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Best Overall Protection
We tested many antivirus software programs to help you decide which is best for your online safety needs. Based on our research, Norton 360 offers the best overall protection and security against today’s advanced threats. Along with a variety of features, Norton 360 offers up to unlimited device coverage based on your plan.
We also found TotalAV to be an outstanding choice for quick scans, while Bitdefender offers a quality antivirus product for free. Avast works on a variety of mobile devices, while McAfee provides excellent performance with low impact on your device. We explore what we like and didn't like in this comprehensive antivirus review.
The goal of antivirus software is to detect and remove cyber threats quickly and efficiently. The best antivirus software program can protect you before you're likely aware of the danger that may have occurred. Today's malware threats include much more than just computer viruses, so the best programs offer real-time protection against ransomware, spyware, Trojans, worms, and more.
| Antivirus |  Best Overall
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| Star rating | |||||
| Starting price | $29.99/first yr | $29.00/first yr | $29.99/first yr | $35.88/first yr |
$35.99/first yr |
| Max number of devices | Unlimited | 8 | 10 | 30 | Unlimited |
| EICAR test results | 3/3 | 2/3 | 3/3 | 3/3 | 3/3 |
| Malware scans | Manual and scheduled | Manual and scheduled | Manual | Manual and scheduled | Manual and scheduled |
| Real-time protection | |||||
| 24/7 customer support | |||||
| Extras | Password manager, VPN, cloud backup, privacy monitor, identity theft protection, dark web monitoring | Zero-day scans, anti-phishing, ransomware protection, password manager, ad blocker | Identity and credit monitoring, secure VPN, ransomware protection, password manager, parental controls | VPN, tracking protection, breach monitoring, device optimization | Identity and credit monitoring, secure VPN, file shredder, parental controls |
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge | Windows, macOS, Chrome, Edge, Opera, Amazon Fire, Safari | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS | Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, ChromeOS, Edge, Firefox, Chrome, Safari |
| Learn more | Get Norton 360 Read Our Norton 360 Review |
Get TotalAV Read Our TotalAV Review |
Get Bitdefender Read Our Bitdefender Review |
Get Avast Read Our Avast Review |
Get McAfee Read Our McAfee Review |
We use our proprietary grading rubric in all of our testing, which considers ease-of-use, third-party testing scores, internal testing scores, price, compatibility, and features offered, among other metrics.
This means that our testing process is designed to ensure that the product isn't too confusing, protects as it claims, and offers you a lot for a reasonable price. We download and run each program on our own computers on home networks, just like you would. Our ratings reflect the real-world performance of the antivirus product. This ensures that we can recreate a similar experience for you and give our best advice on whether or not it's worthwhile.
To learn more about how we test, check out our full antivirus testing methodology here.
Tested protection against hackers, viruses, malware, and ransomware
Includes VPN, parental controls, and more
Backed by a 100% Virus Removal Guarantee
Norton is best for a variety of users who want extra features, as it offers antivirus, password management, a VPN, and identity theft protection with one of the highest identity theft insurance premiums available. Combining security products that cover a range of issues provides a well-rounded approach to security, but it can be annoying to juggle multiple products and dashboards.
Choosing Norton means you'll be choosing a fully-rounded product with all of the necessary security tools included in one convenient portal. Since Norton offers different tiers, you can customize your service to what works for you and your family.
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Variety: Norton 360 has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for protection for one or more devices, parental controls, identity theft insurance, and other online security features, Norton likely has software that will cover your needs. The bundled features included with even the most basic Norton 360 plans can provide rounded protection for the entire family.
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Experience: Norton has been around for a long time, so it really knows what it’s doing when it comes to security and protection. It consistently receives high scores in third-party evaluations, offers plenty of features, and has solutions for most of the problems you’ll encounter online.
Quality: Norton brings this experience and quality to its password manager with features like a complex password generator and biometric login options like Face ID. We like that we can trust Norton.
Price: Other Norton features, like a firewall, are available a la carte, which adds up quickly on top of Norton's already high prices. If you want to purchase Norton 360 + LifeLock for your entire family, you’ll see prices that are sometimes double those of its competitors.
| Norton 360 | |
| AV-TEST Windows score | 18/18 |
| AV-TEST macOS | 18/18 |
| AV-TEST Android score | 18/18 |
| AV-Comparatives malware protection score | 99.96% |
| SE Labs results | 100% |
| EICAR score | 3/3 |
| Learn more | Get Norton 360 Read Our Norton 360 Review |
Real-time protection from viruses, malware, and online threats
Blocks tracking cookies and ads, proactively monitors for data breaches, and option to schedule smart scans
100% compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS operating systems on up to 3 devices
TotalAV is an excellent option for individuals who want good antivirus protection and other security benefits that scan quickly and efficiently.
Along with being affordable and offering a selection of features, TotalAV can be a great computer security software for those needing a simple user interface. This product provides antivirus and other online security tools for non-technical and tech-savvy users.
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Useful features: TotalAV features include auto antivirus and malware scanning, real-time protection, ransomware protection, phishing protection, plus browser and disk cleanup to help your devices run more smoothly.
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Value: For a cost-effective option, TotalAV provides a well-rounded set of security solutions. Whether you casually surf online or work from home, the antivirus includes important features to ensure your activity and devices are always safe.
Security: It earned solid scores in third-party tests run by AV-TEST. It also had low slowdown speeds when launching popular websites and installing frequently used applications. Plus, TotalAV includes Total Adblock, which enhances web protection by blocking cookies, trackers, and unwanted ads.
Low device count: You can only use it on up to 8 devices, which could be challenging for larger households or anyone with lots of internet-connected devices. Most competitors offer more, especially if you purchase higher tiers of service. McAfee, for instance, offers unlimited devices on its highest tier.
| TotalAV | |
| AV-TEST Windows score | 18/18 |
| AV-TEST macOS | 17.5/18 |
| AV-TEST Android score | 17/18 |
| AV-Comparatives malware protection score | 99.98% |
| SE Labs results | 97% |
| EICAR score | 2/3 |
| Learn more | Get TotalAV Read Our TotalAV Review |
Super reliable antivirus software with a non-intrusive free version
Simple yet powerful interface tools
Perfect protection score in third-party tests
Bitdefender is a reliable choice for anyone who wants a full suite of security features for free. For instance, Bitdefender antivirus protects you on up to 10 devices and offers regular tips and tricks for how to stay safe online.
It also offers an extra layer of protection against ransomware by detecting it as soon as it enters your system. If a virus does manage to slip through Bitdefender’s defenses, the company has an award-winning tech support team that can help remedy it as quickly as possible.
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Ease of use: The Bitdefender dashboard is easy to use when you want to scan, detect, and eliminate security issues. Bitdefender antivirus also protects your devices as you browse the web, especially from phishing attempts, and offers a VPN plus parental controls for families.
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Value: While testing Bitdefender Total Security, we found it comes with a lot of protection features for the price. We liked that it offered robust malware, ransomware, and spyware protection. We're also fans of the antispam features and firewall available. A good security stack helps protect you from multiple angles, something Bitdefender has covered.
VPN functionality: During our testing, we discovered that the base VPN is a bit underwhelming, with a bandwidth limit of 200 megabytes per day. That limit makes it almost impossible to use the VPN to stream movies or TV shows from other regions, but it could do the trick if you need to secure your data while on a short trip. Otherwise, Bitdefender VPN is solid, so it's worth upgrading to the premium bandwidth.
Processing speeds: Additionally, Bitdefender takes longer to load than other antivirus programs we've tested. It also uses a lot of memory and central processing unit (CPU) power, which could slow down your computer or cell phone while running — even if it’s running in the background.
| Bitdefender | |
| AV-TEST Windows score | 18/18 |
| AV-TEST macOS | 18/18 |
| AV-TEST Android score | 18/18 |
| AV-Comparatives malware protection score | 99.98% |
| SE Labs results | 100% |
| EICAR score | 3/3 |
| Learn more | Get Bitdefender Read Our Bitdefender Review |
Perfect third-party test results, verifying comprehensive antivirus, ransomware, and malware protection
Includes advanced security features like a VPN, firewall, data breach alerts, privacy tools, device optimization, and more
Avast allows mobile users to protect their devices at home or on the go.
With a VPN, anti-tracking capabilities, and breach monitoring, protecting your highly susceptible mobile devices is essential, especially if you frequently connect to shared Wi-Fi networks. Avast also offers phishing and webcam protection. And, yes, the webcam protection can even cover your phone camera.
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Price: You can start with Avast for free, and its free program is robust. We were surprised at how many features, including a VPN, come with the free plan. It even includes a feature that protects the photo albums you have on your mobile devices. When you upgrade, however, you get even more security features like an email guardian that helps suss out malware from your inbox.
Identity theft protection: If you're looking for identity theft protection, Avast's Platinum tier provides it. From your mobile device, you can protect your social media profiles, report a lost wallet, or get an alert to change a compromised password. Since our lives are so mobile now, we appreciate all these features.
No parental controls: We were surprised that, with all the features, there weren't any parental controls. Taking your parental controls on the go with you is an excellent way for busy families to stay protected and confident in their children's safety.
Customer support: We noted that Avast's customer support, while 24/7, isn't the best we've ever seen. You may need to become a help center sleuth if you need immediate answers.
| Avast | |
| AV-TEST Windows score | 18/18 |
| AV-TEST macOS | 18/18 |
| AV-TEST Android score | 18/18 |
| AV-Comparatives malware protection score | 99.93% |
| SE Labs results | 100% |
| EICAR score | 3/3 |
| Learn more | Get Avast Read Our Avast Review |
Premium antivirus, scam, and web protection, plus a VPN, identity monitoring, and secure password manager
Added peace of mind with 24/7 expert online support and McAfee’s Virus Protection Pledge
Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and ChromeOS on up to 5 devices
McAfee is the best choice for anyone who wants a high-performing antivirus with a low impact on the rest of your computing performance. Phishing protection, parental controls, and a firewall are all powerful features that won't slow down your machine.
Considering McAfee is one of the oldest antivirus brands on the market, we feel confident that it knows what it's doing. That's why it can offer so many features and tools that run cleanly and without affecting the rest of your computer.
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Upgraded features: McAfee provides more than just antivirus protection. If you opt for McAfee+ plans, you get additional security items such as advanced firewall protection, a virtual private network, web protection, a password manager, and comprehensive identity theft protection.
Parental controls: McAfee+ identity theft protection also includes safety features for children, including the ability to monitor up to four child identities. Parents can use McAfee+ to request their child's data removal from broker sites and monitor for child identity theft.
Usability: McAfee's user interfaces are also easy to navigate, even if you’re not technically inclined. This antivirus provides a lot of security—both visible and invisible.
Price: To receive the best security options, there’s a high upfront cost for the McAfee+ Ultimate product — it costs $62.99/first yr but covers unlimited devices. A caveat: the cost nearly doubles after the first year.
Lackluster Mac features: In our testing of the McAfee software, we found that the features for macOS users paled in comparison to what's offered to Windows users. It's a misconception that Macs can't get viruses, and a long-time antivirus like McAfee should know how to handle both equally.
| McAfee | |
| AV-TEST Windows score | 18/18 |
| AV-TEST macOS | N/A |
| AV-TEST Android score | 17/18 |
| AV-Comparatives malware protection score | 99.94% |
| SE Labs results | 100% |
| EICAR score | 3/3 |
| Learn more | Get McAfee Read Our McAfee Review |
Choosing the best antivirus software can be confusing. You’ll want to consider pricing, performance, and user experience as you make your choice.
Trusted sites like AV-TEST, AV-Comparatives, and SE Labs will test software in real-world scenarios and post-test scores for ease of use, false positives, and functionality. If a notable antivirus program hasn't submitted itself for third-party testing, that may be cause for concern, and you should consider other options.
After testing dozens of antivirus products, we found Norton to be the best antivirus software, thanks to its number of devices, extensive features, and excellent protection scores.
Most U.S. government agencies often sign long-standing vendor contracts with a multitude of security providers. As recently as 2020, it was released that both the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) signed a contract with McAfee to provide antivirus for their teleworking and on-site employees. This is subject to change, and we'll keep you updated if it does.
McAfee and Norton are two popular antivirus security options. However, with our testing results of antivirus software, we found that Norton had a slight advantage over McAfee.
Microsoft Defender Antivirus (the contemporary iteration of Windows Defender) has become more sophisticated and advanced over the years. For the most optimal Microsoft Windows and device security, an antivirus and anti-malware software such as Bitdefender is the best option for enhanced security.
Plus, if you still use Windows 10, your old Windows Defender won't cut it in the long term. Microsoft plans to end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, so you will definitely need additional antivirus protection.
Yes, macOS and iOS can become infected with malware and viruses. Most devices can be infected with malicious software programs. We recommend using security software on all devices to ensure the best protection possible. Since macOS has a smaller market share and relies on Apple devs for updates, it's not always easy to find a good antivirus solution for Macs, but we recommend Avast for ease of use.
You may wonder why the large antivirus company Kaspersky isn’t on our alternatives list. The company has faced harsh criticism recently due to poor data privacy practices and intelligence spying on users in other countries. Additionally, the FCC blacklisted Kaspersky due to ties to Russia and potential threats to U.S. national security. With those concerns considered, we can’t confidently recommend Kaspersky as an antivirus solution at this time.
After testing and researching these five antivirus software choices, we recommend using Norton as the best overall for device protection.
For anyone wanting fast scans and advanced ad blocking, TotalAV delivers. Bitdefender has a robust free tier for budget-conscious privacy aficionados. Avast covers your mobile devices with a variety of features, including camera protection. Finally, McAfee offers high performance with low impact, so you don't need to choose between performance and security.
Whether you want budget-friendly or specific security features, it's ultimately up to you to decide which antivirus would work best for you. Regardless of your final choice, keep your antivirus current with any new security patches. Regularly updating your devices and security software is a crucial step in safeguarding against new and emerging threats.
| Antivirus | Price range | Best for | Learn more |
|
$29.99–$299.99/first yr | Best overall antivirus suite | Get Norton 360
Read Norton 360 Review |
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$29.00–$49.00/yr (first year only) | Best for fast scans | Get TotalAV
Read TotalAV Review |
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Free or $24.99–$49.99/first yr | Best free antivirus | Get Bitdefender Read Bitdefender Review |
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$35.88-$119.88/yr (first year only) | Best for mobile security | Get Avast
Read Avast Review |
|
$29.99–$249.99/yr | Best for performance and low-impact | Get McAfee
Read McAfee Review |
Real-time protection from viruses, malware, and online threats
Blocks tracking cookies and ads, proactively monitors for data breaches, and option to schedule smart scans
100% compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS operating systems on up to 3 devices
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