Malwarebytes Premium Review

Every day, we expose our PCs to hundreds, if not thousands, of questionable files and Websites. It is also worth noting that threats to our devices from Malware, spyware, and ad-bots are increasing. Hackers who do not have noble intentions create these threats for a variety of purposes.

This Malwarebytes Premium Security review will discuss all the risks and how you can keep all your devices safe. During my test, I used Malwarebytes Standard.

Malwarebytes Premium Review: Summary

Introduction

From sensitive data leaks to serious financial data breaches, the world of cybercrime is evolving faster than AI! While traditional antivirus continue to be effective against known dangers, very few of them are efficient in detecting zero-day threats.

Is there a way to identify and neutralize threats even before they attack? Yes, thankfully, one brand is focusing on the future of cybersecurity- Malwarebytes. With Malwarebytes Premium Version 5, the brand is taking fighting threats to a different level altogether.

In this Malwarebytes Premium Security review, I will look at the main features and performance figures for the anti-malware. I will also look at whether or not it is an excellent alternative to some of the more established brands in the market.

However, before I begin with the review, I want to discuss ‘Malware.’ What does it mean, and how important it is to protect our systems against it.

(P.S. The section below is strictly for first-time readers; the rest can skip and move to the Malwarebytes Premium review section)

What is the basic definition of Malware?

The term malware has originated from the English word - 'malicious,' which means an intent to cause harm. Malware is any harmful software that aims to destroy your system's software and hardware. Some of the most common Malware that creates havoc in the market are viruses, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware.

Why should you worry about Malware?

Malware steals passwords, puts systems under lockdowns, or creates other mischief. Hackers use malware to earn easy money by blackmailing companies, individuals, or government institutions.

Malware is dangerous as it can cause significant losses and destruction to your system’s software and hardware. From infecting and corrupting existing files in your system to locking them down completely, malware is a dangerous infestation.

How does Malware Spread?

Most of the malware attacks happen through emails. Hence, it is essential not to open suspicious emails from people outside your mailing list. You should carefully examine emails going to the spam folder. If you download media and document files from the internet, you must only do so from trusted websites.

Websites that do not have an SSL Certificate are more likely to leak your sensitive data and spread Malware. No Operating System is safe from Malware attacks on Windows, Mac OS, and Android. Hence, it makes a potent and versatile threat that keeps evolving and growing stronger.

Brief Overview

Launched on 21 February 2024, Malwarebytes Premium Security V5 has continued to evolve, with multiple noteworthy improvements in 2025. The latest version not only enhances system security but also provides a more responsive user interface. It has a refined Trusted Advisor feature, a Deep Scan option, and a Tools section to tweak your Windows device security and performance further.

Malwarebytes claims that the Detection Engine is one of the fastest and lightest scanners in the world right now. That is an impressive claim to make. Also, the company states that protecting cybercrimes and personal information is a fundamental right for every individual.

Pricing Plans

Malwarebytes offers free and premium plans. Three premium plans are available: Malwarebytes Standard, Malwarebytes Plus, and Malwarebytes Ultimate. According to the official website, you can protect upto 20 devices with any of the premium plans.

Here are the official prices for the yearly plans covering one device.

• Malwarebytes Standard (1 device, 1 Year): USD 44.99
• Malwarebytes Plus (1 device, 1 Year): USD 59.99
• Malwarebytes Ultimate (1 device, 1 Year): USD 119.99

You can try the 14-day fully functional free trial before purchase. Using our Malwarebytes Premium Security discounts and coupons, you can get the best price on Malwarebytes Standard subscription.

Note: Malwarebytes Standard does not include a VPN in its plan. If you require it, please upgrade to their Malwarebytes Plus plan.

Malwarebytes Premium Review: The Interface

Malwarebytes Premium Security v5 introduces a totally redesigned user interface, making it visually appealing and convenient for users. 

After the quick installation, Malwarebytes asks you to run a full scan. However, you can skip the scanning process and jump straight into the main window. 

Dashboard

The dashboard is categorized into three main sections:

SECURITY

Under this section, you will find three tabs allowing you to safeguard your device security quickly.

• Scanner
• Detection History
• Real-Time Protection

ONLINE PRIVACY

This section offers a new VPN feature, which can be accessed by separate purchase or upgrading to the Malwarebytes Plus plan.

TRUSTED ADVISOR

Here, you will see a large Protection score followed by a See details button (which appears after your first scan). It allows you to boost the score by tweaking suggested adjustments.

Left Panel

Besides the dashboard option, the left panel includes 3 more options:

• Identity Protection (New)
• Tools (New)
• Settings

Impression: Overall, I found Malwarebytes' interface to be highly effective when it's time to take action. Its user-centric approach, combined with minimal features and clearly labeled panels, streamlines workflow.

Malwarebytes Premium Settings

The Settings panel is brilliantly organized into 5 tabs, allowing you to tweak every aspect of the application. While advanced users can tweak the core behavior of how Malwarebytes works, home users can customize simple things like notifications and basic settings.

General

From here, you can tweak the settings to control how the program runs. You can set the frequency for updating threat intelligence, choose when Malwarebytes launches, enable the self-protection module, and allow event log data collection, among others.

Scan and detections

Here you can customize your scanning and threat detection preferences further. You can enable scanning for rootkits, change manual scan performance impact, allow detection of PUPs and PUMs, configure the allow list, etc.

Protection

You can adjust and configure the program's core settings here. You get options for deactivating different layers of the real-time protection feature, disabling automatic quarantine, and enabling Brute Force Protection and Tamper Protection. 

VPN

If you have Malwarebyte's VPN service, you can customize its settings from this tab.

Notifications

Here, you can configure the notifications for General Notifications, Scan Notifications, and Marketing Notifications and enable Play Mode if necessary.

Tip: If you do not understand any settings, I advise you not to change anything. The default settings are good enough for every user.

Key Features of Malwarebytes Premium

The following are some crucial features that make Malwarebytes v5 a strong contender for the best Windows standalone Anti-Malware in the market today. You can check AV-Test.org for the latest Malwarebytes test scores.

Real-Time Protection

Malwarebytes Premium's Real-Time Protection offers 4 layers of protection to safeguard your device:

• Web protection
• Malware and PUP protection
• Ransomware protection
• Exploit protection

The Real-Time Protection features work in the background without straining the system. I have been using this application for quite a while alongside my primary antivirus, and it has effectively prevented and quarantined multiple Malware and PUP content over time.

New Trusted Advisor

The Trusted Advisor window provides comprehensive and easy-to-understand protection scores and expert advice. If your score is 100, your device is safe, but if it's below 100, you'll receive a checklist to improve security.

The feature includes 3 dropdown panels that reveal details on your system security and actionable steps. 

• The first panel offers quick-fix tips to improve system security
•  The second panel offers privacy and performance tips, and
•  The third panel provides an overall security overview. 

Based on the provided recommendations or tips, you can either modify your security settings to boost your protection score or ignore them. However, if you change your mind, you have the flexibility to undo any ignored action.

Impression: Overall, this detailed yet easy-to-grasp list helps users understand their system security status and step up their protection when needed.

Browser Guard

It is a free browser extension for Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Firefox. It protects against third-party trackers, ads, Malware, scams, PUPs, and other threats, safeguarding sensitive information stored in your system. Malwarebytes claims this feature can amplify browsing speed up to 4x by blocking ads and unwanted content.

Additionally, you can disable specific layers of protection when necessary. For instance, you can selectively toggle off the protection feature of a website you trust.

During my assessment, the Browser Guard feature proved to be effective. It blocked annoying ads and trackers, ensuring a worry-free browsing experience.

Scanning Options

Malwarebytes Premium Virus Scanner is good and offers three distinct scan options for comprehensive Protection:

1. Threat Scan: This scan type detects threats across common system locations such as memory objects, startup objects, registry objects, and file system objects. It employs heuristic analysis to identify and prevent threats from reassembling themselves.

2. Custom Scan: It lets you pick any file folder you want to scan, including the entire disk. The scan timing can vary depending on the number of files in the system. In my test of the custom scan feature, Malwarebytes took 6 minutes and 39 seconds to complete while the scan for rootkits was turned off.

Tip: For an effective and thorough system check, enable rootkit scan while selecting custom scan preferences. This process scans the entire drive instead of selective folders, ensuring your system is safe from hidden threats. 

3. Quick Scan: A faster alternative to the Threat Scan, the Quick Scan focuses on checking memory and startup objects, where threats often manifest.

Note: If Malware is detected during a Quick Scan, follow up with a Deep Scan to ensure other device areas are not compromised.

4. Deep Scan (New): It is a new scanning method introduced by Malwarebytes Premium Security. It checks your entire system for signs of threats against its comprehensive malware database. This scanning method utilizes advanced threat detection techniques to identify and eliminate the most obscure threats.

Additionally, Malwarebytes Premium allows users to schedule scans according to their preferred times for added convenience and regular system protection.

Exploit Protection

Malwarebytes' advanced security techniques deal with exploit attacks that target software vulnerabilities and security flaws. When initiated, the feature actively monitors suspicious program behaviors. It prevents malicious codes from exploiting security issues, safeguarding your system's integrity.

Ransomware Protection

The best way to protect your system against ransomware is to prevent it from happening in the first place. In such a scenario, Malwarebytes' proprietary tech can help you create a powerful defense against this threat. It is designed to prevent intrusive ransomware from seizing control of your devices. The program utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning to ensure protection against evolving online dangers.

Brute Force Protection

In a brute force attack, cyber attackers try to gain access to your system by trying various password combinations to find the correct one and hijack it.

Malwarebytes Brute Force Protection feature actively monitors Microsoft's Remote Desktop Protocol, safeguarding devices from suspicious connections made by remote devices. It identifies and temporarily blocks IP addresses engaged in suspicious login attempts, sending notifications when a block is implemented. What stands out is the ability to personalize the feature's criteria based on your security preferences, providing flexibility in enhancing your system's defense.

Play Mode

The one additional feature besides contemporary security features I liked the most is its play mode. Malwarebytes Premium features Play allows you to select apps and suspend notifications when they are open and running.

Identity Protection (New)

Malwarebytes has introduced the Identity Protection features to safeguard you against rising cases of identity theft. It splits into two parts: Digital Footprint and Protect Your Digital Identity.

The Digital Footprint module is free to use and allows you to check for personal information leaks linked to your email ID. It scours the dark web, data broker sites, and other online resources to look for exposure and provides you with a detailed report. If the report delivers any breach attempts, you can take action accordingly from the Protect Your Digital Identity module. However, to do so, you will require the Malwarebytes Ultimate plan.

Malwarebytes Premium: Functionality

Best Zero Hour Protection

Malwarebytes identifies and eliminates malware threat perceptions as soon as they are about to arise. It means that it can identify suspicious behavior of applications and stop them even before they can come into action, hence reducing the reaction time to threats.

Less CPU Usage

The detection engine Katana is not only fast, but it is also highly efficient. It impacts scan timings and reduces it significantly compared to the previous version. Your system will not experience any slowdown or lag once you start using the latest version.

Diverse threat assessment

We keep hearing how online threats are evolving and becoming complex daily. In addition to traditional malware and virus threats, Malwarebytes Premium identifies polymorphic threats. This mechanism is a big step forward, especially for Windows users.

Real-Time Protection in Premium Versions

One of the cool features of real-time threat assessment is identifying the threat and notifying the user. Hence, it helps users be alert about Malware or other threats. It will also educate them about the software's nature, seriousness, and actions. The notifications are also directly linked to Malwarebytes Threat Centers.

Scans for Rootkits

During Manual Scanning, Malwarebytes Premium offers the choice to perform rootkit scans, among the most challenging Malware to detect. Upon completion of the scan, the program presents a report on identified threats and requests that you remove them. Once you grant permission, Malwarebytes cleans up rootkits and other detected threats, ensuring the security of your device, files, and privacy.

Artificial Intelligence

Malwarebytes employs cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning within its Katana engine to detect unidentified threats. This approach doesn't rely on predefined rules. It utilizes advanced techniques to safeguard your system against Malware that is yet to be identified or classified. This proactive method ensures your device's protection stays ahead by automatically detecting a broad spectrum of Malware and adware.

Technical Support

If you are looking for phone support, in that case, Malwarebytes will disappoint you.

During my Malwarebytes Premium review, I struggled to connect with the chat support. Some of the challenges I faced included:

• There is no direct live chat option within the platform.
• Email response is slow, sometimes failing to identify my account.
• The responses received were not relevant to my queries.

When I attempted to find live chat support, I had to navigate back and forth on the support page to discover that it could only be accessed through a chatbot.

Apart from live chat and email support, they also provide extended documentation on how to use the application.

Is Malwarebytes Premium an Effective Antivirus?

You will find one common thread if you scour the internet for Malwarebytes Premium reviews. Almost everyone in the industry applauds Malwarebytes for being the best at detecting new and emerging threats.

The Scanning Engine is fast and effective. In addition to new threats, it also works effectively with traditional ransomware and anti-exploit protection. Whether you are an advanced user or a nontech guy, the effortless installation process, along with a simple interface in the antivirus market right now is going to make it a pleasurable experience.

Compatibility with Other Antivirus Solutions

Malwarebytes is also compatible with other popular Antivirus solutions. Users over various forums have reported using Malwarebytes as a second layer of protection in combination with Bitdefender, Norton, etc.

However, if you decide to use two security applications, you should first check if your PC meets the minimum requirements. Always take a trial run first before making your purchase decision.

Malwarebytes Review: Overall Performance

One of the crucial things to note about Malwarebytes Premium is that it works on Windows 7 and above. It will not work on Windows Vista or Windows XP. 

Impact on System

Any antivirus slows down your system by at least 10 % - 15% (a fact); Malwarebytes 3 slowed down the system (a fact). However, when you try the new and improved version, you will experience the difference for yourself.

Here are my System specifications for this Malwarebytes Premium review:

• ‌Processor - AMD Ryzen 5 3500U, 2100 Mhz, 4 Core(s), 8 Logical Processor(s)
• RAM - 12.0 GB
• Disk: 512GB SSD
• OS - Windows 11 Home Single Language
• Graphics - AMD Radeon Vega 8 (Integrated)

Malwarebytes Idle State Resource Consumption

With real-time protection enabled, the application consumed little to no CPU resources. However, the idle RAM consumption was at a constant 378.4MB.

Quick Scan Resource Consumption

The quick scan took around a few seconds to complete in my system. However, while performing a quick scan, the Malwarebytes service consumed up to 59.71% of CPU resources. The RAM consumption spiked to 1.3GB and maintained an average of 1GB for the rest of the scan duration.

Full Scan Resource Consumption

While performing the full scan, the CPU usage spiked to 55.91%, maintaining an average of 45% CPU resources. However, the RAM consumption increased by 1.4 GB and maintained an average of 1.3GB for the rest of the scan.

One important point to note is that by default, Malwarebytes scans implement AI to detect the latest threats. Hence, as a side effect, manual scans can take a long time. I suggest running a manual scan at night or when you do not use the system.

Impression: Despite the graph indicating that the scans heavily utilized system resources, the program did not exhibit any noticeable lag that could irritate.

Drawbacks and Improvements

One early criticism of Malwarebytes 4.0 is that there is a minor reduction in CPU speed during the scans. Users using versions 2.0 and 3.0 might remember this was also the case. However, the company claims that the new updates will take care of it in the future. My tests also confirm that the latest version of Malwarebytes is much better at handling system resources.

You can try out the Malwarebytes Premium if you are currently in the market for the most updated antivirus software. It is a powerful, efficient, affordable anti-malware software with an advanced threat detection engine.

Malwarebytes Premium Review: Experience

What I Like

• Malwarebytes has a visually clean and clutter-free user interface, making it easy for users to navigate the application.
• The application works seamlessly along with other antivirus programs. It acts as a good secondary layer of protection.
• The program is light on the system and does not cause any lag while scanning. 

What I Dislike

• The application does not have a dedicated anti-phishing feature.
• The responsiveness of the live chat support could have been faster. In my experience with the support team, the agent provided answers unrelated to the initial query.

Alternatives

Bitdefender Total Security

One of the most renowned and comprehensive antivirus programs, Bitdefender Total Security, is a strong and affordable alternative to Malwarebytes Premium.

With an easy-to-use interface, latest threat protection, and abundant additional security features that Malwarebytes lacks, such as VPN, Password Manager, Parental Controls, etc., Bitdefender is a multi-device security suite that can work with Malwarebytes Premium. To learn more about the program features, read Bitdefender Total Security Review. Also, You can read our Bitdefender Vs Malwarebytes article to gain more insight into the two programs.

Avast Ultimate

It is a feature-rich comprehensive cybersecurity solution that provides exceptional defense against malicious threats. Alongside cutting-edge antivirus protection, Avast Ultimate Suite includes Secureline VPN, AntiTrack feature, and comprehensive PC cleanup protection. Avast Ultimate Suite is a cost-effective solution and an excellent alternative to Malwarebytes Premium while safeguarding up to 10 devices.

AVG Ultimate

AVG is another renowned antivirus solution and a solid alternative to Malwarebytes Premium. It comes equipped with advanced threat protection features such as Firewall, Real-Time Protection, Network Inspector, and additional toolsets such as VPN, PC optimizer, and anti-tracker, which Malwarebytes falls short on.

The bottom line is that AVG Ultimate is a complete protection suite that not only keeps your system safe but also secures your digital footprint and enhances PC performance. Also, you can get the best deals with AVG Ultimate coupons.

FAQs

Does Malwarebytes Premium Offer a Free Trial?

Yes, Malwarebytes Premium offers a free 14-day trial. All the features are fully functional during the trial period.

Is Malwarebytes better than Windows Defender?

Yes. With many advanced security features and support for multiple operating systems, Malwarebytes is a better antivirus solution than Windows Defender.

Conclusion

In my observations, I found Malwarebytes to be an efficient antivirus program with many layers of protection against malicious attacks. It has notably enhanced its performance and malware detection rates compared to its earlier versions.

The latest version provides robust protection, even guarding against zero-day threats, which is commendable. It serves well as an additional layer of security alongside your primary antivirus software. The program offers good value for money, particularly when utilizing Malwarebytes coupon codes to save up to 40%.

Is Malwarebytes Premium perfect?

No. However, Malwarebytes Premium has made a niche for itself. It is useful in identifying and neutralizing zero-day infections. This anti-malware assures that your system will be safe in the face of new and undiscovered malware threats.

Can it compete with the more reputed and established brands? Drop your Malwarebytes Premium review in the comments section below.