With the growing number of online threats, finding the best antivirus for Windows 10 or 11 is a must nowadays. It’s a common misconception that you need powerful antivirus software only if you frequently visit dark parts of the web. However, in reality, around 10-20 million new computer viruses emerge every year.
If you don’t run any software protection, your device could be in great danger. Malware, ransomware, phishing sites, and worms are just some of the many online threats that could severely damage your computer. Read on to discover the best antivirus software for Windows 11, 10, and even older versions at bargain prices.
Best Windows Antivirus Tools at a Glance
- TotalAV – The best Windows antivirus for Windows 11 and 10
- McAfee – Top antivirus for Windows 10 with a web boost feature
- Norton – Powerful and affordable antivirus software for all Windows devices
- Avast – The best free antivirus for Windows 10 and 11
- Nord Threat Protection – Top-rated antivirus software with NordVPN service
- Surfshark – Lightweight antivirus tools with user-friendly Windows app
- Intego – A top antivirus for Macs, Windows 10, and Windows 11
- Show Full Guide
Best Windows Antivirus Services Reviewed
We tested over 20 antivirus solutions to present our readers with the best antivirus for Windows 10 and 11. Our main areas of focus included security, features, compatibility with WindowsOS, pricing, and more.
Here are our findings:
1. TotalAV – Best Antivirus for Windows 11
Cheapest Plan | $19.00/year |
---|---|
Max Devices | 8 |
Free Trial | Free Scan |
Money-Back Guarantee | 30 Days |
Pros
- Has free version
- Includes a password vault
- Best antivirus for Windows 11
- Protects PC from phishing sites
- Parental control + VPN service
- One of the best antiviruses Reddit recommends
Cons
- No real-time protection on the free version
2. McAfee – Best Antivirus for Windows 10 and 11
Cheapest Plan | $39.99/year |
---|---|
Max Devices | Unlimited |
Free Trial | 30 Days |
Money-Back Guarantee | 30 Days |
Pros
- 30-day free trial
- Also a leading Android antivirus
- Ransomware protection
- Quick and Full scan features
- Web booster
- Stealth mode
Cons
- Quick scan impacts CPU
3. Norton – Award Winning Antivirus Protection for Families
Cheapest Plan | $29.99/year |
---|---|
Max Devices | Unlimited |
Free Trial | 14 days |
Money-Back Guarantee | 60 Days |
Pros
- Great for families
- Can connect up to 10 devices
- Affordable price
- Parental control option
- Decent performance
Cons
- It slows your PC when downloading huge files
4. Avast – Best Free Antivirus for Windows
Cheapest Plan | $69.99/year |
---|---|
Max Devices | 30 |
Free Trial | Free-forever plan |
Money-Back Guarantee | 30 Days |
Pros
- Highly rated
- User-friendly app
- Best free antivirus for Windows 10
- Protects against phishing scams
Cons
- The free version keeps redirecting to the cashier
5. Nord Threat Protection – Reliable VPN and Antivirus Software for Windows PC
Cheapest Plan | $107.73 for two years |
---|---|
Max Devices | 10 |
Free Trial | No |
Money-Back Guarantee | 30 Days |
Pros
- DNS filtering
- Blocks ad trackers
- Among the best antiviruses with VPN
- Protects against malware & viruses
Cons
- Lacks parental control option
6. Surfshark – Lightweight Antivirus for All Windows Devices
Cheapest Plan | $72.63 for 2 years |
---|---|
Max Devices | Unlimited |
Free Trial | 7 Days on Google Play Store |
Money-Back Guarantee | 30 Days |
Pros
- Full scan feature
- Has no effect on your computer speed
- Protects your OS in real-time
- Could combine with VPN
Cons
- Lacks more security features
7. Intego – Best Beginner-Friendly Antivirus for Windows and Mac
Cheapest Plan | $79.99/year |
---|---|
Max Devices | 5 |
Free Trial | 14-day free trial |
Money-Back Guarantee | 30 Days |
Pros
- Great for Mac devices
- 24/7 protection
- Supports up to 5 devices simultaneously
- Blocks Zero Day attacks
Cons
- Complex pricing structure
Best Antivirus for Windows 10 and 11 Compared
Here’s a quick overview of our top Windows antivirus solutions to help you make a decision on the best one for you:
Antivirus | Extra Features | Pricing | Free Version | Money-Back Guarantee | Customer Support | Number of Devices Protected |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
TotalAV | Password Vault
VPN System Tune-up Tools |
$19.00/year | Yes | 60-day | Yes | 3 – 6 |
McAfee | WiFi Vulnerability Scanner
File Shredder $1M Identity Theft Coverage |
$39.99/year | Yes | 30-day | Yes | 5 |
Norton | Dark Web Monitoring
Parental Control |
$29.99/year | No | 60-day | Yes | 10 |
Avast | Cleanup Software
Driver Updater VPN |
$69.99/year | Yes | 30-day | Yes | 10 |
Nord Threat Protection | Password Manager
Data Breach Scanner |
$107.73 for 2 years | No | 30–day | Yes | 10 |
Surfshark | Surfshark Alert
Surfshark Search |
$72.63 for 2 years | Yes | 30-day | Yes | 5 |
Intego | Intego Web Shield
Block Zero Day Attacks |
$39.99/year | 14-day free trial | 30-day | Yes | 5 |
How We Review And Test Antivirus Software
15 Antiviruses Tested
20 Datapoints Measured
300+ Hours Testing
500+ User Reviews Read
We base our recommendations on first-hand experience and in-depth testing. All the Antivirus products we suggest, have been tested based on the following criteria:
- Core Security Features: We make sure that the antivirus software is fully equipped with features like real-time protection, scanning, a firewall, web protection, and more.
- Malware Detection Rates: We test malware detection rates ourselves by running both in-depth and quick scans on our devices. Additionally, we check independent lab tests.
- Compatibility: We check which devices and operating systems the antivirus software is compatible with. Often, different-looking dashboards and slightly different packages of features may be available.
- Performance Impact: A reliable and functional antivirus should not slow down your device significantly. So, we examine our device performance with and without the antivirus running.
- Customer Experience: Alongside our own experience, we are curious to know what real users have to say regarding the services. So, we’ve scoured the web for feedback on each of our tested antiviruses.
- Value for Money: We always consider value for money and how much each product is offering for the set price point.
Does My Windows Device Need an Antivirus?
While it’s true that many operating systems actively work on improving their protection, the number of online threats still implies you need a strong antivirus in 2024. Because most cyber threats specifically target Windows, having the best antivirus for Windows is a must.
An excellent antivirus protects you while browsing the web. Even if you take extra care and avoid downloading files from untrusted malicious websites, your operating system may be vulnerable.
The best antivirus software for Windows will actively scan, identify, and prevent cyber threats from attacking your computer. Antiviruses will either quarantine infected files or delete them for good. The most common threats you can encounter online are:
- Malware – A virus that infects your OS
- Ransomware – Steals your information and holds it for ransom
- Phishing – Deceives you into revealing personal information
- Password attacks – Steals your passwords (most commonly for online banking)
- Trojans – Malicious code that takes over your machine
Even occasional web visitors can have unexpected encounters with any of the mentioned threats. It’s rare, but it happens. So, the question is – is the mere possibility of getting your computer infected by trojan enough to make you buy an antivirus?
If all your work is on your computer or if you only keep your family photos, it would be worthwhile considering getting increased online security. After all, can you put a price tag on your favorite memories?
Equally, if you’re working in a business context, consider getting the best server antivirus you can.
Factors to Consider When Picking the Best Antivirus Apps for Windows
When looking for the best antivirus for Windows 11 or 10, you should consider these features:
Performance
Naturally, providers should have high malware detection rates. But, at the same time, it needs to be lightweight o not slow down your Windows device. Every provider from this list will allow your machine to use 100% of its speed.
Additionally, we suggest checking performance results that independent testing labs, like AV-TEST, present.
Ease of Use
Not all of our readers are tech-savvy. Some of you may be looking to use antivirus software for the first time. Thus, every provider comes with a simple installation and easy-to-navigate Windows app.
Cost
The list contains antivirus tools suitable for every budget. Occasional users can find several free versions, while tech geeks can choose from dozens of extra features. Plus, you’ll notice that many of them come with insane discounts.
Customer Support
Having someone to talk to is vital if you find yourself at a dead end. Thus, look for providers that offer live chat, email, and phone support. Plus, in case you’re unsure, almost all offer a lengthy guarantee or free trial.
Extra Features
Since the number of threats keeps rising, we want you to be fully protected against different cyber attacks. Besides saving you from various types of malware, the best antivirus for Windows should offer features like password managers and protection from malicious software.
How to Use the Best Windows Antivirus
If you’ve never used any antivirus protection before, we’ll provide you with detailed instructions on how to register and download the best antivirus for Windows 10 and 11.
Step 1 – Visit the Official Website
Type in the name of your desired antivirus in your search engine. We’ll take TotalAV as an example, but you can choose any provider you wish. Once you find the official page, you should see a download button. Download the app and then go for the installation.
Step 2 – Create an Account
If you already have an account, select the login option. Enter your email and password to access your account. At the bottom of this pop-up window, you’ll notice a registration button.
You can create your account either through the login or by clicking the Protect your PC now button. Both options will guide you to the ordering page.
Step 3 – Pick a Package
Choose between the three main packages and click on Buy Now.
Step 4 – Payment
TotalAV will offer you a payment option depending on your region. The website will guide you and help you to finish your payment. Once you confirm the transaction, you’ll be able to activate your TotalAV package and enjoy maximum protection.
Best Free Antivirus Software for Windows
Avast has a long tradition of being one of the best free antivirus providers on the market. Indeed, this antivirus is used by millions of people and has proven to be trustworthy. However, Avast’s free version doesn’t cover advanced Windows security.
After TotalAV rebranded and updated its software, it started to take over the free antivirus market. The free version of TotalAV offers a quick scan and full scan options for your computer.
It includes protection from malware, viruses, and worms. At the same time, TotalAV will have minimal impact on your PC’s speed.