AVG vs Webroot - which is the better antivirus?

AVG vs Webroot
(Image credit: engin akyurt)

AVG vs Webroot is here. Why? Because one of the best ways to decide on the best antivirus software for you is by comparing two brands, head to head. Specifically, we compare AVG and Webroot SecureAnywhere with your needs in mind so that you can see easily what each offers over the other to decide which will serve you best.

It could also be worth checking out the best internet security software list as even after reading this comparison there may be another setup that is better suited to you. 

If you've already been in our best home computers and ended up getting yourself a new machine, or are thinking about upgrading, it pays to keep that new investment safe. It's also worth factoring into your spending the fact that some come with AV protection already installed, but often only with a 12 month subscription, so you'll need to know about upgrading that too. 

Be sure to read out AVG Antivirus review and Webroot SecurityAnywhere review for more detail. But for now, let's look at AVG vs Webroot to see if one of those is all you need.

AVG vs Webroot: Additional Protection

Beyond the basic protection that you expect computer-security software to have, there are some extras that some software applications carry that will add extra protection for your system. When it comes to these add-ons, there is a clear winner in the AVG vs Webroot evaluation. 

AVG includes protection against backdoor Trojans, for example. This type of malware allows a hacker to control your computer from another location. As you can imagine, backdoor Trojan detection is a very important feature to have. Unfortunately, the makers of Webroot may not share that view since this product doesn't have protection against Trojans.

AVG Antivirus

(Image credit: AVG)

AVG also includes protection against phishing scams where hackers and scammers disguise themselves as legitimate companies to gain access to your personal information. Again, Webroot doesn't have this feature.

Webroot also falls short on updating third-party security updates and blocking infections from exterior storage devices such as USBs. Both of these processes are part of the AVG package.

At the top end, with AVG Ultimate, you also get a VPN thrown in as part of the deal. A great way to stay anonymous online and access geo restricted content. This top-end package also offers ransomware protection both on your machine and your smartphone.

It has been reported, though, that AVG protects computers a little too well. It will report that there is a threat to the computer even when there is none. Webroot doesn't have this problem, giving it an edge over its competitor. Of course, some may argue that too much protection is better than getting a virus. In this case, AVG is still the winner of this round of the AVG vs Webroot battle.

AVG vs Webroot: Additional Features

When it comes to additional features, both products have their drawbacks. Here are the features that Webroot has that AVG doesn't:

  • Adjustable security settings that can be changed to fit your security needs
  • Password-protected control panel that keeps other users from changing the settings that you have chosen
  • Cloud storage is included as part of the Internet Security Complete package

Here are the features that AVG has that Webroot does not:

  • A laptop battery-saving mode
  • A tool that warns users before they click on a link that may lead to an untrustworthy site
  • A bootable recovery disk that can restore your computer's system after a crash
  • A 256-bit encryption VPN
  • A free version that offers antivirus for your machine
  • Up to 10 devices covered at once

Webroot Secureanywhere

(Image credit: Webroot Secureanywhere)

AVG vs Webroot: Technical Support

The AVG vs Webroot comparison wouldn't be complete without a look at which company's technical support is superior. Both software companies offer the general options such as email support. Only Webroot offers every customer service option except an online forum, however. On the other hand, AVG offers an online forum but no phone assistance. The winner here depends on which form of support you value more - phone service or online forums.

While both of these anti-virus software applications in the AVG vs Webroot comparison have their downsides, both would do a good job of protecting your computer. The best one for your needs is the one that has the features you find most valuable.

Should you get AVG or Webroot?

The conclusion is that AVG and Webroot each have their benefits. For older systems that need a low impact scan then Webroot is a big help. And for anyone that wants a powerful free antivirus then AVG is a great way to go. 

Beyond that, for more complex needs, it seems that AVG also takes the lead, but at a price that might deter some people who can go for the other big brand name antivirus competition for the same price or less.

Luke Edwards

Luke is a veteran tech journalist with decades of experience covering everything from TVs, power tools, science and health tech to VPNs, space, gaming and cars. You may recognize him from appearances on plenty of news channels or have read his words which have been published in most tech titles over the years. In his spare time (of which he has little as a father of two) Luke likes yoga, surfing, meditation, DIY and consuming all the books, comics and movies he can find.