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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."

Best Antiviruses for Windows 10 and 11

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

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.

1. Bitdefender Total Security

Bitdefender Total Security latest version Homescreen
  • Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices
  • Free Trial: Yes, 30-days | Download Trial
  • Device Protection: Upto 10 devices
  • Subscription Plans: 1, 2, and 3 years

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.
Bitdefender Full System Scan
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, as per the latest December 2023 test, achieved 18 out of 18 points. Bitdefender gets perfect scores (6 out of 6 ) in all categories. At 18 points, it remains the top product of my choice, as per my experience. Also, In Android Antivirus tests, Bitdefender Mobile Security gets perfect scores in each category.

In the Real-World Protection Test conducted by AV-Comparatives in July-October 2023, Bitdefender blocked 99.6% of malware and had 3 false positives. In the latest Android tests, it gets a perfect 100% score in malware detection.

Pros

  • It provides the best protection, performance, and user-friendliness combinations in an antivirus.
  • Minimal impact on system resources because of cloud scanning technology.
  • It offers extra features like Password Manager, Webcam Protection, Microphone Protection, Anti-tracker, Parental Advisor, and more. For an extra layer of security, you get a VPN.

Cons

  • The free VPN is limited to 200 MB daily. However, it is insufficient for most paid antivirus users. For unlimited data, you can buy Bitdefender Premium VPN separately. Even better would be a purchase of a Bitdefender Premium Security subscription that includes Premium VPN and covers 10 devices.
  • It provides limited iOS support.

Bitdefender Awards

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

According to AV-Comparatives, Bitdefender won the Product of the Year Award for 2022. It received seven Advanced+ Awards and an Silver Award for Advanced Threat 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 2023Also, 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.

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2. Kaspersky Plus

User Interface of Kaspersky Plus
  • Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices
  • Free Trial: Yes, 30-days | Download Trial
  • Device Protection: Upto 10 devices
  • Subscription Plans: 1, 2, and 3 years

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.
  • Kaspersky Plus 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.
  • Kaspersky Plus 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.
Running a Quick Scan in Kaspersky Plus

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 in July-October 2023, Kaspersky blocked 99.6% of threats with two false positives. It gets a perfect score in the latest Android tests by detecting 100% malware.

Pros

  • It has a phenomenal score in the AV-Test results.
  • It provides additional privacy features like VPN, Password Manager, Backup & Restore, and more.
  • It provides an efficient PC Optimization feature to tune up your slow PC.
  • It has a sleek User Interface for users with different experience levels.
  • Quick, responsive customer support

Cons

  • No Parental Control
  • Comparatively higher pricing

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 Top-Rated Product Award for 2022. In 2023, the app was awarded 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.

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3. Norton 360 with LifeLock

My Norton Interface
  • Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices
  • Free Trial: Yes, 7-days | Download Trial
  • Device Protection: Upto 5 devices, unlimited devices in the expensive plan
  • Subscription Plans: Monthly & Annual

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.
Quick Scan in Norton 360

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 and gets 17 points overall in the latest test results. It 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 many (17) false positives.

Pros

  • Exhaustive feature list
  • Norton has put a lot of features dedicated to Post-Identity Theft Protection and restoration of the damage caused due to the same.

Cons

  • Many false positives in testing labs
  • The software can alert you in case of identity theft, but it cannot prevent one from happening in the first place.
  • When you purchase a subscription, auto-renewal is turned on by default. You have to contact Norton support to turn it off.
  • Norton asks you to enter your credit card information during the free trial. You won't be charged during the trial, but Norton will charge you when the trial ends.
  • It can be quite expensive.
  • No File shredder

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 has unlimited VPN. A new "Norton Crypto" feature will let you mine cryptocurrencies when your computer is idle. It was added in June 2021 and is available in all Norton 360 products.

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 you get at a discounted price by using Norton 360 Deluxe coupon codes.

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 4. Avast Premium Security

Avast Premium Security Interface with Protection features
  • Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices
  • Free Trial: Yes, 30-days | Download Trial
  • Device Protection: Upto 10 Devices
  • Subscription Plans: 1, 2, and 3 years

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.
Full virus scan in Avast

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 points out of 18 in the latest AV-Test results (December 2023). Also, Avast Mobile Security gets perfect scores in each category in AV-Test's Android Antivirus tests.

In the Real-World Protection Test conducted by AV-Comparatives, Avast blocked 100% of threats with 2 false positives. It detected 100% malware in the latest Android tests and had 2 false positives.

Pros

  • Feature-rich program package
  • Accurate spam filter
  • Effective Ransomware protection
  • The free version - Avast Free Antivirus - is quite popular. Now, it even provides Firewall protection.

Cons

  • No parental control feature

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 2022. It received six Advanced+ Awards and an Advanced Award. In addition, it received Silver Awards for Real-World Protection and Malware Protection. 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 VPNSystem 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.

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5. McAfee Total Protection

McAfee Total Protection Dashboard
  • Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices
  • Free Trial: Yes, 30-days | Download Trial
  • Device Protection: Upto 10 devices, unlimited devices in the expensive plan
  • Subscription Plans: 1 year

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.
Scanning your system with McAfee

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

As per AV-Test's latest test results, McAfee gets full scores in all categories.

McAfee blocked 99.6% of threats with 6 false positives in the latest AV-Comparatives Real-World Protection Test.

Pros

  • It is a strong-rated antivirus with a full six on AV test scores
  • Provides a feature-rich experience

Cons

  • McAfee provides unlimited VPN to protect only five devices, even in their Ultimate subscription plan. In addition, Unlimited VPN is only available if you enable auto-renewal. You will only get 500MB of monthly data if you don't auto-renew.
  • The free version is available only for Android and iOS devices.

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 Bronze 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.

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6. Avira Antivirus Pro

Avira Antivirus Pro User Interface
  • Supported Platforms: Windows & macOS
  • Free Trial: Yes, 30-days | Download Trial
  • Device Protection: Upto 5 devices
  • Subscription Plans: 1 & 2 years

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.
Quick Virus Scan in Avira Antivirus Pro

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

An AV-Test Certified Top Product, Avira earns 6.0 out of 6.0 in Protection, Performance, and Usability, according to the latest AV-Test results. Avira Antivirus Security Mobile Security also gets perfect scores in the Android tests.

Avira blocked 99.4% of threats with 6 false positives in the latest AV-Comparatives Real-World Protection Test. It scores well in the latest Android tests by detecting 100% malware threats.

Pros

  • Ransomware Protection
  • It's lightweight, easy to use, and takes little time and effort to set up.
  • Avira offers a free version for Windows, Mac, and Android & iOS.

Cons

  • It lacks features like VPN, Password Manager & PC maintenance tools. For PC cleanup and maintenance, I suggest using IObit Advanced SystemCare, which is quite affordable. It works efficiently and gets along well with my primary antivirus.

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.

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7. Trend Micro Maximum Security

Home Screen of Trend Micro Maximum Security
  • Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS devices, and Chromebook
  • Free Trial: Yes, 30-days | Download Trial
  • Device Protection: Upto 5 devices
  • Subscription Plans: 1 & 2 years

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.
Quick scanning in Trend Micro Maximum Security

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

Trend Micro, an AV-Test Certified product, gets 17 points out of 18 in the latest AV-Test results. Similarly, Trend Micro Mobile Security for Android scores perfectly in the Android Antivirus tests.

Though Trend Micro blocked 100% of threats, the false positives were very high at 35 in the AV-Comparatives Real-World Protection Test. On the contrary, it detected 100% malware with no false positives in the Android tests.

Pros

  • It has a good amount of features for a good-performing antivirus.
  • It also extends privacy protection features to Social Media platforms.
  • There is a free version for Android and iOS devices. Some free tools are available, like HouseCall, Cleaner One Pro, and Unarchiver One.

Cons

  • Many false positives in testing labs
  • Lacks Firewall and Webcam protection features
  • Some basic features of the standard package for other vendors, like VPN, 24×7 support & fast remote diagnosis and repair, are part of the Premium Security Suite.

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.

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8. ESET NOD32 Antivirus

ESET NOD32 Antivirus User Interface
  • Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS
  • Free Trial: Yes, 30-days | Download Trial
  • Device Protection: Upto 5 devices
  • Subscription Plans: 1, 2, and 3 years

ESET (Essential Security against Evolving Threats) claims to provide essential protection to gamers, power users, and slower PCs. NOD 32 is their entry-level product.

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).
Scanning your system in ESET NOD32

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

An AV-Test Certified Top Product, ESET earned perfect scores from the AV-test results in Dec 2021. Since 2022, it didn't appear in AV-test results. However, ESET made a comeback by scoring 17 points in the Feb 2023 AV-Test results. This time, it couldn't make it to the list.

In the latest AV-Comparatives Real-World Protection Test, ESET blocked 98.2% of threats with no false positives. Besides, it detected 100% of malware with 0 false positives in the Android tests.

Pros

  • It is lightweight on the system.
  • It has tweaked itself for gamers, power users, and slower PCs.

Cons

  • It lacks features like VPN, Password Manager, Firewall, Parental Control, and more at the basic level.
  • No iOS app

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 Advanced Threat Protection and Lowest False Positives in 2022 and the Bronze Award for Performance Test. It received three Advanced+ awards and two Advanced awards in 2022. 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 Internet Security and ESET Smart Security Premium 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.

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9. F-Secure Antivirus

F-Secure Safe User Interface
  • Supported Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices
  • Free Trial: Yes, 30-days | Download Trial
  • Device Protection: Upto 25 devices
  • Subscription Plans: 1 and 2 years

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. 

F-Secure Antivirus provides different plans. I tested the F-Secure SAFE Antivirus option.

Features

  • The F-Secure Antivirus provides the most basic protection for your system with antivirus, browsing, banking, and ransomware protection. 
  • Enjoy a seamless gaming experience with Gaming mode.
  • Parental Control is another feature that comes with this subscription plan.
Scanning for viruses in F-Secure Safe

Scores in Independent Testing Labs

F-Secure SAFE receives full points in the AV test results for December 2023. It also gets the highest score in the Android Antivirus tests.

In the latest AV-Comparatives Real-World Protection Test, F-Secure blocked 100% of threats with 18 false positives.

Pros

  • Good scores on the AV test results
  • Includes free customer support at all levels
  • There are also some F-Secure free tools that you can try out

Cons

  • Many essential features like VPN, Wi-Fi protection, Password Manager, and more are not bundled in the F-Secure Safe plan.
  • There are no 2 and 3-year subscription plans, even in their expensive plan.

F-Secure Awards

It can be tried if you need basic protection for your devices and if features like a Firewall and password manager are unnecessary. It has the best browser protection features and has minimal impact on system resources.

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

How much does F-Secure cost?

F-Secure offers 4 plans, and all plans come with a 1-year subscription. Their top-tier product is F-Secure TOTAL, which bundles the F‑Secure FREEDOME VPN and F‑Secure ID PROTECTION. However, I think F-secure SAFE is the cheapest option that protects up to 7 devices.

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10. Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes Premium v5 review homescreen
  • Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS devices, and Chromebook
  • Free Trial: Yes, 14-days | Download Trial
  • Device Protection: Upto 5 devices
  • Subscription Plans: 1 year

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.
Detecting system threats with Malwarebytes Threat Scan

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.

Pros

  • Real-time Malware Protection
  • Fast scans on Mac devices as compared to Windows
  • It offers a Free version.

Cons

  • Lacks advanced features like Parental Controls, Password manager, or Firewall
  • There is no Real-Time Protection or Schedule scan feature in the free version.

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.

UP TO

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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.

  • Bitdefender
  • Kaspersky
  • Avast or Norton
Sourojit

Sourojit is Executive Editor at Dealarious. Rumor says He is Computer Science Engineer; He neither accepts it nor denies it. Tech Explorer, Philosopher and a Storyteller.

5 thoughts on “Best Antiviruses for Windows 10/11”

  1. Thanks for such a great list! I would like to add ESET Antivirus on your list as it is one of the best antivirus Ive used.

    Reply
  2. You didn’t mention ESET. If you go to Virus Bulletin (VB 100 Awards), you find that ESET has passed 91 time, failed twice and not submitted four times since 1998. Check that against any other anti-virus vendor. ESET is the most consistent software on the market as far as Virus Bulletin is concerned.

    Reply
    • Not just going by Lab test score but the article mentions that they have considered customer feedback received on their web store. Also, Price point is also taken into account so, their is balance of features given, price of the product, usability and performance. Hence, ESET might have been omitted.
      You can check out ESET Smart Security which is available at 35% discount at the moment – https://www.dealarious.com/coupon/eset-smart-security/

      Reply
  3. In my experience the best Antivirus would be –
    A tool that has slightly better protection than MSE with the added benefits of Unchecky (junkware), EMET (Zero Day) and Cryptoprevent (anti-cryptolocker).

    What do you suggest?

    Reply
    • Currently the only real menace out there are the Crypto virus variants. In my opinion and experience of 2 years I can say that Bitdefender is doing a goos job in detecting them since their 2013 version. Now their ransomware module addition is cherry on the cake for extra protection.

      Talking about Unchecky, I don’t think the features and functionality provided this small tool will be ever included by Antivirus as their free versions use the same trick to install browser tool bar and search engines. One has to rely more on common sense and give great attention while installing any software product (especially free).

      Reply

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