Our Top Antivirus Picks
These antivirus solutions have proven themselves in our comprehensive malware protection and performance tests
Norton 360
- Real-time malware protection
- Secure VPN included (unlimited)
- Password manager & dark web monitoring
- Smart firewall & cloud backup
- Anti-phishing & safe browsing
Bitdefender Total Security
- Advanced threat defense
- Multi-layer ransomware protection
- Web protection & anti-phishing
- VPN & password manager
- Parental controls & file shredder
Kaspersky Total Security
- Award-winning malware detection
- System watcher & behavior analysis
- Secure connection (VPN)
- Safe money for online banking
- Privacy cleaner & password manager
McAfee Total Protection
- Real-time scanning & protection
- Encrypted storage for files
- Password manager & identity theft protection
- Safe web browsing & VPN
- PC optimization tools
Avast Free Antivirus
- Essential antivirus protection
- Wi-Fi security scanner
- Browser cleanup tool
- Ransomware shield
- Email & web protection
Intego Mac Internet Security
- Mac-specific malware protection
- NetBarrier firewall
- Personal backup & content filter
- Parental controls
- Optimized for macOS
Antivirus Comparison Table
Compare protection rates, performance impact, and key features of our top antivirus recommendations
| Antivirus | Protection | Performance | Price | Devices | VPN | Features | Free Version |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norton 360 | 99.9% | Low Impact | $49.99/yr | 5 | ✓ Unlimited | Excellent | No |
| Bitdefender | 100% | Very Low | $39.99/yr | 5 | ✓ Limited | Excellent | ✓ Basic |
| Kaspersky | 99.8% | Low Impact | $29.99/yr | 5 | ✓ Limited | Very Good | ✓ Yes |
| McAfee | 99.5% | Medium | $39.99/yr | Unlimited | ✓ Unlimited | Very Good | No |
| Avast Free | 99.2% | Medium | Free | 1 | ✗ No | Basic | ✓ Yes |
| Intego (Mac) | 99.4% | Low Impact | $41.99/yr | 1 Mac | ✗ No | Mac-Specific | No |
How We Test Antivirus Protection
Our rigorous testing methodology ensures you get accurate, real-world protection data
Malware Detection
We test against 1,000+ malware samples including viruses, trojans, worms, and rootkits to measure detection accuracy.
Ransomware Protection
Specialized tests against the latest ransomware variants to ensure your files stay safe from encryption attacks.
Performance Impact
We measure system slowdown during scans, real-time protection, and daily usage to find lightweight solutions.
Phishing Protection
Testing against known phishing sites and social engineering attacks to protect your personal information.
False Positives
Ensuring legitimate software isn't incorrectly flagged as malicious, maintaining smooth system operation.
Real-Time Protection
Testing how quickly and effectively each antivirus detects and blocks threats in real-time scenarios.
Choose by Your Device & Needs
Different antivirus solutions excel on different platforms and use cases
Best for Windows
Comprehensive protection for Windows PCs against the widest range of malware threats and vulnerabilities.
Windows AntivirusBest for Mac
Mac-optimized security solutions that protect against Mac-specific malware and online threats.
Mac AntivirusMobile Protection
Secure your Android and iOS devices with mobile-optimized antivirus and privacy protection.
Mobile SecurityFamily Protection
Multi-device licenses with parental controls and safe browsing for the whole family's digital safety.
Family AntivirusBusiness Security
Enterprise-grade protection with centralized management and advanced threat detection for businesses.
Business AntivirusBudget Solutions
Effective antivirus protection that doesn't break the bank, including excellent free options.
Cheap AntivirusAntivirus Software FAQ
Do I need antivirus software in 2025?
Yes, cyber threats continue to evolve with new malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. Modern antivirus provides essential protection that built-in security alone cannot match, especially for comprehensive threat detection and web protection.
Is Windows Defender enough protection?
Windows Defender provides basic protection but lacks many features found in premium antivirus like VPN, password management, advanced phishing protection, and ransomware recovery. For comprehensive security, a dedicated antivirus is recommended.
Do Macs need antivirus software?
Yes, while Macs are less targeted, Mac-specific malware exists and is growing. Mac antivirus provides additional protection against adware, potentially unwanted programs, and helps protect Windows users when file sharing.
Will antivirus slow down my computer?
Modern antivirus solutions are designed to be lightweight. Top-rated options like Bitdefender and Kaspersky have minimal performance impact. Our tests measure system slowdown to help you choose efficient protection.
Can I use free antivirus for business?
Free antivirus typically lacks business features like centralized management, priority support, and advanced threat detection. For business use, commercial solutions provide better security, compliance, and management capabilities.
How often should I run antivirus scans?
Enable real-time protection for continuous monitoring. Schedule weekly full system scans and run quick scans daily if desired. Most modern antivirus software manages this automatically with minimal user intervention.