Searching for the perfect antivirus software for Windows but feeling overwhelmed with the abundant options? Allow me to guide you. This article provides a comprehensive comparison of the finest antivirus products for Windows 10/11. It gives you extensive insight to help you make an informed decision.
What makes this “best antivirus for Windows” article unique is the focus on the distinctive qualities of each product. The antivirus market is crowded, but I will state what sets each product apart.
Still, this 2024 ranking isn't just a description of features. I've included eight screenshots for each product, providing a detailed visual guide to their interfaces and functionalities.
Moreover, these antivirus solutions aren't confined to Windows alone. They are versatile and compatible with macOS, Android, and iOS, offering you cross–platform protection.
So, whether you're struggling with your choice or need a better understanding of the market, this article serves as a complete guide to the best antivirus for Windows.
In a Hurry? Here’s a Quick Summary:
This summary will help you grasp the whole article quickly. My top antivirus solutions for Windows are:
Bitdefender — Bitdefender is 2024's top antivirus for Windows 10/11. It protects the data of over 500 million users across 170 countries. Bitdefender safeguards both your desktop computer and mobile device — all at a good price.
Norton — A trailblazer in the antivirus world, Norton offers strong anti-malware and cybersecurity. It also provides a lot of cloud backup storage.
McAfee — A well-known name in the antivirus industry. Its strengths lie in the robust privacy protection and data encryption.
TotalAV — Though it’s not as old as the other products on this list, TotalAV is now among the top 5 antivirus software. It delivers excellent PC protection.
TotalAV — Though it’s not as old as the other products on this list, TotalAV is now among the top 5 antivirus software. It delivers excellent PC protection.
Panda — Panda is a serious contender. It efficiently combats numerous cybersecurity risks.
AVG — AVG provides a range of scanning options, solid network and Wi-Fi protection, and also includes an anti-tracking feature.
ESET — ESET is loved by many businesses and home users worldwide. It has many advanced network and privacy protection features.
Avira — An ever-improving, traditional antivirus. One of its highlights is the standout system cleanup tool.
Avast — Due to a recent privacy concern, Avast is currently the least advisable option in this ranking.
Why Should You Trust Us?
First of all, most antivirus review websites don’t test (or even open!) the antivirus products they promote. These fake researchers even copy the text from the developer’s websites word for word, as if nobody would notice.
At AntivirusGuide, we don't do that. I carefully tested every Windows antivirus product on this list and ranked based on what it can do. Also, this list only summarizes the features and benefits of each antivirus product. I have also written full reviews and linked them at the bottom of each listing.
Moreover, even though we receive money when users buy the products we recommend (by visiting the product pages through our custom links), we only promote the best antivirus products and rank them correctly.
Top 10 Best Antivirus for Windows
Here are the best antivirus products for Windows ranked from best to worst.
1. Bitdefender
After testing more than 20 antivirus programs, I concluded that Bitdefender is the best antivirus for Windows in 2024. Why? It has an impressive malware detection engine, lots of security features, and a speedy VPN. Plus, its interface is very user-friendly.
Additionally, Bitdefender has an impeccable track record, and reputable testing labs like AV-Test, AV-Comparatives, and SE-Labs consistently rank it as one of the best — if not the best — digital security products.
The antivirus program uses fewer system resources than average, thanks to its cloud-based scans. I didn't experience any slowdown, even during full scans and when using heavy apps.
Furthermore, Bitdefender’s customer service is great. Their website has many helpful resources like guides, videos, a forum, FAQs, and a knowledge base. Also, their support responses are fast and detailed.
And if you’re like me and use multiple devices such as a Macbook and Android phone, you need more than a Windows antivirus. Fortunately, Bitdefender has cross-platform support. Every app on all operating systems is well taken care of and updated by Bitdefender’s development team regularly.
What Sets Bitdefender Apart?
Bitdefender is one of the few antivirus programs with a secure browser (Safepay) for online transactions. Unlike others that use Chrome-based browsers, Bitdefender's Safepay is proprietary and very user-friendly for online shopping and banking.
Pro Tip:
Do you often forget to scan your device? No worries. Set Bitdefender to check your device automatically (preferably weekly). You can let the scan run in the background to optimize system resources.
What You'll Like
Light on system resource usage — During full in-depth scans, my computer didn’t slow down and that’s thanks to Bitdefender’s cloud-based scan technology.
Fast and in-depth scans — The cloud-based malware scans were quick and thorough, detecting potentially unwanted applications (PUAs), scripts, archives, and more.
Secured browser — Bitdefender provides a sandboxed browser for online transactions and other sensitive activities.
Profiles selection — Bitdefender’s profiles improve the performance of activities such as gaming or slideshow presentations.
Great user interface — The UI is well-organized, customizable, and pleasant to the eye.
What You Might Not Like
No data backup feature — Data backup is a feature I hope Bitdefender will add in the future.
No file encryption — Data encryption is also missing, but Bitdefender keeps your files safe from ransomware protection.
PC cleanup is a bit limited — Some features of the PC cleaner are a bit rudimentary but still useful.
Bitdefender ranks as the top Windows antivirus software for security, privacy, cost-effectiveness, and performance.
Check out the full Bitdefender review
2. Norton
Norton is my second-best antivirus for Windows. Honestly, it’s not far behind Bitdefender. Norton uses a strong AI-based antivirus engine and has many features that outshine most other antivirus products. Additionally, it's highly praised by antivirus testing labs like AV-Test and AV-Comparatives and receives top awards yearly.
Norton might not have some optional security features, like file shredding or encryption, but it has nearly everything you need to keep your data safe. For example, during my Norton review, its ransomware protection was excellent, stopping all of the threats.
It gets better:
The VPN is fast and can connect to hundreds of servers in 31 countries. It let me work and play online games privately with no noticeable slowdown.
Moreover, Norton prioritizes privacy with its LifeLock service, which keeps an eye on your personal data online. It offers features such as dark web monitoring and credit monitoring.
What Sets Norton Apart?
Norton is the only antivirus software that gives you its own cloud storage. All paid plans come with storage ranging from 2 GB to 500 GB. Plus, Norton can automatically back up your files to the cloud.
Pro Tip:
To help keep your data safe, use Norton’s auto-backup feature. Pick a storage option (I suggest Norton’s secure cloud storage), select your files, and schedule a backup once a week or more. Your files will be safe, and you won't have to remember to back them up.
What You'll Like
Strong ransomware protection — While using a ransomware simulator, Norton performed well, stopping all of the threats.
Fast and stable VPN — With a network of servers in over 30 countries, the VPN allowed me to use the web privately without any issues.
Strong privacy protection features — LifeLock provides dark web monitoring and credit monitoring, which worked well in my tests.
Generous cloud storage — Norton provides up to 500 GB of cloud storage in their antivirus subscription.
Excellent parental controls — The Safe Family feature is one of the best parental control apps I've used.
What You Might Not Like
No file shredder — Norton doesn't have a tool to erase files completely.
No data encryption — There's no tool to encrypt files on your computer.
No hardened browser — A secure browser for online banking would have been a good addition.
No software updater — There's no tool to automatically find and install updates.
Norton is an excellent antivirus product that gives you many security tools in one package.
Check out the full Norton review
3. McAfee
McAfee is one of the best antivirus products in the industry. As I mentioned in my full McAfee review, it’s an antivirus suite that offers strong protection against cyber threats, such as ransomware, phishing, and network attacks. The malware detection and removal engine is highly reliable, eliminating several threats on my laptop.
Moreover, esteemed reviewers such as SE-Labs and AV-Test have rated McAfee highly each year. That's why McAfee’s consistent delivery of high-quality security products is quite commendable.
What Sets McAfee Apart?
Apart from its robust antivirus engine, McAfee stands out because of features like File Lock. In my tests, it secured my digital files with high-grade encryption, keeping them safe from prying eyes or ransomware attackers. File Lock is a good substitute for online cloud storage.
Pro Tip:
If you want to speed up your computer, just turn on the App Boost and Web Boost features. App Boost gives extra resources to heavy-duty apps like Excel or Chrome. And Web Boost stops videos on the web from playing automatically while you're browsing.
What You'll Like
Powerful antivirus engine — McAfee blocked 99% of all threats I tested. Also, its scans are comprehensive.
Thorough cleaning tool — The Tracker Remover found and removed 1 GB of tracking cookies and junk from my PC. Also, the Vulnerability Scanner found updates for my outdated apps.
Encrypted data vault — McAfee lets you create a safe place (File Lock) for your sensitive files that you can protect with a password, fingerprint, or face recognition.
Effective computer optimization tools — Use App Boost and Web Boost to give extra resources to heavy-duty programs. This helps your PC run faster.
What You Might Not Like
No webcam protection — McAfee doesn't offer webcam or audio protection to guard against webcam hackers.
No secure browser — Most antivirus software has a secure browser for banking, but McAfee doesn't.
Average VPN — The number of servers and speed of connections for the VPN are average compared to top VPN providers.
McAfee excels at blocking ransomware and phishing and also at cleaning up your computer.
Check out the full McAfee review
4. TotalAV
TotalAV has quickly become one of the top security programs worldwide. It’s owned by the UK-based company, Protected.net, which specializes in cybersecurity.
TotalAV has a no-frills approach to computer security, adding features such as a password manager, ad blocker, data breach checker, system tuneup, and the solid Avira-powered antivirus engine.
TotalAV has one of the most user-friendly interfaces of any Windows antivirus program. I could easily find every feature. Also, TotalAV kept my PC very clean during my tests, which helped it run smoothly, thanks to the automatic junk cleaner.
While TotalAV lacks parental control and backup features, many well-known antivirus products also lack some important features. For example, AVG, Avast, and Avira also don't have parental control.
Pro Tip:
If you're using a free ad blocker, remove it now and use Total Adblock instead. This is TotalAV's browser extension that can block ads on any website. Why use it? Because it's developed and maintained by a reputable antivirus company that specializes in security and privacy protection.
What You'll Like
Very intuitive interface — TotalAV sports one of the most streamlined interfaces of any Windows 10/11 antivirus program.
Fast and accurate smart scan — The smart scan looks for computer vulnerabilities, malware, junk files, and outdated software.
Strong web protection — TotalAV's web security stopped all threats I encountered, such as those on wicar.org.
Stable VPN connection — While using TotalAV for over a week, the VPN never disconnected, and the kill switch worked correctly.
The ad blocker is reliable — Total Adblock efficiently blocked all the ads I didn’t want to see while browsing the web.
What You Might Not Like
No parental control — TotalAV doesn't have a parental control app, but this won't matter if you don't have kids.
No backup features — TotalAV doesn't have file backup tools, but it offers good ransomware protection.
No webcam protection — TotalAV's guide doesn't clearly state that the antivirus can protect your webcam from hackers, but its anti-malware features should do that.
TotalAV is one of the fastest-growing antivirus products. It kept my PC secure and clean without any problems.
Check out the full TotalAV review
5. Kaspersky
Kaspersky is a reliable antivirus product. While it may not have as many features as rivals like Bitdefender or Norton, it's still one of the best antiviruses for Windows. Well-known labs like AV-Test and AV-Comparatives have given Kaspersky top ratings, which is impressive.
In terms of system performance and customer support, most users should be satisfied. While testing Kaspersky, my PC felt stable, and the support staff answered my questions effectively.
Pro Tip:
Concerned about cyber attacks on your important local files? Use Kaspersky’s Data Encryption feature. It lets you put files and folders into secure data vaults and protect them with a password. This makes it almost impossible for your files to be stolen or tampered with.
What You'll Like
Fast virus scans — Kaspersky has one of the fastest antivirus engines, detecting all threats I tested.
Effective ransomware protection — Thanks to its Data Encryption feature, Kaspersky can stop ransomware from hijacking your data; it performed well in my tests.
Advanced firewall for network security — The firewall provides options to manage app network rules, packet rules, network properties, and more.
Safe online banking — With online transactions being common, Kaspersky provides a secure browser for safer online banking.
What You Might Not Like
The VPN has a daily limit of 300 MB — Kaspersky's top security package (Total Security) only offers a trial version of the VPN.
Parental control can be difficult to learn — The parental control tool (Safe Kids) was not very user-friendly in my tests. It's a powerful feature, nonetheless.
Limited backup options — The antivirus program lets you choose Dropbox, your hard drive, or your local network as backup options for your important data.
Software updater is limited — It can find and download updates for your installed apps, but it can't search for driver or system updates.
Kaspersky is a top antivirus for Windows with strong web and ransomware protection.
Check out the full Kaspersky review
6. Panda
Panda isn't among the top five best antiviruses for Windows right now, but it has the potential to be. Even though it comes with a reliable anti-malware engine, its user interface and customer support could be better.
While it has many benefits, Panda could improve its user interface and some features. It can protect your computer from online threats, but overall security and user experience could be better.
What You'll Like
It detected most threats — Panda identified most of the malicious software I tested during my antivirus engine testing.
Plenty of features — Panda offers many features, such as ransomware protection, a PC rescue kit, an update manager, and an anti-theft tool.
Uses minimal system resources — Despite being a complex program, Panda doesn't take up many system resources, even during scans.
What You Might Not Like
Includes features that Windows offers for free — Features such as the Virtual Keyboard and the Process Monitor are included in Windows for free.
Outdated interface — Panda's user interface looks old and could use a refresh. The good news is that it's pretty easy to use.
Confusing customer support options — When I tried to look up information or contact the support team, I found the support options disorganized and confusing.
One VPN data leak occurred — The VPN connections were fast (especially the US servers), but unfortunately, my location was leaked in one VPN security test.
Panda is a reliable antivirus program, but it could use some improvements.
Check out the full Panda review
7. AVG
AVG stands out as a highly comprehensive antivirus solution for Windows, boasting a robust assortment of features. These include remote access protection, boot-time scanning, and a PC tuneup tool, among others.
AVG is suitable for all types of users, from those who just want basic protection to power users who demand extensive security options.
What You'll Like
Customizable security — AVG allows users the flexibility to choose and install the features that are most relevant to their needs.
Comprehensive scanning — With AVG, you get a wide array of scanning options, such as boot time scans, for thorough system checks.
Network security — You will benefit from a robust firewall and Wi-Fi protection to defend your network against potential threats.
Online privacy — AVG includes a stringent anti-tracking program to ensure your online activities remain private.
System optimization — The security program features a well-designed PC tuneup utility that helps keep your computer running at its best.
What You Might Not Like
Missing parental controls — AVG doesn't provide parental control features for monitoring and controlling children's online activities.
No data encryption — Sadly, AVG lacks a file encryption feature, which would be necessary for protecting sensitive data.
Password management — You will not get a password manager for secure storage and management of your passwords.
Absence of anti-theft features — AVG doesn't offer anti-theft features to help locate or protect your devices in case of loss or theft.
Subpar VPN service — The VPN service does not perform as well as those provided by dedicated VPN providers.
If AVG aligns with your security needs, don't hesitate to give it a shot.
Check out our full AVG review
8. ESET
ESET is one of the most effective anti-malware solutions out there. Why does it deserve a spot in the top 10 Windows antivirus list? Because although it may not be perfect, it's trusted by millions for its strong anti-malware capabilities and multiple handy tools.
While ESET offers comprehensive malware protection for Windows, the software is not as user-friendly or feature-rich as competitors like Norton or Bitdefender. However, ESET will provide solid protection for your PC.
What You'll Like
Effective at finding malware — ESET has three types of scans to catch complex or new viruses.
Flexible task scheduling — With ESET, you can set up schedules for things like scans, updates, and startup file checks.
Excellent support center — I found it easy to get answers to my questions using ESET's support options.
Good anti-theft app — This app works across different platforms and was accurate in my tests.
What You Might Not Like
No VPN service — Unlike many top antivirus brands, ESET doesn't have a VPN.
Missing PC cleanup feature — ESET doesn't feature a PC cleanup tool, but it does have a system cleaner that looks at system settings and suggests resets if needed.
Basic password manager — The password manager could use some more features, like the ability to share account info.
Settings can be confusing — I found some of the settings hard to understand.
ESET is a powerful antivirus with some great features and a few drawbacks.
Check out the full ESET review
9. Avira
Avira is a renowned antivirus brand that has earned a solid reputation over the years. Esteemed antivirus testing firms like AV-Test and AV-Comparatives frequently give it excellent scores. I conducted my own testing as well, and you can find the pros and cons below.
Additionally, Avira's impact on system performance is average, and I was pleased with the customer service when I reached out with some issues and questions.
All in all, Avira offers good security features and a user-friendly interface, even if it's missing some key features.
What You'll Like
Efficient malware detection — The full scan is detailed, quick, and accurately found a few threats on my computer.
Trustworthy VPN — Avira's VPN is fast and reliable, with servers in 40 countries, particularly in Europe.
Helpful system cleanup tool — The top-tier Avira version comes with System Speedup Pro, a tool to clean and speed up your PC.
Works on many platforms — You can use Avira's software on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS without any issues.
What You Might Not Like
No parental controls — Avira doesn't have any parental control features.
No dedicated firewall — Unlike many competitors, Avira doesn't have its own firewall or network protection features.
No backup for your data — Avira doesn't offer any backup features, which many other antivirus options do.
No spam protection — While Avira scans email attachments for viruses, it can't filter out spam emails.
Overall, I think you’ll like Avira’s looks and security features.
Check out the full Avira review
10. Avast
Avast is a well-known Czech antivirus suite that has been around since the 90s. However, it lost some trust when it was found to be selling user data to third parties in late 2019.
Even though Avast has many features and is easy to use, I can't recommend it until the company can prove it has improved its practices.
What You'll Like
Unique features — Avast offers tools like DNS hijack protection and the Sandbox for running programs safely.
Can pick what to install — When you install Avast, you can choose only the features you want.
Helpful boot-time scan — This scan can find and remove malware before it harms your computer.
Secure browser with lots of features — The Secure Browser offers bank mode, anti-phishing, and more.
What You Might Not Like
The ransomware test didn't go through — It's not clear if the ransomware shield is effective.
No parental controls — Avast doesn't have a feature to help parents control their children's internet use.
AntiTrack extension uses a lot of resources — I found that the AntiTrack extension made my computer slower when it was on.
Questionable integrity — Because Avast was caught selling user data in December 2019, it's hard to fully trust the company.
While Avast is a capable antivirus, it needs to work on regaining user trust.
Check out the full Avast review
Tips to Help You Choose the Best Antivirus for Windows 10/11
To help you pick the best antivirus for your Windows computer, think about these questions:
Can the antivirus solution protect all my devices? If you have multiple devices, make sure the antivirus program you choose can cover them all.
Does it fit in my budget? If you need to balance cost and security, this list has many affordable antivirus options.
Is it easy to use? It's important that you and your family can easily use the antivirus.
Will it slow down my computer? Different antiviruses affect computer speed differently. If you need a less intensive option, pick one that suits your needs.
Is it well-maintained? Some antivirus programs aren't updated often, which can put your computer at risk. Pick an antivirus that releases updates and fixes regularly.
How I Created this Best Windows Antivirus List
I made this top 10 Windows antivirus list after months of research and testing. I started with over 50 antivirus products and picked the best ten. Then I reviewed and ranked these ten based on factors like:
Malware protection
Extra features
Ease of use
Impact on performance
User interface
Cross-platform support
Mobile app
Customer support
Value for money
Reputation
Return policy
Furthermore, I tested the antivirus programs on multiple devices: my Dell XPS laptop, Samsung Galaxy S20 FE, and MacBook Pro M1. To help you understand each antivirus package better, I included over 40 screenshots in each review.
Protect Your Windows Device with a Top-Quality Antivirus
Your and your family's safety should be a priority. Get a comprehensive antivirus solution, and don't wait until something goes wrong. Prevent cyberattacks that could seriously harm your data and your life.
Bitdefender could be the perfect match for you, regardless of your budget or device. Millions of Windows users rely on Bitdefender daily to keep their computers, data, and privacy safe. Try Bitdefender today and see for yourself.
FAQs
Here are the most common questions users have about the best antivirus for Windows and our answers to them.
Is Windows Defender good enough?
In short, being better than nothing doesn't mean it's good enough. Windows Defender isn't a comprehensive enough cybersecurity solution for your Windows device. It only has a basic anti-malware scanner and lacks key security features like file encryption, password manager, parental control, etc.
It also doesn't have great reviews from trusted antivirus review companies like AV-Comparatives or AV-Test. Third-party solutions like Bitdefender or McAfee consistently perform better in their tests.
Also, third-party antivirus software is maintained by a team focused on cybersecurity research, prevention, and removal.
Why should I pay for Windows antivirus software?
Relying only on free antivirus software to keep your computer and data safe from threats is risky. Yes, you’ll probably be safe from traditional malware like viruses or worms, but new and more complex threats like ransomware are released daily.
A paid antivirus product, such as Norton or TotalAV, unlocks additional security features like email protection, data backup and encryption, privacy protection, etc. Also, not all free antivirus products have a real-time virus scanner. So, purchasing an antivirus solution is likely worth the investment.
Will an antivirus slow down my Windows computer?
In the past, antivirus software could use a lot of system resources, especially during a scan. Yet, modern computers are much more powerful than those from 10-15 years ago when many misunderstandings about antivirus software came up.
Also, I've only included antivirus solutions in this list that have a small to average impact on performance. Try a reliable antivirus like Bitdefender or TotalAV and see for yourself. If you're not happy with the performance, you can get a refund (within 30 days of buying it).
Will antivirus companies sell my Windows PC data?
Every cybersecurity company is different, but most of them use data for security purposes, like updating their threat databases and spotting zero-day threats. They can also use your data to communicate with you.
While it’s true that antivirus companies collect user data, I don't know of any other company misusing private data apart from the Avast privacy scandal in 2019. I didn't find any such problems when reviewing Bitdefender and Kaspersky.
Octav Fedor (Cybersecurity Editor)
Octav is a cybersecurity researcher and writer at AntivirusGuide. When he’s not publishing his honest opinions about security software online, he likes to learn about programming, watch astronomy documentaries, and participate in general knowledge competitions.