After investing significant sums, often in the range of hundreds or even thousands of dollars, in a brand new computer, the last thing you want is for it to be compromised. Unfortunately, this is a genuine risk. Even high-end PCs remain vulnerable to viruses and malicious software, regardless of their price tag. Consistently monitoring your computer’s well-being can help you avoid future troubles, whether they stem from online scammers or your computer not performing up to par. One effective method for safeguarding your device and personal data is to allocate your budget towards the best antivirus software you can afford.
According to the most recent data from Statcounter, Windows operating systems dominate the laptop and desktop market, accounting for nearly 70% of all devices. This prevalence of Windows-based devices makes them a prime target for malware, attracting the attention of cybercriminals. Consequently, all our antivirus recommendations are compatible with Windows, providing protection against this substantial threat.
How to choose the best antivirus for you?
With a multitude of options catering to various features for both PC and mobile devices, how do you determine which one is truly tailored to your requirements?
Here’s what to consider before making a decision on an antivirus:
- Ensure that it maintains an up-to-date malware database. Given the continuous development of new cyber threats designed to evade antivirus detection, it’s crucial to opt for providers recognized for their frequent updates to the malware database.
- Evaluate the suite of security features. The best antivirus solutions extend beyond mere malware protection. They should encompass essential features like a VPN, a password manager, or other protective measures. If you don’t already have such tools, you can explore more comprehensive services.
- Look for comprehensive antivirus protection. If multiple users share a computer or mobile device, it’s wise to explore antivirus solutions that offer added layers of security. Some providers excel in parental control features, while others safeguard your home network and notify you of potential risks.
- Factor in your budget. Not all antivirus programs offer the same value for your investment. Hence, spending more or less can often result in acquiring a broader range of features.
- Test the software before committing. Many antivirus services provide a money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the product. This enables you to evaluate its effectiveness and determine whether it justifies the cost before making a final decision.
Best antivirus software of 2023
We conducted comprehensive testing on 25 prominent antivirus services in order to identify the top performers in the industry. During our assessments, we uncovered the merits and drawbacks of the top 10 antivirus solutions that ultimately made the final selection. To delve deeper into our findings, please explore the descriptions provided below.
1. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus
Bitdefender stands out as the top antivirus software for the year 2023 due to its impeccable malware protection rates and comprehensive defense against a wide range of online threats. Depending on your chosen plan, Bitdefender can transform into an all-encompassing cybersecurity suite, complete with a VPN and a password manager.
Test Results: In the July-August 2023 AV-TEST assessments, Bitdefender achieved perfect scores across all categories, including protection, performance, and usability. Our in-house evaluations of Bitdefender yielded similarly remarkable results, with the Whole System Scan successfully detecting all 10 malware-infected sample files concealed within the system. However, it’s important to note that the Quick Scan did not identify these viruses.
Features: In addition to the Quick Scan and Whole System Scan, Bitdefender offers Advanced Threat Defense to continuously monitor for suspicious activities and thwart zero-day attacks in real-time. Another essential feature is Online Threat Prevention, which guarantees the security and trustworthiness of the webpages you visit. Moreover, Bitdefender provides a password manager and a VPN with a daily data limit of 200 MB to maintain your online anonymity.
Compatibility: Bitdefender is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows and macOS for computers and iOS and Android for mobile devices. Each application is thoughtfully organized and user-friendly, ensuring a quick adaptation for all users.
Pricing: Bitdefender offers a range of cost-effective subscription options, starting at $19.99 per year. With the Bitdefender Family plan, you can connect up to 15 devices simultaneously. Furthermore, there’s a Bitdefender antivirus free edition and a 30-day free trial for premium services, allowing you to make an informed decision before committing.
Pros:
- Robust protection against malware
- Abundant features
- Provides a free version
- Outstanding cost-effectiveness
- Regular updates
- Remarkable performance in independent evaluations
Cons:
- Access to the complete VPN functionality necessitates an additional payment
- Quick scans are not consistently reliable
2. Norton 360 Antivirus
Another excellent antivirus option to consider is Norton 360 Antivirus. Its malware detection rates are on par with Bitdefender’s, and the applications are user-friendly. Norton 360 is an ideal choice for those seeking a seamless antivirus experience.
Test Results: As of August 2023, Norton Antivirus has received nearly flawless ratings according to AV-TEST, with minor performance-related setbacks. Our own evaluations of Norton 360 Antivirus yielded comparable outcomes. The real-time protection feature promptly blocked all threats as they emerged. However, the full system scan did place a considerable load on system resources.
Features: Norton offers additional security measures such as a smart firewall, secure cloud backup, dark web monitoring, parental controls, a VPN, and a password manager. It presents a robust alternative to Bitdefender when disregarding the test results.
Compatibility: We tested all available applications for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, and found that the interface is well-organized and easy to navigate on all platforms. However, some supplementary features are accessible through different tabs, which can be slightly cumbersome. Another minor drawback is that certain features, like the password manager, are offered as browser extensions.
Pricing: Starting at just $19.99 per year, Norton 360 Antivirus is an attractive choice for robust malware protection. Moreover, there is a free 7-day trial even for Norton 360 Deluxe and Premium plans.
Pros:
- Outstanding protection
- Abundance of supplementary features
- Robust identity-theft protection suite
- Free 7-day trial
- User-friendly
- Optimization tools
Cons:
- Slightly higher on the price scale
- Some features require additional applications
3. TotalAV
TotalAV secures a prominent position on our list of top antivirus software due to its outstanding malware detection rates. It excels in most aspects and offers an intuitive user experience, making it particularly appealing to the average user.
Test Results: As per the August 2023 AV-TEST summary, TotalAV demonstrates excellence in usability but falls short in the performance and protection categories. It effectively blocks 97% of zero-day threats and 100% of malware attacks that are four weeks old, offering substantial, though not flawless, protection against a variety of cyber threats. In our in-house testing, TotalAV successfully identified 7 out of 10 malicious files during a full system scan.
Features: TotalAV sets itself apart from most antivirus services with its robust free plan. Without any expenditure, you gain access to a malware scanner and anti-phishing protection. By opting for a paid subscription, your security coverage expands significantly with real-time protection and ransomware safeguards. Moreover, it includes a Cloud Scanner, Disk Cleaner, and various optimization tools to enhance hard drive space and startup efficiency. TotalAV further provides a VPN with unlimited data, a password manager, and an ad blocker to ensure secure online browsing.
Compatibility: Both mobile (Android and iOS) and desktop (Windows and macOS) applications feature well-organized and user-friendly interfaces, mirroring the simplicity of the installation process.
Pricing: In addition to the free plan, there are three other subscription options starting at $19.00 per year. Each plan includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring you can claim a full refund if unsatisfied.
Pros:
- Comprehensive internet security package
- Intuitive applications
- Prompt customer support response times
- Real-time and cloud protection
- Inclusion of optimization tools
Cons:
- Coverage limited to six devices
- The browser extension lacks user-friendliness
- Inconsistent performance of Safe Search feature
4. Surfshark Antivirus
Surfshark is primarily recognized as a leading VPN provider, but its exceptional antivirus suite extends its capabilities even further. It serves as a comprehensive internet security suite, catering to all your online safety requirements.
Test Results: According to AV-TEST, Surfshark antivirus exhibits areas for improvement in protection and performance. While it effectively blocks 100% of common malware, it is less proficient at countering zero-day attacks. In our in-house assessment of Surfshark Antivirus, the full system scan was rapid, examining over 100,000 files in just 90 seconds and successfully identifying 7 out of 10 potentially malicious files.
Features: As anticipated, Surfshark AV offers real-time protection to continuously safeguard your system. It includes an Alert feature that notifies you whenever your data is found on various internet databases. Customers also benefit from webcam protection and a secure search engine that ensures complete confidentiality for your search queries. Additionally, Surfshark boasts one of the industry’s top VPN services, preserving your online privacy while delivering impressive connection speeds.
Compatibility: The antivirus is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android devices, featuring neatly organized and user-friendly applications. It’s worth noting that the VPN app is available on other operating systems, including Linux and iOS.
Pricing: Surfshark antivirus covers up to 5 devices for a mere $49.08 per year. A standard 30-day money-back guarantee is included, allowing for risk-free evaluation.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Inclusion of a high-quality VPN
- Private search engine
- Real-time protection
- Customizable scan options
Cons:
- Lacks a firewall feature
- Slightly longer scan durations
- ID check feature not available in all countries
5. NordVPN Threat Protection
NordVPN, a globally renowned VPN provider, has been progressively evolving into an all-encompassing data privacy solution in recent years. Today, NordVPN offers a comprehensive security package, encompassing IP address concealment and real-time defense against a wide array of online threats.
Test Results: Notably, independent labs like AV-TEST have not extensively evaluated NordVPN Threat Protection. Consequently, we conducted a thorough examination of NordVPN Threat Protection. Initially, we put the File Protection feature to the test by attempting to download files infected with malware. The feature displayed a commendable 90% success rate in identifying malicious files. Additionally, the web protection tool was effective in blocking ads and trackers. Nevertheless, it occasionally impacted user experience due to excessive Javascript blocking.
Features: NordVPN Threat Protection is divided into two components, Web protection, and File protection. The former eliminates ads, malware, web trackers, and trims URL tracking parameters, while the latter scans downloaded files for malware, discards suspicious ones, and submits executable files for cloud-based scanning if further examination is necessary. Notably, NordVPN remains the leading VPN service in the market, allowing seamless IP address masking and rapid web browsing.
Compatibility: Threat Protection is integrated into nearly all NordVPN desktop and mobile applications, ensuring compatibility with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices. Each subscription supports up to 6 simultaneous connections per account.
Pricing: NordVPN Threat Protection is available on almost all NordVPN applications and is included free of charge with every NordVPN plan, establishing it as a versatile internet security package. Plan prices begin at $3.19 per month.
Pros:
- Potent ad blocker
- Real-time download scanner
- Inclusion of a top-tier VPN
- Robust protection from trackers
- User-friendly all-in-one package
Cons:
- Lacks real-time system scans
- Absence of advanced scanning features
6. ESET NOD32
ESET NOD32, a prominent cybersecurity product hailing from Slovakia, offers a reliable and exceptional antivirus suite, making it a deserving addition to our list of the best antivirus software.
Test Results: Independent evaluations from testing laboratories yield impressive results, designating this antivirus as a Top Product with a 100% success rate in blocking attempted attacks.
In our own ESET antivirus evaluations, we verified these findings. While the scanning options may appear intricate for newcomers, the custom scan, which combines elements of quick and full scans, effectively detected all threats presented to it. Furthermore, system resources were efficiently managed, with other concurrently running applications experiencing minimal performance disruption during the scans.
Features: The core package of ESET provides real-time protection against malware and ransomware. For users seeking additional security, ESET Internet Security is available, offering web protection to prevent harmful JavaScript injections. For those who wish to go all-in, the ESET Smart Security Premium package includes a password manager and file encryption for personal data.
One notable aspect of ESET NOD32 is its cloud-based architecture, which offloads much of the intensive processing to its servers, resulting in reduced workload for your device and enhanced performance.
Compatibility: ESET is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Android platforms. Regrettably, it is not accessible on iOS, although the available apps exhibit a clean and user-friendly interface. Given the robust security within the Apple ecosystem, this limitation may not be a significant concern.
Pricing: Pricing starts at $39.99 per year for the basic plan, with costs increasing based on the number of devices you need to protect.
Pros:
- Cloud-based operation
- Minimal system resource demands
- Exceptional test scores from reputable malware labs
- Remote device control feature
- Ransomware protection through file encryption
Cons:
- Relatively high cost
- Manual updates required
- Lacks an included VPN service
7. Avira Antivirus
Avira Antivirus stands out as one of the finest antivirus software packages, offering exceptional protection in both its free and premium versions.
Test Results: Recent independent assessments of Avira demonstrate its robust performance in various areas. It provides 100% protection against common malware and approximately 99% security against zero-day attacks. In our own Avira Antivirus tests, the service distinguished itself with an impressively swift full system scan, completing in just 3 minutes and 30 seconds. Furthermore, it effectively blocked all 10 malicious files. While CPU usage during the scan was relatively high, this should not be considered a drawback as it lasts only a few minutes.
Features: The default Avira package includes a comprehensive set of features, such as a VPN, firewall, and password manager. Additionally, this antivirus offers advanced ransomware protection, web security for secure online shopping, email protection, and a file shredder. It also includes automatic software updates, a browser safety tool, password manager, and regular malware protection solutions.
Compatibility: Avira antivirus is compatible with the most widely used operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. However, not all features are available for macOS users, as email protection and download scans are exclusive to Windows.
Pricing: Avira’s pricing starts at $30.99 per year, and if you happen to be dissatisfied with the service, there’s a money-back guarantee that covers up to 60 days.
Pros:
- Feature-rich free version
- Compatibility with all major platforms
- Real-time protection
- Features for safeguarding online browsing
- Includes VPN services
Cons:
- Some features limited to Windows users
- Requires a browser extension for full functionality
- Slightly delayed response from customer support
8. Malwarebytes
Malwarebytes is another reliable anti-malware program that effectively fulfils its role. It performs exceptionally well in independent laboratory assessments, particularly in the area of malware detection.
Test Results: Malwarebytes has received commendable ratings in AV-TEST evaluations, coming close to a perfect score in protection and performance categories, with only a slight point deduction. It provides nearly 100% protection against both common and zero-day malware threats. However, our in-house Malwarebytes test revealed that the application does have a significant impact on system resources. As a result, it’s advisable not to run other applications during full scans. During a 6-minute scan, it successfully identified 7 out of 10 threats.
Features: Malwarebytes employs real-time malware protection to monitor your activities and preemptively block potential cyber threats before they infiltrate your system. Additionally, it offers ransomware prevention to safeguard your device against file-encrypting viruses. It’s worth noting that Malwarebytes includes exploit protection, which is instrumental in preventing malware from infecting your device and spreading.
Furthermore, Malwarebytes offers a VPN to encrypt your internet traffic and enhance privacy while browsing online. It extends protection to your devices against malware, incoming and outgoing internet traffic, and other data.
Compatibility: Malwarebytes can be installed on various platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. The software is user-friendly and allows for the configuration of different types of scans, including daily threat scans.
Pricing: While there is a free version of Malwarebytes available, it only includes a virus scanner. For comprehensive malware protection, premium plans start at $38.24 per year.
Pros:
- Strong virus protection rates
- User-friendly interface
- Browser security extension
- Availability of plans with a VPN
- Limited free version offered
Cons:
- Additional device coverage incurs additional costs
- Resource-intensive operation
9.McAfee Total Protection
McAfee earns its place among our top antivirus software suites due to its comprehensive protection against the latest cyber threats and an array of supplementary security features that go beyond basic malware protection.
Test Results: The most recent evaluations from AV-TEST affirm that McAfee Total Protection fully lives up to its name, delivering comprehensive protection against all types of malware. We conducted our own McAfee antivirus tests to validate this, and while detection performance was indeed excellent, the scanning process proved to be time-consuming, necessitating 100% CPU utilization, rendering it impractical to perform other tasks while the application was active. During our testing, we introduced 10 malicious files for McAfee to detect. The quick scan identified none, but the full scan successfully blocked all threats, even before reaching the halfway point. This is an uncommon accomplishment, even among the best antivirus solutions.
Features: The core package from McAfee incorporates a VPN, password manager, and file shredder, among various other features. Additionally, the antivirus offers identity theft protection and network security. The Home Network Security feature allows users to manage all devices connected to their Wi-Fi network and receive alerts regarding intrusion attempts (note that this feature is unavailable on Windows).
Compatibility: McAfee supports a range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, providing user-friendly applications for each platform.
Pricing: McAfee’s pricing starts at $39.99 per year, with both budget-friendly and premium tier options available. Furthermore, there is a 30-day money-back guarantee, providing the opportunity to test all the features without the risk of commitment.
Pros:
- Support for major platforms in all plans
- Unlimited device coverage for premium subscribers
- Feature-rich basic package
- Robust firewall
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons:
- Some independent test results are less impressive
- Room for improvement in performance
- Fewer features available for Apple products
10. Trend Micro
Trend Micro is another reliable antivirus software that serves as a protective shield for your devices against potential cyber threats.
Test Results: Recent independent tests of Trend Micro reveal that the antivirus delivers exceptional results in terms of protection and usability, with minor performance concerns. Specifically, it provides a 100% protection rate against zero-day and prevalent malware types. Our own evaluations of Trend Micro indicated that, although there were some performance spikes, the antivirus didn’t significantly strain system resources overall. The virus scanner successfully eliminated 8 out of 10 threats in under 9 minutes.
Features: Trend Micro employs AI technology for malware scanning and detection. Additionally, it offers features like Pay Guard and Folder Shield, ensuring secure online shopping and protecting documents from ransomware. Users can also benefit from features such as Social Media Privacy Protection, Fraud Buster, Dark Web Monitoring, and a VPN, which add an extra layer of security for online browsing. Trend Micro provides system optimization tools and a password manager to enhance device performance and safeguard user credentials.
Compatibility: Trend Micro is compatible with all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, making it suitable for both desktop and mobile devices. It is particularly user-friendly, although the uninstallation process may take some time.
Pricing: The provider offers a free version for users to test its features. Premium plans, including Trend Micro Maximum Security and others, begin at $19.95 per year and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee for those interested in trying them out.
Pros:
- Strong protection against online threats
- Real-time protection
- 30-day free trial
- Impressive desktop application
- Premium plans cover up to 10 devices
Cons:
- Lack of webcam protection for Windows computers
- Limited licensing options
- Absence of a built-in firewall
- Antivirus software rankings