Alternatives
Malwarebytes Alternatives for Windows
Malwarebytes is a well-known malware and adware cleanup tool, but some users want a full real-time antivirus suite instead, or a different secondary scanner to pair with their existing protection.
The alternatives below split into full antivirus replacements and other supplementary security tools.
Who should switch
- You need a full real-time antivirus suite rather than an on-demand scanner.
- You want bundled extras like a firewall or VPN allowance.
- You're looking for a different secondary scanning tool to pair with your primary antivirus.
- You want an open-source security utility for specific tasks like encryption.
Top picks
Bitdefender Antivirus
Best for: Full real-time antivirus protection
Bitdefender is built as an always-on antivirus suite with ransomware protection and additional bundled features on paid tiers.
Trade-off: It's a paid product beyond any trial period, unlike Malwarebytes' free on-demand scanner.
View Bitdefender Antivirus →VeraCrypt
Best for: Encrypting sensitive files and drives
VeraCrypt is a free, open-source disk encryption tool for a different security need than malware cleanup.
Trade-off: It does not scan for or remove malware; it only handles encryption.
View VeraCrypt →Frequently asked questions
Is Malwarebytes enough protection on its own?
The free tier is on-demand only and is best used alongside a primary real-time antivirus. The paid Premium tier adds real-time protection intended for standalone use.
What's a good full antivirus alternative to Malwarebytes?
Bitdefender is a commonly used option that provides continuous real-time protection as a primary antivirus suite.
Can I use Malwarebytes and another antivirus together?
Running Malwarebytes' free on-demand scanner alongside a separate real-time antivirus is common; running two full real-time engines simultaneously can cause conflicts.