G Data or Kaspersky: A comparison of virus scanners

The dangers posed by viruses and Trojans have increased significantly in recent years. Companies such as Kaspersky and G Data, who promise security with their antivirus programs, are also noticing this. But which of the two tools really protects you? We found out in a comparison.

Kaspersky Lab: Checking the virus scanner

You have to dig deep into your pocket for virus protection from Kaspersky: Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2015 is the standard virus scanner with browser protection for around 30 euros. If you do not want to do without additional functions such as a firewall or an activity monitor, you have to pay just under 40 euros for the premium suite Kaspersky Internet Security. Apart from the different range of functions, both programs performed equally well in the test.

• Handling: The motto of Kaspersky is simple and clear. Even PC newbies can quickly find their way around the tidy menus. Thanks to automatic updates and regular system scans, the computer is perfectly protected even without your intervention. Advanced users can also intervene more deeply in the antivirus software via the many settings.
• Performance: Both Kaspersky programs did a great job in the test. Even if all functions were activated, there was no loss of performance. The antivirus suite is therefore also suitable for slower computers.
• Detection rate: There is nothing to complain about in the last test category at Kaspersky either. The antivirus software recognized all tested viruses and Trojans without even reporting a false alarm.

G Data: With massive functions against malware

At G Data you have a larger selection of products: You can get the standard virus protection with G Data AntiVirus 2015 for around 40 euros. An additional firewall and a spam filter can be found in the G Data Internet Security version, which costs 10 euros. At the same price, G Data Total Protection even offers a backup tool for your own computer. The sub-programs in the chip test hardly differ here either.

• Handling: On the main page of the antivirus software you will find all important information about the status of your computer. The tool uses various colors to alert you of any errors. However, the many categories in the upper program bar can often not be identified by the icons. The manufacturer could have chosen a better division here. After all, there are countless settings for advanced users.
• Performance: Thanks to the resource-saving "CloseGap" feature, G Data promises extensive hybrid protection without sacrificing performance. In the test, the program nevertheless led to somewhat longer waiting times and stutters. However, these are hardly noticeable in everyday life.
• Detection rate: G Data is also slightly behind when it comes to the detection rate. Although the security tool recognized over 99 percent of all viruses tested, it spit out some false alarms during the test period.

Conclusion: G Data or Kaspersky - which is better?

Our test already shows that Kaspersky is currently clearly superior to G Data.

• With 17.5 out of 18 possible points, the Kaspersky security suite is rightly in first place. Detection rate and performance are almost perfect and the program is suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
• G Data, on the other hand, ends up in the middle. 15.5 out of 18 points are on the scale here. There is room for improvement in handling and performance. The premium suite shines with additional features such as a backup and tuning tool.
• Ultimately, your PC is well protected with both programs. It is best to test the 30-day free versions of both virus scanners before you decide.