BullGuard vs TotalAV

Founded in 2002 and headquartered in the United Kingdom, BullGuard developed a reputation as a reliable antivirus provider with a focus on home users, families, and gamers. Their services stood out for blending strong, multi-layered threat detection with performance optimization features—most notably their Game Booster, which allowed users to enjoy lag-free gaming while staying protected. BullGuard’s security suite included essential tools like real-time protection, a configurable firewall, encrypted cloud backup, and a secure browser for financial transactions. Their interface was praised for being user-friendly, especially for non-technical users, and they performed consistently well in independent lab tests from AV-Test and AV-Comparatives. While macOS and mobile support was limited compared to Windows, BullGuard maintained a loyal customer base thanks to their practical features and straightforward approach to cybersecurity. In addition to strong malware defenses, they offered useful extras such as a vulnerability scanner, customizable parental controls, and system optimization tools, making them a well-rounded option. In 2021, they were acquired by NortonLifeLock, and by mid-2022, all BullGuard products and services were fully migrated to Norton’s ecosystem, ending standalone BullGuard offerings.

Founded in 2016 and headquartered in the United Kingdom, TotalAV has quickly established themselves as a reliable antivirus and security provider. The company has earned a reputation for offering effective, user-friendly solutions designed to protect devices from a wide range of online threats. TotalAV's services include real-time malware detection, ransomware protection, a built-in VPN for secure browsing, and system optimization tools like disk cleanup, junk file removal, and startup program management to improve device performance. These features help users keep their systems secure and running smoothly without complicating the user experience. TotalAV is compatible with a variety of platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users. While TotalAV enjoys positive feedback for their comprehensive protection and ease of use, some customers have raised concerns about their pricing model, particularly regarding higher renewal rates after the first year. Despite these criticisms, TotalAV’s responsive customer support and proactive efforts to address issues demonstrate their commitment to improving the user experience. With a 30-day money-back guarantee and competitive pricing, TotalAV remains a solid contender in the ever-growing antivirus market.