Technology

Norton 360 Antivirus Review

Published

2 years ago

November 22, 2022

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The lineup of Norton 360 products offer almost everything you could ask for from antivirus software.

Norton 360 Standard, Norton 360 Deluxe and Norton 360 with LifeLock include the most complete antivirus-software and identity-protection-service combinations you’ll find today.

Pros and Cons

Pros

+Excellent malware protection

+Backup software, online storage, password manager, webcam protection

+Unlimited VPN service

+Optional LifeLock ID identity protection

+Light background performance impact

Cons

-Gets expensive quickly

-No file shredder or file encryption

-Heavy slowdown during full scans

Today’s best Norton 360 Deluxe deals

With features such as a password manager, backup software, online storage, parental controls, unlimited VPN service and three different levels of identity protection along with excellent malware protection, the Norton 360 2020 antivirus lineup offers some of the most complete security (and privacy) suites around.

Norton’s nine different Windows antivirus packages are for people who prefer everything in one place, who would rather not mix-and-match applications and services — and who can afford Norton’s prices. All this integration gets expensive quickly as you add features.

Norton’s malware-scanning engine uses a lot of system resources during full scans, and no Norton package offers file shredding or encryption. But if you’re looking for a single solution to cover your digital security and privacy from every angle, look no further than Norton.

None of its competitors offer as comprehensive an approach to security. Kaspersky offers similarly excellent malware protection and a full range of extra features, but its product lacks identity-protection options. McAfee does offer identity protection, but it lets more malware through.

If you want to combine some of the best identity-theft protection with some of the best antivirus protection, one of the three Norton 360 with LifeLock plans is for you.

Norton 360 Standard subscription options:

Norton 360 Standard for $19.99 per year

Norton 360: Costs and what’s covered

The nine Windows antivirus products of the NortonLifeLock family can protect anything from a single PC to a household’s worth of computers and mobile devices along with the identities of their users.

There’s no free Norton software, but there’s a 60-day satisfaction guarantee on the paid products, as well as Norton’s Virus Protection Promise of a refund if the software can’t keep your system clean. The list prices are higher than comparable products from other antivirus vendors, but you can often find substantial markdowns. It’s worth checking our Norton coupon codes for the latest offers.

The entry-level Norton AntiVirus Plus protects a single PC or Mac and works with Windows 7 through 10. (Norton representatives told us AntiVirus Plus unofficially runs on Windows XP and Vista.)

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1 Norton 360 Antivirus

AntiVirus Plus costs $60 per year and offers features normally reserved for more expensive suites, including a two-way firewall, a password manager and backup software with 2GB of online storage space.

The next step up is Norton 360 Standard, which protects a single PC, Mac, phone or tablet. It boosts the online storage to 10GB and, on Windows, includes online banking and webcam protection.

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Norton 360 Antivirus

Norton 360 Standard offers unlimited access to Norton’s Secure VPN virtual private network, which on its own costs $50 a year. It also includes LifeLock monitoring of your personal information on the dark web.

As of June 2021, all versions of Norton 360 were being updated to include Norton Crypto, a rather surprising feature that lets you use Norton software to mine and hold the Ethereum cryptocurrency. Norton 360 Standard lists for $85 per year.

Norton 360 Antivirus

For $105 a year, Norton 360 Deluxe covers five devices, regardless of platform. It adds parental controls and gives you up to 50GB of online storage and five simultaneous VPN connections. It maxes out all of Norton’s core antivirus features; the next five products add device licenses, online storage and identity protection.

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Norton 360 Antivirus

Norton 360 for Gamers is a three-license version of Norton 360 Deluxe designed specifically for PC gamers. However, the license does cover Mac, Android and iOS software. It costs $100 per year.

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Norton 360 Antivirus

Norton 360 Premium, available at retail stores but not on the Norton website, expands the Deluxe antivirus and VPN coverage to up to 10 devices and 75GB of online storage. It lists at $100 per year at online retailers, although the Norton website price list(opens in new tab) has its subscription cost as $125 per year.

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Norton 360 Antivirus

Norton 360 Platinum, also retail-only, goes for $130 per year, covers up to 20 devices and offers 100GB of online storage.

The top three products add increasing levels of LifeLock identity protection to Norton 360 Deluxe’s antivirus features.

Norton 360 with LifeLock Select, $15 per month or $150 a year, monitors your Equifax credit file. If your identity is stolen, you’ll be reimbursed up to $25,000 for stolen funds, $25,000 for expenses incurred and $1 million for lawyers and experts. The antivirus protection and VPN connections are limited to five devices, but you’ll get 100GB of online storage.

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Norton 360 Antivirus

Norton 360 with LifeLock Advantage covers 10 devices for $25 a month, or $250 a year, and provides 250GB of online storage. You’ll get up to $100,000 for expenses and stolen funds each. It also monitors your bank and credit-card accounts, scans court records for your name and watches for fraudulent use of your Social Security number.

You’ll also get Phone Takeover Monitoring, a new feature that began rolling out in January 2021. It prevents SIM-swapping and port-out scams in which strangers hijack your phone number, often with the intention of hijacking cryptocurrency or mobile-payment accounts.

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Norton 360 Antivirus

Finally, Norton 360 with LifeLock Unlimited Plus lists for $35 a month. or $350 a year. and increases the insurance coverage for expenses and stolen funds to $1 million each. It monitors your retirement and investment accounts, plus your files with all three major credit bureaus, and, as of February 2022, your Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Twitter accounts.

It also covers an unlimited number of devices and VPN connections and includes 500GB of online storage. Because of the dizzying number of options and features, we think it’s the best internet security suite you can buy.

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Norton 360 Antivirus

Norton’s Mac antivirus software (which we’ve reviewed separately, although it’s not sold that way) supports the current and two previous versions of macOS, but the parental controls, backup software and webcam protection are only for Windows.

Android phones and tablets need version 6 or higher to run Norton Mobile Security (also reviewed separately), and the somewhat toothless iPhone and iPad apps run on the current and two previous versions of iOS. There’s no Norton Linux software.

Best Android antivirus apps
The best Mac antivirus software
Best Windows 10 antivirus

Norton 360: Antivirus protection

Each NortonLifeLock product defends against malicious email attachments, phishing attacks and spam as well as malware. If the program’s defenses can be adjusted, and Norton’s Silent Mode can prevent updates, pop-ups and other interruptions during movies or games.

Norton 360 Antivirus

There’s a quick-scan button on the program’s main screen, and full or custom scans are three clicks away. You can also scan any item by right-clicking it in Windows Explorer, but unlike many antivirus programs, Norton won’t automatically scan USB drives when they’re plugged into your PC.

Norton 360 Antivirus

If your PC gets so stuffed with malware that Norton can’t clean it, Norton’s Bootable Recovery Tool(opens in new tab) can help. Put the downloadable software on a DVD or flash drive, and it will reboot the computer in a secure Linux environment for comprehensive cleaning.

Norton 360: Antivirus performance

Along with Kaspersky, Norton’s malware engine is among the best at protecting Windows computers.

Norton 360 Antivirus

from January 2017 through December 2020. Its otherwise perfect winning streak against previously unseen “zero-day” malware was marred by a single miss in April 2020, when it got a 99.5% detection rate.

Only Kaspersky matched those numbers (and broke its winning streak in the same month), although Kaspersky’s malware engine was arguably better “tuned” as it picked up only eight false-positive detections over that three-year period compared with Norton’s 35. (Norton’s false-positive rate has been going down.)

The two brands jockeyed for the lead in evaluations run by Austrian lab AV-Comparatives(opens in new tab) in 2020. Norton detected an average of 100% of malware from February through May 2020, ahead of Kaspersky’s 99.9%. The tables were turned in the July-October 2020 tests, in which Kaspersky averaged 99.7% detection to Norton’s 99.5%

But Norton got a total of 72 false positives over the course of 2020, while Kaspersky had just two. The latter’s malware-detection engine may be better tuned.

Latest test results as of January 2021

Norton 360 Antivirus

In the October-December 2020 sets of tests run by London-based SE Labs(opens in new tab), both Norton and Kaspersky detected every piece of malware.

Yet Norton neutralized one piece of malware after installation without blocking it outright, and also misclassified 6% of benign websites and pieces of software as possibly malicious. Kaspersky and McAfee were perfect at both.

Norton stumbled a bit in the labs’ July-September 2020 tests, however, letting through one piece of malware to compromise the test system. Kaspersky had a perfect score.

Norton 360: Security and privacy features

All Norton products, starting with Norton AntiVirus Plus, include a two-way firewall, an unlimited password manager and a file-backup program.

They also include the company’s Safe Web browser extensions, which work with Internet Explorer, Edge, Chrome and Firefox. Safe Web’s Isolation Mode renders the contents of known dangerous sites as read-only. If you connect to a banking site, Norton runs the browser session in a virtual machine.

Norton’s Secure VPN comes with Norton 360 Standard and above. Unlike other antivirus companies, Norton doesn’t tease you with a free limited-data offering and then make you pay for more — you get unlimited VPN data from the get-go.

You can hide your location like a digital James Bond, or just stream localized movies and sports as if you were in London or Mexico City. It took us an average of 6.5 seconds to connect to Norton’s VPN, but the VPN’s encryption and routing cut our usable bandwidth by half.

Norton 360 Antivirus

You can set Norton’s excellent parental controls, included with Norton 360 Deluxe and above, to block age-inappropriate material, schedule screen time and see the locations of individual children.

LifeLock identity-protection services come with Norton’s top three plans, as detailed above. LifeLock is the most comprehensive of the best identity-theft protection services, but its high prices (even when bundled with Norton antivirus software) may not justify the expense for many people.

However, none of the Norton antivirus packages has a file shredder, a file-encryption tool, a true hardened browser or a file roll-back in case of ransomware infection. Bitdefender and Kaspersky offer all of these.

Norton 360: Performance and system impact

System performance impact as of January 2021

Norton 360 Antivirus

Norton’s malware-detection engine takes up few system resources in the background, but a lot during active scans. You’ll want to set your scans to run during off hours.

To measure Norton 360 Deluxe’s performance impact, we used our custom benchmark test, which measures how long the CPU takes to match 20,000 names and addresses in an Excel spreadsheet. Our test machine was a Lenovo ThinkPad T470 with a 2.5GHz Core i5-7200U processor, 8GB of RAM and 256GB of solid-state storage holding 43.3GB of files.

Before we installed any antivirus software, it took the system 8.2 seconds to finish the benchmark task. The completion time rose to 8.6 seconds after Norton 360 Deluxe was installed. This 4.9% background performance loss is among the smallest we’ve seen.

Norton 360 Antivirus

A full scan raised the benchmark-completion time to an average of 12.4 seconds, representing a 51% decline in performance. But among the seven paid antivirus products we’ve reviewed recently, Trend Micro Maximum Security and McAfee Total Security did even worse during full scans, the latter with a whopping 96% slowdown.

With Norton’s quick scans, the performance drop was a more acceptable 22%, the second-lightest of the bunch behind Kaspersky.

Norton 360 Antivirus

ESET Smart Security Premium had the lightest active-scan impact of all, with an average 11.8% performance drop during full scans. Its background load also came in light at 2%.

It took Norton 360 Deluxe 18 minutes and 20 seconds to run its first full scan and index all 446,354 files. That time dropped to 6:34 in subsequent scans, after the software learned what to skip. Norton’s quick scan took 1 minute and 16 seconds to churn through 12,126 files. That’s a bit longer than Kaspersky Total Security’s quick scan, which looked at nearly four times as many files.

Norton 360: Interface

Norton’s Classic interface has the familiar screen icon with green, yellow or red indicators, while the new Launch interface has a calming picture of a mountain climber on the left and a right-side column of key security tasks, like Device Security, Dark Web Monitoring, Secure VPN, Cloud Backup and Password Manager.

Norton 360 Antivirus

In Settings, you can adjust or control just about every aspect of the program. Below the surface are dozens of individual settings that can be turned on and off. The online dashboard at https://my.norton.com(opens in new tab) is one of the most thorough antivirus portals.

Norton 360: Installation and support

The Norton installation process begins with a 3.5MB beachhead installer. Once you accept the product license agreement, the full 226MB installation program downloads and runs.

Norton 360 Antivirus

Installing Norton 360 Deluxe took us 9 minutes and 30 seconds, but it would have taken longer had we opted for LifeLock ID protection. We would have had to enter a lot of personal information and run through a gantlet of questions to establish our identity.

Norton 360 Antivirus

The Norton desktop interface includes a direct link to the company’s support website, and all the programs include full 24/7 technical assistance. You can contact support technicians by phone, online chat or email. Norton’s support site has a slew of self-serve options, including instructional videos.

Norton 360 Antivirus

Need even more help? The company’s Ultimate Help Desk service provides expedited access to technicians, four tune-up sessions a year and service reports for all your computer-related issues, not just those related to Norton products.

Subscriptions to the Ultimate Help Desk service cost $150 per year (for one PC or Mac), or $20 a month (for up to three systems). There’s also a one-time service providing similar advice and information for $70 if you’re technically flummoxed and have deep pockets.

Norton 360 review: Bottom line

With one of the most complete (and crowded) lineups of personal digital-security and privacy products, NortonLifeLock can protect a single computer or an entire household’s devices.

Between the unlimited VPN, the password manager, the parental controls, backup software, online storage and the comprehensive identity-protection services, Norton offers pretty much everything you could ever need — but it can quickly get expensive as you add more options.

If you’d rather mix and match these various services, or you don’t need them all, Kaspersky Total Security has excellent malware protection, a password manager, backup software and parental controls plus items Norton lacks, such as a hardened browser, file encryption and file shredding.

Bitdefender Premium Security swaps out the backup software for unlimited VPN service, but its malware protection is a half-step down from Norton’s. McAfee Total Protection + VPN offers identity protection as well as unlimited VPN, but has an even lower caliber of malware protection.

In other words, no software company covers all aspects of modern-day security as completely as NortonLifeLock. It’s truly a one-stop shop for all your digital security and privacy needs — if at a premium price.

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Technology

PicsArt – Photo Studio for Windows 10

Published

2 years ago

April 5, 2023

Amelia Clarke

Table of Contents

PicsArt Overview

PicsArt is a photo and video editing application that allows users to create, edit, and share visual content. The application is available for both mobile devices and desktop computers and offers a range of features and tools for users to enhance their photos and videos.

The main features of PicsArt include a photo editor, collage maker, video editor, meme generator, and a library of stickers, filters, and effects. The photo editor allows users to adjust various aspects of their photos, such as brightness, contrast, and saturation, and add effects and filters to create a specific look or style.

The collage maker feature allows users to combine multiple photos into a single image, while the video editor allows users to edit and enhance their videos with special effects, music, and text overlays. The meme generator feature allows users to create humorous images with captions, while the library of stickers, filters, and effects provides a wide range of options to add to photos and videos.

PicsArt is popular among social media users, content creators, and digital marketers who want to create visually appealing and engaging content. The application is available in both free and paid versions, with the paid versions providing access to additional features and content.

Overall, PicsArt is a versatile tool that offers a range of features and tools for users to enhance and transform their visual content, making it a great option for anyone looking to create high-quality visual content for personal or professional use.

Photo Studio for Windows 10

PicsArt Photo Studio for Windows 10 is a desktop version of the popular mobile application that allows users to edit photos and videos, create collages, and add stickers, filters, and effects to their content. The desktop version offers additional features and tools, including the ability to work with layers, create vector graphics, and edit RAW files.

The user interface of PicsArt Photo Studio for Windows 10 is similar to the mobile app, making it easy for users to navigate and use. The app also provides access to a range of tutorials and resources to help users learn how to use the different features and tools available.

One of the standout features of PicsArt Photo Studio for Windows 10 is its AI-powered tools, which use artificial intelligence to automatically enhance photos and videos. These tools can help users to quickly and easily improve the quality and appearance of their content without needing to manually adjust settings.

PicsArt Photo Studio for Windows 10 is available for download from the Microsoft Store and is compatible with Windows 10 devices. The app is available in both free and paid versions, with the paid version providing access to additional features and content.

Overall, PicsArt Photo Studio for Windows 10 is a powerful desktop application that offers a range of features and tools for users to enhance and transform their visual content, making it a great option for anyone looking to create high-quality visual content on their desktop computer.

Preemium photo editor and social network

PicsArt is not only a photo editor but also a social network that allows users to share their edited photos and videos with other users. The app has a community of millions of users who share their content, offer feedback, and collaborate on projects.

The premium version of PicsArt, called PicsArt Gold, provides users with additional features and tools to enhance their visual content. These features include advanced editing tools, exclusive filters and effects, and access to premium content.

PicsArt Gold also offers additional benefits on the social network side of the app. For example, users with a Gold subscription can access exclusive stickers and frames, and they can also see insights and analytics about their posts, such as how many people have viewed or interacted with them.

Overall, PicsArt is more than just a photo editor – it’s also a social network that allows users to connect and collaborate with others who share their interests and passions for visual content creation. The premium version of the app, PicsArt Gold, provides even more features and benefits for users who want to take their visual content to the next level.

Create amazing works of art

PicsArt provides users with a range of features and tools to create amazing works of art from their photos and videos. The app offers a variety of editing tools to adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation, as well as to crop, resize, and rotate images.

In addition to basic editing tools, PicsArt also provides a wide range of creative tools, such as filters, effects, and overlays, that can be used to add a specific style or mood to photos and videos. Users can also create their own stickers and add text to their content to make it more engaging and eye-catching.

The app’s collage maker and video editor features also allow users to combine multiple images and videos into a single piece of art. The collage maker feature offers a range of layouts and templates to choose from, while the video editor provides a variety of transitions, effects, and filters to enhance videos.

PicsArt also provides users with a community of other artists and creators who share their work and provide inspiration and feedback. This community is a great resource for users who want to learn new techniques and stay up-to-date on the latest trends in visual content creation.

Overall, PicsArt is a powerful tool for creating amazing works of art from photos and videos. With its wide range of features and tools, along with a supportive community of creators, PicsArt provides users with everything they need to unleash their creativity and make stunning visual content.

The PicsArt download and installation process

To download and install PicsArt, you can follow these steps:

Go to the official PicsArt website or visit the app store for your device (such as the App Store for iOS devices or Google Play for Android devices).
Search for PicsArt in the search bar and select the appropriate version for your device.
Click on the “Download” or “Install” button to begin the download and installation process.

Follow the instructions to complete the installation process. Depending on your device and operating system, you may be asked to grant permissions or agree to terms and conditions before the installation can proceed.

Once the installation process is complete, you can open the PicsArt app and start using its various features and tools to edit photos and videos, create collages, and more. Some features may require additional permissions or in-app purchases to unlock, depending on the version of PicsArt you have installed.

It’s worth noting that some versions of PicsArt, such as the desktop version for Windows 10, may require you to create an account and sign in before you can use the app. However, creating an account is usually a quick and easy process that only requires an email address or social media account to get started.

PicsArt for Windows 10 – how it looks

PicsArt for Windows 10 has a user-friendly interface that is optimized for desktop devices. When you first open the app, you will see a home screen that displays several options for creating and editing visual content.

The home screen includes options for editing photos and videos, creating collages, and accessing the app’s social network. There are also buttons to access the app’s store, settings, and help center.

The editing interface in PicsArt for Windows 10 is similar to the mobile version of the app, with a range of tools and features that can be accessed from a toolbar on the left-hand side of the screen. The editing tools include options for adjusting brightness, contrast, saturation, and other image properties, as well as filters, effects, and overlays.

The collage maker and video editor features are also available in the desktop version of PicsArt and can be accessed from the home screen. The collage maker offers a variety of layout options and templates to choose from, while the video editor provides a range of effects and transitions to enhance your videos.

Overall, PicsArt for Windows 10 offers a robust set of editing tools and features, along with a user-friendly interface that is optimized for desktop devices. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, PicsArt for Windows 10 is a great option for creating and editing visual content on your desktop computer.

What kind of edits can you make with PicsArt?

PicsArt offers a wide range of editing tools and features that allow you to make a variety of edits to your photos and videos. Here are some of the edits you can make with PicsArt:

Adjustments: PicsArt provides tools to adjust brightness, contrast, saturation, hue, and more. You can use these tools to fine-tune the color and tone of your images.
Filters and effects: PicsArt offers a variety of filters and effects that can be applied to your photos and videos to create different moods and styles. These include retro, vintage, and artistic filters, as well as effects like bokeh, glitch, and lens flare.
Text and stickers: You can add text and stickers to your photos and videos to make them more engaging and eye-catching. PicsArt offers a range of fonts and stickers to choose from, or you can create your own custom stickers.
Collages: With PicsArt’s collage maker feature, you can combine multiple images into a single composition. The app offers a variety of layouts and templates to choose from, or you can create your own custom layout.
Frames and borders: PicsArt allows you to add frames and borders to your images to give them a polished, finished look.
Drawing and painting: PicsArt includes a drawing and painting tool that allows you to create your own artwork from scratch. You can use a variety of brushes, colors, and textures to create unique digital art.

Overall, PicsArt provides a wide range of editing tools and features that can be used to create a variety of edits and styles. Whether you want to enhance your photos with filters and effects or create custom artwork from scratch, PicsArt has something for everyone.

Is it any good?

Yes, PicsArt is a popular and highly rated photo editing app that offers a wide range of tools and features for both beginners and advanced users. The app has been downloaded millions of times and has a 4.5-star rating on both the App Store and Google Play.

One of the key strengths of PicsArt is its versatility. The app offers a range of tools and features for editing photos, videos, and creating digital art, making it a one-stop-shop for all your creative needs. Whether you’re looking to enhance your photos with filters and effects, create collages, or draw and paint your own artwork, PicsArt has you covered.

Additionally, PicsArt is known for its user-friendly interface, which makes it easy to navigate and use even for beginners. The app also offers a social networking aspect, allowing users to share their creations with a community of like-minded artists and creators.

Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and user-friendly photo editing app that offers a wide range of tools and features, PicsArt is definitely worth checking out.

PicsArt Pros and cons

Sure, here are some pros and cons of using PicsArt:

Pros:

Versatile editing tools: PicsArt offers a wide range of editing tools and features, from basic adjustments to advanced editing options. This makes it a great choice for both beginners and more experienced users.
Extensive collection of filters and effects: PicsArt provides a huge selection of filters and effects that can help you achieve a variety of styles and moods in your photos and videos.
Collage maker: PicsArt’s collage maker feature allows you to easily combine multiple photos into a single composition. The app offers a range of templates and layouts to choose from, or you can create your own custom layout.
Drawing and painting tools: PicsArt includes a drawing and painting tool that allows you to create your own artwork from scratch. You can use a variety of brushes, colors, and textures to create unique digital art.
Social media integration: PicsArt includes a social networking aspect that allows you to share your creations with a community of like-minded artists and creators.

Cons:

Subscription model: While PicsArt offers a free version of the app, many of the more advanced features and tools require a subscription. This may be a drawback for users who don’t want to pay for a subscription.
Overwhelming interface: Some users may find PicsArt’s interface overwhelming or confusing, particularly if they are new to photo editing.
In-app purchases: In addition to the subscription model, PicsArt also includes in-app purchases that can add up quickly if you’re not careful.
Limited functionality on mobile: While PicsArt offers a mobile app, some of the more advanced editing tools and features are only available on the desktop version.
Performance issues: Some users may experience performance issues or crashes when using PicsArt, particularly if they are using an older device or have limited memory or storage space.

Technology

Kinguin Review – Is Kinguin Safe, Legit, Or Scam?

Published

2 years ago

February 15, 2023

Amelia Clarke

Table of Contents

Kinguin Overview

Kinguin is an online marketplace for digital products, primarily focusing on video games, software, and in-game items. It operates as a platform where third-party sellers can list their products for sale, and customers can browse and purchase these products.

Here’s an overview of Kinguin’s key features and offerings:

Product Variety: Kinguin offers a wide selection of digital products, including game keys, software licenses, in-game items, gift cards, and more. The platform covers various platforms such as Steam, Origin, Uplay, Xbox, PlayStation, and others.

Third-Party Sellers: Kinguin works with a network of third-party sellers who list their products on the platform. These sellers can be individuals or companies, and they set their own prices for the products they offer.

Competitive Pricing: One of the main advantages of using Kinguin is the potential for finding games and software at lower prices compared to official retail channels. Due to the nature of the marketplace, sellers may offer discounts or promotions, which can result in cost savings for customers.

Buyer Protection: Kinguin provides a Buyer Protection Program that aims to ensure the quality and legitimacy of the products sold on the platform. It includes features such as guarantees for the quality of the products, 24/7 customer support, and the option to request a refund or replacement in case of issues with the purchased items.

Kinguin Plus: Kinguin offers a subscription service called Kinguin Plus. Subscribers gain access to additional benefits, such as exclusive deals, faster customer support response times, and a loyalty program with points that can be redeemed for discounts.

Community Features: Kinguin has community-oriented features, including user reviews and ratings for sellers and products. These can help customers make informed decisions when choosing a seller or purchasing a product.

Kinguin’s Buyers’ Protection

Kinguin offers a Buyers’ Protection Program to provide customers with additional security and assurance when making purchases on their platform. Here are the key features of Kinguin’s Buyers’ Protection:

Quality Guarantee: Kinguin guarantees the quality and functionality of the products purchased on their platform. If there is an issue with the product, such as a non-working key or code, customers can contact Kinguin’s customer support for assistance.

24/7 Customer Support: Kinguin provides customer support around the clock to address any inquiries or concerns that customers may have. If there are any issues with a purchase, customers can reach out to Kinguin’s support team for assistance and resolution.

Refund and Replacement Options: If a purchased product is not as described, invalid, or doesn’t work, customers can request a refund or replacement from Kinguin. This helps protect buyers from potential fraudulent or misrepresented listings.

Dispute Resolution: In the event of a dispute between the buyer and the seller, Kinguin’s customer support acts as a mediator to resolve the issue. They review the case, gather relevant information, and work towards a fair resolution for both parties involved.

Is Kinguin Legit?

Kinguin is a legitimate online marketplace for digital products, including video game keys, software licenses, and in-game items. The platform has been operating since 2013 and has gained popularity among gamers and software enthusiasts.

However, it’s important to note that while Kinguin is a legitimate platform, it operates as a marketplace where third-party sellers list their products for sale. As a result, the reliability and legitimacy of individual sellers may vary.

Kinguin has implemented measures to help ensure the quality and authenticity of products sold on their platform. They offer a Buyers’ Protection Program, which includes guarantees for product quality, 24/7 customer support, and options for refunds or replacements in case of issues with purchased items. They also have user reviews and ratings that can help customers make informed decisions about sellers and products.

That being said, there are some potential risks associated with purchasing from third-party sellers, including the possibility of fraudulent or unauthorized keys. While Kinguin takes steps to prevent such instances, it’s always advisable to exercise caution and read customer reviews, ratings, and seller information before making a purchase.

Is Kinguin Legit For Software And Game Keys?

Kinguin is a well-known online marketplace that offers software and game keys, among other digital products. However, it’s important to note that the legitimacy of the keys sold on Kinguin can vary depending on the individual sellers.

Kinguin operates as a platform where third-party sellers list their products, including software and game keys, for sale. While Kinguin takes measures to ensure the quality and legitimacy of products sold on their platform, there is always a risk of encountering unauthorized or illegitimate keys when purchasing from third-party sellers.

Some sellers on Kinguin acquire keys through legitimate channels, such as authorized distributors or promotional deals. However, there is also a possibility that some sellers may engage in practices that violate the terms and conditions of software developers or publishers, potentially resulting in unauthorized or grey market keys.

It’s important to exercise caution and consider the following when purchasing software or game keys on Kinguin or any other similar platform:

Seller Reputation: Pay attention to seller ratings, reviews, and feedback from previous customers. This can provide insights into the reliability and legitimacy of a particular seller.

Pricing: Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Abnormally low prices can be an indication of unauthorized or illegitimate keys.

Buyer Protection: Take advantage of Kinguin’s Buyers’ Protection Program, which provides guarantees, customer support, and refund or replacement options in case of issues with purchased items.

Research: Do thorough research on the specific software or game you intend to purchase and familiarize yourself with the developer’s policies regarding key reselling. Some developers explicitly prohibit or discourage the use of unauthorized or grey market keys.

Is Kinguin Scam?

Kinguin itself is not a scam as it is a legitimate online marketplace that connects buyers and sellers of digital products, including software and game keys. However, it’s important to be aware that there are risks associated with purchasing from third-party sellers on Kinguin.

The reliability and legitimacy of individual sellers on Kinguin can vary. While Kinguin takes measures to ensure the quality and authenticity of products sold on their platform, there is still a possibility of encountering unauthorized or illegitimate keys when purchasing from certain sellers.

Some potential risks to consider when using Kinguin or similar marketplaces include:

Illegitimate Keys: There is a chance of purchasing unauthorized or grey market keys from sellers on Kinguin. These keys may have been acquired through unauthorized means, such as key generators or reselling keys obtained from promotional giveaways or bundles.

Regional Restrictions: Certain software or game keys sold on Kinguin may have regional restrictions, meaning they may only be valid for activation and use in specific countries or regions. It’s essential to carefully read the product descriptions and ensure that the key you are purchasing is valid for your region.

Fraudulent Sellers: While Kinguin attempts to verify the legitimacy of sellers, fraudulent sellers can still exist. It’s important to research sellers, read customer reviews, and exercise caution before making a purchase.

To minimize the risks, consider the following precautions:

Check Seller Ratings and Reviews: Take the time to read reviews and ratings for the seller you are considering purchasing from. This can provide insights into the reputation and reliability of the seller.

Use Buyer Protection: Utilize Kinguin’s Buyers’ Protection Program, which offers guarantees, customer support, and refund or replacement options in case of issues with purchased items.

Research and Understand Policies: Familiarize yourself with the policies and terms of the software developers or publishers regarding key reselling. This can help you make informed decisions and avoid violating any terms of service.

Is Kinguin Safe And Secure?

The safety and security of using Kinguin can vary depending on several factors. While Kinguin is a legitimate online marketplace that has been operating for several years, it’s important to consider certain aspects when assessing its safety and security:

Legitimacy of Sellers: Kinguin operates as a platform where third-party sellers list their products for sale. The legitimacy and reliability of individual sellers can vary. While Kinguin takes measures to verify sellers and the quality of their products, there is still a possibility of encountering unauthorized or illegitimate keys from certain sellers. It’s important to research sellers, read reviews, and consider their reputation before making a purchase.

Buyers’ Protection Program: Kinguin offers a Buyers’ Protection Program that includes guarantees for product quality, 24/7 customer support, and options for refunds or replacements in case of issues with purchased items. Utilizing this program can provide an additional layer of security and assistance if problems arise with a purchase.

Regional Restrictions: Some software or game keys sold on Kinguin may have regional restrictions, meaning they may only be valid for activation and use in specific countries or regions. It’s essential to carefully read the product descriptions and ensure that the key you are purchasing is valid for your region.

Ethical Considerations: The use of grey market platforms like Kinguin raises ethical considerations. Game developers and publishers often have policies against the resale of keys obtained from unauthorized sources. It’s important to be aware of these policies and make informed decisions as a consumer.

User Precautions: As with any online marketplace, it’s important for users to take precautions to protect their personal and financial information. Use secure payment methods, ensure the website connection is encrypted (look for “https” in the URL), and exercise caution when sharing sensitive data.

What You Can Buy On Kinguin?

On Kinguin, you can buy a variety of digital products, primarily focused on video games, software, and in-game items. Here are some of the main categories of products available on Kinguin:

Game Keys: Kinguin offers a wide selection of game keys for various platforms, including PC, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo, and more. These keys allow you to activate and download games from official platforms like Steam, Origin, Uplay, and others.

Software Licenses: Kinguin also provides software licenses for a range of popular software programs. This includes operating systems, productivity software, graphic design tools, antivirus programs, and more.

In-Game Items and Skins: If you’re an avid gamer, Kinguin offers in-game items, virtual currency, and cosmetic skins for various popular games. These items can enhance your gaming experience or allow you to customize your characters or gameplay.

Gift Cards and Prepaid Cards: Kinguin provides digital gift cards and prepaid cards for popular platforms and services, such as Steam, Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, and more. These cards allow you to add funds to your accounts or purchase games and other content.

Game Subscriptions: Some game subscriptions, such as Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Plus, may be available for purchase on Kinguin. These subscriptions grant you access to a library of games or provide additional benefits and features.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Kinguin:

Is Kinguin a legitimate website?

Yes, Kinguin is a legitimate online marketplace that connects buyers and sellers of digital products.

How does Kinguin work?

Kinguin operates as a platform where third-party sellers list their digital products, including game keys, software licenses, and in-game items. Buyers can browse the listings, make purchases, and receive the product keys or digital items.

How can I create an account on Kinguin?

To create an account on Kinguin, visit their website and click on the “Register” or “Sign Up” button. You’ll need to provide your email address, choose a password, and agree to the terms and conditions.

What payment methods are accepted on Kinguin?

Kinguin accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, Skrill, paysafecard, and more. The available payment options may vary depending on your location.

What is Kinguin Buyer Protection?

Kinguin Buyer Protection is a program that offers additional security and guarantees for buyers. It provides assistance and options for refunds or replacements if there are issues with purchased products.

How do I activate a game key or software license from Kinguin?

The activation process can vary depending on the specific product and platform. Generally, you’ll receive a product key that needs to be entered or redeemed on the appropriate platform, such as Steam, Uplay, or others. Detailed instructions are typically provided with the product.What is the refund policy on Kinguin?

Kinguin has a refund policy in place, but the specifics may depend on the individual seller and the product purchased. It’s recommended to review the product listing and contact Kinguin customer support for assistance with refunds or returns.

How can I contact Kinguin customer support?

You can contact Kinguin customer support by visiting their website and clicking on the “Support” or “Contact Us” section. They typically provide options for live chat, email, or submitting a support ticket.

Bottom Line

Kinguin is a legitimate online marketplace that connects buyers and sellers of digital products, including game keys, software licenses, and in-game items. However, there are risks associated with purchasing from third-party sellers, such as the potential for unauthorized or illegitimate keys. Kinguin offers buyer protection programs and guarantees to help mitigate these risks. It’s important for users to research sellers, read reviews, and make informed decisions before making a purchase. Additionally, users should be aware of any regional restrictions and ethical considerations associated with grey market platforms.

Technology

Revolut Review – Is it the best way to take money abroad in 2023?

Published

2 years ago

February 12, 2023

Amelia Clarke

Table of Contents

About Revolut

Revolut is a financial technology company that provides a range of digital banking services and financial products. Here are some key points about Revolut:

Overview: Revolut was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in London, United Kingdom. It started as a mobile app that offered a prepaid debit card and currency exchange services. Since then, it has expanded its services and gained popularity globally.
Mobile Banking App: Revolut operates primarily through its mobile banking app, available for both iOS and Android devices. The app provides users with access to a variety of financial services, including spending and budgeting tools, international money transfers, currency exchange, and investment options.
Multi-Currency Accounts: One of Revolut’s main features is its multi-currency accounts. Users can hold and manage multiple currencies within their Revolut account, allowing for convenient currency exchange at competitive rates when traveling or making international payments.
International Money Transfers: Revolut enables users to send and receive money internationally with competitive exchange rates and low fees. It supports transfers in various currencies and offers features like real-time exchange rates and peer-to-peer transfers.
Debit Card and Payment Services: Revolut provides users with a physical or virtual debit card linked to their account. This card can be used for making purchases, withdrawing cash from ATMs, and accessing other payment services. The app also offers features like spending analytics, budgeting tools, and card security controls.
Additional Services: Revolut has expanded its offerings to include various additional services, such as cryptocurrency trading, stock trading, savings accounts, insurance, and business accounts. These services provide users with more options to manage their finances and investments.
Fees and Pricing: Revolut offers different account tiers with varying features and pricing structures. While some basic features are available for free, premium features and services may require a subscription fee or transaction fees. It’s important to review the specific terms and conditions, as well as any associated fees, before using Revolut’s services.
Regulation and Security: Revolut is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the United Kingdom and operates under e-money licenses in different regions. The company implements security measures to protect user data and transactions, including two-factor authentication and transaction notifications.

How does Revolut work?

Revolut works as a digital banking platform that provides users with a range of financial services through its mobile app. Here’s an overview of how Revolut works:

Account Creation: Users can download the Revolut app on their iOS or Android device and sign up for an account. The registration process typically involves providing personal information, verifying identity, and creating a secure login.
Account Funding: Once the account is created, users can fund their Revolut account by linking it to their existing bank account or by transferring money from another source. Revolut supports multiple currencies, allowing users to hold and manage different currencies within their account.
Currency Exchange: One of the key features of Revolut is its currency exchange capabilities. Users can exchange currencies within the app at competitive rates, enabling them to manage and convert funds between different currencies easily. The app provides real-time exchange rates and supports a wide range of currencies.
Debit Card and Payments: Revolut issues physical and virtual debit cards that are linked to the user’s account. These cards can be used for making purchases online and in-store, as well as for cash withdrawals at ATMs. The app also supports various payment options, including contactless payments, QR code scanning, and peer-to-peer transfers.
International Money Transfers: Revolut allows users to send and receive money internationally. Users can initiate international transfers within the app, taking advantage of competitive exchange rates and low fees. The app provides transparency on fees and real-time updates on the progress of the transfer.
Additional Services: Revolut offers additional services to its users, including cryptocurrency trading, stock trading, savings accounts, insurance, and business accounts. These services provide users with more options to manage their finances and investments within the app.
Budgeting and Analytics: The Revolut app provides users with tools for managing their finances, including spending analytics, budgeting features, and transaction categorization. Users can set spending limits, receive notifications on their expenses, and gain insights into their financial habits.
Security and Safety: Revolut takes security seriously and implements measures to protect user data and transactions. This includes two-factor authentication, transaction notifications, and the ability to lock or freeze cards within the app if they are lost or stolen.

Revolut Key features

Revolut offers several key features that distinguish it as a digital banking platform. Here are some of the key features of Revolut:

Multi-Currency Accounts: Revolut allows users to hold and manage multiple currencies within their account. This feature is particularly useful for international travelers or individuals who frequently make transactions in different currencies. Users can exchange currencies within the app at competitive rates.
Currency Exchange: Revolut offers real-time currency exchange at interbank rates for over 150 currencies. Users can exchange currencies instantly within the app, saving on traditional bank fees and avoiding unfavorable exchange rates. The app provides real-time exchange rate alerts and supports auto-exchange and recurring payments.
International Money Transfers: Revolut enables users to send and receive money internationally with competitive exchange rates and low fees. Users can make international transfers directly within the app, avoiding traditional banking intermediaries. Transfers can be initiated in multiple currencies, and the app provides real-time updates on the progress of the transfer.
Debit Card and Contactless Payments: Revolut issues physical and virtual debit cards that are linked to the user’s account. These cards can be used for making purchases online and in-store, as well as for cash withdrawals at ATMs. The cards support contactless payments, and users can easily manage their card settings within the app.
Budgeting and Analytics: Revolut provides tools for users to manage their finances effectively. The app categorizes transactions, provides spending analytics, and offers budgeting features. Users can set spending limits, receive notifications on their expenses, and gain insights into their financial habits.
Cryptocurrency Support: Revolut allows users to buy, sell, and hold popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. The app provides real-time cryptocurrency exchange rates and supports easy conversion between cryptocurrencies and traditional currencies.
Savings Vaults: Revolut offers Savings Vaults, which are digital savings accounts that allow users to set aside money for specific goals or purposes. Users can round up their transactions and save the spare change automatically or make manual transfers to their Savings Vaults.
Business Accounts: In addition to personal accounts, Revolut offers business accounts tailored to the needs of freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. These accounts provide features such as multi-currency transactions, expense management, and integration with popular accounting software.

Revolut plans

Revolut offers different account plans to cater to varying needs and preferences of its users. The specific plans and features may vary depending on the user’s location. Here are some common account plans offered by Revolut:

Standard: This is the basic account plan offered by Revolut and is typically free of charge. It provides users with a range of essential features, including a multi-currency account, free currency exchange at interbank rates, and a physical or virtual debit card. The Standard plan may have certain transaction limits and charges for certain premium features.

Premium: The Premium plan is a subscription-based account plan that offers additional features and benefits. It usually comes with a monthly or annual fee. The Premium plan typically includes features such as higher ATM withdrawal limits, overseas medical insurance, and exclusive customer support. Users subscribed to the Premium plan may also have access to additional perks and discounts.

Metal: The Metal plan is the top-tier subscription plan offered by Revolut. It offers all the features of the Premium plan and adds further benefits. These benefits often include higher withdrawal limits, cashback on card purchases, exclusive concierge service, and additional travel-related perks. The Metal plan often comes with a higher monthly or annual fee compared to the other plans.

Is Revolut a bank?

Revolut is not a traditional bank in the sense that it is not a licensed bank. However, it operates as a financial technology company that offers banking services and products. Here are some important points regarding Revolut’s status:

E-Money Institution: Revolut is authorized and regulated as an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the United Kingdom. As an EMI, Revolut is allowed to issue electronic money, provide payment services, and offer certain banking-related functionalities.

Banking Services: Revolut provides many services typically associated with traditional banks, including multi-currency accounts, currency exchange, debit cards, international money transfers, and various financial management tools. These services are delivered through their mobile app.

Deposit Protection: It’s important to note that funds held in a Revolut account are not covered by traditional deposit protection schemes, such as the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) in the UK. However, Revolut has implemented safeguards to protect client funds, including segregated accounts with tier-one banks and strong security measures.

Partnerships with Licensed Banks: Revolut has partnered with licensed banks in different regions to provide certain banking services. For example, in the European Economic Area (EEA), Revolut operates under an e-money license and partners with licensed banks to hold customers’ funds and provide banking services.

Expansion and Licenses: Revolut has been expanding its services globally and obtaining licenses in various jurisdictions. In some regions, such as Australia and Singapore, Revolut has obtained licenses to operate as a regulated entity.

How much does Revolut cost?

The cost of using Revolut can vary depending on the specific plan and services you choose. Revolut offers different account plans, each with its own features and pricing. Here’s an overview of the typical costs associated with Revolut:

Standard Account: The Standard account is the basic account plan offered by Revolut and is usually free of charge. It provides essential features like a multi-currency account, currency exchange, and a physical or virtual debit card. While the Standard account is generally free, there may be fees associated with certain premium features or services.

Premium Account: The Premium account is a subscription-based plan that offers additional features and benefits. The Premium account typically comes with a monthly or annual fee. The pricing for the Premium account varies depending on the user’s location and may range from a few dollars or euros per month to a higher annual fee. The exact cost can be found on the official Revolut website or by contacting their customer support.

Metal Account: The Metal account is the top-tier subscription plan offered by Revolut. It includes all the features of the Premium account and provides additional benefits such as higher withdrawal limits, cashback on card purchases, and exclusive customer support. The Metal account usually comes with a higher monthly or annual fee compared to the other plans. The exact pricing can be found on the Revolut website or by contacting their customer support.

Can you use Revolut abroad?

Yes, you can use Revolut abroad. One of the key advantages of Revolut is its international functionality and the ability to use it while traveling. Here are some important points to know about using Revolut abroad:

Multi-Currency Accounts: Revolut allows you to hold and manage multiple currencies within your account. This feature is particularly beneficial for international travel as it allows you to exchange currencies at competitive rates and hold funds in different currencies. You can switch between currencies within the app and spend in the local currency when you’re abroad.
Currency Exchange: Revolut offers real-time currency exchange at interbank rates for over 150 currencies. This means you can exchange currencies within the app while you’re abroad, avoiding high fees and unfavorable exchange rates typically associated with traditional banks or currency exchange services.
Debit Card Usage: Revolut issues physical and virtual debit cards that are linked to your account. You can use these cards while traveling abroad to make purchases at retail stores, restaurants, and online merchants that accept Mastercard or Visa. The transactions will be processed in the local currency, and you can enjoy the convenience and security of using a debit card.
ATM Withdrawals: With your Revolut card, you can withdraw cash from ATMs while traveling abroad. Revolut often offers fee-free ATM withdrawals up to a certain limit, depending on your account plan. However, it’s important to note that some ATMs or local banks may charge their own fees, which are not controlled by Revolut.
Spending Analytics and Budgeting: Revolut provides features to help you manage your expenses while abroad. The app categorizes your transactions, provides spending analytics, and offers budgeting tools. This can be useful for tracking your expenses and staying within your budget while traveling.

Alternatives to Revolut

There are several alternatives to Revolut that offer similar digital banking services. Here are a few popular options:

TransferWise (now known as Wise): Wise offers international money transfers at competitive rates, multi-currency accounts, and a debit card. It’s known for its transparency in fees and exchange rates.
N26: N26 is a mobile banking platform that provides multi-currency accounts, debit cards, and features for budgeting and expense tracking. It offers a seamless mobile banking experience with a focus on simplicity and user-friendly interfaces.
Monzo: Monzo is a digital bank that offers a range of banking services, including multi-currency accounts, debit cards, and budgeting tools. It’s known for its user-friendly app and customer-centric approach.
Starling Bank: Starling Bank is a UK-based digital bank that provides features like mobile banking, multi-currency accounts, and budgeting tools. It offers a wide range of banking services with a focus on customer experience.
Revolut’s competitors in specific regions: Depending on your location, there may be local digital banks or fintech companies that offer similar services to Revolut. For example, in the United States, Chime and Varo Money are popular alternatives.

Conclusion

Revolut is a digital banking platform that offers a range of features and services, including multi-currency accounts, currency exchange, international money transfers, and budgeting tools. It aims to provide convenient and cost-effective solutions for individuals who frequently travel internationally or need flexible banking services.

While Revolut has gained popularity for its innovative approach and user-friendly app, customer reviews have been mixed, with both positive and negative feedback. Positive reviews often highlight the convenience and competitive rates offered by Revolut, while negative reviews often mention issues with customer support or occasional account freezes.