Panda Antivirus Review 2023
- VPN and identity protection included
- Wi-Fi protection against hackers
- 24/7 technical support
- Clunky user interface
- More expensive than other antivirus engines
- Not all plans include 24/7 technical support
Overview
Panda Security is a cloud-based software solution that protects individuals and businesses from malware threats. It provides real-time protection against viruses, spyware, trojans, worms, adware, rootkits, backdoors, and other malicious software that may infiltrate your networks.
It has now expanded into an antivirus software suite with Panda Dome and Panda Global protection and provides a complete suite for all devices. It offers dozens of features even with its basic package.
Many Trustpilot user reviews have rated their service as Excellent. Long-time members are eager to see whether Panda Security’s expansion will live up to the company’s promises.
Panda antivirus review: Platform devices and accessibility
It is very easy to sign up for any of Panda Security’s packages. The site has a home user’s product page where users can choose their preferred plan.
Panda Security covers devices across various platforms, such as macOS, Windows, iOS, or Android.
Panda antivirus review: User experience
Users will find software installation very quick, as Panda Security only has a 2 MB installer. The software runs an initial scan upon installation, which sets the baseline for your system.
Even if the system undergoes a full scan, it does not take up too much of your computer or device’s resources. Even when running in the background, it doesn’t slow down any other processes.
Unfortunately, Panda Security’s interface is not the most user friendly. It has numerous icons and a news toolbar that can be very distracting. Such a complex dashboard can be difficult to parse for users that are not very familiar with antivirus software features.
Panda antivirus review: Plans, pricing, and rates
Panda Security offers several pricing options for its members. Its free antivirus comes in three options: Light, Easy, and Secure. The Light plan handles all operations from the cloud, and there is no need to update your system to run it.
With Panda Security’s Easy plan, you can install the system on your device, but it doesn’t come with updates and other settings. And finally, the Secure option provides maximum virus detection with free updates and very little impact on your systems.
As for the paid plans, Panda Security has four of them: Essential, Advanced, Complete, and Premium, all paid on a monthly basis. Panda Dome is a top-tier option with a different pricing plan and package features.
Essential plan: $2.99 monthly / $26.24 yearly
- Antivirus for Windows
- Free VPN (limited to 150 MB)
- Scans external saving devices
- Firewall
- Real-time protection for Mac and Android devices
- WiFi protection
Advanced plan: $3.99 monthly / $35.24 yearly
Includes everything in the Essential package along with these features:
- Parental control for Windows Monitor
- Identity protection
- Ransomware protection
Complete plan: $4.99 monthly / $44.24 yearly
Includes everything in the Advanced package along with these features:
- Data shield
- Password manager
- Cleanup toolkit
- Premium Plan: $5.99 monthly / $53.24 yearly
- Includes everything in the Complete package along with these features:
- Premium unlimited VPN
- Update Manager
- 24/7 Technical Support
Panda antivirus review: Features
Panda Security and Panda Dome include the following features:
Malware Protection
Panda Security’s anti-malware solutions can protect all your devices. When used along with parental control, it can limit children’s access to content that may be inappropriate and could even help parents control the time children spend on their devices.
Phishing Protection
Panda Security has a data shield feature that encrypts your information as you browse online. This feature protects your email from hackers and threats from suspicious websites.
Ransomware Protection
The software has advanced ransomware and threat protection features that prevent cyber attacks on all devices. Unfortunately, this ransomware protection is not included in the Essential Plan.
Panda antivirus review: Customer service
The only plan that includes 24/7 technical support and customer service is the Premium Plan.
All other packages use automated system updates for customer inquiries.
Panda antivirus review: The bottom line
For many users, Panda Security may be too expensive to consider. However, the easy installation and worry-free updates can make it a good option for those who have a relatively big budget for basic protection.
Panda Security’s UI is not the most beginner-friendly, with a dense dashboard that’s challenging to navigate. If you’re not convinced, you can try Panda Security’s free plans or their one-month trial to see if the software suits your needs.