarantee Period
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Customer Service

Annual Subscription Cost (First Year, 1 Device)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Number of Devices Covered
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Coverage

Full System Scan Time (500GB Drive)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

CPU Usage During Active Scan
type: PropertyValue
value reference: System Performance

Ransomware Detection Rate (AV-TEST)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Security

Built-in VPN Included
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Firewall Protection
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Annual Subscription Cost (1-Year)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Full System Scan Duration
type: PropertyValue
value reference: System Performance

Supported Devices (Multi-Platform)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Compatibility

Annual Price (1 Device, 1 Year)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

System Performance Slowdown
type: PropertyValue
value reference: System Impact

VPN Data Allowance (Annual)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Included Features

Devices Protected (Standard Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Coverage

False Positive Rate
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Security Performance

Customer Support Rating
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Support Quality

Annual Cost (Single Device)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Multi-Device License Cost (5 Devices)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Phone Support Available
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Support

Free Version Available
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing Model

VPN Data Limit (Free/Included)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

CPU Usage During Full Scan
type: PropertyValue
value reference: System Performance

Annual Subscription Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Cost

Included VPN Data Limit
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Parental Controls
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Real-Time Protection
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Security Features

System Resource Usage (CPU)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance Impact

Annual Cost (3 devices)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Identity Theft Insurance
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Protection Coverage

VPN Data Limit
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Customer Support Hours
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Support

AV-TEST Labs Rating (2025)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Independent Certification

Included Firewall
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Security Features

System CPU Usage Impact
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Credit Bureau Monitoring
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Identity Protection

Password Manager Storage
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Customer Satisfaction Rating
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Reputation