The 5 Best Antivirus for Laptops (2023 Update)

Summary

Norton has the best device, privacy, and identity protection. It has all the security features you need and a great price too.

• Malware protection: 100%. Norton averaged 6 out of 6 in the last 10 protection tests. It is excellent at detecting and removing malware.
• Speed impact: 100%. Norton averaged 6 out of 6 in the last 10 performance tests. It does not slow down your PC.
• Features: 100%. Norton offers anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, unlimited VPN, password manager, parental controls, and more.
• Price: 95%. Norton offers better value for money than all competitors, except for Kaspersky, which is slightly cheaper.

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Summary

Bitdefender offers excellent protection and bonus features. However, it’s pricey if you want the VPN and password manager.

• Malware protection: 95%. Bitdefender averaged 5.95 out of 6 in the last 10 protection tests. It is excellent at removing malware.
• Speed impact: 100%. Bitdefender averaged 6 out of 6 in the last 10 performance tests. It does not slow down your PC.
• Features: 95%. It offers anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, parental controls, and more. But the VPN and password manager cost extra.
• Price: 75%. If you only want the antivirus, Bitdefender offers great value. But if you want all features, Norton offers a better deal.

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Summary

McAfee offers excellent device, privacy, and identity protection. However, some features are only available in the USA.

• Malware protection: 100%. McAfee averaged 6 out of 6 in the last 10 protection tests. It is excellent at detecting and removing malware.
• Speed impact: 85%. McAfee averaged 5.85 out of 6 in the last 10 performance tests. So it has a minimal impact on your PC’s speed.
• Features: 100%. McAfee offers anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, unlimited VPN, password manager, parental controls, and more.
• Price: 95%. McAfee offers better value for money than most competitors, except Kaspersky, which is slightly cheaper.

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Summary

Panda offers excellent protection and has flexible pricing. However, it’s expensive if you want the unlimited VPN.

• Malware protection: 99%. Panda averaged 99.9% in the malware protection tests. It is excellent at detecting and removing malware.
• Speed impact: 99%. Panda averaged 99% in the performance tests. So it has almost no impact on your PC’s speed.
• Features: 100%. Panda offers anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, unlimited VPN, password manager, parental controls, and more.
• Price: 75%. Panda offers the most flexible pricing of all brands. But, if you want all the security features, Norton is more affordable.

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Summary

Kaspersky has excellent protection at a low price. But the war in Ukraine raises concerns about its ties to the Russian government.

• Malware protection: 100%. Kaspersky averaged 6 out of 6 in the last 10 protection tests. It is excellent at removing malware.
• Speed impact: 100%. Kasperksy averaged 6 out of 6 in the last 10 performance tests. So it does not slow down your PC.
• Features: 100%. Kaspersky has anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, unlimited VPN, password manager, parental controls, and more.
• Price: 100%. Kaspersky Plus is the most affordable way to protect a Windows PC with all essential features, including an unlimited VPN.

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Antivirus software buying guide

Below we cover a range of topics:

• What is antivirus software?
• How does antivirus software work?
• Does a laptop need antivirus software?
• How do we test antivirus software?
• How to choose the best antivirus software?
• What cyber threats can antivirus protect you from?
• What cyber threats can antivirus not protect you from?
• What antivirus software have we tested?

Clicks the links to be taken to the one of your choice:

What is antivirus software?

Antivirus software is a specialized program designed to safeguard your digital devices—be it your laptop, smartphone, or tablet—against a multitude of cyber threats. This includes, but is not limited to, viruses, malware, spyware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.

An effective antivirus software does more than just detect and remove malicious software. It provides real-time protection, scanning all data—web pages, files, software, applications—accessed by the user. It actively blocks suspicious activities and warns the user about potentially unsafe actions, thereby creating a secure barrier against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.

For more, read our blog post on what antivirus software is.

How does antivirus software work?

Antivirus software operates on a multi-layered approach to detect, thwart, and eradicate threats. It combines traditional methods, like signature-based detection, with modern techniques, such as heuristic and behavior-based analysis, to provide comprehensive protection.

Signature-based detection

This is the most traditional and longest-standing method employed by antivirus software. Each piece of malware has a unique identifier or “signature.” These signatures are cataloged in a vast database, constantly updated and maintained by the antivirus company.

During a scan, the antivirus software cross-references the files on your device against this database. If it finds a match—signifying the presence of a known threat—it alerts the user and takes predefined action, which can include quarantining or deleting the threat.

Heuristic analysis

While signature-based detection is excellent for identifying known threats, heuristic analysis steps in to handle unknown or emerging malware.

Heuristics involves a set of rules used to make educated guesses about the potential threat of a file or a program. In essence, instead of looking for a known malware signature, the software analyses the file or program’s behavior and structure to predict whether it’s likely to be malicious.

Heuristic analysis enables the antivirus software to detect previously unidentified malware or new variants of existing malware, thereby providing an additional layer of protection against ever-evolving cyber threats.

Behavior-based detection

Behavior-based detection, also known as behavioral monitoring, is another proactive approach used by modern antivirus programs. Instead of focusing on the file itself, it monitors the behavior of programs and applications in real time.

If a program or an application begins to act suspiciously—for instance, attempting to modify system files, or transmitting data to an unrecognized location—the antivirus software flags it as potentially harmful. The user is then alerted, and the program or application can be stopped before causing any significant damage.

Together, these methodologies allow antivirus software to provide robust, all-round protection against both known and emerging threats.

For more, read our blog post on how antivirus software works.

Does a laptop need antivirus software?

A laptop is a compact, portable computer, designed for mobility and convenience. It combines the hardware components of a desktop computer—like a processor, hard drive, RAM, and a screen—into a single, easy-to-carry unit. While laptops can run various operating systems (OS), the majority are powered by Microsoft’s Windows, Apple’s MacOS, or Linux.

Windows, especially, has been the most widely adopted OS for laptops, primarily due to its flexibility, ease-of-use, and compatibility with a plethora of software. However, its popularity also makes it a prime target for cybercriminals and malware authors.

Microsoft has made significant strides in improving the built-in security features of Windows over the years. However, built-in security isn’t always enough to protect against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. Let’s explore the security features and potential risks of Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11:

Windows 8 was a considerable departure from previous versions, with Microsoft introducing numerous security enhancements. The Windows Defender antivirus program provided built-in protection against malware and spyware. Meanwhile, the SmartScreen filter helped block malicious websites, and the Windows Update feature ensured that the system stayed up-to-date with the latest patches. Yet, these features were not impervious. Many cyber threats could bypass Windows Defender, and phishing attacks could still trick users into revealing sensitive information, despite SmartScreen’s protections.

Windows 10 built upon the security foundations of Windows 8. It retained Windows Defender (later renamed to Windows Defender Antivirus) and enhanced it with features like cloud-delivered protection for real-time threat detection. Windows 10 also introduced Windows Hello for passwordless sign-ins, and BitLocker for drive encryption. Despite these improvements, Windows 10 could still fall victim to zero-day exploits, ransomware, and other sophisticated attacks, as Windows Defender Antivirus could not always keep pace with rapidly evolving threats.

With Windows 11, Microsoft further bolstered the OS’s security. Features like hardware-based isolation, encryption, and secure boot were made mandatory for all systems. Microsoft Defender (the successor to Windows Defender Antivirus) was also upgraded to provide better protection. Nevertheless, even with these advancements, Windows 11 is not invincible. Malware can still slip through, especially through social engineering techniques that trick users into bypassing protections.

This is where third-party antivirus software becomes crucial. It plugs the gaps left by built-in security measures. Antivirus software provides enhanced protection with features like real-time scanning, firewall, anti-phishing, ransomware protection, and more. It often employs advanced detection methods—like heuristic and behavior-based analysis—to identify emerging threats that might evade built-in defenses.

In conclusion, while Windows has robust built-in security features, they may not be sufficient to protect against the vast and constantly changing landscape of cyber threats. Therefore, for comprehensive protection, especially on a Windows-powered laptop, it is advisable to complement built-in defenses with a robust antivirus solution.

For more, read our blog post on whether Windows 11 needs antivirus.

How do we test antivirus software?

In order to provide our readers with an unbiased and comprehensive assessment, we put antivirus software through a rigorous testing process. Our review methodology evaluates antivirus software on six different parameters, each with a specific weightage contributing to the final score:

• Anti-malware protection (30%)
• Security and privacy features (30%)
• Speed impact (10%)
• False positives (10%)
• Price (10%)
• Ownership and reputation (10%)

These elements are carefully examined to ascertain the overall performance, cost-effectiveness, and reliability of the software.

Anti-malware protection (30%)

A vital aspect of any antivirus software is its ability to offer robust anti-malware protection. We assign this parameter the highest weightage, reflecting its importance. To evaluate this, we perform two types of tests: in-house testing and analysis of AV-Test results.

In-house testing

Our in-house testing process is both extensive and meticulous. We expose our test PC to hundreds of malware samples through a USB stick and observe how effectively the software can detect and neutralize them. We believe this method offers a real-world perspective, closely mimicking how a typical user might encounter malware.

In a separate round of testing, we replicate various malware attacks. This includes executing malware files and launching ransomware attacks to assess the software’s real-time protection capabilities. The objective is to see if the antivirus software can actively intercept and stop these threats before they infiltrate the system or cause any damage.

AV-Test Results

In addition to our own testing, we incorporate the findings of AV-Test, a highly respected independent security institute. We scrutinize their protection test results for Windows, Mac, and Android platforms to gauge how well the antivirus software performs against a wide array of known and emerging malware.

AV-Test conducts exhaustive testing with thousands of malware samples, including zero-day threats, providing a comprehensive view of the software’s defensive capabilities. The inclusion of their findings helps ensure our reviews are thorough and reliable.

This two-pronged approach to testing anti-malware protection enables us to provide a well-rounded evaluation, factoring in both real-world use and standardized testing results.

Security and privacy features (30%)

Security and privacy features form a core part of our evaluation process, carrying equal weight as anti-malware protection. These features provide an added layer of security beyond basic virus protection, making antivirus software more comprehensive and user-friendly. Let’s delve into each of these features:

Web protection (anti-phishing)

Web protection or anti-phishing features shield the user from malicious websites and phishing attacks, where cybercriminals try to trick users into revealing sensitive information like login credentials or financial details. We assess this feature by attempting to visit known malicious websites and examining whether the software blocks access effectively.

Firewall

A firewall serves as a protective barrier between your device and the internet, monitoring incoming and outgoing traffic to prevent unauthorized access. To evaluate this, we simulate attacks aimed at exploiting common network vulnerabilities and observe the firewall’s effectiveness at blocking these attempts.

Password manager

A password manager securely stores all user passwords in an encrypted format, making it easier to manage multiple complex passwords while enhancing security. We evaluate the software’s password manager by assessing its user-friendliness, the strength of its encryption, and features such as auto-fill and password generation.

Virtual private network (VPN)

A VPN helps maintain user privacy by encrypting internet connections and masking the user’s IP address, making online activities more difficult to track. We test this feature by checking the encryption strength, speed impact, server locations, and data usage restrictions, if any.

Parental controls

Parental control features allow adults to manage and monitor their children’s online activities, promoting safer internet use. We assess the depth of control these features offer, such as website blocking, screen time limits, and activity reporting.

Identity theft protection

Identity theft protection features monitor various online databases for unauthorized use of your personal information. We assess the range of data types monitored and the promptness and clarity of alerts when potential misuse is detected.

Secure cloud storage (cloud backup)

This feature provides encrypted online storage space, allowing users to back up important data securely. We evaluate the ease of use, storage capacity, and encryption strength, as well as the restoration process after a data loss incident.

Anti-ransomware

Anti-ransomware features are designed to detect and block ransomware attacks, which lock users out of their own files until a ransom is paid. We test this feature by attempting to execute known ransomware files and assessing the software’s ability to prevent file encryption.

Dark web monitoring

Dark web monitoring features scan the dark web for instances of your personal information being traded. We gauge the comprehensiveness of this feature, looking at how many data types are monitored and how promptly and effectively alerts are delivered if a match is found.

In our testing, we take a hands-on approach to assess each feature’s effectiveness, ease of use, and real-world impact on security and privacy. By evaluating these features, we can better gauge an antivirus software’s ability to deliver comprehensive protection beyond merely blocking malware.

Bonus features

An antivirus program can come with various entry-level functions, such as spam filters and secure browsers, and premium options like online storage with enhanced security. We consider the following bonus features worthy of your consideration:

• Ad Blocker
• Anti-theft
• Email protection
• File encryption
• File shredder
• Gaming mode
• Microphone protection
• PC maintenance features
• Secure browser (hardened browser to protect your online banking)
• Spam filter
• Startup optimizer
• Tune up tools
• Virtual keyboard
• Webcam protection

Speed impact (10%)

The speed impact of antivirus software refers to how much it slows down your device while performing routine tasks. While it’s critical for antivirus software to protect against threats, it’s equally important that it doesn’t unduly hamper your device’s performance.

We base our analysis on AV-Test’s performance tests which look at various common tasks such as file copying, program installation, and website browsing, and assess how much longer these tasks take with the antivirus software installed and active. This helps us understand the performance impact of each product on a standard PC.

False positives (10%)

False positives are instances where benign or safe files and activities are wrongly flagged as threats by the antivirus software. While it’s important for antivirus software to be vigilant, excessive false positives can lead to unnecessary alerts and could potentially disrupt user experience.

Again, we refer to AV-Test’s usability tests, which involve a range of software and activities typically used on a daily basis. By monitoring these tests, we can determine the rate of false positives generated by each antivirus software and the corresponding impact on the user experience.

Price (10%)

The price of an antivirus product is a crucial aspect of our testing methodology. However, our focus isn’t just on the bottom line, but also on the value for money. We assess the features and protection levels offered at each price point, comparing the overall value between products.

Furthermore, we look at the pricing structure, noting that many companies offer heavy discounts for the first year of use, but costs can significantly increase in the second year. This information aids potential buyers in understanding the long-term investment required.

Ownership and reputation (10%)

The reputation and past behavior of the company behind the antivirus software can significantly influence its trustworthiness. We consider these factors crucial when recommending products.

The Avast scandal, where they sold user data through a subsidiary named Jumpshot, is a prime example of why this consideration is essential. Not all companies have the same respect for user privacy or ethical business practices, and we factor this into our assessments.

We perform deep-dive research into company ownership, historical behavior, and public perception to provide an overall reputation score, ensuring you’re not just protected technically, but also ethically.

For more, read our blog post on how we test antivirus software.

How to choose the best antivirus software?

Selecting the right antivirus software isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. There are numerous factors to consider, as your unique needs, expectations, and system environment will play an integral role. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Reliable protection from malware

At its core, the primary role of an antivirus is to safeguard your device from malware. Look for software that provides robust protection against a wide range of threats, including viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware. Consider the results of independent tests from organizations like AV-Test, which provide an unbiased assessment of each software’s anti-malware capabilities.

Security updates

The world of cyber threats is ever-evolving, with new malware variants emerging regularly. Consequently, it’s crucial to select antivirus software that offers frequent, automatic security updates to stay abreast of the latest threats. This ensures you always have the most recent protection available and aren’t left vulnerable to new types of attacks.

Security features

Beyond basic malware protection, many antivirus solutions offer additional features to boost your overall security. This could include a firewall, web protection, a password manager, VPN, and parental controls, among others. Determine which of these extras you require and select a product that caters to your needs without burdening you with unnecessary features.

Performance impact

As we’ve touched upon earlier, it’s critical that your antivirus software doesn’t significantly slow down your device. Look for a product that offers high-level security while maintaining optimal system performance. Again, independent testing labs are a great resource for understanding the speed impact of different products.

Customer support

When things go wrong, or if you need help navigating your antivirus software, it’s essential to have reliable customer support. Look for companies that offer comprehensive support options, such as live chat, phone support, email, and extensive online resources. The availability and quality of support can make a significant difference in your overall experience.

First-year and second price

Finally, price is an inevitable factor in choosing antivirus software. While first-year discounts can be tempting, it’s important to consider the full, ongoing cost. Consider your budget and the value for money each software offers, taking into account both the initial discounted price and the regular subscription price. Remember, the best value often lies in the balance of price and performance, not necessarily in the lowest price point.

Operating system

If you have a specific operating system that you would like to protect, we probably have a dedicated antivirus comparison for it:

• The best antivirus of 2023 – For all OS.
• The best antivirus for Windows 11 – For Microsoft’s latest desktop OS.
• The best antivirus for macOS – For Apple’s desktop OS.
• The best antivirus for Android – For Google’s mobile OS.
• The best antivirus for iPhone – For Apple’s mobile OS.
• The best antivirus with a VPN – For both security and privacy.
• The best VPN providers – For a dedicated privacy solution.

Click the links to be taken to your comparison of choice.

What cyber threats can antivirus protect you from?

Antivirus software serves as your digital shield, safeguarding your device and data from a plethora of cyber threats. While no solution can guarantee 100% protection against all possible threats, a robust antivirus can significantly reduce your risk. Let’s delve into some of the threats an antivirus is designed to combat:

Malware

Malware is an umbrella term for malicious software, including viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, spyware, and more. Its purpose is to damage or disable computers, steal data, or gain unauthorized access to system networks.

For more, read our blog post on malware or malware examples.

Adware

Adware, short for advertising-supported software, automatically delivers advertisements. It can be annoying, slow down your device, and in some cases, it can track your online behavior or redirect your search requests to advertising websites, risking your privacy.

For more, read our blog post on adware or adware examples.

Botnets

A botnet is a network of compromised computers, known as ‘bots,’ controlled without the owners’ knowledge to perform tasks like sending spam emails or launching Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. Antivirus software can detect and remove botnet malware.

For more, read our blog post on botnets or botnet examples.

Keyloggers

Keyloggers are a type of surveillance technology used to monitor and record each keystroke made on a computer keyboard. While some keyloggers are used for legitimate purposes, such as parental control or company security, they can also be used maliciously to steal sensitive information like passwords or credit card details.

For more, read our blog post on keyloggers or keylogger types.

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts a victim’s files. The attacker then demands a ransom from the victim to restore access to the data upon payment. An antivirus can protect your files from being encrypted and can often remove ransomware before it can cause harm.

For more, read our blog post on ransomware or ransomware examples.

Rootkits

Rootkits are a set of software tools that enable an unauthorized user to take control of a computer system without being detected. They are often used to hide the existence of certain processes or programs to facilitate malicious activity. Antivirus software often uses specialized scanning technology to detect and remove rootkits.

For more, read our blog post on rootkits or rootkit examples.

Spyware

Spyware is a type of malware that, once installed on a computer, collects information about a person or organization without their knowledge. This could include capturing keystrokes, screenshots, or browsing history, or even activating hardware like webcams.

For more, read our blog post on spyware or spyware examples.

Trojans

Trojans are a type of malware that is often disguised as legitimate software. Named after the wooden horse that the Greeks used to infiltrate Troy, Trojans can create backdoors, steal personal information, or allow cybercriminals to spy on you.

For more, read our blog post on trojans or trojan examples.

Viruses

Viruses are a type of malicious software that, when executed, replicate by modifying other computer programs and inserting their own code. Viruses can cause destructive effects, such as corrupting system software or deleting files.

For more, read our blog post on viruses or virus examples.

Worms

Worms are a type of malware that spreads copies of itself from computer to computer. Unlike a virus, it doesn’t need to attach itself to an existing program to spread. Worms can cause harm by consuming bandwidth or overloading a system’s resources, causing it to become unresponsive.

For more, read our blog post on worms or worm examples.

What cyber threats can antivirus not protect you from?

Even the most sophisticated antivirus software has limitations. It primarily protects against malicious code and software, but it cannot guard against human error or manipulation, which is a key factor in many cyber threats. Let’s explore some of these threats:

Phishing

Phishing involves deceptive emails, websites, or messages that trick users into voluntarily giving up sensitive information, such as usernames, passwords, or credit card details. Antivirus software can sometimes block known phishing websites or flag suspicious emails, but it can’t prevent users from willingly disclosing information.

For more, read our blog post on phishing or phishing examples.

Online Scams

Online scams are fraudulent schemes carried out through the internet, including fake auctions, bogus surveys, and scam emails promising massive returns. While antivirus programs can block known scam websites or flag certain emails as spam, they can’t guarantee protection if users ignore these warnings or encounter an entirely new scam.

For more, read our blog post on online scams.

Social Engineering

Social engineering exploits human psychology, persuading people to break normal security procedures. These tactics often involve manipulation, deception, and trust-building to convince a user to reveal confidential information. Antivirus software cannot protect against these psychological manipulations, emphasizing the need for user education and awareness.

For more, read our blog post on social engineering.

Zero-Day Exploits

A zero-day exploit is a cyber-attack that occurs on the same day a vulnerability is discovered in software, before the developer has had a chance to create a patch to fix it. Antivirus software typically relies on known signatures to identify threats. While some advanced solutions can identify unusual behavior associated with zero-day exploits, they may not always catch them, especially if the attack uses a completely new method.

For more, read our blog post on zero-day exploits.

In conclusion, while antivirus software is a crucial component of cybersecurity, it isn’t a standalone solution. Cybersecurity is best approached as a layered defense, combining software solutions with education, updates, and safe online practices to protect against a broad spectrum of threats.

What antivirus software have we tested?

We have tested 28 antivirus brands, ranging from entry-level free antivirus programs, to mid-range paid antivirus software and full-featured internet security suites. Below is the list of the 20 most important brands:

• Avast
• AVG
• Avira
• Bitdefender Antivirus
• ESET
• F-Secure
• Intego
• Kaspersky
• MacKeeper
• Malwarebytes
• McAfee Antivirus
• Microsoft Defender (Windows Defender)
• Norton Antivirus
• Panda
• PC Matic
• Sophos
• TotalAV
• Trend Micro
• VIPRE
• Webroot

The best antivirus programs are Norton 360 Deluxe, Norton 360 Advanced, and Bitdefender Total Security. By comparison, the other antivirus software cost too much, offer less capable protection from malware threats, or have no unlimited VPN access.