15 Best Antivirus Software for 2025 (Free & Paid, Ranked)

You’re here because picking antivirus shouldn’t feel like a gamble. Between free apps, “all‑in‑one” suites, and sneaky renewal pricing, it’s hard to know what actually blocks ransomware, phishing, and sketchy downloads without slowing your PC or draining your phone’s battery. Maybe you only need to cover a single Windows 11 machine. Maybe you want one plan for a MacBook, two Androids, and a gaming rig. Built‑in protection is decent, but it rarely includes things like safe‑banking browsers, rollback after a ransomware hit, identity monitoring, or usable parental controls—and not every tool earns the same scores.

This guide ranks the 15 best antivirus solutions for 2025—free and paid—based on fresh lab results, hands‑on testing, features, performance impact, and overall value. For each pick, you’ll see why we like it, who it’s best for, pricing (including device limits and renewal notes), and a few caveats to consider. Whether you want the strongest phishing defense, the best plan for unlimited devices, or a trusted free option, you’ll find a clear recommendation here. Let’s start with our top choice and work down the list.

1. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus

Bitdefender keeps showing up at the top of independent tests for a reason. It combines excellent lab results with practical safeguards you’ll actually use, like a hardened banking browser, multi‑layer ransomware protection that can restore files, and sharp phishing defenses. If you want best‑in‑class core protection without jumping to a bulky “mega suite,” Antivirus Plus is a sweet spot.

Why we like it

Bitdefender brings a deep set of real protections, not fluff, and it’s consistently rated among the best antivirus software by heavyweight testers.

• Near‑perfect lab scores: Regularly posts top marks; PCMag’s aggregate puts it at 9.8/10 across current labs.
• Strong phishing defense: Detected 99% of real‑world phishing samples in hands‑on testing.
• Multi‑layer ransomware protection: Behavioral blocking plus Ransomware Remediation to roll back damage.
• Safe banking browser: An isolated environment for financial transactions.
• Useful extras: Anti‑tracker, vulnerability scanning, Autopilot suggestions, and a built‑in VPN module (full VPN requires a separate subscription).

Ideal user

If you want a set‑it‑and‑forget‑it defender that quietly stops the bad stuff—and you like getting genuine security features without upgrading to a full suite—this is a great fit. It also suits feature collectors who want more than bare‑minimum malware scanning.

Plans and pricing

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus is a paid product with straightforward device licensing.

• $49.99/year for 1 device; $69.99/year for 3 devices.
• Frequently discounted (PCMag lists a 50% first‑year promo at $34.99).
• Licenses can protect Windows and macOS, with coverage extending to Android and iOS devices per current listings.

Tip: Compare first‑year promos vs. renewal rates so you know your real 2‑year cost.

Keep in mind

• Hands‑on quirks: PCMag noted a poor malware‑blocking score and a mediocre malicious‑URL defense result in its own tests, despite stellar lab results.
• VPN limits: The included VPN is capped; full access needs a separate subscription.
• Price: MSRP is slightly higher than some rivals, though the feature set helps justify it.

2. Norton 360 Deluxe

Norton 360 Deluxe is a full security suite built on one of the most consistently high‑scoring antivirus engines. Beyond malware blocking, it layers in essentials many “AV-only” tools skip—firewall protection, cloud backup, password management, a VPN, and family controls—making it an easy all‑in‑one pick if you’re shopping for the best antivirus software that also handles privacy and everyday safety.

Why we like it

Norton reliably pairs top‑tier detection with practical protections you can leave on and trust.

• Proven protection: Independent labs routinely rate Norton near the top; PCMag’s aggregate puts it at 9.6/10, and hands‑on tests report 97–99% results across phishing, URL blocking, and malware blocking.
• Ransomware defense: Data Protector can block unauthorized changes in protected folders, helping foil file‑encrypting attacks.
• Suite value: Built‑in firewall, vulnerability scanning, tune‑up tools, cloud backup, and a VPN come integrated rather than as paid add‑ons.
• Scam shielding: Norton’s AI‑powered Genie Scam Protection flags risky links in texts, email, and social apps in plain language, reducing phish‑clicks for the whole family.
• Virus Protection Promise: If malware gets through, Norton’s experts will remediate it or refund you (auto‑renewal required).

Ideal user

If you want “install once, protect everything” convenience—malware defense, safe browsing, backups, VPN, and parental controls in one dashboard—Norton 360 Deluxe is an easy recommendation. It’s also great for parents who want usable controls and for anyone who prefers a guided, low‑maintenance setup.

Plans and pricing

Norton 360 comes in multiple tiers; Deluxe sits in the middle with multi‑device coverage and the full suite experience.

• What you get with Deluxe: Real‑time malware protection, intelligent firewall, cloud backup, password manager, VPN, parental controls, and dark web monitoring in one app.
• Promos vs. renewals: First‑year discounts are common (AllAboutCookies cites savings up to 58%). Renewal pricing is higher, so compare the long‑term cost before you commit.
• Device caps: Coverage is multi‑device but not unlimited; confirm the device limit that matches your household.
• Virus Protection Promise: Available when you opt into auto‑renewal.

Keep in mind

• No unlimited devices: Even top Norton plans cap devices; if you truly need unlimited, look to alternatives that offer it.
• Mobile nuance: Testing notes that Norton Mobile Security may flag threats after download rather than blocking all malicious files in real time—be cautious with third‑party APKs.
• Local vs. cloud backup: Norton emphasizes cloud backups; traditional local backup creation isn’t the focus of current builds.
• Price: You’re paying for a suite. Value is strong, but renewal rates can feel premium—plan for year two.

3. McAfee Total Protection

McAfee’s suite is a strong pick if you want broad security that won’t bog down your devices. Independent labs routinely rate McAfee highly (PCMag’s aggregate puts it at 9.8/10 across current labs), and its modern suite folds in web protection, identity monitoring, a VPN, and a secure password manager with a notably light performance impact.

Why we like it

• Unlimited devices on top plans: AllAboutCookies highlights McAfee’s rare perk of unlimited device coverage on higher tiers—ideal for big households.
• Low system impact: Earned top marks from third‑party tests for staying lightweight during scans and updates.
• WebAdvisor keeps you out of trouble: Browser extension flags risky sites, blocks phishing pages, and rates search results across major browsers.
• Ransomware rollback + coverage: Includes rollback capabilities and up to $25,000 in ransomware coverage across plans, adding real‑world resilience.
• Suite value: Antivirus, scam and web protection, identity monitoring, VPN, and password manager are included.
• Virus Protection Pledge: If malware gets through, McAfee will remediate it or refund you (auto‑renewal required).

Ideal user

If you juggle lots of devices across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS—or you want security plus identity monitoring without piecing together separate apps—McAfee Total Protection is a smart, low‑maintenance choice. It’s especially compelling for families and power users who regularly browse, bank, and download.

Plans and pricing

McAfee sells multiple Total Protection tiers that scale features and device counts; top plans include unlimited devices. Promotions are frequent—AllAboutCookies cites savings up to $110 on annual plans—so your first year can be substantially cheaper. As with most suites, renewal rates are higher, so compare year‑one vs. year‑two costs before committing and confirm the device cap your tier includes.

Keep in mind

• No built‑in optimizer: System cleanup/PC optimization is a separate McAfee app, not part of the antivirus suite.
• Occasional ransomware misses in hands‑on tests: Some testing rounds have noted misses, even though lab scores remain excellent.
• Extensions required for full web safety: WebAdvisor does the heavy lifting for phishing and URL blocking—make sure it’s installed.
• Auto‑renew caveat: The Virus Protection Pledge requires auto‑renewal; read the renewal terms carefully.

4. Malwarebytes Premium Security

Once known as the “fix it after things go wrong” tool, Malwarebytes has grown into a fast, full antivirus that you can run every day. It shines with speedy scans, tough behavior‑based defenses, and ransomware stopping power—making it a nimble pick if you want protection that won’t slow you down but still ranks among the best antivirus software for raw blocking ability.

Why we like it

Malwarebytes focuses on doing the essentials extremely well, with lab grades and hands‑on results to back it up.

• Top malware blocking: Recent hands‑on testing scored it 9.9/10 for malware blocking, after a run of 9.8–10 in prior rounds.
• Strong but not perfect on the web: It hit 96% in anti‑phishing tests, though its malware‑hosting URL blocking reached 83% in the same series.
• Ransomware stopper: Real‑time protection wiped out all ransomware samples; even with real‑time disabled, it still detected all, with only minor ancillary files encrypted before kill.
• Elite lab recognition: Holds perfect scores from MRG‑Effitas and AVLab; PCMag’s aggregate lab score is a perfect 10.
• Fast Threat Scan: Runs in minutes while many rivals take an hour or more.
• Practical extras: Dark‑web breach checks for your emails and a Tools section (startup manager, Windows Firewall control, system tweaks), with some items limited to Windows 11.

Ideal user

Choose Malwarebytes if you value speed and simplicity—gamers, students, and busy professionals who hate hour‑long scans. It’s also a smart buy for budget‑minded households that want to pay for exactly the number of seats they need instead of wasting licenses.

Plans and pricing

You get flexible, per‑device pricing that scales cleanly.

• $44.99/year for 1 device
• $49.99/year for 2 devices, then scales up by device
• Up to $229.99/year for 20 devices
• No awkward “3/5/10 only” tiers—order precisely the number you need

Keep in mind

Malwarebytes focuses on core security over bloat, so you won’t find the sprawling toolbox of a big suite. Its protection against malware‑hosting URLs tested lower than the very top performers, so pair it with safe browsing habits. And a few convenience tools are Windows 11‑only.

5. Kaspersky Plus

Kaspersky Plus is the “feature collector’s” pick: a polished, highly configurable suite with strong independent lab results and a toolkit that goes far beyond basic malware scans. If you want best antivirus software protection alongside secure browsing for banking, webcam and keylogger defenses, and an integrated VPN and password manager, Kaspersky’s consumer lineup delivers serious depth.

Why we like it

Kaspersky pairs excellent protection with an intuitive app and an almost over-the-top set of security extras.

• Great lab scores: EXPERTE.com notes “great test lab scores,” reflecting solid third‑party validation.
• Feature‑packed: Ransomware, web, email, file, and IM protections plus a firewall, ad blocker, and file shredder.
• Financial safety: A secure, hardened browser for banking and shopping.
• Privacy tools built in: VPN (based on Hotspot Shield) and a full password manager are included.
• Highly configurable, yet simple: Intuitive interface with deep scan and protection settings for power users.

Ideal user

Choose Kaspersky if you want one application that does almost everything: precise control over protections, safe‑banking modes, and family‑friendly tools. It’s especially good for users who value webcam/keylogger defenses and parents who want robust controls (including GPS features) without juggling separate apps.

Plans and pricing

Kaspersky offers multiple consumer tiers and device options. EXPERTE.com lists plans covering up to 5 devices with competitive pricing (a Kaspersky Antivirus plan is shown at about $2.50/month). Expect variations by region and tier; confirm device limits and renewal pricing for Kaspersky Plus specifically before you buy.

Keep in mind

• Government advisories: EXPERTE.com notes some Western governments currently warn against using Kaspersky. Evaluate organizational or compliance requirements before deployment.
• Platform differences: Features can vary by OS and region (e.g., certain parental controls or banking tools).
• VPN engine: The included VPN uses Hotspot Shield’s technology, which may have its own limits depending on your plan.

6. ESET Home Security Essential

ESET’s Essential tier is built for people who want serious, surgical protection rather than a bloated toolbox. It emphasizes prevention against modern, stealthy threats and gives power users the confidence to run with tighter controls—great for anyone who values precision over fluff and wants business‑grade safeguards at home.

Why we like it

ESET has a reputation for tackling sophisticated attacks and catering to users who know what they want from security software.

• Advanced attack coverage: Specializes in defending against complex threats, including fileless malware and zero‑day exploits.
• Built for pros (and SMBs): Delivers enterprise‑grade protection suitable for small businesses and tech‑savvy professionals.
• Power‑user appeal: The feature direction targets advanced users who want deeper protection layers and control.

Ideal user

If you’re the go‑to tech person in your circle, run a small business, or simply want protection that prioritizes advanced threat defense over bells and whistles, ESET Essential fits. It’s a strong match for Windows or Mac users who care about exploit and behavior defenses and are comfortable with more granular security choices.

Plans and pricing

ESET’s consumer lineup spans multiple tiers; Essential is the entry that focuses on core, modern protections.

• Deal pricing shows strong value: Recent listings put “ESET Essential” at about $41.99 for 3 devices on a 1‑year plan (limited‑time deal).
• Multi‑year savings appear often: Promotions such as “15% off 2‑year plans” are periodically advertised.
• What to check: Device caps per tier and renewal vs. first‑year pricing, so your 2‑year cost aligns with your budget.

Keep in mind

• Lab notes vary: Some reviewers (e.g., EXPERTE.com) have cited weaker lab outcomes for ESET in certain rounds, while others praise its advanced defenses—read both hands‑on and lab data.
• Geared to advanced users: The protection model and controls best suit users comfortable making informed security choices.
• Suite expectations: If you want an all‑in‑one bundle (VPN, cloud backup, parental controls) baked in by default, broader suites like Norton or McAfee may suit you better; ESET Essential focuses on protection depth first.

7. Avast One (and Avast Free Antivirus)

Avast is a rare combo: an easy, polished app for beginners that still packs serious tools for more curious users. If you’re deciding between a capable free antivirus and a fuller security suite, Avast makes that choice simple—its free tier covers the essentials extremely well, and Avast One layers on premium privacy and performance perks.

Why we like it

Avast nails the fundamentals and adds quality-of-life features you’ll actually use.

• Excellent free protection: EXPERTE.com rates Avast Free highly for real-time and ransomware protection, with strong lab results and an intuitive app.
• Beginner-friendly design: AllAboutCookies names Avast “Best for beginners” thanks to a clean interface that’s easy to set and forget.
• Rich feature set (paid): Avast One adds a VPN, firewall, data breach alerts, privacy tools, and device optimization—plus the classic Avast extras like a secure browser, ad blocker, Wi‑Fi Inspector, and even a sandbox for testing suspicious files.
• Mac users aren’t second-class: Unlike many rivals, Avast maintains a robust feature set on macOS.

Ideal user

Choose Avast if you want trustworthy, no-drama protection with minimal setup. It’s great for:

• First-time buyers and families who want clear guidance and safe defaults.
• Free-only shoppers who still expect real-time and ransomware defenses.
• Mixed-OS households (Windows and Mac) that want consistent tools.
• Public Wi‑Fi users who benefit from the VPN and web protections in Avast One.

Plans and pricing

Avast offers both a standout free tier and paid Avast One bundles.

• Avast Free Antivirus: $0, covers the essentials; EXPERTE.com lists it for unlimited devices.
• Avast One (paid): Adds VPN, firewall, breach alerts, optimization, and more with multi‑device plans.
• Deals are common: Expect frequent first‑year discounts; compare renewal vs. promo pricing and device caps before you commit.

Keep in mind

• Scan performance: EXPERTE.com observed that full scans can impact performance more than some rivals—schedule them for off-hours.
• Feature gating: Many privacy/VPN capabilities live behind Avast One; the free tier will prompt you to upgrade.
• VPN allowances vary by plan: Throughput/locations may depend on the tier you choose—check the specifics if VPN is a must-have.

8. AVG Internet Security (and AVG AntiVirus Free)

AVG is a smart pick if you want fast protection that doesn’t weigh down your devices. Recognized for performance and speed, AVG Internet Security pairs award‑winning detection with day‑to‑day safeguards like safe browsing, email protection, and webcam controls—plus an easy upgrade path to a full privacy suite. If you’re deciding between a capable free antivirus and a lean paid suite, AVG makes both options compelling.

Why we like it

AVG focuses on real‑world protection with a light footprint, which is exactly what most people need from the best antivirus software.

• Performance and speed: Rated “Best for performance & speed,” with protection for up to 10 devices.
• Daily‑use shields: Includes webcam protection, safe browsing and email protection, automatic updates, and 24/7 protection.
• Privacy suite options: Higher tiers bundle a secure VPN, anti‑tracking, and added safeguards against phishing sites.
• Excellent free option: AVG AntiVirus Free delivers real‑time protection against viruses, infected emails, and scam websites with multi‑layered defenses.

Ideal user

Choose AVG if you want smooth performance on laptops and older PCs, straightforward web and email protection for the family, or a trusted free antivirus you can install and forget. It’s also a strong fit for mixed households that value quick scans and minimal system impact across multiple devices.

Plans and pricing

AVG gives you a clean choice between a strong free baseline and a multi‑device paid suite.

• AVG AntiVirus Free: $0, with real‑time and web/email threat blocking.
• AVG Internet Security (paid): Multi‑device coverage (up to 10 devices) with webcam protection, safe browsing/email, and automatic updates.
• Suite add‑ons: Higher tiers can include a VPN and anti‑tracking. Compare first‑year promos to renewal pricing and confirm device limits before you buy.

Keep in mind

• Top perks are tiered: The VPN and anti‑tracking tools live in higher bundles, not the core Internet Security plan.
• Support reputation varies: Independent reviewers have called out weaker customer support compared with some rivals.
• Feature sets can differ by platform: Double‑check that the protections you want are available on every OS you use.

9. Microsoft Defender (Windows Security)

If you’re on Windows, you already own a credible baseline antivirus. Microsoft Defender, inside Windows Security, is built in, always on, and updates alongside the OS. Multiple independent discussions and community threads note it’s a full, highly rated security suite on par with some paid options—making it a sensible default if you want protection without installing anything else or managing another subscription.

Why we like it

Microsoft Defender covers the fundamentals well for most people and removes cost and complexity from the equation.

• Included and always on: No download or signup; it’s integrated with Windows and updates automatically.
• Highly rated baseline: Community and expert guidance frequently cite Windows Security as a full, capable suite that can stand next to paid tools.
• Zero extra cost: A practical choice for budget‑conscious users who still want reputable, real‑time protection.

Ideal user

Defender is a strong fit if you want “good enough” everyday protection with minimal fuss: students, families on a budget, or anyone who prefers to keep Windows lean. It also suits careful users who already practice safe browsing and don’t need suite extras like a VPN, password manager, or identity monitoring.

Plans and pricing

There are no tiers to compare here.

• Price: $0; included with Windows.
• Updates: Delivered via Windows Update—no separate renewal clocks, upcharges, or license limits to track.

Keep in mind

• Windows‑only: If you need cross‑platform coverage for Macs, Androids, and iPhones under one plan, third‑party suites are a better match.
• Fewer extras than suites: Tools like hardened banking browsers, bundled VPNs, parental controls, password managers, and ransomware file‑rollback are common in paid suites but not packaged the same way in Defender.
• Web protection depth: If you want aggressively tuned phishing/site blocking across multiple browsers and devices, premium contenders like Bitdefender, Norton, and McAfee add layers beyond Windows’ defaults.
• Management expectations: It’s great as a set‑and‑forget baseline, but power users may prefer the granular controls and dashboards found in paid security suites.

If your needs are basic and you value simplicity, Microsoft Defender is a perfectly reasonable starting point among the best antivirus software options—especially when paired with smart browsing habits and regular system updates.

10. Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security

Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security focuses on what most people do every day—banking, shopping, and scrolling—then adds targeted shields for those moments. It’s a solid, no‑nonsense option that emphasizes safe payments and social media protections without burying you in complex suite features.

Why we like it

You get practical protections you’ll actually use, plus respectable test‑lab pedigree called out by independent reviewers.

• Pay Guard for safer banking: Opens financial sites in a hardened browser to reduce payment‑stealing tricks.
• Social Media Protection: Flags risky links and scams on popular social platforms.
• Good (if uneven) lab notes: EXPERTE.com cites “some good lab results,” though scores vary by test.
• Everyday usability: Parental controls and performance‑tuning tools round out the basics for home PCs.

Ideal user

If your priority is secure online payments and keeping family members safer on social platforms, Trend Micro is an easy, low‑friction pick. It suits shoppers who want a straightforward antivirus rather than a sprawling, do‑everything mega suite—and who don’t need an integrated firewall or VPN.

Plans and pricing

Antivirus+ Security is the entry plan aimed at essential protection.

• Indicative pricing: EXPERTE.com lists “Antivirus+” at about $1.66/month for 1 device.
• Device limits: Antivirus+ is shown for a single device—confirm coverage and renewal terms at checkout.
• Smart buy tip: Like many best antivirus software options, first‑year promos are common; compare renewal pricing so your year‑two cost isn’t a surprise.

Keep in mind

• No firewall, webcam protection, or VPN: You’ll need separate tools if those are must‑haves.
• Uneven lab scores and false positives: EXPERTE.com notes divided lab opinions and slightly too many false positives in AV‑Comparatives testing.
• Feature breadth vs. rivals: It’s a leaner package than fuller suites; if you want password managers, VPNs, or identity monitoring built‑in, consider options like Norton or McAfee.

11. TotalAV Total Security

TotalAV is an easy win if your biggest risks live in the browser. Independent testers highlight its real‑time blocking and strong phishing defense, and its suite leans into day‑to‑day safety with an excellent ad blocker and practical tune‑up tools that keep older devices feeling snappy.

Why we like it

TotalAV prioritizes the places people actually get attacked—malicious sites, scams, and booby‑trapped downloads—without drowning you in settings.

• Standout web protection: Performs well at stopping phishing, cryptojacking, and other browser‑based threats with real‑time cloud analysis.
• Total Adblock bundle: Blocks malicious scripts, trackers, pop‑ups, and even YouTube video ads to cut noise and risk—great on slower machines.
• Browser hardening: A security extension filters dangerous sites and enforces HTTPS; WebShield (Chrome) flags risky downloads in real time.
• Speed helpers built in: Junk file removal, startup manager, and app uninstaller provide meaningful performance gains beyond malware scanning.

Ideal user

Pick TotalAV if you spend most of your time banking, shopping, streaming, and clicking links, and you want fewer scams and faster pages by default. It’s a strong fit for families that rely on browser safety nets, students on aging laptops, and anyone who values a cleaner, faster web experience alongside antivirus.

Plans and pricing

TotalAV offers tiered suites, with Total Security unlocking the full mix of protections and performance tools. Promotions are frequent, and first‑year discounts can be significant. Before you buy, confirm:

• What’s included (e.g., Total Adblock license and security extensions),
• Device limits per plan,
• Renewal pricing vs. the introductory promo.

Keep in mind

• No dedicated firewall: Network‑level traffic control isn’t part of the suite.
• Extensions do the heavy lifting: WebShield and the browser add‑ons are key to its best protection—install them everywhere you browse.
• Compare tiers carefully: The most compelling perks (ad blocking, optimization) sit in higher plans; check that Total Security aligns with your needs and devices.

12. Surfshark One Antivirus

If you want premium antivirus plus a top‑tier VPN in one clean app, Surfshark One Antivirus is the value play to beat. It blends 24/7 malware protection with privacy must‑haves—ad/tracker blocking, data‑breach alerts, and even automated data‑broker removals—without bogging down your system. Independent testing notes strong Windows results, and its lightweight design makes it a smart everyday pick among the best antivirus software bundles.

Why we like it

Surfshark focuses on real protection and performance, not bloat.

• Great value bundle: Antivirus + one of the best VPNs, ad/tracker blocking (CleanWeb), breach alerts, and Incogni data removal in a single subscription.
• Proven on Windows: Submitted to AV‑TEST and earned top marks in malware protection and usability.
• Protection that keeps up: Threat database updates up to 8x daily to catch fast‑moving campaigns.
• Low footprint, gamer‑friendly: Real‑time protection and CleanWeb run quietly in the background.
• Privacy extras you’ll use: Webcam protection, customizable scans, and sensible defaults.

Ideal user

Choose Surfshark if you want one subscription that covers malware defense, encrypted browsing, and day‑to‑day privacy. It’s ideal for remote workers, frequent travelers using public Wi‑Fi, households that stream and game, and anyone who wants fewer apps to manage without giving up protection.

Plans and pricing

Surfshark sells antivirus inside the simple Surfshark One bundle rather than as a standalone AV.

• Bundles, not à la carte: You pay for One (or One+), which includes the AV, VPN, and privacy tools.
• Frequent deals: Independent reviewers cite sizable first‑year promotions (e.g., “Save up to 50%”).
• What to check: Device allowances for your bundle, and promo vs. renewal pricing before you lock in.

Keep in mind

• No standalone AV: You must buy the Surfshark One bundle to get antivirus.
• Platform specifics: Features can vary slightly by OS; confirm webcam protection and CleanWeb behavior on each device.
• Compare needs vs. bundle: If you only want bare‑bones AV, a single‑purpose product may be cheaper—Surfshark shines as a suite.

13. Webroot Essentials

If you want protection that barely touches system resources, Webroot Essentials is built for speed. Its secret sauce lives in the cloud: unknown programs are allowed to run in a tightly controlled bubble while Webroot analyzes them online. If the verdict comes back malicious, it kills the threat and rolls back system changes—handy when ransomware slips in and starts making a mess.

Why we like it

• Tiny footprint: Uses minimal disk space and system resources by offloading intelligence to the cloud.
• Aced hands‑on tests: PCMag reports excellent real‑world results, with strong blocking in their trials.
• Ransomware remediation: Can undo malicious system changes after cloud classification—great for recovery.
• Value add‑ons: Includes a LastPass password manager perk, so you’re securing logins alongside malware defense.

Ideal user

Webroot Essentials is ideal for older or low‑power PCs, thin‑and‑light laptops, and anyone who hates sluggish scans. It also suits tinkerers who appreciate cloud‑based journaling/rollback tech and want fast, quiet protection that doesn’t hog CPU or RAM during work or gaming.

Plans and pricing

Promotions are frequent and aggressive.

• Deal price reference: PCMag lists Webroot Essentials at $25 for 1 device on a 1‑year plan during promos.
• Expect first‑year discounts; renewal pricing is typically higher—compare year‑one vs. year‑two cost before you buy.

Keep in mind

• Limited lab coverage: Fewer recent scores from major independent testing labs compared with top rivals.
• Advanced features = advanced know‑how: PCMag notes some capabilities require uncommon expertise to use well.
• Cloud‑centric model: Its power comes from cloud analysis; make sure you’re comfortable with that approach.

14. Sophos Home Premium

Sophos brings business-style control to home PCs with a tiny local agent you can manage from a simple online dashboard. It’s the “family IT admin” favorite: you install it on relatives’ machines and keep everyone protected—ransomware, exploits, and shady downloads—without driving across town.

Why we like it

Sophos emphasizes real protection and easy remote control rather than bloat, and its results back that up.

• Remote web console (up to 10 devices): Install on PCs or Macs and manage everything from one online hub.
• Ransomware defense that shuts attacks down fast: In testing, it stopped all active ransomware attacks before a single document was encrypted.
• Strong hands-on scores: 100% block rate against malware-hosting URLs; 98% malware detection (9.6/10); 95% anti‑phishing.
• Exploit and privacy guards: Protection for financial transactions, exploit blocking, and webcam hijack prevention.
• Verified by SE Labs: AAA certification in every test for five years running.

Ideal user

If you’re the default tech support for friends and family—or you want serious defenses with minimal local fuss—Sophos is a great fit. It’s also ideal for thrifty households that need to cover lots of Windows and Mac computers without paying per seat.

• Family tech support: Manage and fix machines remotely.
• Budget-minded homes: Protect many devices at a low per‑device cost.
• Organized power users: Tiny agent locally; centralized controls in the cloud.

Plans and pricing

Sophos keeps pricing simple: one plan that covers a lot, without nickel‑and‑diming you for extra seats.

• $59.99/year for up to 10 PCs or Macs (about $6 per device per year).
• One tier, clear value: No complicated bundles; just install and manage up to 10.
• Pro tip: As with any subscription, compare first‑year promos to renewal so your two‑year cost aligns with expectations.

Keep in mind

Sophos aims at protection and manageability first, so a few consumer niceties aren’t its strong suit.

• Parental control is limited: The content filter is less effective than dedicated parental suites.
• Fewer lab appearances: Consistently AAA at SE Labs, but limited participation elsewhere.
• No mobile management or keylogger protection: Those legacy features are no longer offered.
• Advanced toggles: Some settings and features assume above‑average tech comfort.

15. F-Secure Total

F‑Secure Total leans into essentials: tight real‑time protection backed by solid lab grades, smart behavior blocking (DeepGuard), and everyday privacy tools you’ll actually use. It’s a clean, lightweight suite that bundles antivirus with a VPN and password manager, making it a practical “just enough” alternative to bulkier mega suites among the best antivirus software picks.

Why we like it

F‑Secure emphasizes protection and privacy over bloat, with independent testers noting dependable results and a straightforward experience.

• Good lab grades: EXPERTE.com highlights reliable third‑party scores across protection and performance.
• DeepGuard behavior blocking: Detects new and unknown malware based on what it does, not just signatures.
• Privacy built in: Suite includes a VPN and password manager so you can secure browsing and logins without extra apps.
• Light, focused design: Easy to run on everyday PCs without a noticeable slowdown.

Ideal user

Choose F‑Secure Total if you want a minimal, well‑tuned suite that covers real‑time malware defense plus core privacy in one plan. It’s a strong fit for students, families, and remote workers who value a trustworthy VPN and password vault without the sprawl of “do‑everything” security suites. Higher device caps make it viable for multi‑device households, too.

Plans and pricing

Expect simple, device‑based licensing with first‑year promos. EXPERTE.com lists F‑Secure Internet Security at about $4.17/month, with plans supporting up to 25 devices on some tiers. As always, compare the introductory offer with renewal pricing and confirm device limits for the specific “Total” bundle you pick.

Keep in mind

• No firewall or webcam protection: EXPERTE.com notes these omissions versus fuller suites.
• Feature depth vs. suites: Password manager and VPN are included, but you won’t find broader add‑ons (cloud backup, parental controls, etc.).
• Plan names change: F‑Secure has rebranded offerings over time; verify that “Total” includes the VPN and password tools you want before checkout.

Bottom line on the best antivirus software

You don’t need a dozen tools—you need one that fits your life. If you want unbeatable core protection without bloat, Bitdefender is the easy first pick. Prefer an all‑in‑one suite with firewall, VPN, backup, and parental controls under one roof? Norton 360 Deluxe is the most complete package. Big household with lots of devices? McAfee’s unlimited‑device plans are tough to beat. Want fast, effective scans with stellar ransomware stopping power? Malwarebytes delivers. And if you’re sticking to essentials on a tight budget, Microsoft Defender is a credible baseline you already own.

Choose by coverage and extras you’ll actually use: device count, phishing/web blocking, ransomware rollback, VPN, and parental controls. Ready to lock things down? Get the right security plan, then outfit your setup with fast laptops, gaming rigs, and reliable routers at Electronic Spree. One cart, protected from login to checkout.