Kaspersky vs. ESET Internet Security: A Comprehensive Comparison

A Comprehensive Comparison between Kaspersky vs. ESET Internet Security

Kaspersky and ESET are two well-known cybersecurity brands that offer strong internet security solutions. Below is a comparison of their features, performance, and other key factors to help you decide which one suits your needs.

1. Security Features

Feature	Kaspersky Internet Security	ESET Internet Security
Antivirus & Malware Protection	✅ Advanced AI-based detection	✅ Multi-layered protection
Ransomware Protection	✅ Yes (behavior-based detection)	✅ Yes (Ransomware Shield)
Firewall	✅ Yes (Smart firewall)	✅ Yes (Two-way firewall)
Anti-Phishing	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Parental Controls	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Banking & Payment Protection	✅ Safe Money feature	✅ Secure Browser
Device Control	✅ USB device protection	✅ USB and external drive scanning
VPN	✅ Free (limited to 300MB/day)	❌ No VPN
Gamer Mode	✅ Yes	✅ Yes

📌 Winner: Kaspersky for more features like built-in VPN.

2. System Performance & Resource Usage

Aspect	Kaspersky	ESET
System Impact	Moderate (slightly heavier)	Lightweight
Scanning Speed	Fast but slightly resource-intensive	Very fast and efficient
Background Performance	Uses more RAM during full scans	Low RAM usage, minimal impact

📌 Winner: ESET for being lighter on system resources.

3. User Interface & Ease of Use

Factor	Kaspersky	ESET
Interface Design	Modern and user-friendly	Simple but slightly dated
Customization	Lots of settings for advanced users	Clean and easy for beginners
Notifications	Frequent (can be annoying)	Minimal and non-intrusive

📌 Winner: Tie – Kaspersky is more feature-rich, while ESET is simpler and cleane

4. Detection & Protection Scores (Independent Lab Tests)

Test	Kaspersky	ESET
AV-Test (Protection Score)	6/6	6/6
AV-Test (Performance Score)	5.5/6	6/6
AV-Comparatives (False Positives)	Low	Very Low
SE Labs Rating	AAA	AAA

📌 Winner: Tie – Both have strong protection, but ESET has fewer false positives.

5. Customer Support

Support Type	Kaspersky	ESET
Live Chat	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Phone Support	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Email Support	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Community Forums	✅ Yes	✅ Yes

📌 Winner: Tie – Both offer similar support.

Final Verdict: Which One to Choose?

✅ Choose Kaspersky if you want more features (VPN, Safe Money, advanced parental controls) at a lower price and don’t mind slightly heavier system usage.

✅ Choose ESET if you prefer a lightweight, fast, and efficient antivirus with fewer false positives and minimal system impact.

🏆 Overall Winner: Slight Edge to Kaspersky for better features and pricing, but ESET is excellent for those who need a lightweight security solution.