Best Antiviruses for Windows 10/11

Today, Microsoft Windows is the most popular operating system globally, making it the most popular choice for hackers and data thieves to plant malware in your system for their advantage.

So, is Windows Defender good enough? The short answer is "No."

Do I need an Antivirus?

Yes, you should have antivirus software installed on your system. An antivirus ensures you and your data are safe and secure against all these online threats.

To make it easier to choose the best, I have compiled a list of the best antiviruses for Windows 10 and 11 below. Ahead of this, I give out the 3 best antiviruses for Windows PCs based on my analysis. So let's get started.

My List of Best Antiviruses for Windows 10/11 in 2024

1. Bitdefender Total Security

Bitdefender Total Security is the first on my list of Best Antiviruses for Windows. It is one of the most equipped antiviruses on the market. Bitdefender not only offers excellent protection against malware, but is also packed with advanced security features ranging from privacy features, high-quality VPN, Anti-Tracker, Microphone Monitor, and Webcam Protection, to name a few.

Bitdefender has evolved from just another antivirus on the market to an entire suite of online protection packages.

Features

The features are divided into three main blocks:

Protection

• Bitdefender protects your system from all ends. It provides complete real-time data protection along with network threat protection. It makes sure that you are safe both online as well offline. Along with this, Bitdefender puts in place AI to know if any file can have any probability of being malware with the Advanced Threat Defense system.
• Along with malware protection, Bitdefender emphasizes Ransomware Protection, Anti-Phishing, and Anti-Fraud protection.
• In the worst-case scenario, you can retrieve your system through Rescue Mode. It is especially important when ransomware attacks and scams threaten small and big enterprises.

Performance

• Bitdefender ensures the user's experience is never compromised because antivirus runs in the background. 
• It runs on Autopilot with the least amount of user dependability. It will scan; if any file is found problematic, it will take the pre-defined action. It puts the Bitdefender Photon technology and Battery Mode in place, adapting itself according to the hardware resources to run efficiently.
• To take this further, Bitdefender uses cloud-scanning technology to scan your files, avoiding downloading lengthy virus databases on your system.

Privacy

• Bitdefender puts your privacy first. It has a VPN with a 200 MB daily limit per user.
• You also know which apps can access to your Microphone and Webcam and send an alert when apps try to use them without your consent. 
• Further, it ensures you can access your Wi-Fi router security on whichever network you connect.
• Parents can make sure their kids are safe online with the help of Parental Controls.
• Additionally, the Anti-Theft feature helps you track and recover your device if it is stolen or lost.

Performance in Independent Testing Labs

Bitdefender is an AV-Test Certified Top Product and, according to the latest test, achieved 17.5 out of 18 points. It remains the top product of my choice. Also, in Android Antivirus tests, Bitdefender Mobile Security gets perfect scores in each category.

In the Real-World Protection Test conducted by AV-Comparatives from July to October 2024, Bitdefender blocked 99.6% of malware and had 5 false positives. In the latest Android tests, it gets a perfect 99.9% score in malware detection.

Bitdefender Awards

Bitdefender has regularly been a top performer on the global antivirus testing giant AV-Test.

According to AV-Comparatives, Bitdefender won the Outstanding Product Award for 2023. It received seven Advanced+ Awards, a Golden Award for Advanced Threat Protection, and a Silver Award for Real-World Protection. In addition, it also received Bronze Awards for Real-World Protection and Malware Protection. Here is the complete list of Bitdefender awards.

PCMag listed Bitdefender as one of the Best Brands for 2023. Also, you can learn more about the most popular product, Bitdefender Total Security, in this Bitdefender Total Security review.

Bitdefender Total Security Plans and Pricing

You can protect 5 and 10 devices with a Bitdefender Total Security subscription. The best thing is that their plans are affordably priced. Whether you plan to buy a new one or renew your existing subscription, you will get the best discounts using Bitdefender Total Security Coupons.

2. Kaspersky Plus

Kaspersky Plus is Kaspersky's popular security product. It is a powerful cybersecurity solution with many additional features that significantly boost your online safety. Along with real-time protection, it offers effective anti-phishing protection to prevent you from visiting dangerous websites and a strong defense against the latest malicious threats. Its sleek user interface makes navigation easy for you regardless of the experience.

Features

The features of Kaspersky are divided into three blocks.

Security

• Kaspersky provides strong real-time protection for your system that attentively scans and blocks new and established threats, such as viruses, malware, spyware, and botnets, ensuring your online privacy remains protected.
• Its effective anti-phishing feature safeguards against malicious websites and phishing attempts through email, promptly notifying you of any suspicious activity.
• The app also emphasizes ransomware protection to protect your system against local and remote access threats.
• Kaspersky Plus offers a Smart Home Monitor, which alerts you to vulnerabilities detected within your home network, such as weak passwords or insecure router connections.

Performance

• To enhance the speed and Performance of your system while maintaining security, Kaspersky Plus provides multiple PC optimization tools like Quick Startup, PC Speed-Up, App Ipdater, etc.
• Kaspersky Plus helps you efficiently find and delete duplicate files, ensuring your PC stays organized and free of unnecessary clutter. Hence, it enhances its overall performance by freeing up space.
• It enables users to create backups of essential files, facilitating easy restoration to prevent data loss.
• The app's Hard Drive Health Monitor feature notifies you once it detects your hard drive is about to crash so that you can back up your files and data.

Privacy

• With a password-protected Secret Vault, the app enables the secure storage of confidential data.
• For enhanced security, Kaspersky Plus assists in securely storing and syncing passwords, credit card details, and documents across multiple devices.
• It enables users to create backups of essential files, facilitating easy restoration to prevent data loss.
• Interestingly, the app includes an unlimited encrypted VPN connection even in its 30-day trial version, ensuring secure browsing and protection against data tracking.
• Kaspersky Plus has a File Shredder feature that helps you delete your data permanently, making it hard to retrieve using standard software tools.

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

Kaspersky is also an AV-Test Certified Top Product and, in the latest tests, gets perfect scores in each category. Furthermore, in AV-Test's Android Antivirus tests, Kaspersky Plus for Android scores perfectly in each category.

In the Real-World Protection Test conducted by AV-Comparatives from July-October 2024, Kaspersky blocked 98.7% of threats with one false positive. It gets a good score in the latest Android tests by detecting 99.9% malware.

Kaspersky Awards

Kaspersky Total Security is the best-selling product of Kaspersky. It has constantly been receiving perfect scores on lab tests. Learn more in this Kaspersky Antivirus Review.

According to AV-Comparatives, Kaspersky won the Product of the Year Award for 2023 and received 7 Advanced+ awards. Here is the complete list of Kaspersky awards.

How much does Kaspersky Plus cost?

You can protect 3, 5, and 10 devices with a Kaspersky Plus subscription. Also, you can get antivirus protection at the best price using Kaspersky Plus coupons.

3. Norton 360 with LifeLock

Norton is known for its very capable antivirus packages; hence, it deserves to be in the best antivirus for Windows list. LifeLock has 3 subscription plans - Select, Advantage, and Ultimate Plus.

Some high-end features are only applicable in the Advantage and Ultimate Plus packages.

Features

The latest versions have emphasized ransomware, online scams, identity theft reversal features, and antivirus.

• Norton safeguards you against viruses, malware, & spyware. The Smart Firewall protects you from online data exchange leaks.
• A Cloud Backup ensures all your important data is always protected with a backup in case of retrieval.
• To protect your privacy, you get a Password Manager, a secure VPN connection & a Privacy Monitor. 
• Parental Control is also built-in for protecting your children online.
• A PC SafeCam prevents unauthorized access to your Webcam, and Dark Web Monitoring helps detect if any of your personal information is available on the Dark Web.

To protect your identity in the US, Norton, on its topmost package, offers a kind of insurance service on your identity and credit services with a LifeLock Identity Alert System, SSN & Credit Alerts & Stolen Wallet Protection. It continuously monitors identity claims on the court records, 401(k) and Investment monitoring, Fictitious Identity alerts, and Home Title Monitoring.

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

Norton 360 is an AV-Test Top Product, scoring 17.5 points out of 18 overall in the latest test results. It also gets perfect scores in each category in AV-Test's Android Antivirus tests.

In the AV-Comparatives Real-World Protection Test, Norton blocked 99.8% of threats and recorded 22 false positives.

Is Norton 360 Worth it?

Norton 360 has almost everything you could ask for from antivirus software. It's feature-rich, has the least impact on system resources, and offers an unlimited VPN, a Parental Control feature, Dark Web Monitoring, and more.

How much does Norton LifeLock cost? 

LifeLock Select protects upto five devices. The most expensive plan, LifeLock Ultimate Plus, has additional features and supports unlimited devices (restrictions apply). 

LifeLock plans are expensive compared to Norton 360 Deluxe, even though both cover five devices and provide the same 5-device VPN license. To get started, you can try the Norton 360 Deluxe plan, which comes with unlimited VPN. You can get it at a discounted price by using Norton 360 Deluxe coupon codes.

 4. Avast Premium Security

One of the best antivirus for Windows, Avast Premium Security offers protection for your PCs against malware, viruses, trojans, and more and further extends it to online privacy and protection.

Features

• Avast provides real-time protection to protect your system against malware and ransomware. 
• There is also a Web Shield that prevents dangerous downloads and websites.
• In addition, you also get a Network Inspector to know if your network has any weaknesses. 
• A Webcam Shield, Password Vault, Data Shredder, Sensitive Data Shield, and Remote Access Shield ensure your privacy is never at stake. Avast also prevents Bot attacks on your system, ensuring your system is never compromised.
• There is a passive mode and a DND mode inbuilt for users who like less intrusive notifications.

Avast's latest offering, Avast One, is an all-in-one security suite that supports Windows, macOS, iOS, and mobile devices. You can learn more in this Avast One Review.

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

Avast Antivirus, an AV-Test Certified Product, gets 18 out of 18 in the latest AV-Test results (Sept-Oct 2024). Also, Avast Mobile Security gets good scores in each category in AV-Test's Android Antivirus tests.

In the Real-World Protection Test conducted by AV-Comparatives, Avast blocked 99.6% of threats with 13 false positives. It detected 99.9% malware in the latest Android tests and had 0 false positives.

Avast Awards

Avast offers comprehensive features to protect your devices. Avast's Android app is lightweight and is one of the best antivirus apps for mobile users, with excellent features. 

According to AV-Comparatives, Avast won the Top-Rated Product Award for 2023. It received six Advanced+ Awards and an Advanced Award. Here is the complete list of Avast awards.

How much does Avast Premium Security cost?

With an Avast Premium Security subscription, you can protect upto 10 devices. You should try the Avast Ultimate Suite if you require additional features like Secure VPN, System Cleanup, and Premium Security features. Also, you will get good discounts on Avast Ultimate at a very affordable price if you plan to upgrade from free antivirus or Premium Security.

5. McAfee Total Protection

McAfee Total Protection offers complete protection against viruses, malware, spyware, and ransomware attacks while ensuring your privacy and identity are not compromised. Total Protection offers four plans: Basic, Plus, Premium, and Ultimate.

Features

• McAfee provides an Antivirus with performance optimization, secure VPN, home Network security, and multi-device compatibility. 
• Further, there is a Password manager, File shredder, and Encrypted storage to protect your privacy from prying eyes. 
• You also get McAfee Identity Protection Service, a Safe Family plan, and safe browsing, where you can securely browse the Internet. Safe Family Parental Controls is available only with the Premium and Ultimate subscription plans.

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

According to AV-Test's latest test results, McAfee gets full scores in the Protection and Performance categories and 5.5 out of 6 in Usability.

McAfee blocked 99.8% of threats with 10 false positives in the latest AV-Comparatives Real-World Protection Test.

McAfee Awards

McAfee Total Protection's highlight feature is ID Theft protection, and it also offers unlimited VPN data.

As per AV-Comparatives, McAfee received five Advanced+ Awards and a Gold Award for Malware Protection. Here is the complete list of McAfee awards.

How much does McAfee Total Protection cost?

Basic on different subscription plans, McAfee covers a single device, 5 devices, 10 devices, and unlimited devices.  If you feel the premium plans are too expensive, then, in that case, you can save money on subscriptions by using the best McAfee Total Protection deals online.

6. Avira Antivirus Pro

Made in Germany, Avira offers antivirus plus additional security features bundled in the Pro version. Avira also uses cloud-based scanning technology to reduce the strain on your system resources and stay updated with the latest threats.

Features

• Avira antivirus relies on' NightVision' artificial intelligence to learn about new threats yet to be seen. It is connected to a cloud system that immunizes all other systems once a threat is detected worldwide.
• The Antivirus Scanner also uses a machine learning technology that automates most tasks to provide interruption-free protection.
• A PUA Shield protects you from 'Potentially Unwanted Applications' that might hide beneath legitimate applications.
• An Email Protection feature scans all emails for threats; the Web Protection & Firewall Manager helps you stay safe online.
• An Ad Blocker & Browsing Tracking Blocker blocks any tracking to preserve privacy.

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

An AV-Test Certified Top Product, Avira earns 6.0 out of 6.0 in Protection, Performance, and Usability. Avira Antivirus Security Mobile Security also gets good scores on Android tests.

Avira blocked 99.8% of threats with 7 false positives in the latest AV-Comparatives Real-World Protection Test.

Is Avira Worth it?

The free version includes a VPN (limited to 500 MB per month) and system optimization tools. Avira Antivirus Pro includes features like Web Protection, Anit-Ransomware, Email Protection, and premium customer support options.

If the Antivirus Pro features are all you need from an antivirus, you can try it.

How much does Avira Antivirus Pro cost?

Avira Antivirus Pro is the most affordable and protects upto 5 devices of the available subscription plans. You can use the Avira Internet Security plan for additional features like Password Manager and Sofware Updater. Avira Prime is the best subscription plan if you need VPN and PC Cleanup tools included.

7. Trend Micro Maximum Security

Trend Micro Maximum Security is the mid-range version of the three packages that Trend Micro offers, including the Comprehensive Premium Security Suite on top and Internet Security below. Of the 3 packages, Trend Micro Maximum Security is the right choice for inclusion in the list.

Features

• Trend Micro provides malware and ransomware protection and advanced AI learning modules to detect genetic malware.
• They also have an email scam protection feature named Fraud Buster and Pay Guard to ensure safe online payments.
• Trend Micro has a system optimization option, a PC Health Checkup to improve system performance, a Password Manager, and a Privacy Scanner for social media privacy. 
• Parental Controls help protect children when they are online.

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

Trend Micro, an AV-Test Certified product, didn't make the list in the latest AV-Test results. However, it appeared in the June 2024 results with full points in all categories.

Though Trend Micro blocked 98.1% of threats, the false positives were very high at 76 in the AV-Comparatives Real-World Protection Test.

Trend Micro Awards

Trend Micro Maximum Security is the best antivirus for Windows 11 on the Microsoft Store. Web Threat Protection and Browsing protection features are the highlight features. It also includes a password manager and a secure file vault. Trend Micro's Android and iOS apps perform better and have many more features. Hence, it's worthwhile.

How much does Trend Micro's Maximum Security cost?

Trend Micro Maximum Security protects upto 5 devices, and the Trend Micro Premium Security suite protects upto 10. You can buy Trend Micro Maximum Security at the best price to save money on the subscription.

8. ESET NOD32 Antivirus

ESET NOD32 Antivirus is an entry-level antivirus solution that claims to provide essential protection to gamers, power users, and slower PCs.

Features

• Lightweight on your system resources. 
• NOD32 is well known for uninterrupted gaming and HD video playback. 
• No lags or buffers make it suitable for users with resource-hungry applications and who still need good antivirus protection.
• It has good ransomware protection, Anti-Phishing, and Behavioral Detection (HIPS).

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

An AV-Test Certified Top Product, ESET earned perfect scores in the latest AV-test results.

In the latest AV-Comparatives Real-World Protection Test, ESET blocked 99.2% of threats with 3 false positives.

ESET Awards

ESET is listed among the best antivirus for gamers. It is light on resources, affordable, and easy to set up and use. The highlight feature is Device Control. If you just need a lightweight antivirus with the given set of features, you can go with it.

According to AV-Comparatives, ESET received the Gold Award for Lowest False Positives in 2023 and Silver Award for Advanced Threat Protection. It received five Advanced+ awards and one Advanced awards in 2023. Here is the complete list of ESET awards.

How much does ESET NOD32 cost?

ESET NOD32 Antivirus protects upto 5 devices and only supports Windows & Mac devices. Higher subscription plans like ESET HOME Security Essential, ESET HOME Security Premium, and ESET HOME Security Ultimate support Android devices and protect upto 10 devices.

If you are on trial or plan to purchase the subscription, you can search for the ESET NOD32 coupon and get the best deal.

9. F-Secure Total Antivirus

You must be surprised to see F-Secure on my list. Though there are better options for inclusion, I included it as it might meet the needs of any reader here. I tested F-Secure Total.

Features

• The F-Secure Antivirus provides efficient protection for your system with antivirus, browsing, banking, and ransomware protection. 
• Offers Parental Control and unlimited VPN service.
• It includes a basic password manager for use when needed.
• Enjoy a seamless gaming experience with Gaming mode.
  

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

F-Secure received 17.5 out of 18 points in the October 2024 AV-Test results and good scores in the Android Antivirus tests.

In the latest AV-Comparatives Real-World Protection Test, F-Secure blocked 99.8% of threats with many false positives(45).

F-Secure Awards

It can be tried if you need simple protection for your devices and if features like a Firewall and webcam protection are unnecessary. It has the best browser protection features and has minimal impact on system resources. Learn more in this F-Secure Antivirus Review.

Overall, it has received five Advanced awards by AV-Comparatives. Here is the complete list of F-Secure awards.

How much does F-Secure Total cost?

F-Secure Antivirus offers 2 packages - Internet Security and Total and comes with 1-year and 2-year subscriptions. Their top-tier product is F-Secure Total.

10. Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes is one of the finest anti-malware programs that you can consider. Including Free and Premium plans, the Premium version provides real-time Protection against online threats.

Features

• Real-Time Protection in Malwarebytes Premium includes Web, Malware, Ransomware, and Exploit Protection.
• Ensure your browsing experience is safe and secure with the Malwarebytes Browser Guard extension.
• The app has three scanning modes: Threat Scan, Custom Scan, and Quick Scan for comprehensive protection.
• Malwarebytes can effectively deal with exploit attacks safeguarding your system security integrity.
• The app utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning technology to protect your device against ransomware attacks and other evolving threats.
• Malwarebytes has a Brute Force Protection feature to safeguard your system from suspicious remote brute force attacks.

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

Malwarebytes couldn't make it to the list in the latest AV-Test results. It appeared in the October 2023 results, scoring a perfect 6 in only the Usability category and 5.5 out of 6 in the Performance and Protection categories.

Is Malwarebytes Worth it?

Effective in scanning and removing malware, Malwarebytes is mostly used as a second-opinion malware scanner that you can use alongside your primary antivirus. It is the best choice if you do not have an active antivirus subscription. Here's a review of Malwarebytes for further reading.

How much does Malwarebytes cost?

Malwarebytes comes with free and Paid plans. You can protect upto 5 devices with a Malwarebytes Premium subscription plan. If you wish to switch to the premium version, you can search for Malwarebytes Coupons and get the best deal.

Can I use the free inbuilt Windows Defender Antivirus?

Windows Defender (Microsoft Defender) is a good antivirus solution, considering it comes inbuilt with Windows. It also does a decent job of protecting users from basic threats online and malicious websites.  

But Is Windows Defender good enough to protect your devices?

Over the years, Microsoft has also put in many resources to improve Defender as a capable antivirus. However, relying only on Windows Security in the ever-evolving world of cyber threats can prove dangerous.

Almost all top third-party antivirus software vendors have evolved from providing only antivirus products to providing a holistic digital protection package for their users.

Antiviruses should:

• Protect users not only from malware attacks but also from identity thieves.
• Assure parents that their kids are safe online.
• Ensure that all their banking and sensitive information stays secure at all times.
• Apart from that, they have to support multiple devices simultaneously with equal expertise in operating systems.

How do I Choose the Best Antivirus for Windows

When you decide to buy a paid antivirus subscription, you will have many options to choose from. There are numerous providers, each with its unique pros & cons.

However, these are some most common factors to consider when choosing the best antivirus for Windows.

a. Pricing
b. Ease of use
c. Customer Support
d. Speed and performance
e. Compatibility

Should I use Paid or Free Antivirus?

Is free antivirus good enough to protect your devices? 

Suppose your computer usage is limited to only basic applications, and you do not have any personal & sensitive data on your system. In that case, a free basic antivirus can suffice your requirements.

However, with our increased dependency on technology, we rarely use our PCs for such minimal use. Almost all computers today are connected to the Internet, and most of us perform our professional and personal tasks. 

A paid antivirus protects you against online threats, malicious software, and malware. It also protects you from scams, fraudulent websites, and more.

Most antivirus providers provide free trials of their programs. You can try out the trial version for yourself and choose the best. To summarize, a paid antivirus program is a must-have on your system.

Conclusion: My Top Antivirus Picks

By comparing and looking at all the features each antivirus on this list offers, I have selected 3 of the best antiviruses you can trust for the advanced protection of your systems.