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The 7 Best Antivirus (2025): What is the Right Choice?

Updated: January 2025

By: Tibor Moes is the founder of SoftwareLab. He has tested 28 antivirus brands and studied Cybersecurity at Stanford. Read how we test antivirus.

Norton is the best antivirus of 2025

Norton Antivirus

Ranked #1 of 28 antivirus

  • Malware Protection 100% 100%
  • Security Features 100% 100%

Norton has the best anti-malware protection, excellent security features, and a great price. It’s the best antivirus of 2025.

  • Malware protection: 100%. Norton stopped all 1,200 malware attacks in our test.
  • Security features: 100%. Anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
  • Speed impact: 100%. Norton did not slow down our test PC. 

Try it risk-free, thanks to its 60-day return policy.

Avast is the second best antivirus of 2025

Avast Antivirus

Ranked #2 of 28 antivirus

  • Malware Protection 100% 100%
  • Security Features 80% 80%

Avast offers excellent protection, many bonus features, and a beautiful design. However, it lacks a password manager.

  • Malware protection: 100%. Avast stopped all 1,200 malware attacks in our test.
  • Security features: 80%. Avast does not include a password manager.
  • Speed impact: 100%. Avast did not slow down our test PC. 

Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.

The best antivirus of 2025

For 2025, we rigorously tested 39 antivirus programs from 28 brands. To evaluate their protection, we infected our test system with 1,200 malware samples, examining how well each software handled real-world threats.

Additionally, we conducted a deep dive into essential security features such as firewalls, password managers, anti-phishing tools, VPNs, and more. Based on our hands-on tests, here are the best antivirus for 2025:

  1. 🥇 Norton Antivirus – The #1 in 2025
  2. Avast Antivirus
  3. TotalAV Antivirus
  4. Bitdefender Antivirus
  5. McAfee Antivirus
  6. Panda Antivirus
  7. Avira Antivirus

Scroll down for the reviews.

Norton Antivirus Review

Norton Review

Ranked #1 out of 28 Antivirus

Norton Antivirus Review

Norton is ranked #1 of 28 antivirus brands.

Norton is the best antivirus of 2025. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, all the security features you need, and an excellent price.

Buy it if you want complete protection. You will get excellent anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, and an unlimited VPN, which will protect your privacy online.

  • Malware protection: 100%. Norton detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
  • Speed impact: 100%. Norton’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
  • Features: 100%. Norton includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
  • Price: 100%. Compared to similar products at Bitdefender and McAfee, Norton offers more value for money.

Try it risk-free, thanks to its 60-day return policy.

Detailed Review

Norton 360 Antivirus Review: Updated for 2025

Norton 360 continues to lead as a top-tier antivirus solution, delivering robust protection for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Its comprehensive suite includes exceptional malware defense, a smart firewall, VPN, and identity theft safeguards.

Anti-Malware Protection

Norton achieves a flawless 100% malware detection rate, as verified by AV-Test and our trials using 1,200 real-time malware and phishing samples. Its SONAR technology combines heuristic analysis and machine learning to detect known and emerging threats, ensuring proactive, real-time security.

Smart Firewall

Norton’s Smart Firewall surpasses standard system firewalls by monitoring inbound and outbound traffic, blocking unauthorized data transfers, and stealthing inactive ports to deter hacking attempts.

VPN (Virtual Private Network)

Norton’s VPN offers unlimited, high-speed access secured with AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN. It supports torrenting, includes a kill switch, and offers split tunneling. Unlike competitors like Bitdefender, Norton provides unlimited data with all 360 plans, ensuring private, untracked browsing.

Password Manager

Norton’s password manager delivers secure, cross-device storage, complex password generation, and autofill. Biometric authentication enhances both convenience and security, ideal for managing multiple accounts.

Prices & Packages

  • Norton Antivirus Plus: €15/$20. Includes antivirus, firewall, and password manager for 1 device.
  • Norton 360 Standard: €30/$40. Adds VPN and dark web monitoring for 1 (EU) or 3 (US) devices.
  • Norton 360 Deluxe: €35/$50. Adds a privacy monitor and parental controls for 5 devices.
  • Norton 360 for Gamers: €35/$45. Includes gamer optimizer for 5 devices.
  • Norton 360 Advanced: €40 (EU-only). Adds identity theft protection for 10 devices.
  • Norton 360 Select + LifeLock: $99 (US-only). Includes LifeLock identity theft protection for 10 devices.

Note: In some regions, Norton 360 Advanced is called Norton 360 Premium but lacks identity theft protection.

Bonus Features

  • Safe Web Extension: Blocks malicious sites and phishing attempts.
  • Cloud Backup: Safeguards files from ransomware and hardware failures.
  • Parental Controls: Manages children’s online activity.
  • Privacy Monitor: Helps remove personal data from broker sites.
  • Webcam Protection: Prevents unauthorized access.
  • Dark Web Monitoring: Alerts users to leaked personal information.
  • LifeLock Identity Theft Protection: (US-only) Offers 24/7 monitoring and recovery support.

Is Norton the Best Antivirus for 2025?

Yes. Norton’s unmatched malware protection, privacy monitoring, and identity theft safeguards make it the top choice for internet security in 2025. With user-friendly features, family-focused tools, and a 60-day money-back guarantee, Norton stands out as the best antivirus for Windows 11.

Avast Antivirus Review

Avast Review

Ranked #2 out of 28 Antivirus

Avast Antivirus Review

Avast is ranked #2 of 28 antivirus brands.

Avast is one of the best antivirus of 2025. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, many security features, and one of the best designs we’ve seen.

Buy it if you want excellent protection and superb design. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, and a VPN. However, Avast does not include a password manager.

  • Malware protection: 100%. Avast detected and removed all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
  • Speed impact: 100%. Avast’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
  • Features: 80%. Avast one includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, and more. But no password manager.
  • Price: 100%. Considering Avast’s excellent security features and design, its price is more than fair.

Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.

Detailed Review

Avast Antivirus Review: Updated for 2025

Avast Antivirus One ranks among the top antivirus solutions, with malware detection on par with industry leaders like Norton and Bitdefender.

Its paid plans offer extensive features, including an unlimited VPN and system optimization tools, making it ideal for multi-platform security. It supports Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, securing multiple devices effectively.

Anti-Malware

Avast detected all 1,200 malware samples during testing, with a full system scan completing in 54 minutes, similar to other leading antivirus tools. Its real-time protection blocked even encrypted malware downloads. However, the free version aggressively upsells premium features.

Firewall

Avast’s firewall is user-friendly for beginners and customizable for advanced users, enabling manual monitoring and blocking of suspicious network traffic.

VPN (Virtual Private Network)

The free Avast One Essential plan includes a VPN with 5GB of data weekly, outpacing most free antivirus offerings. Paid plans feature Avast’s unlimited VPN with AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN protocol, and a no-logs policy. It supports torrenting (P2P) and includes a kill switch for added security.

Bonus Features

Avast enhances security and performance with:

  • Browser Data Clearing: Removes cache, cookies, and history for privacy.
  • Software Updating: Automatically patches vulnerabilities in programs.
  • Password Protection: Secures saved passwords (though no full password manager is included).
  • Ransomware Shielding: Protects against file-encrypting malware.
  • Email Security: Blocks phishing and malware in emails.
    Premium versions include additional features like advanced ransomware protection and tracking prevention.

Is Avast the Best Antivirus for 2025?

Avast delivers comprehensive internet security with robust malware protection, privacy tools, and identity theft safeguards.

While the absence of a full password manager may disappoint some, Avast remains an excellent choice, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free trials. Users prioritizing a password manager might prefer Norton.

TotalAV Antivirus Review

TotalAV Review

Ranked #3 out of 28 Antivirus

TotalAV Antivirus Review

TotalAV is ranked #3 of 28 antivirus brands.

TotalAV is one of the best antivirus of 2025. It has near-perfect anti-malware test scores, an intuitive design, no impact on the speed of your PC, and lots of security features.

Buy it if you want an easy-to-use antivirus at a great price. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a password manager, and a VPN, which will protect your privacy online. But no firewall.

  • Malware protection: 99.8%. TotalAV detected and removed nearly all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
  • Speed impact: 100%. TotalAV’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
  • Features: 90%. TotalAV includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, VPN, and a password manager. But it doesn’t have a firewall.
  • Price: 90%. TotalAV offers generous discounts in the first year, but high renewal prices in the second year.

Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.

Detailed Review

TotalAV Antivirus Review: Updated for 2025

TotalAV Antivirus offers an affordable, user-friendly, and comprehensive security suite, making it an excellent choice for users seeking reliable protection without compromising performance.

Anti-Malware

Powered by Avira’s antivirus engine, TotalAV excels with nearly perfect malware detection. It offers various scan options—Quick, System, Smart, and Custom—to meet diverse needs.

In testing, the System Scan completed in about an hour with minimal system impact, even during high workloads. TotalAV detected and blocked 99.8% of threats, including ransomware and spyware, while its real-time protection stopped malicious downloads instantly.

VPN (Safe Browsing VPN)

TotalVPN delivered reliable performance in our tests, offering 34 global server locations with good speeds for browsing and streaming. It supports popular streaming services and P2P sharing, catering to privacy-conscious users.

Key features include:

  • A kill switch to protect data if the VPN connection drops.
  • Auto-connect on unsecured Wi-Fi for seamless protection.

While not as fast as dedicated VPNs, TotalVPN provides strong privacy and convenience as part of TotalAV’s all-in-one package.

Password Manager

Total Password impressed with robust security and simplicity. It uses 256-bit AES encryption and includes essential features such as:

  • Auto-save and auto-fill for seamless login management.
  • Two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.

Although it lacks advanced features like hardware-based 2FA, it covers the basics effectively, making it a practical choice for most users.

Bonus Features

Additional tools enhance TotalAV’s value:

  • Identity Theft Protection: Powered by Aura to monitor and secure personal data.
  • System Tune-Up Tools: Includes a Startup Manager for faster boot times, Junk Cleaner for reclaiming storage, and optimization utilities to maintain performance.

Is TotalAV the Best Antivirus for 2025?

TotalAV provides a robust and affordable security solution with excellent anti-malware features, a capable VPN, and a dependable password manager. Its intuitive interface and minimal performance impact make it ideal for users seeking comprehensive protection without unnecessary complexity.

With a 30-day refund policy, TotalAV is a risk-free, highly recommended option for effective, budget-friendly security.

Bitdefender Antivirus Review

Bitdefender Review

Ranked #4 out of 28 Antivirus

Bitdefender Antivirus Review

Bitdefender is ranked #4 of 28 antivirus brands.

Bitdefender is an excellent antivirus program. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, many security features, and an excellent price.

Buy it if you want outstanding protection. But keep in mind that you will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, and a few bonus features. Not the password manager or unlimited VPN.

  • Malware protection: 100%. Bitdefender detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
  • Speed impact: 100%. Bitdefender’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
  • Features: 80%. Bitdefender has anti-malware, anti-phishing, and a firewall, but it misses a password manager and a VPN.
  • Price: 100%. Although Bitdefender misses a few features, it has an excellent price, which gives it good value for money.

Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.

Detailed Review

Bitdefender Antivirus Review: Updated for 2025

Bitdefender stands out for its exceptional protection, extensive features, and multi-layered ransomware defense, all while being impressively light on system resources. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking robust performance and top-tier security.

Anti-Malware

Bitdefender’s antivirus engine consistently achieves a perfect 100% malware protection score. It detected and removed all test malware samples during our evaluation, underscoring its effectiveness.

Advanced Threat Defense, its real-time protection system, excels in malware and ransomware defense by monitoring application behavior instead of relying solely on virus signature databases. This approach ensures rapid detection of threats, such as code injection, while maintaining a low false-positive rate. In our testing, Bitdefender effectively blocked the latest malware threats.

Firewall

Bitdefender’s advanced firewall safeguards your network by monitoring inbound and outbound connections and blocking port scans used by hackers to exploit vulnerabilities.

VPN

Bitdefender offers a free VPN with a 200 MB daily data limit—suitable for basic browsing but insufficient for streaming or data-heavy tasks. Upgrading to Bitdefender Premium VPN or the Premium Security suite removes the limit.

The VPN uses AES-256 encryption and HydraVPN protocol, delivering good speed, torrenting support, and features like:

  • Auto-connect on unsecured networks.
  • A kill switch to prevent data leaks.
  • Split tunneling for selective app routing.

While sufficient for basic privacy, it lacks the unblocking capabilities and speed of dedicated VPN services.

Password Manager

Bitdefender’s Password Manager is sold separately or included in the Premium Security suite. While it offers robust encryption and basic functionality, its exclusion from most plans is a drawback, especially compared to competitors like Norton, which include password management in all premium packages.

Pricing & Packages

A free edition is available but offers limited features. For comprehensive protection, Bitdefender’s paid plans are more worthwhile.

Bonus Features

Bitdefender includes a suite of additional tools for enhanced security and privacy:

  • Anti-phishing and online threat prevention.
  • Vulnerability scanning for system, apps, and network.
  • Ransomware remediation for encrypted files.
  • Anti-spam filters for email clients.
  • Safepay browser for secure banking.
  • Webcam and microphone protection.
  • Anti-tracker browser extension to block tracking cookies.
  • Parental advisor for monitoring children’s online activities.
  • Anti-theft tools for locating and wiping lost devices.
  • One-click optimizer to clean up and enhance performance.
  • File shredder for permanently deleting sensitive files.

Is Bitdefender the Best Antivirus for 2025?

Bitdefender ranks among the best antivirus solutions, offering excellent malware protection, a robust firewall, and numerous bonus features. However, its high-tier features like the password manager and unlimited VPN come at an additional cost, giving competitors like Norton an edge in value for all-in-one security.

Nonetheless, with its 30-day money-back guarantee, Bitdefender is a risk-free option for evaluating if it meets your security needs.

McAfee Antivirus Review

McAfee Review

Ranked #5 out of 28 Antivirus

McAfee Antivirus Review

McAfee is ranked #5 of 28 antivirus brands.

McAfee is an excellent antivirus program. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, an intuitive design, and all the security features you need.

Buy it if you want complete protection. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, a VPN, and, depending on where you live, identity theft protection.

  • Malware protection: 100%. Mcafee detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
  • Speed impact: 100%. McAfee’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
  • Features: 100%. McAfee includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
  • Price: 90%. McAfee is slightly more expensive than Norton, but allows you to protect an unlimited number of devices (in the US).

Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.

Detailed Review

McAfee Antivirus Review: Updated for 2025

McAfee Total Protection delivers comprehensive antivirus protection and supports unlimited devices on higher-tier plans. With significant improvements over the years, it has cemented its position as a leading choice in the antivirus market.

Anti-Malware

McAfee consistently achieves a perfect 100% anti-malware test score, excelling in AV-Test protection tests since April 2020. It effectively detects and removes all forms of malware, including ransomware, spyware, and Trojans, using its advanced Scan Engine. Key techniques include:

  • Signature Matching: Identifies known malware.
  • Sandboxing: Runs suspicious code in isolation to assess threats.
  • Heuristic Analysis: Detects emerging threats via behavior patterns.
  • File Repair: Cleans malicious code from infected files.

This multi-layered approach ensures excellent detection rates with minimal false positives.

Firewall

McAfee’s firewall offers robust protection by filtering inbound and outbound traffic. It features stealth mode, which hides open ports from hackers, enhancing security against port scanning attacks.

VPN

McAfee’s Safe Connect VPN provides unlimited data with AES-256 encryption, ensuring privacy and security. It operates without activity logs, has servers in 45 countries, supports torrenting, and works with Netflix on many servers.

However, limitations include the lack of a kill switch and split tunneling on some operating systems. Disabling auto-renew restricts data to 500 MB/day.

Password Manager

True Key, McAfee’s password manager, simplifies password creation, storage, and auto-filling across devices. It supports biometric login for added security and performed comparably to leading tools like Dashlane during testing.

Pricing & Packages

McAfee offers plans to suit varying needs:

  • McAfee Basic (€30 Europe / $30 USA): Covers 1 device with antivirus, firewall, password manager, and VPN.
  • McAfee Essential (McAfee Plus in Europe) (€40 Europe / $40 USA): Extends coverage to 5 devices.
  • McAfee+ Premium (€45 Europe / $45 USA): Adds personal data cleanup and unlimited devices.
  • McAfee+ Advanced (€65 Europe / $80 USA): Includes identity theft protection and unlimited devices.
  • McAfee+ Ultimate ($190 USA, not in Europe): Offers enhanced identity theft protection for unlimited devices.

Note: McAfee is rebranding its products, so names may vary by region. McAfee Total Protection corresponds to McAfee Basic and Essential in some markets.

Bonus Features

McAfee includes a suite of extra tools to enhance security and usability:

  • Secure Apps: Scans for missing security updates.
  • App Boost: Optimizes app performance.
  • Browser Security: Provides anti-phishing protection.
  • Web Boost: Prevents auto-playing videos.
  • Tracker Remover: Erases tracking cookies.
  • ID Protection: Monitors the dark web for personal data leaks.
  • File Shredder: Securely deletes files.
  • File Lock: Creates password-protected vaults.
  • Anti-Spam: Blocks spam emails.
  • Safe Family: Offers parental controls for online safety.

Is McAfee the Best Antivirus for 2025?

McAfee remains a top-tier antivirus solution with exceptional malware protection, a reliable password manager, and a robust VPN. Its user-friendly interface and flexible plans, including unlimited device coverage, cater to diverse needs.

Privacy and identity protection features, particularly in the U.S., further enhance its appeal. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, McAfee is an excellent choice for those seeking comprehensive cybersecurity.

Panda Antivirus Review

Panda Review

Ranked #6 out of 28 Antivirus

Panda Antivirus Review

Panda is ranked #6 of 28 antivirus brands.

Panda is an excellent antivirus program. It has near-perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, all the security features you need, and flexible pricing.

Buy it if you want great protection and customization options. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, and an unlimited VPN, which will protect your privacy online.

  • Malware protection: 99%. Panda detected and removed nearly all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
  • Speed impact: 100%. Panda’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
  • Features: 100%. Panda Dome includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
  • Price: 80%. Compared to similar products at Norton, Panda Dome is expensive. However, its flexible pricing is excellent.

Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.

Detailed Review

Panda Dome Antivirus Review: Updated for 2025

Panda Dome Antivirus stands out for its flexible pricing and customizable plans, making it ideal for a variety of users. Its software delivers strong protection across devices, with advanced features in higher-tier packages.

Anti-Malware

Panda achieved a 100% score in real-world protection tests with minimal false positives, ranking among the top antivirus solutions. These results are confirmed by our own testing and AV-Test evaluations, which assess malware detection in free and premium programs.

Panda employs big data, AI, and machine learning to combat threats, including zero-day exploits, ransomware, and APIs. This advanced approach ensures comprehensive protection for home and business users alike.

Firewall

Panda’s firewall offers robust defense for incoming and outgoing connections. It assigns permissions automatically based on risk levels but also allows manual customization for added control.

VPN

Panda’s free VPN offers 150 MB/day, sufficient for light browsing (e.g., 4 minutes of 720p streaming or around 75 website visits). Powered by Aura technology (used by Bitdefender), it provides AES-256 encryption and the HydraVPN protocol, ensuring speed, privacy (no logs), and torrenting support. However, the lack of a kill switch and the high cost (€50) of upgrading to unlimited VPN detract from its value.

Password Manager

Panda’s password manager simplifies generating, storing, and auto-filling passwords. It supports two-factor authentication (2FA) and biometric login for enhanced security. Its cross-platform design ensures a seamless experience across browsers like Chrome and Firefox and mobile devices running Android and iOS.

Pricing & Packages

Panda offers scalable plans for an unlimited number of devices:

  • Dome Essential (€17/$24): Antivirus and firewall.
  • Dome Advanced (€23/$28): Adds anti-phishing and parental controls.
  • Dome Complete (€35/$43): Includes a password manager and system optimization tools.
  • Dome Premium (€60/$67): Adds unlimited VPN and update manager.

These options cater to basic and advanced security needs.

Bonus Features

Panda provides extra tools to enhance security and performance:

  • Safe Browsing: Blocks malicious URLs and phishing sites.
  • Dark Web Scanner: Monitors for your email address on the dark web.
  • PC Cleanup: Optimizes system performance by removing cookies and unnecessary files.
  • Wi-Fi Protection: Secures your Wi-Fi network.
  • Anti-Theft: Helps locate lost or stolen devices.
  • File Encryptor/Shredder: Protects sensitive files or permanently deletes them.
  • USB Protection: Scans USB drives for malware.

Is Panda the Best Antivirus for 2025?

Panda excels in malware protection, password management, and flexible pricing. While it performs best on Windows, it may not offer the same value for Mac or mobile users. Norton, for instance, provides an unlimited VPN and broader platform coverage at a lower price.

For Windows users, however, Panda’s suites offer a solid choice, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free evaluation.

Avira Antivirus Review

Avira Review

Ranked #7 out of 28 Antivirus

Avira Antivirus Review

Avira is ranked #7 of 28 antivirus brands.

Avira is an excellent antivirus program. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, all the security features you need, and a great design.

Buy it if you want excellent protection and intuitive design. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a password manager, and a VPN. On top of that, Avira finally includes an excellent firewall.

  • Malware protection: 100%. Avira detected and removed all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
  • Speed impact: 100%. Avira’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
  • Features: 100%. Avira includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
  • Price: 90%. Avira has a great price. But with Norton, you’ll get a few more features for the same amount of money.

Try it risk-free, thanks to its 60-day return policy.

Detailed Review

Avira Antivirus Review: 2025 Update

Avira Antivirus remains a leading contender in antivirus software, combining robust malware protection, advanced features, and affordability. Its free and paid plans deliver reliable security, making it a top choice for users seeking comprehensive protection.

Anti-Malware

Avira’s cloud-based scanner achieved a flawless 100% malware protection score in our tests, identifying every threat without taxing system resources. The Smart Scan feature enhances security by detecting privacy risks, outdated software, and performance issues, appealing to both casual and advanced users.

Firewall

Avira’s customizable firewall uses algorithmic rules to monitor data traffic, offering fine-grained control over app permissions. Intruder prevention blocks unauthorized data access, bolstering network security.

VPN

Phantom VPN uses 256-bit AES encryption and supports P2P file sharing. While it performed well for browsing, speed dropped by 25-30%, and it struggled to unblock popular streaming services. The free version’s data limit may prompt users with higher needs to upgrade.

Password Manager

Avira’s password manager offers unlimited storage, 256-bit AES encryption, and 2FA, even in its free version. It excels at storing and auto-filling passwords but lacks a password generator in its browser extension, which could be inconvenient for some users.

Bonus Features

Avira includes several tools to optimize device performance:

  • Device Optimizer: Cleared over 1GB of unnecessary files during our tests.
  • Startup Optimizer: Improved boot times by managing startup programs.
  • Driver Updater: Reduced security risks by keeping drivers current.
  • Game Booster: Enhanced gaming performance by reallocating resources.
  • Battery Manager: Useful but could benefit from more detailed insights on power usage.

Is Avira the Best Antivirus for 2025?

Avira Antivirus Prime offers excellent security, a user-friendly design, and strong value, making it one of 2025’s top antivirus solutions. Its combination of malware protection and system optimization makes it a standout choice.

However, users seeking parental controls or advanced VPN streaming may prefer Norton 360 Deluxe, which provides these features at a similar price point. Avira’s 30-day return policy allows you to test it risk-free to see if it meets your needs.

Specification comparison

We’ve compared the specifications of the best antivirus of 2025. To ensure a fair comparison, we selected the most affordable product from each brand that protects at least one PC with anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, and an unlimited VPN.

  • Norton 360 Standard
  • Avast One Antivirus
  • TotalAV Total Security
  • Bitdefender Internet Security with the Premium VPN
  • McAfee Plus
  • Panda Dome Premium
  • Avira Prime

Compare the details below.

Norton
Avast
TotalAV
Bitdefender
McAfee
Panda
Avira
Icon
Norton
Panda
McAfee
Bitdefender
McAfee
Panda
Panda
Rank
#1 of 28
#2 of 28
#3 of 28
#4 of 28
#5 of 28
#6 of 28
#7 of 28
AV-Test anti-malware score
6.0 / 6.0
6.0 / 6.0
5.4 / 6.0
6.0 / 6.0
6.0 / 6.0
6.0 / 6.0
6.0 / 6.0
AV-Test speed impact score
5.9 / 6.0
6.0 / 6.0
5.8 / 6.0
5.9 / 6.0
5.9 / 6.0
5.5 / 6.0
5.9 / 6.0
1st year price
$ 39.99 / year
$ 29.99 / year
$ 49.00 / year
$ 81.98 / year
$ 39.99 / year
$ 66.99 / year
$ 29.99 / year
2nd year price
$ 94.99 / year
$ 99.99 / year
$ 179.00 / year
$ 139.98 / year
$ 84.99 / year
$ 133.99 / year
$ 104.99 / year
Operating software
Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Windows
Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Devices
3
10
1
1
5
1
5
Money back
60 days
30 days
30 days
30 days
30 days
30 days
30 days
Anti-malware







Anti-phishing







Firewall


-




Password manager

-

-



Unlimited VPN







Test score comparison

We conduct in-house anti-malware tests and review the results from AV-Test, a German lab renowned for its objective evaluations. Below is the average of the last 10 AV-Test results for Windows. Their scoring criteria are:

  • Protection (1-6): Effectiveness in blocking malware.
  • Performance (1-6): Impact on system speed.
  • Usability (1-6): Frequency of errors like false alarms.

We calculate a final score using this formula:

Final Score = 60% Protection + 20% Performance + 20% Usability.

While these results influence our choice of the best antivirus for Windows 11, other factors like privacy and identity protection also play a key role. For a similar analysis for Android or macOS, visit our other comparisons:

Note: Brands not listed in the table either do not participate in AV-Test trials or are tested too infrequently, such as Surfshark Antivirus.

Source: AV-Test (Last updated: December 2024).

Final Score
Protection
Performance
Usability
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
5.9
6.0
6.0
6.0
5.9
6.0
6.0
6.0
5.9
6.0
6.0
6.0
5.9
6.0
5.9
6.0
5.9
5.9
5.9
6.0
5.9
5.9
5.9
6.0
5.8
6.0
5.9
6.0
5.5
6.0
5.9
5.8
5.8
6.0
5.8
5.8
5.7
6.0
5.8
5.7
6.0
5.8
5.6
6.0
6.0
4.0
5.6
5.4
5.8
6.0

Price comparison

Price matters. So, we compared the second-year prices in the U.S. for each software, rounding up for simplicity (e.g., $99.99 becomes $100). Note that some brands lack key features, affecting their overall value.

To make it a fair comparison, we looked at what it would cost us, to protect a  single Windows PC with the most essential features:

  • Anti-malware
  • Anti-phishing (web protection)
  • Firewall
  • Password manager
  • Unlimited VPN (no data limit).

Prices vary outside the U.S., so check the brands’ websites for your local pricing.

Total price
Missing features
$ 50
No firewall, password manager, and VPN
$ 76
No firewall and password manager
$ 80
No firewall and password manager
$ 90
No firewall
$ 130
No password manager
$ 180
No firewall

User reviews

We’ve compared the user reviews of all antivirus brands. We’ve used the scores and review count of TrustPilot, a leading user review platform. 

We consider scores above 4.0 very good. Lower scores indicate that the brand might have a poor product or customer service. McAfee’s scores, for instance, are worrying.

Source: TrustPilot (Last updated: December 2024).

Review score
Review count
4.8
8,400
4.6
116,500
4.4
33,000
4.3
1,600
4.3
21,000
4.2
21,800
4.1
8,600
4.1
29,000
3.9
13,300
3.8
4,100
3.8
9,000
3.6
8,800
1.2
2,600

Buying Guide

Common questions about antivirus software

How does antivirus software work?

Antivirus software uses several methods to detect and eliminate malware:

  • Signature-based detection: Scans files for unique malware code. If a match is found, it blocks or removes the threat.
  • Heuristic analysis: Identifies new or altered malware by examining code structure and behavior, even without a known signature.
  • Behavioral detection: Monitors program activity for suspicious behavior, such as unauthorized system changes, and blocks potential threats.
  • Real-time protection: Continuously scans files and downloads in the background for immediate threat detection.
  • Machine learning and AI: Leverages artificial intelligence to analyze large datasets, detecting emerging threats through pattern recognition.

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

What other features does antivirus have?

Modern antivirus programs offer more than basic malware protection, incorporating essential features like:

  • Anti-phishing protection: Shields against fraudulent websites and emails that target personal information, such as passwords and credit card details.
  • Firewall: Controls network traffic, blocking unauthorized access to your device.
  • Password manager: Encrypts and organizes your passwords for secure account management.
  • VPN (Virtual Private Network): Secures your internet connection and preserves anonymity online.
  • Identity theft protection: Tracks personal data (e.g., Social Security numbers, bank accounts) for suspicious activity alerts.
  • Parental controls: Restricts children’s online access to ensure safer browsing.

Together, these features provide robust defense against diverse cybersecurity threats, keeping you secure in a connected world.

What cyber threats can antivirus protect you from?

Antivirus software safeguards against a variety of malware and cyber threats. Here’s a concise breakdown of common ones:

  • Adware: Unwanted programs that bombard you with ads or redirect you to advertising sites, slowing your device.
  • PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs): Unintentionally installed software, like toolbars or extensions, that can compromise performance or privacy.
  • Ransomware: Encrypts your files and demands payment, often threatening to delete or leak your data.
  • Rootkits: Hidden software granting attackers remote control and access to sensitive information.
  • Spyware: Monitors your activity and sends data to cybercriminals without your consent.
  • Trojans: Malicious programs masquerading as legitimate ones, used to steal data or open backdoors.
  • Viruses: Attach to files and spread, damaging or corrupting data across systems.
  • Worms: Self-replicating malware that exploits vulnerabilities to infect multiple devices.

Modern antivirus tools go beyond malware protection, offering features like anti-phishing, firewalls, VPNs, password managers, identity theft protection, and parental controls to guard against broader cyber threats.

What cyber threats can’t antivirus protect you from?

Antivirus software provides robust protection against a variety of malware and cyber threats but has its limitations. Two notable exceptions are social engineering attacks and certain zero-day attacks:

Social Engineering Attacks

These attacks bypass antivirus defenses by exploiting human behavior instead of software vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals use manipulation or deception to trick individuals into sharing sensitive information, such as passwords or financial details.

Zero-Day Attacks

Antivirus tools may not defend against zero-day attacks, which exploit previously unknown software vulnerabilities. Since these flaws are undiscovered by developers and security experts, no patch or defense exists when the attack occurs.

Is the built-in antivirus software good enough?

The built-in security programs in Windows 11 (Windows Defender) and macOS (XProtect) provide solid malware protection, offering real-time detection and removal of common threats. For many users, this basic defense is sufficient against routine cyber risks.

However, free or built-in antivirus programs often lack advanced features needed for comprehensive protection in today’s digital landscape. Key features typically missing include:

  • Password Manager: Encrypts and securely stores passwords to reduce the risk of credential theft.
  • VPN (Virtual Private Network): Encrypts your internet connection, enhancing privacy and security on public Wi-Fi.
  • Identity Theft Protection: Monitors sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers or bank accounts, and alerts you to suspicious activity.
  • Parental Controls: Enables safe internet usage for children by managing and restricting access to inappropriate content.

While built-in antivirus tools excel at basic threat protection, these additional features are vital for safeguarding privacy, sensitive data, and family security online.

How will AI shape cybercrime in 2025?

In 2025, AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) will transform cybercrime, making attacks more sophisticated and harder to detect:

  • AI-Enhanced Phishing and Social Engineering: Cybercriminals will craft highly convincing, personalized phishing messages using AI and LLMs, increasing the likelihood of users divulging sensitive information.
  • Automated Malware and Attack Strategies: AI will enhance malware by automating and adapting attacks based on real-time feedback from security tools, improving effectiveness.
  • Deepfake Impersonation: AI-powered deepfake technology will enable realistic voice and video impersonations, amplifying fraud, identity theft, and social engineering.
  • AI-Powered Vulnerability Scanning: Hackers will leverage AI to quickly identify and exploit system vulnerabilities, making attacks faster and more precise.
  • LLMs for Malicious Code: LLMs will simplify the creation and refinement of malicious code, empowering even less-skilled attackers to develop sophisticated malware.

Consumers and organizations will need advanced, AI-driven defense systems to counter these evolving threats.

How do we test antivirus software?

Anti-Malware Protection (30%)

We evaluate how well the antivirus detects and removes various malware types like viruses, trojans, ransomware, and spyware.

  • In-House Testing: Using 1,200 diverse malware samples, we conduct real-time attack simulations to assess detection and neutralization of known and emerging threats through signature-based and heuristic analysis.
  • Independent Lab Results: We incorporate findings from respected institutes like AV-Test, SE Labs, and AV-Comparatives to validate our results.

Security and Privacy Features (30%)

We assess additional tools that enhance cybersecurity:

  • Web Protection: Testing the software’s ability to block phishing sites and web-based threats by accessing known malicious websites.
  • Firewall: Evaluating effectiveness using intrusion simulations and the ShieldsUP! test to secure network ports and monitor traffic.
  • Password Manager: Assessing capabilities to generate, store, and auto-fill complex passwords, plus features like two-factor authentication and biometric login.
  • VPN: Evaluating security protocols, encryption, speed, server locations, data limits, and support for streaming and peer-to-peer sharing while hiding IP addresses.
  • Parental Controls: Testing screen time management, content filtering, location tracking, and resistance to bypass attempts to protect children.
  • Identity Theft Protection: Assessing monitoring of personal info and responsiveness to potential identity theft alerts.
  • Secure Cloud Storage: Evaluating capacity, security, usability, and features like file encryption and secure sharing.
  • Anti-Ransomware: Simulating attacks to test detection and blocking of unauthorized encryption via behavioral detection and exploit prevention.
  • Dark Web Monitoring: Checking effectiveness in scanning the dark web for personal info and providing timely alerts.

System Performance Impact (10%)

We measure how the antivirus affects device performance during everyday tasks:

  • Resource Usage: Monitoring CPU and memory during scans and real-time protection.
  • Performance Tests: Evaluating impact on launching apps, downloading files, browsing websites, and copying data, aligned with AV-Test criteria.

False Positives (10%)

Accuracy is crucial to avoid interruptions:

  • False Positive Detection: Assessing how often legitimate applications or files are incorrectly flagged.
  • Usability Tests: Referencing AV-Test evaluations to gauge false positive frequency for effectiveness and user-friendliness.

Price and Value (10%)

We analyze overall value by comparing features to cost:

  • Cost Analysis: Considering subscription prices, device coverage, and multi-year plans.
  • Feature Evaluation: Assessing if included features justify the price compared to competitors.

Ownership and Reputation (10%)

Trust is essential in cybersecurity providers:

  • Company Background: Researching history, industry track record, mergers, or acquisitions.
  • Privacy Policies: Examining data handling, privacy commitment, and compliance with regulations.
  • Ethical Conduct: Investigating past unethical behavior, data breaches, or controversies.

    Sources and tools

    Below are the sources and tools we’ve used to test the antivirus software:

    Read more about how we test antivirus software.

    What antivirus software have we tested?

    We have tested 39 antivirus software from 28 brands. These range from free antivirus programs, to entry-level paid antivirus programs, mid-range paid antivirus software, and full-featured internet security suites.

    These are the programs we recommend:

    We believe that Norton Antivirus Plus is the best entry-level antivirus software and Norton 360 Deluxe the best antivirus all around.

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

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

    Does this page exist in other languages?

    Yes, at SoftwareLab, we write in 11 languages:

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

    Author: Tibor Moes

    Author: Tibor Moes

    Founder & Chief Editor at SoftwareLab

    Tibor has tested 28 antivirus programs and 25 VPN services, and holds a Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate from Stanford University.

    He uses Norton to protect his devices, NordVPN for his privacy, and Proton for his passwords and email.

    You can find him on LinkedIn or contact him here.