Top CrowdStrike Alternatives in 2025 — Features, Pros, Cons, Pricing
Written by: Hrishikesh Pardeshi, Founder at Flexiple, buildd & Remote Tools.
Last updated: Jan 26, 2025

Best CrowdStrike Alternatives in 2025 are:
SentinelOne
Carbon Black (VMware)
Sophos Intercept X
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
Palo Alto Cortex XDR
CylancePROTECT
Kaspersky Endpoint Security
If you are looking for robust endpoint protection and cybersecurity solutions beyond CrowdStrike, these alternatives provide diverse features to meet various organizational needs. From SentinelOne’s AI-driven automation to Kaspersky Endpoint Security’s comprehensive threat management, each alternative caters to specific use cases, making them viable options for enhancing your organization's cybersecurity strategy.
Table of Contents
Why You Need Alternatives to CrowdStrike
You need alternatives to CrowdStrike if your organization requires features such as better scalability, different pricing options, enhanced integration with existing infrastructure, or specialized capabilities like AI-driven threat detection. While CrowdStrike is a market leader, its solutions may not suit every business due to budget constraints, unique operational requirements, or industry-specific needs. Exploring alternatives ensures that your organization gets tailored solutions for endpoint detection, advanced threat protection, and managing security incidents effectively. For example, solutions like Symantec Endpoint Security Complete offer comprehensive features that might align better with your organization's needs.
Who Should Consider Using CrowdStrike Alternatives
You should consider using CrowdStrike alternatives if you are looking for a more customized approach to cybersecurity, different feature sets, or pricing plans that align better with your organization’s needs. For example:
Organizations Needing AI-Driven Automation
Companies focused on advanced AI-based threat detection and remediation should explore SentinelOne, which uses AI to automate incident detection, investigation, and response.
Budget-Conscious Organizations
Small-to-medium enterprises might find Kaspersky Endpoint Security or Microsoft Defender for Endpoint to be cost-effective alternatives that still deliver comprehensive protection.
Companies Requiring Advanced Analytics
For organizations requiring detailed threat analytics and incident response capabilities, Palo Alto Cortex XDR offers powerful insights and forensic analysis tools.
Enterprises with Existing VMware Ecosystems
Businesses already using VMware infrastructure may benefit from the seamless integration offered by Carbon Black, which enhances VMware’s endpoint protection capabilities.
Organizations Focused on Proactive Threat Prevention
Companies prioritizing proactive protection might consider Sophos Intercept X, which combines AI and machine learning to stop threats before they become major incidents.
Teams Requiring Offline Capabilities
Organizations operating in environments with limited internet connectivity can explore CylancePROTECT, which focuses on lightweight AI models for offline threat detection.
CrowdStrike Alternatives Comparison Table
Feature | SentinelOne | Carbon Black | Sophos Intercept X | Microsoft Defender | Palo Alto Cortex XDR | CylancePROTECT | Kaspersky |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ease of Use | Moderate | Easy | Easy | Very Easy | Moderate | Easy | Moderate |
Pricing | Paid Plans | Paid Plans | Free & Paid Plans | Free & Paid Plans | Paid Plans | Paid Plans | Free & Paid Plans |
Platform Support | Windows, Mac, Linux | Windows, Mac | Windows, Mac, Mobile | Windows | Windows, Mac | Windows, Mac | Windows, Mac, Linux |
AI and Automation | Advanced | Moderate | Advanced | Moderate | Advanced | Advanced | Moderate |
Specialty | AI-Driven Endpoint Protection | VMware Integration | Proactive Threat Prevention | Windows Ecosystem Security | Threat Analytics and Forensics | Lightweight AI Models | Comprehensive Threat Management |
Best CrowdStrike Alternatives
If you are seeking high-performance endpoint security solutions, exploring CrowdStrike alternatives can help you identify the best fit for your organization. While CrowdStrike is a market leader, these alternatives offer unique capabilities such as deeper analytics, better integrations, and cost-effective plans. Additionally, many of these options provide advanced features like threat hunting, global threat intelligence, and comprehensive threat detection to enhance your organization's security posture. Below is an in-depth look at each of these alternatives, their features, pros, cons, and pricing.
1. SentinelOne

SentinelOne is an AI-powered endpoint protection platform that provides advanced threat detection, prevention, and response capabilities. Its automated approach to cybersecurity makes it a strong alternative to CrowdStrike, especially for organizations looking to streamline security operations with minimal manual intervention. With features like active directory security and managed detection, SentinelOne also supports the protection of mobile devices. Additionally, its managed threat hunting capabilities enhance its ability to identify and mitigate sophisticated cyber threats efficiently.
SentinelOne vs CrowdStrike
SentinelOne is comparable to CrowdStrike in terms of its AI-driven threat detection capabilities, but it differentiates itself through its autonomous response mechanisms. While CrowdStrike offers extensive cloud-based threat intelligence, SentinelOne provides more automated remediation features, making it ideal for organizations seeking a hands-off approach to threat mitigation.
Key Features of SentinelOne
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) with AI-driven insights
Automated threat remediation and rollback
Real-time behavioral analysis
Unified platform for endpoint, server, and cloud workload protection
Integration with security orchestration and automation tools
SentinelOne Pros
Advanced automation reduces the need for manual intervention
Excellent response and rollback capabilities
Easy-to-deploy platform with minimal configuration
Real-time protection against evolving threats
Scalable solution for enterprises of all sizes
SentinelOne Cons
Pricing can be expensive for smaller businesses
Advanced features may require a learning curve
Limited customization options for reporting and dashboards
SentinelOne Pricing
SentinelOne offers multiple pricing tiers, depending on the level of protection required. Prices are typically quoted based on the number of endpoints, and custom pricing is available for enterprise-level deployments.
2. Carbon Black (VMware)

Carbon Black, acquired by VMware, is a comprehensive endpoint security solution that focuses on detecting and responding to advanced cyber threats. Its seamless integration with VMware products makes it a popular choice for organizations using VMware's virtualization technologies.
Carbon Black vs CrowdStrike
Carbon Black and CrowdStrike both offer strong EDR solutions, but Carbon Black’s strength lies in its deep integration with VMware infrastructure. While CrowdStrike focuses on threat intelligence, Carbon Black is better suited for organizations that prioritize compatibility with VMware environments.
Key Features of Carbon Black
Advanced threat hunting and response tools
Behavioral analytics for endpoint protection
Integration with VMware vSphere and NSX
Centralized management dashboard
Cloud-native architecture for scalability
Carbon Black Pros
Seamless integration with VMware ecosystems
Strong behavioral analytics for detecting unknown threats
Scalable platform for growing organizations
Intuitive user interface with detailed insights
Real-time threat hunting capabilities
Carbon Black Cons
Pricing may be prohibitive for small businesses
Requires expertise for effective implementation
Limited third-party integrations outside the VMware ecosystem
Carbon Black Pricing
Pricing for Carbon Black depends on the number of endpoints and the specific features required. VMware offers bundled packages that include Carbon Black with other VMware products, making it cost-effective for existing VMware customers.
3. Sophos Intercept X

Sophos Intercept X is a comprehensive endpoint security platform that combines traditional antivirus protection with advanced threat prevention technologies. It leverages AI and machine learning to provide proactive protection against cyber threats.
Sophos Intercept X vs CrowdStrike
Sophos Intercept X offers a more user-friendly and cost-effective solution compared to CrowdStrike. While CrowdStrike focuses heavily on enterprise-grade threat intelligence, Sophos Intercept X provides a simpler, proactive approach, making it an excellent choice for small and medium-sized businesses.
Key Features of Sophos Intercept X
Machine learning-based malware detection
Anti-ransomware capabilities
Exploit prevention and mitigation
Centralized management via Sophos Central
EDR and extended detection and response (XDR) capabilities
Sophos Intercept X Pros
Easy to deploy and manage
Cost-effective for small and medium-sized businesses
Strong anti-ransomware features
Unified platform for endpoint and server security
Regular updates to counter emerging threats
Sophos Intercept X Cons
Limited customization options for advanced users
Not as scalable for large enterprises
Reporting features could be more robust
Sophos Intercept X Pricing
Sophos Intercept X offers both free and paid plans, with the paid plans including advanced features such as EDR and XDR. Pricing is typically based on the number of devices being protected.
4. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is a cloud-based endpoint protection solution integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem. It offers robust protection against cyber threats and provides seamless compatibility with Windows environments.
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint vs CrowdStrike
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is a cost-effective alternative to CrowdStrike, particularly for organizations already using the Microsoft ecosystem. While CrowdStrike excels in cross-platform protection, Microsoft Defender offers native integration with Windows and Microsoft 365 tools.
Key Features of Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
Endpoint detection and response capabilities
Threat and vulnerability management
Integration with Microsoft 365 security tools
Automated investigation and remediation
Real-time analytics and reporting
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Pros
Seamless integration with Windows environments
Cost-effective solution for Microsoft users
Automated threat investigation and response
Intuitive interface for ease of use
Regular updates to enhance protection
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Cons
Limited cross-platform support
Advanced features may require additional configuration
Not ideal for non-Windows environments
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Pricing
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is included in Microsoft 365 Enterprise subscriptions. Standalone plans are also available, with pricing based on the number of users and devices.
5. Palo Alto Cortex XDR

Palo Alto Cortex XDR is a robust security solution designed for advanced threat detection and response. It integrates data from multiple sources to provide comprehensive threat analytics and incident response capabilities.
Palo Alto Cortex XDR vs CrowdStrike
Palo Alto Cortex XDR provides deeper threat analytics and forensic capabilities compared to CrowdStrike. While CrowdStrike focuses on real-time endpoint protection, Cortex XDR is ideal for organizations that require advanced investigation tools and detailed threat insights.
Key Features of Palo Alto Cortex XDR
Unified platform for threat detection and response
Advanced forensic and analytics tools
Automated correlation of threat data
Cloud-based and on-premise deployment options
Integration with Palo Alto Networks’ ecosystem
Palo Alto Cortex XDR Pros
Excellent forensic capabilities for threat investigation
Seamless integration with Palo Alto firewalls and tools
Detailed threat analytics and reporting
Scalable for enterprises of all sizes
Cloud and on-premise deployment options
Palo Alto Cortex XDR Cons
Complex configuration and deployment
High cost compared to other alternatives
Requires expertise for effective utilization
Palo Alto Cortex XDR Pricing
Palo Alto Cortex XDR pricing depends on the deployment model (cloud-based or on-premise) and the number of endpoints. Custom quotes are available based on organizational requirements.
6. CylancePROTECT

CylancePROTECT is a lightweight endpoint security solution that leverages AI and machine learning for proactive threat prevention. Its offline capabilities make it a great choice for organizations in remote or limited connectivity environments.
CylancePROTECT vs CrowdStrike
CylancePROTECT focuses on proactive threat prevention, while CrowdStrike emphasizes real-time detection and response. Organizations seeking a lightweight, AI-driven solution with strong offline capabilities may find CylancePROTECT to be a better fit.
Key Features of CylancePROTECT
AI-driven malware detection and prevention
Minimal system resource usage
Offline threat detection capabilities
Centralized management dashboard
Automated policy enforcement
CylancePROTECT Pros
Lightweight and efficient
Strong offline capabilities
Easy to deploy and manage
Proactive approach to threat prevention
Minimal impact on system performance
CylancePROTECT Cons
Limited features for advanced threat response
Basic reporting and analytics
Lacks integrations with third-party tools
CylancePROTECT Pricing
CylancePROTECT offers custom pricing based on the number of endpoints and features required. It is generally considered a cost-effective solution for small and medium-sized businesses.
7. Kaspersky Endpoint Security

Kaspersky Endpoint Security is a comprehensive solution that provides multi-layered protection against a wide range of cyber threats. Its affordable pricing and robust feature set make it a strong alternative to CrowdStrike.
Kaspersky Endpoint Security vs CrowdStrike
Kaspersky Endpoint Security offers a more budget-friendly solution compared to CrowdStrike. While CrowdStrike is designed for enterprise-grade security, Kaspersky caters to small and medium-sized businesses with its user-friendly and cost-effective platform.
Key Features of Kaspersky Endpoint Security
Multi-layered threat protection
Centralized management console
Anti-ransomware and exploit prevention
Cloud-assisted threat intelligence
Data encryption and device control
Kaspersky Endpoint Security Pros
Affordable pricing for small and medium-sized businesses
Comprehensive threat protection features
User-friendly interface with centralized management
Strong anti-ransomware capabilities
Regular updates to counter new threats
Kaspersky Endpoint Security Cons
Limited advanced threat analytics
Concerns about data privacy in certain regions
May require additional resources for large-scale deployments
Kaspersky Endpoint Security Pricing
Kaspersky Endpoint Security offers both free and paid plans, with pricing based on the number of endpoints. Custom pricing is available for enterprise deployments.
FAQs On CrowdStrike Alternatives
1. What are the top alternatives to CrowdStrike?
The top alternatives to CrowdStrike include SentinelOne, Carbon Black, Sophos Intercept X, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Palo Alto Cortex XDR, CylancePROTECT, and Kaspersky Endpoint Security.
2. Why should I consider using an alternative to CrowdStrike?
You should consider using an alternative to CrowdStrike if you need more cost-effective options, specialized features like offline protection, or integration with specific ecosystems such as VMware or Microsoft.
3. Are CrowdStrike alternatives free to use?
Some CrowdStrike alternatives, like Sophos Intercept X and Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, offer free tiers with limited features, while others, like SentinelOne and Palo Alto Cortex XDR, provide only paid plans with advanced functionalities.
4. Which CrowdStrike alternative is best for small businesses?
For small businesses, Kaspersky Endpoint Security and Sophos Intercept X are excellent choices due to their affordability and user-friendly interfaces.
4. Can I use CrowdStrike alternatives for enterprise-level security?
Yes, alternatives like SentinelOne, Carbon Black, and Palo Alto Cortex XDR are designed to provide enterprise-grade security with advanced features like EDR, analytics, and scalable deployment options.