Here’s a fact you should know—globally, around 560,000 new malware samples are detected every day. I am not trying to scare you, but keeping your devices safe from malware has never been more important.
With so much of our data stored digitally, a single security breach can cause serious damage. You need the best antivirus software to protect your data, block harmful downloads, and maintain the health of your system.
We have thoroughly tested various top-rated antivirus tools using real-world malware samples. This guide features our top recommendation for the best antivirus in 2025 that works well with every device.
Here’s a quick comparison table of the top 10 antivirus solutions:
Antivirus | Pricing | Key Features |
Bitdefender Antivirus Plus | $19.99/year for the first year (1 device) |
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Norton | $29.99/year for the first year |
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TotalAV | Starts at $19/year, Total security plan $49 for the first year |
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McAfee | $49.99/year for individuals; family plans are available |
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Avast | $5.79/month ($69.48/year) |
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Avira | $34.95 per year |
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Malware Bytes | Starts from $44.99/year |
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Surfshark | $2.49/month on the promotion 2 plan |
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Trend Micro | Starts from $39.95 per year |
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Webroot | Starts from $24.99 per year |
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We have carefully tested today’s most trusted and top-rated antivirus protection tools to see how well they protect your devices. Here’s a breakdown of our top 10 choices for 2025:
Bitdefender offers powerful protection at an affordable price, making it our top choice for the best antivirus software. Its quick scan caught nearly all threats in our tests, and major labs like AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives also gave it perfect scores.
One of Bitdefender’s unique tools is Sacmio, an AI assistant that can help you spot suspicious messages. It also includes privacy features like webcam and microphone protection. You also get a basic VPN with the package, though it has a 200MB per day cap unless you upgrade it.
Ideal For:
Individuals who want solid protection without paying for features they might not use. If you are securing just one or two devices, Bitdefender is one of the best online antivirus programs.
Pros | Cons |
Excellent virus and ransomware detection | The basic plan covers only one device |
Very affordable entry-level pricing | VPN has limited daily data |
Helpful tools like Scamio for scam detection |
Norton is one of the most recognized names in cybersecurity, and it still lives up to the hype. It scored near-perfect results across all major antivirus labs and blocked every ransomware we tested.
Norton also goes a step further. If a threat slips through, they will try to fix it for you remotely. If they can’t, you will receive a refund, provided you are on auto-renewal.
Ideal For:
Best suited for users who want trusted and the best virus protection for PC with long-term reliability. If you are someone who values strong support, Norton is a great pick.
Pros | Cons |
Perfect scores from top testing labs | No option for local backups |
Includes ransomware and vulnerability tools | Higher price compared to others |
Virus protection pledge adds peace of mind | Auto-renewal is required for guarantees |
TotalAV is a great antivirus program that combines strong protection with an easy-to-use interface. It is one of the best budget-friendly options. Plus, it scored full marks in AV-TEST’s recent evaluations and blocked all threats in our full scan.
Where it truly shines is with its additional tools. Its system cleanup features can noticeably speed up older computers, and it also includes a VPN, password manager, ad blocker, and secure browser tools.
Ideal For:
Great for users looking for solid all-around protection at a low cost. It is perfect if you want to improve both security and speed without spending a lot.
Pros | Cons |
Strong protection at a budget price | Frequent alerts and upgrade prompts |
Useful tools for speeding up slow PCs | High CPU usage during full system scans (up to 75%) |
Simple and user-friendly interface |
McAfee has come a long way from its troubled past. Today, it is one of the best antivirus for Windows 11 and Windows 10. It earned high marks from independent security labs and includes useful extras like a scam detector, a social media privacy manager, and more.
One feature that I really like is the Online Account Manager. It scanned my email and found hundreds of old accounts I’d forgotten about and helped me shut them down. Also, McAfee is one of the few options that offers protection for unlimited devices, making it a great choice for families.
Ideal For:
Great for households or users with lots of devices to protect. If you want full-featured security and don’t want to worry about device limits, McAfee is a smart pick.
Pros | Cons |
Covers unlimited devices under one plan | Full scans are slow |
Includes scam text and social media privacy tools | Heavy scans can slow down older machines |
Helps find and remove old online accounts | VPN performance could be better |
Avast offers one of the most feature-rich antivirus plans out there. From real-time protection to handy tools like Wi-Fi Inspector and Data Shredder, it is packed with features. Even the free version covers most of what everyday users need.
A highlight of this top-rated antivirus is its Sandbox feature. It allows you to run suspicious files in a safe space so that nothing harmful reaches your system. It also includes a secure browser with built-in ad blocking and a VPN. However, full scans did slow down performance during our test.
Ideal For:
Users who want free protection without losing access to useful tools. It is also great for tech-savvy users who want more control over how their antivirus runs.
Pros | Cons |
Excellent free plan with solid coverage | Full scans can slow down performance |
Advanced tools like Sandbox and Wi-Fi Inspector | |
User-friendly despite having many features |
Avira is a solid choice for those who want customizable antivirus tools and a free plan to try things out. It performed well in threat detection tests and includes great tools like an ad blocker, price comparison helper, and system optimizer.
The ad blocker noticeably improved page load times, and the system tools help speed up older devices. Still, Avira uses a bit more system power than some others, which may affect performance. Also, mobile protection is limited and expensive.
Ideal For:
Perfect for those who love to tweak their settings and want extras like an ad blocker. It is also a good antivirus if you want to try before you buy.
Pros | Cons |
The built-in ad blocker speeds up browsing | Slows down app launch and system performance |
A free version is available to test features | Limited and costly mobile device support |
Customizable tools for a tailored experience |
Malwarebytes used to be the backup to your main antivirus. Now, the premium version offers full protection. It is one of the fastest and best virus scanners in 2025. The full scan only takes minutes and includes advanced tech like behavior-based detection and ransomware blocking.
In our hands-on test, Malwarebytes caught every malware sample we threw at it and even blocked scam and phishing websites. While it does not come with any extras, it excels at doing its core job.
Ideal For:
Best for people who want no extras and fast antivirus protection. It is also ideal if you have been frustrated by bulky promises and just want something that works.
Pros | Cons |
Extremely fast full scan | Fewer features compared to other suites |
Strong ransomware and phishing protection | Some recent test scores dipped slightly |
Flexible plans (buy only what you need) |
Surshark is not just a good antivirus; it is part of an all-in-one security suite. With Surfshark One, you get malware protection, a top-rated VPN, and tools that monitor your data for breaches.
In our testing, it blocked nearly all malware samples except one hidden in a compressed file. It also prevented access to unsafe websites. The tool works smoothly on Windows, macOS, and Android. However, iOS users are left out, as the antivirus is not available for iPhones and iPads.
Ideal For:
Users looking for complete online privacy and protection in one app, especially if you are already using or planning to use a VPN.
Pros | Cons |
Includes the best antivirus for PC, VPN, breach alerts, and more in one plan | No antivirus features on iOS devices |
Clean and easy-to-use app | Lacks a firewall and device optimization tools |
Malware protection and frequent updates |
Trend Micro is one of the best virus protection software programs, which keeps things affordable and offers useful additional tools. It offers a password manager and a reliable PC health checkup tool. The interface is simple and beginner-friendly, making it easy to run scans or manage settings.
Independent labs gave Trend Micro top marks for protection. However, in our tests, its performance was relatively lower than the others.
Ideal For:
Best for users who want basic antivirus protection with a clean interface and do not need deep features or extensive customizations.
Pros | Cons |
Easy-to-use and clean interface | Weak real-time and full scan malware detection |
Includes PC health checkup and password storage tools | Many features come with the costly plans only |
Budget-friendly starting plans | No built-in firewall or VPN on entry-level plans |
Webroot takes a different approach to antivirus. Instead of bulky software, it uses a lightweight cloud-based system that keeps your device running fast. It analyzes unknown threats in the cloud and protects your device in real time.
It performed exceptionally well in hands-on tests, especially against ransomware. Webroot can even undo system changes made by malicious files.
Despite its powerful core features, it lacks wide support from independent test labs. Also, some of its advanced tools require more technical know-how than most users have.
Ideal For:
Perfect for tech-savvy users who prefer a minimalist tool that does not slow their device down.
Pros | Cons |
Extremely lightweight and fast | Few lab test results for independent validation |
Can reverse ransomware damage and system changes | Advanced features may be too technical for most users |
Includes password manager and cloud-based protection |
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To help you choose the right antivirus, my team and 1 month thoroughly testing 30 top-rated antivirus solutions. Our goal was to find the ones that truly deliver on security, performance, and ease of use. Here’s how we did it:
This testing method helped us confidently pick the best virus protection software, so you can choose what fits your needs.
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Whether you are a casual browser, a business owner, or a parent, having a reliable antivirus is more of a necessity than a choice. Here’s why you should have one:
I short, antivirus is no longer just about stopping viruses; it is about staying safe online in every way.
Now that you have a list of the best antivirus software, it is time to pick one that fits your needs. Choosing an antivirus is not just about finding “the best.” Here’s what to consider before deciding:
I would advise you to take some time to evaluate your needs. This can save you money and help you avoid weak or bulky antivirus software that doesn’t deliver what you need.
Also Read: How to Check for Viruses on iPhone? (Complete Guide for 2025)
Installing antivirus software is a great first step. But to completely stay protected, you need to use it wisely. Here’s how to get the best out of your antivirus software:
As you know, cyber threats are evolving constantly. It is also important to keep up with basic cybersecurity news or alerts from your antivirus provider.
All the software mentioned in this article delivers solid security, though its features and ease of use vary. The best choice for you depends on different factors and your specific needs.
If you want my opinion, Bitdefender and Norton are two of the best antivirus software programs as of now. However, all 10 options offer solid security for your devices.
I hope this guide will help you decide on your antivirus software. If you like the information, please share it with your friends, colleagues, and family.
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Ans: The answer would be different for different users. However, Bitdefender, McAfee, and Norton are some of the top-rated software programs you can try to protect your device.
Ans: The US military uses a variety of software, including tools from Norton, McAfee, and other customized solutions. A free McAfee home-use program is also available for DOD personnel.
Ans: TotalAV, Norton, Avira, Bitdefender, and AVG iOS apps are some of the best antivirus apps you can install on your iPhone.
Ans: No, it is an essential line of defense, but it is not completely safe. There are so many malware programs being created daily. It is almost impossible for any software to protect from every new variant.
Ans: Yes, Microsoft Defender Antivirus is a built-in antivirus solution for Windows. It offers real-time protection against malware and other threats. However, it offers only basic protection when compared to other advanced solutions.
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