The 5 Best Antivirus for PC Gaming (2023 Update)

Norton has the best device, privacy, and identity protection. It has all the security features you need, including a gamer booster, 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?
• Is antivirus for PC gaming different?
• 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 critical tool that helps protect your computer or device against various cyber threats. These threats could include viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, and other malicious programs known as malware.

With the increasing complexity and prevalence of these threats, antivirus software has evolved beyond simple virus detection and removal. Modern antivirus software also includes features such as phishing protection, firewalls, email protection, web browsing protection, and even parental controls.

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

How does antivirus software work?

Antivirus software operates using a combination of different methods to identify and neutralize threats. The three main techniques that most software solutions employ are signature-based detection, heuristic analysis, and behavior-based detection.

Signature-based detection

Signature-based detection is one of the most common methods used by antivirus software. It involves identifying malicious programs by comparing the binary pattern, or ‘signature,’ of a file against a database of known malware signatures. When the software encounters a file whose signature matches an entry in the database, it flags it as a potential threat.

This method is highly effective against known threats but may struggle to identify new, unknown malware.

Heuristic analysis

To combat the limitations of signature-based detection, antivirus software also uses heuristic analysis. This method employs algorithms to analyze the structure and behavior of a file to determine if it is likely to be malicious.

Heuristic analysis is particularly useful for detecting new or modified malware that doesn’t match any known signatures. However, this method is more prone to false positives, as it may sometimes misidentify harmless files as malicious.

Behavior-based detection

Behavior-based detection, also known as behavioral blocking, monitors the behavior of programs within a system to identify suspicious activities. If a program tries to modify other software, delete critical files, or establish a connection to an unknown server, the antivirus software would identify this as abnormal behavior and block the activity.

This method is highly effective at stopping malware that manages to bypass the initial detection methods. However, like heuristic analysis, it could lead to false positives.

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

Is antivirus for PC gaming different?

Yes, antivirus software for PC gamers should offer features catered specifically to their unique needs. A prominent feature among these is a ‘game booster’. But what exactly is a game booster, and why is it important in an antivirus program for PC gamers?

A game booster is a software feature specifically engineered to optimize your computer’s performance for gaming. When activated, the game booster prioritizes your game’s processes and dedicates more of your system’s resources towards running the game. This can include assigning specific CPU cores to the game, optimizing graphics performance, and even managing RAM usage.

In the context of antivirus software, this feature becomes even more critical. Typically, antivirus software is resource-intensive, running scans, updates, and other activities that can impact your gaming performance negatively. However, an antivirus with a game booster understands the importance of uninterrupted, lag-free gaming sessions.

When the game booster mode is activated, it not only optimizes your gaming performance but also intelligently manages the antivirus software’s actions. For instance, it may temporarily pause full system scans or updates to ensure that your gaming experience is not compromised. Yet, crucial security features like real-time protection remain active to keep your system protected.

This synergy of game-optimized performance and robust security makes antivirus software with a game booster an ideal choice for PC gamers. It ensures that while you are engrossed in intense gaming sessions, your system stays safeguarded from potential threats without compromising on performance.

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

How do we test antivirus software?

Our comprehensive testing process evaluates antivirus software based on six key elements, each assigned a specific weight according to its importance:

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

This structure allows us to provide a balanced assessment that covers both the quality of the software and the value it offers to the users.

Anti-malware protection (30%)

We emphasize heavily on anti-malware protection, accounting for 30% of the overall evaluation. We use a two-pronged approach for this: in-house testing and analysis of AV-Test results.

In-house testing

Our in-house testing involves an extensive series of real-world simulations. We expose a test PC to hundreds of malware samples using a USB drive and scrutinize whether the antivirus scanner successfully detects each one. These malware samples encompass a wide range of threat types, from trojans to ransomware, to ensure that the software’s detection capabilities are rigorously evaluated.

Furthermore, we conduct dynamic tests simulating actual malware attacks. We manually execute malware files and launch ransomware attacks to see if the software’s real-time protection mechanisms are robust enough to thwart these threats effectively. This type of testing is crucial because it mirrors the conditions and challenges that a user’s system might face in reality.

AV-Test results

Apart from our in-house assessments, we supplement our findings with data from AV-Test—an independent organization known for conducting rigorous tests on security products. We analyze their protection test results for Windows, Mac, and Android platforms. These reports help us understand how the antivirus software performs in a standardized testing environment, giving us additional insight into its reliability and efficiency.

This multifaceted approach ensures that we evaluate the antivirus software’s anti-malware capabilities comprehensively, offering you a dependable guide for your digital security needs.

Security and privacy features (30%)

The security and privacy features are equally as important as anti-malware protection in our assessment, making up another 30% of the total score. We take an in-depth look at various features that contribute to the overall security and privacy of the user.

Web protection (anti-phishing)

Web protection, particularly anti-phishing, is vital for preventing users from falling prey to phishing attacks, where they might be tricked into revealing sensitive information. We test this by visiting sites known for phishing and observing whether the software successfully warns or blocks these threats.

Firewall

A reliable firewall controls network traffic and acts as a barrier between a trusted network and an untrusted network. We test the firewall’s efficiency by simulating external attacks and checking how effectively the software blocks unauthorized connections.

Password manager

A password manager securely stores all of a user’s passwords. We assess its security by trying to crack the encrypted vault. Usability is also checked by seeing how easy it is to save, retrieve, and change passwords.

Virtual private network (VPN)

VPNs are crucial for protecting user privacy online by encrypting internet traffic. We examine the strength of the encryption and the number of server locations. We also assess the speed and reliability of the VPN connection.

Parental controls

These features allow parents to restrict and monitor their children’s internet activity. We evaluate the depth of the controls, such as blocking certain websites or setting internet usage limits, and how easy they are to set up and manage.

Identity theft protection

This tool notifies users of any suspicious activity involving their personal information. We test it by trying to use the user’s data for unauthorized purposes and noting if and how quickly the software detects it.

Secure cloud storage (cloud backup)

Secure cloud storage allows users to back up their data securely. We assess its security, the amount of storage provided, and how easy it is to back up and retrieve data.

Anti-ransomware

Anti-ransomware prevents ransomware attacks that can lock users out of their data. We test this by simulating ransomware attacks and measuring the software’s ability to detect and neutralize them.

Dark web monitoring

This feature scans the dark web for any leaked personal information. We assess its efficiency by leaking fake user information and seeing if the software detects and alerts the user.

We rigorously evaluate each feature to ensure it functions as promised and contributes to the overall protection of the user, adding depth to our review.

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%)

We dedicate 10% of our evaluation to the speed impact of the antivirus software. Here, we use the AV-Test’s performance tests to guide our assessment. These tests gauge the effect of the antivirus software on system performance, including its impact on daily operations like downloading and installing applications, launching programs, and copying files.

A well-performing antivirus should offer robust protection without significantly slowing down the user’s system, maintaining a fine balance between security and usability.

False positives (10%)

False positives, where harmless files or websites are incorrectly flagged as threats, can disrupt user experience. For this, we turn to AV-Test’s usability tests, which constitute 10% of our evaluation.

These tests measure the frequency with which an antivirus product incorrectly blocks or warns about safe websites or files over a period. High numbers of false positives can lead to users ignoring legitimate warnings, thereby putting their devices at risk.

Price (10%)

In our evaluation, price represents 10% of the total score. However, it’s not just about the lowest price; instead, we focus on value for money. We compare the range and effectiveness of features offered against the price tag. We also consider pricing structures, with a particular emphasis on the difference between first and second-year prices, as substantial increases after the initial year can impact the overall value proposition of the software.

Ownership and reputation (10%)

The final 10% of our assessment considers the ownership and reputation of the company behind the antivirus software. It’s vital to note that not all companies are created equal. A case in point is the Avast scandal, where the company was found to be selling user data through a subsidiary called Jumpshot. Incidents like these significantly tarnish a company’s reputation and users’ trust.

Therefore, we delve into the company’s ownership structure, track record, and any notable controversies to provide a comprehensive picture of the product’s credibility.

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

How to choose the best antivirus software?

Choosing the best antivirus software for your needs involves a careful evaluation of various factors. Your choice should offer a balanced mix of robust security, regular updates, a comprehensive set of features, minimal performance impact, responsive customer support, and fair pricing.

Reliable protection from malware

At the core of any antivirus software is its ability to provide reliable protection from malware. The software should efficiently detect and neutralize a wide range of threats such as viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware. It’s crucial to consider the software’s anti-malware protection scores from independent testing labs, like AV-Test, to gauge its effectiveness.

Security updates

The cyber threat landscape is continually evolving, and new threats emerge every day. Hence, antivirus software should be regularly updated to keep up with the ever-changing threat landscape. Make sure the software you choose has a strong track record of timely and consistent security updates to tackle the latest threats.

Security features

A comprehensive set of security features adds extra layers of protection to your digital life. Look for features like anti-phishing, a reliable firewall, password manager, VPN, parental controls, identity theft protection, secure cloud storage, anti-ransomware, and dark web monitoring. Assess how well these features perform and whether they align with your specific needs.

Performance impact

While robust protection is vital, it should not come at the cost of your device’s performance. The antivirus software should provide security seamlessly, without slowing down your system or interrupting your activities. Check for performance scores from independent testing labs to gauge the software’s impact on system speed.

Customer support

Even the most intuitive software may require some assistance from time to time. A responsive customer support team can make a significant difference when you encounter any issues or have queries. Look for companies that offer multiple support channels, such as live chat, email, or phone, and have a reputation for timely, helpful responses.

First-year and second price

Finally, consider the software’s price, focusing on the value it offers rather than the lowest cost. Keep in mind that some companies offer attractive first-year prices but might have a substantial increase in the second year. Scrutinize the pricing structure and ensure it aligns with the range and quality of features and services offered.

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 is designed to safeguard users from a wide array of cyber threats. However, it’s crucial to note that while these tools can provide extensive protection, they may not block every single threat. That said, they are integral to protecting your devices and data from the most common and destructive threats, including:

Malware

Malware, short for malicious software, is a broad term covering various types of harmful software like viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware. These malicious programs can disrupt device operations, steal sensitive data, or gain unauthorized access to systems.

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

Adware

Adware is a type of software that automatically delivers unwanted advertising material, often in the form of pop-ups. While some adware is merely annoying, others can include malicious programs that can track your activities or install additional software without your consent.

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

Botnets

A botnet is a network of computers infected by malware and controlled by an attacker, often without the owners’ knowledge. Botnets can be used for various nefarious activities, such as launching Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, sending spam emails, or distributing malware.

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

Keyloggers

Keyloggers are a type of surveillance software designed to record keystrokes on a device. They can capture sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and private messages, thereby posing a severe threat to personal security and privacy.

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

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a user’s files and demands a ransom for their release. It can block access to your data or entire systems until the ransom is paid, often in untraceable cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.

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 detection. They are known for their stealth and can hide their existence or the existence of other malicious processes and files, making them particularly difficult to detect and remove.

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

Spyware

Spyware is software that spies on your computer activities without your knowledge or consent. It can collect various types of personal information, such as internet surfing habits, keystrokes, and confidential information, and send this data to an external entity.

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

Trojans

Trojans are a type of malware disguised as legitimate software. They can provide a backdoor to your system, allowing attackers to access and control your computer or network, steal sensitive data, or inflict other damage.

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

Viruses

Viruses are a type of malicious software that can replicate and spread to other computers, often corrupting system functions or destroying data in the process. They usually attach themselves to legitimate executable files and are triggered when those files are run.

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

Worms

Worms are a type of malware that replicate and spread across networks without user intervention. They often consume bandwidth and overburden systems, leading to system slowdowns or crashes. Unlike viruses, they don’t need to attach themselves to an existing program to propagate.

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

What cyber threats can antivirus not protect you from?

While antivirus software provides comprehensive protection against a wide array of threats, there are certain types of cyber threats that these tools may not be fully equipped to handle. These typically involve human interaction and can take advantage of users’ lack of knowledge or manipulate their trust. These threats include:

Phishing

Phishing is a technique used by cybercriminals to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card numbers, by posing as a legitimate organization in email or other communication channels. While many modern antivirus solutions offer anti-phishing features, no tool can guarantee 100% protection. Vigilance and knowledge remain the best defenses against phishing.

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

Online Scams

Online scams encompass a wide range of fraudulent activities carried out over the internet. These can range from fake auctions, deceptive “work from home” schemes, to pyramid schemes. Again, while some antivirus software may have features to warn you about known scam websites, the onus is on the user to exercise caution when dealing with unfamiliar sites or offers that seem too good to be true.

For more, read our blog post on online scams.

Social Engineering

Social engineering is a tactic used by attackers to manipulate individuals into breaking standard security procedures or divulging confidential information. It often involves human interaction and tricks people into making security mistakes or giving away sensitive information. An antivirus tool can’t protect you from this type of threat, highlighting the importance of awareness and education.

For more, read our blog post on social engineering.

Zero-Day Exploits

Zero-day exploits refer to software vulnerabilities that are unknown to those who should be interested in mitigating the vulnerability, including the vendor of the target software. Since these vulnerabilities are unknown, antivirus software may not be able to protect against a zero-day attack until the vulnerability is discovered and a patch is released. In this scenario, having a strategy for regular software updates and patches becomes crucial.

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

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.