Editor's Choice Antivirus Awards: Here Are the Best Antivirus Software of 2025

Gone are the days of merely choosing an antivirus program that only prevents pop-ups or deletes the occasional sketchy file. Today’s top antivirus tools are full-fledged security suites, capable of stopping ransomware, safeguarding personal data, securing passwords, and even monitoring your credit — but not all protection is created equal.

Our 2025 Editor’s Choice Antivirus Awards leverages our recurring in-house testing, certified third-party testing, and real-world use to compare the best antivirus programs we’ve reviewed. While these top 9 aren’t the only ones we like, our picks stand out from the dozens of antivirus software we’ve tested for their proven performance, price points, and perks. Here are the best antivirus programs of 2025.

The best antivirus of 2025

Norton 360: Best overall

What we liked

Reliably good performance: Norton continues to stand out in both third-party and in-house testing. Its malware detection is consistent across operating systems, and it’s one of the few antivirus apps that maintains excellent protection without draining device resources. During mobile and desktop evaluations, scans were quick without impacting background activity. Performance stays steady, even with tools like password management and a VPN running.

Best-in-class coverage: Norton includes one of the most complete security packages at the base level. Genie Scam Protection flags text scams, social media fraud, and phishing attempts in real time. Norton Password Manager is free across all plans, and higher tiers unlock dark web monitoring, parental controls, and Norton Secure VPN, all from the same dashboard. These features are built into each plan, making Norton one of the few antivirus platforms where “all-in-one” actually holds true.

Genie Scam Protection: This AI-powered tool analyzes links in emails, texts, and social media messages to detect scams before you interact with them. Genie learns from thousands of new threats every day and delivers instant risk assessments in plain language. It doesn’t matter whether you’re tech-savvy or not, because it turns phishing detection into something you don’t have to think twice about.

Also won:

• Best antivirus for families: Norton Family lets parents maintain control over web access, search terms, screen time, and app usage. Unlike other parental control tools, it works across devices and provides easy-to-understand reporting. Its integration with Norton’s broader suite makes it especially convenient for busy families.
  
• Best antivirus with password protection: Norton Password Manager syncs securely across browsers and devices, offering autofill, vault analysis, and even a password generator. It’s a great addition to antivirus protection for anyone not already using a standalone password manager, and unlike competitors, it’s not a paid add-on.

What we didn’t like

Unlimited devices on top plan only: While Norton supports multiple devices, true unlimited coverage is reserved for its most expensive plan: Norton 360 with LifeLock Select Plus. McAfee offers unlimited devices across all tiers, giving it a clear advantage for larger households or users managing several systems. Norton’s approach here feels unnecessarily restrictive, especially considering the cost of upgrading.

Mobile apps have limitations: Norton Mobile Security does a decent job with phishing and app privacy alerts, but it doesn’t stop malicious file downloads in real time. That means Android users, in particular, will need to be extra cautious with third-party apps and APKs, as Norton may only flag the threat after it has already been downloaded.

Aura Antivirus: Best for identity theft protection

What we liked

Robust identity protection: Aura stands out by embedding antivirus into a broader identity security suite. Beyond detecting and removing malware, it also provides credit monitoring, fraud alerts, account breach scans, and tools for automatic data broker removal requests. While Aura doesn’t offer a firewall or webcam protection, it emphasizes preventing long-term identity fraud with credit monitoring.

Complete security suite: In addition to robust identity theft protection, Aura Antivirus includes all the essential antivirus security features, including real-time protection (on Windows), ransomware scanning, a built-in VPN, safe browsing, password management, and anti-tracking capabilities via browser extensions. While none of these features are individually best in class, they’re impressively well integrated. Antivirus scans are fast, and the interface is easy to navigate.

Ease of use: With its simple dashboard, email alerts, and intuitive family sharing options, Aura is one of the easiest tools to install and forget about. It even sends weekly summaries of detected threats or changes in protection settings, making it ideal for users who prefer a set-it-and-forget-it approach. Real-time protection actively quarantines threats during testing, and weekly summaries keep users informed without requiring constant oversight.

Also won:

• Best for credit monitoring: Aura’s integration with credit bureaus and alerting systems is among the best in class. You can monitor financial accounts, receive fraud alerts, and lock or unlock your credit file all from the same interface, making it a unique hybrid of antivirus and identity theft protection.

What we didn’t like

No third-party testing: Aura hasn’t submitted to AV-TEST, AV-Comparatives, or SE Labs, which makes its performance harder to benchmark. It passed our in-house EICAR test, which tests for malware and phishing capabilities, but the lack of third-party transparency may be a red flag for some shoppers.

False positives during testing: Certified third-party security labs test antivirus software for false positives, or flagged files or apps that aren’t actually malware. During our hands-on testing, we observed Aura incorrectly flagging our Steam download as a Trojan. While we appreciate the real-time protection, we don’t love that Aura can be overzealous.

TotalAV: Best for web protection

What we liked

Outstanding real-time protection: TotalAV consistently blocks threats before they reach your device, thanks to real-time cloud analysis and signature-based detection. It performs well across various operating systems and effectively detects phishing attempts, cryptojacking malware, and browser-based threats in testing.

Total Adblock: More than just an ad blocker, Total Adblock prevents malicious scripts, trackers, and pop-up scams from ever loading. It reduces browser load times and decreases your exposure to clickbait threats, especially helpful on slower or older devices. Like Surfshark CleanWeb, it’s one of the most adaptable ad blockers for blocking YouTube video ads.

Total Browser extension: Built with security in mind, this extension filters out malicious websites and enforces secure HTTPS connections where possible. WebShield, available for Chrome, adds an extra layer of protection by blocking suspicious downloads and providing real-time warnings for high-risk URLs.

Also won:

• Best ad blocker bundle: TotalAV’s security suite comes with Total Adblock, offering more control over online privacy than most AV competitors. The ad blocking integration is seamless and doesn’t require any technical configuration; simply install and browse safely.
  
• Best performance optimization tools: With features like junk file removal, startup manager, and application uninstaller, TotalAV is great for maintaining system speed. These tools are useful out of the box and offer real value beyond just virus protection.

What we didn’t like

Lacks a dedicated firewall: While TotalAV covers most bases, it doesn’t include a full firewall tool. That limits its ability to monitor or block incoming connections at the network level. It’s not a dealbreaker, but worth noting if you’re particularly concerned about network-level threats.

Surfshark Antivirus: Best value

What we liked

Affordability: Surfshark One subscriptions provide a comprehensive security suite with a straightforward pricing model that competes with most standalone antivirus tools. You know exactly what you're paying for and what you're getting. Even better, it has no hidden renewal increases or confusing device caps. It’s a compelling budget choice for anyone looking to cover all their devices with one subscription.

Bundled security suite: With the Surfshark One bundle, you get antivirus protection, a VPN, ad blocking, breach alerts, and even email aliasing tools. Although Surfshark Antivirus is relatively new to the scene, Surfshark bundles tools that are typically spread across multiple services, like Surfshark CleanWeb and Incogni. It’s particularly helpful for users concerned about data exposure and tracking.

Third-party Windows testing: While some new antivirus tools skip independent testing, Surfshark submitted to AV-TEST evaluations and received top marks in malware protection and usability. That kind of transparency builds confidence, especially for a product that began as a VPN.

Also won:

• Best VPN bundle: Surfshark Antivirus comes packaged with one of the best-reviewed VPNs on the market: Surfshark VPN. This antivirus and VPN combination provides encrypted traffic protection, tracker blocking, and safe browsing all in one suite, making it especially useful for public Wi-Fi users and remote workers.
  
• Best for gaming: With no bloatware and a light system footprint, Surfshark is an excellent pick for gamers. Real-time protection doesn’t interfere with performance, and built-in CleanWeb blocks malicious ads and trackers that can slow down in-game traffic.

What we didn’t like

No standalone antivirus: Surfshark doesn’t sell its antivirus tool separately. To get AV protection, you must subscribe to the full Surfshark One package, which includes VPN and other identity and web protection tools. It’s a valuable security bundle, but users seeking a basic antivirus-only tool may find the additional features unnecessary.

Avast: Best for Mac

What we liked

Excellent macOS performance: Avast delivers consistent, high-quality protection on macOS, which is notable given how many antivirus tools fall short outside of Windows. It performed reliably in malware detection and real-time defense, catching phishing attempts and ransomware variants without creating friction on the system. If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, this is one of the few antivirus tools that feels truly native.

Ease of use: From installation to day-to-day scanning, Avast maintains an intuitive user experience. Its interface on macOS mirrors the clean layout of its Windows version, making it easy to toggle features, check scan histories, and set preferences.

Includes a firewall for macOS: While many antivirus tools skip advanced features on Mac, Avast One — in its Avast Gold plans and up, with a macOS Silver plan in the works — includes a fully functional firewall that helps monitor incoming and outgoing traffic. It flags suspicious connections without requiring manual configuration. This is especially valuable for Mac users who want PC-level protection without third-party tools.

Also won:

• Best antivirus for beginners: Avast’s strength is in its approachability. Every feature is clearly labeled, the UI is clean, and there’s virtually no learning curve. For users new to antivirus or uncomfortable with overly technical tools, it’s an excellent starting point.

What we didn’t like

Doesn’t offer a complete security suite: Avast’s plans are missing a few key features you’ll find elsewhere, such as a password manager, parental controls, and identity monitoring. If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution, Avast might leave you needing to patch together extra tools.

Bitdefender: Best for scam and phishing protection

What we liked

Comprehensive scam protection: Bitdefender takes phishing defense seriously, with multiple layers of protection that go far beyond simple email filters. It scans web traffic in real time, analyzes app behavior for malicious intent, and utilizes AI to detect scam patterns in messages and websites. The system proactively blocks risky connections before you click, not after.

Scam Copilot: This feature acts like a personal assistant for identifying fraud. When suspicious texts or messages come through, Scam Copilot breaks down what’s dangerous about the content and explains how to stay safe. It's especially helpful for less technical users, offering guidance without fearmongering.

Reliably good performance: Bitdefender isn’t just about security, it’s fast, too. It runs quietly in the background and handles everything from full-disk scans to vulnerability assessments with minimal impact on system performance. Its Advanced Threat Defense system watches for behavioral anomalies, flagging threats before they execute, which adds a second layer of real-time protection.

Also won:

• Best antivirus for Windows: Bitdefender’s dashboard is well integrated with the Windows security ecosystem. Features like webcam protection, secure online banking, and zero-day exploit shielding make it a top-tier option for Windows users seeking more comprehensive protection beyond basic antivirus.

What we didn’t like

Not designed for macOS: Bitdefender’s full power is reserved for Windows. While it technically runs on macOS, many of its most useful features, such as Scam Copilot and firewall customization, are either missing or limited. That makes it a better pick for PC users than Apple households.

AVG: Best for performance and speed

What we liked

Performance: AVG consistently ranks near the top in independent performance benchmarks, offering one of the lightest antivirus experiences available. It doesn’t slow down boot times or drain background resources, even during full system scans. It’s particularly well-suited for users who run intensive applications (such as games or editing software) and can’t afford interruptions.

Lightweight protection: AVG ranks just behind McAfee in AV-Comparatives’ performance score, but in hands-on use, AVG outperformed it. It ran cleaner and quieter, scans finished faster, resource spikes were barely noticeable, and the interface didn’t feel bloated. Unlike tools that interrupt you with constant prompts or lag during multitasking, AVG maintained full real-time protection without pulling focus. That balance between high test scores and actual ease of use is what sets it apart during daily use.

Fast scans: AVG offers a variety of scan types, not just quick or full scans. Custom scans and folder targeting add flexibility. During testing, its full scan clocked in noticeably faster than comparable tools while still catching hidden threats.

Also won:

• Best antivirus for mobile: AVG Mobile Security provides call blocking, photo vault protection, and real-time scanning for both Android and iOS devices. Its mobile VPN and anti-theft tools make it one of the more complete mobile antivirus apps, all without overwhelming users with its settings.

What we didn’t like

Annoying upgrade ads: Even on paid plans, AVG pushes “upgrade” suggestions for optimization features like junk file removal and driver updating, some of which are not part of your current subscription. They aren’t third-party ads, but the experience still feels cluttered for users who just want clean, ad-free software.

McAfee: Best for unlimited devices

What we liked

Unlimited device protection: McAfee is the only major antivirus provider that offers unlimited device coverage across all premium plans. That’s a game-changer for households with multiple phones, tablets, laptops, and desktops. It also reduces the confusion that comes with selecting device-specific subscriptions; one plan covers everything.

Lightweight Windows protection: Despite its extensive features, McAfee doesn’t tax system resources, even with its built-in firewall. It earned top marks for performance in Windows environments, running seamlessly behind the scenes. Whether scanning large files or installing updates, the experience is smooth.

McAfee WebAdvisor: This browser extension works across Chrome, Edge, and Firefox to block phishing attempts and risky websites. It also provides safety ratings in your search results and alerts for potentially suspicious downloads. The integration is seamless, providing real-time alerts without disrupting your workflow.

Also won:

• Best ransomware protection: All McAfee plans include ransomware rollback capabilities and up to $25,000 in coverage for ransomware attacks. Combined with real-time cloud analysis and local file monitoring, it’s one of the most protective tools for business users or frequent downloaders.

What we didn’t like

Doesn’t include optimization tools: McAfee sells a separate PC Optimizer app that’s not part of its antivirus suite. That means system cleanup features, such as junk file removal and driver updates, aren’t included in the base package, a disappointment when compared to other products.

ESET: Best for advanced users

What we liked

Advanced protection: ESET blocks standard malware, but it also specializes in defending against complex attacks, such as fileless malware and zero-day exploits. Its behavioral monitoring engine is built for professionals, identifying irregular activity before it becomes a breach.

Advanced features: ESET includes features rarely found in consumer antivirus software, like encrypted banking environments, network traffic analysis, and smart home protection. These tools provide security across connected devices and routers, especially useful for users with advanced home setups.

Enterprise-grade security: With support for ESET Inspect (XDR), full disk encryption, and multi-factor authentication, ESET is uniquely positioned to serve remote workers or small businesses. Few AV tools bridge the consumer-enterprise gap like ESET.

Also won:

• Best for remote workers and home businesses: ESET’s mix of remote access protection, advanced reporting, and managed detection options makes it ideal for users running a business from home. The ESET small business plans scale well, and the focus on privacy and encryption stands out.

What we didn’t like

Intimidating for beginners: The interface isn’t always intuitive, and the terminology can be confusing for non-technical users. Settings like “HIPS rule evaluation” or “Detection engine exclusions” require a deeper understanding of cybersecurity principles.

Antivirus test results

Our independent testing, combined with certified third-party testing, enables us to assess the performance of antivirus software across various operating systems. 

• We use EICAR, a personal testing site that simulates viruses, malware, and other threats, to evaluate the effectiveness of each antivirus program. EICAR specifically looks at the software's ability to detect malware, drive-by malware downloads, and phishing pages.
• AV-TEST is a certified, third-party testing organization that evaluates antivirus software for protection, performance, and usability. 
• AV-Comparatives is another certified cybersecurity testing organization that evaluates antivirus software for real-world protection, malware protection, and performance impact on the operating system.
• SE Labs is a security testing organization that focuses on home anti-malware protection. 

EICAR test results	3/3	2/3	3/3	2/3	3/3	3/3	3/3	3/3	2/3
AV-Test results Windows	18/18	N/A	18/18	17.5/18	18/18	18/18	18/18	18/18	18/18
AV-Test results macOS	18/18	N/A	17/18	N/A	18/18	18/18	18/18	N/A	18/18
AV-Test results Android	18/18	N/A	18/18	N/A	18/18	18/18	18/18	17/18	18/18
AV-Comparatives Windows Malware protection	99.96%	N/A	99.98%	N/A	99.96%	99.97%	99.96%	99.95%	99.95%
SE Labs Home Anti-Malware Protection	100%	N/A	97%	N/A	100%	100%	99%	100%	100%
Learn more	Get Norton 360 Read our Norton 360 review	Get Aura Antivirus Read our Aura Antivirus review	Get TotalAV Read our TotalAV review	Get Surfshark Antivirus Read our Surfshark Antivirus review	Get Avast Read our Avast review	Get Bitdefender Read our Bitdefender review	Get AVG Read our AVG review	Get McAfee Read our McAfee review	Get ESET Read our ESET review

Antivirus scan speeds compared

Quick scan	1 min, 45 secs	24 secs	1 min, 10 secs	8 secs	50 secs	2 mins, 4 secs	25 secs	1 min, 43 secs	No quick scan
Full scan	6 mins, 12 secs	26 mins, 13 secs	23 mins	6 mins	19 mins, 47 secs	22 mins and 47 secs	6 mins, 40 secs	28 mins	10 mins, 47 secs
Learn more	Get Norton 360 Read our Norton 360 review	Get Aura Antivirus Read our Aura Antivirus review	Get TotalAV Read our TotalAV review	Get Surfshark Antivirus Read our Surfshark Antivirus review	Get Avast Read our Avast review	Get Bitdefender Read our Bitdefender review	Get AVG Read our AVG review	Get McAfee Read our McAfee review	Get ESET Read our ESET review

Compare the best antivirus software of 2025

Star rating	5.0 AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	4.5 AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	4.7 AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	4.7 AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	5.0 AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	5.0 AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	4.8 AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	4.7 AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.	4.6 AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.
Price overview	$29.99–$299.99/first yr	$36.00-$60.00/first yr	$19.00–$49.00/yr	$2.49–$20.65/mo	$35.88-$119.88/yr (first year only)	$24.99–$49.99/first yr	$24.96–$59.99/first yr	$29.99–$249.99/yr	$49.99–$204.99/first yr
Max # devices	Unlimited	10	8	5	30	10	10	Unlimited	10
Compatibility	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Windows, macOS, Android	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Edge, Opera	Windows, macOS, Android	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Windows, macOS, Android
Extras	VPN, password manager, cloud backup, privacy monitor, identity theft protection, dark web monitoring	VPN, password manager, safe browsing, ad and tracker blocker, sensitive files vault, identity protection, financial fraud protection	VPN, password manager, cloud backup, privacy monitor, identity theft protection, dark web monitoring	VPN, ad blocker, identity theft protection, data removal	VPN, tracking protection, breach monitoring, device optimization	VPN, password manager, parental controls, identity and credit monitoring, secure ransomware protection	Sensitive Data Shield, Webcam protection, AntiTrack, Wi-Fi scanner	VPN, parental controls, identity and credit monitoring, secure file shredder	VPN, password manager, secure data encryption, identity theft protection
24/7 customer support					Yes, with paid subscriptions		Only with added expert care
Learn more	Get Norton 360 Read our Norton 360 review	Get Aura Antivirus Read our Aura Antivirus review	Get TotalAV Read our TotalAV review	Get Surfshark Antivirus Read our Surfshark Antivirus review	Get Avast Read our Avast review	Get Bitdefender Read our Bitdefender review	Get AVG Read our AVG review	Get McAfee Read our McAfee review	Get ESET Read our ESET review

How to choose the best antivirus

Choosing the best antivirus software can be a daunting task. When making your choice, consider pricing, performance, and user experience.

• Pricing: Antivirus software comes at a wide range of prices, which can be overwhelming during comparison searches. When determining which antivirus plan to purchase, consider factors such as whether you need an individual plan or a family plan, the number of devices you plan to cover, and whether you are looking for a basic antivirus solution or a comprehensive cybersecurity suite. Many antivirus programs offer free trials or money-back guarantees, allowing users to try a product before committing to a subscription.
• Performance: Although an antivirus program may claim to block all types of malware threats, you can't be certain unless it's put to the test. Antivirus programs should undergo independent testing by certified labs to confirm how well the software works from an unbiased perspective.

  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.

• User experience: An antivirus program is not typically one-size-fits-all. Some have comprehensive products for Windows but lack many features for macOS. Some have user interfaces that are more suitable for the tech-savvy, while others provide extensive guidance for antivirus beginners. You can also consult antivirus reviews, which often include user experience notes such as the duration of scans, any slowdowns during scanning, and the ease of use of the software.

FAQs

Bottom line

Antivirus software has evolved from reactive scanners into full-fledged digital security platforms. For most households, Norton 360 offers the most comprehensive protection against emerging online threats, hackers, and scams. The best pick depends on what you need: all-around protection, phishing defense, family safety, or value bundles.

But if you’re focused on speed, mobile defense, or advanced configuration, one of the other top recommended antivirus software programs may be your perfect match.