The 5 Best Antivirus with a Free Trial (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.

Length of Norton’s free trial: 60-day return policy.

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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.

Length of Bitdefender’s free trial: 30-day return policy.

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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.

Length of McAfee’s free trial: 30-day return policy.

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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.

Length of Panda’s free trial: 30-day return policy.

Discount: Save 50% on this secret page

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.

Length of Kaspersky’s free trial: 30-day return policy.

Discount: Save up to 50%

Antivirus software buying guide

Below we cover a range of topics:

• What is antivirus software?
• How does antivirus software work?
• What do the best antivirus include in their free trial?
• 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 computer and digital assets from a wide array of threats such as viruses, malware, spyware, ransomware, and phishing attempts. Its primary purpose is to detect, prevent, and eliminate these threats, ensuring that your computer and the data stored within it remain secure.

In our interconnected world where online activities are integral parts of our daily lives, having an effective antivirus software installed on your devices is indispensable.

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

How does antivirus software work?

Antivirus software employs several techniques to protect your system from malicious entities. Let’s explore three significant methodologies: signature-based detection, heuristic analysis, and behavior-based detection.

Signature-based detection

Signature-based detection is the traditional method employed by antivirus programs. It involves identifying malware by comparing the data in your computer files to a library of known malware ‘signatures.’ A signature is a unique piece of code or pattern that indicates a specific virus or type of malware.

If a match is found, the antivirus software either removes the malicious code or quarantines the infected file to prevent the malware from spreading.

Heuristic analysis

Heuristic analysis is a more advanced technique used to detect new or modified versions of known malware, which may not have established signatures. The antivirus software uses heuristic rules or algorithms to analyze the characteristics and behaviors of suspicious files.

If the software finds a file that behaves similarly to known malware, it flags it as potentially malicious. Heuristic analysis aids in identifying previously unknown threats, thereby improving the overall efficacy of the antivirus software.

Behavior-based detection

Behavior-based detection, also known as behavioral monitoring or anomaly detection, observes the behavior of applications and processes in real time.

Unlike signature-based detection that relies on known patterns, and heuristic analysis that predicts malware-like behavior, this method focuses on detecting abnormal behavior in your system. This could include unexpected attempts to modify system files or unusual network connections. Such abnormal activities often signify a malware infection, enabling the antivirus software to take necessary preventive actions.

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

What do the best antivirus include in their free trial?

In the world of antivirus software, free trials are a common practice aimed at allowing potential customers to experience the product’s full suite of features before making a purchase. These trials often come in the form of 30 or 60-day return policies.

During this trial period, you get comprehensive access to all the features that the antivirus program has to offer. This typically includes essential features like Anti-Malware, Anti-Phishing (Web Protection), Firewall, and Password Manager. It may also include premium features such as an unlimited Virtual Private Network (VPN) with no data cap, Parental Control features, or advanced identity theft protection.

The trial period is essentially a risk-free way for you to explore and experience the antivirus software in action. You can evaluate how well it performs, how much it slows down your system (if at all), how easy it is to use, and the level of protection it offers against different types of threats.

One of the key aspects to keep in mind here is that these trial periods are not ‘limited versions’ or ‘demo versions’. They provide you with a full-scale antivirus solution for a temporary duration. At the end of the trial, don’t have to do anything to continue enjoying the protection and features provided by the software. And if you don’t like the software, you’ll get your money back, no questions asked.

Remember to read the terms and conditions of the trial to avoid any surprises. It’s also crucial to monitor how the software performs during the trial period, as this will give you a clear idea of whether it’s the right product for your needs before making a purchase.

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

How do we test antivirus software?

When evaluating antivirus software, we meticulously test each program based on six distinct elements, each carrying different weights:

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

This multi-dimensional approach allows us to provide a comprehensive and balanced assessment of each antivirus software’s capabilities and performance.

Anti-malware protection (30%)

At the forefront of our testing lies anti-malware protection, accounting for 30% of our evaluation. For this, we undertake in-depth testing via two different means: in-house testing and scrutinizing results from the esteemed anti-malware test lab, AV-Test.

In-house testing

Our rigorous in-house testing involves exposing our test PCs to hundreds of known malware samples through a USB stick to assess the software’s scanning capabilities. We analyze whether the antivirus software can accurately and effectively identify and neutralize all of these threats.

We believe in putting the software through real-world scenarios, which is why we also conduct separate tests that simulate actual malware attacks. This involves executing known malware files and initiating ransomware attacks to gauge the efficacy of the software’s real-time protection. We take note of how swiftly and efficiently the antivirus software responds to these simulated threats.

AV-Test results

Alongside our independent in-house testing, we also closely analyze the anti-malware protection results for Windows, Mac, and Android systems provided by AV-Test.

AV-Test is a reputable independent organization specializing in IT security and anti-virus research. Their exhaustive testing methodology and results provide an authoritative benchmark for anti-malware performance.

By considering these results, we ensure our evaluation of antivirus software is comprehensive and backed by industry-respected insights.

Security and privacy features (30%)

Another integral part of our testing methodology pertains to a suite of security and privacy features. Accounting for 30% of our assessment, these features range from web protection to dark web monitoring. Let’s delve into each.

Web protection (anti-phishing)

Web protection, also known as anti-phishing, safeguards users from malicious websites attempting to steal personal information or install malware. We test this feature by attempting to navigate to known phishing websites and evaluating how effectively the software blocks these sites and alerts the user.

Firewall

Firewalls act as a security barrier between your computer and external networks, monitoring data traffic and blocking potential threats. We assess firewalls by attempting to infiltrate the system with various types of network-based attacks and observing how effectively the firewall prevents these attacks.

Password manager

Password managers securely store and autofill your online passwords, enhancing security and convenience. We evaluate password managers for their user-friendliness, security measures (like encryption), and additional features such as password generation or breach alerts.

Virtual private network (VPN)

VPNs secure your online activities by encrypting your data and masking your online identity. We test VPNs for speed, reliability, security, and the number of server locations. We also check if they follow a strict no-log policy.

Parental controls

Parental controls enable parents to monitor and restrict their children’s online activities. We review these for their comprehensiveness (content filtering, screen time management, etc.) and ease of use.

Identity theft protection

This feature provides monitoring services that alert users if their personal information appears in suspicious circumstances online. We evaluate its effectiveness by testing the alert system and analyzing the types of information it monitors.

Secure cloud storage (cloud backup)

Secure cloud storage allows users to backup and encrypt their data in the cloud. We review this feature by examining the ease of backup and restore operations, data encryption, and the amount of storage provided.

Anti-ransomware

Anti-ransomware tools prevent ransomware from encrypting your data and demanding a ransom. We test this feature by executing ransomware attacks in a controlled environment to see if the software successfully prevents them.

Dark web monitoring

Dark web monitoring involves scanning the dark web for the user’s personal information, alerting them if their details are found on this hidden part of the internet. We assess the scope and responsiveness of this monitoring and the guidance offered in the event of a detected breach.

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 can significantly affect the user’s experience. Thus, we evaluate this element by referencing the performance tests conducted by AV-Test.

These tests assess the software’s system impact during everyday activities, such as loading popular websites, downloading and installing commonly used applications, copying files, and running standard computer programs.

A lower impact score indicates a lesser degree of system slowdown, which is crucial for maintaining the computer’s performance while running antivirus software.

False positives (10%)

False positives occur when antivirus software incorrectly identifies legitimate files or activities as threats. This could potentially disrupt users or lead to essential data being quarantined.

To examine this, we rely on AV-Test’s usability tests. These tests measure the frequency of false alarms during system scans, software installations, and in everyday use of the system. A lower rate of false positives translates to a better user experience and fewer unnecessary disruptions.

Price (10%)

When it comes to price, our emphasis is on value for money. We evaluate whether the antivirus software’s cost is justified based on its feature set, performance, and user experience.

It’s essential to note that the price often varies between the first and second years, with the first year usually being cheaper due to introductory discounts. We take this into account, and we’re transparent about these differences to provide a comprehensive view of the long-term cost.

Ownership and reputation (10%)

Lastly, we assess the ownership and reputation of the antivirus companies. Not all companies are created equal, and past scandals can have serious implications on their credibility.

A notable example is Avast, who faced backlash after it was revealed that their subsidiary, Jumpshot, had been selling user data. Such instances raise concerns about the handling of user data, privacy policies, and the overall integrity of the company.

Therefore, we scrutinize the company’s history, its stance on user privacy, and any significant controversies to help our readers make an informed choice.

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

How to choose the best antivirus software?

Choosing the right antivirus software is an important decision, as it plays a crucial role in protecting your digital life. Here are several key elements you should consider when making your selection:

Reliable protection from malware

First and foremost, the software must provide robust protection against a wide range of malware, including viruses, ransomware, spyware, and other malicious programs. Look for software that not only removes malware but also detects and blocks it in real time. A high detection rate and low false-positive rate are indicators of reliable protection.

Security updates

Regular security updates are vital to maintain the efficacy of antivirus software. Cyber threats evolve rapidly, and your antivirus needs to stay updated to recognize and combat new threats. Choose a product from a company that commits to frequent and timely updates to their threat database.

Security features

The best antivirus software provides more than just basic malware protection. It should also include a variety of security features, such as a firewall, web protection, a password manager, and a VPN. Additionally, look for advanced features like parental controls, identity theft protection, and secure cloud storage, depending on your needs.

Performance impact

An ideal antivirus solution is one that offers high-grade protection without significantly slowing down your system. Look for software with a low system impact, so it doesn’t interfere with your usual activities. AV-Test’s performance tests can provide useful insights here.

Customer support

Good customer support is critical for dealing with any issues that may arise. Look for companies that offer multiple support channels, including live chat, phone support, and email. Also, consider how responsive and helpful the support team is.

First-year and second price

When considering price, don’t just focus on the first-year discounted rate. Some antivirus software may have a low introductory price but significantly higher renewal rates in subsequent years. Evaluate the long-term costs, not just the initial outlay, to ensure you’re getting a good value for your money.

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 provides a critical line of defense against a broad spectrum of cyber threats. While it cannot eliminate every potential danger, it can significantly reduce your vulnerability to various malicious activities. Here’s a look at some of the threats that antivirus software can help protect against:

Malware

Malware, or malicious software, is a broad term encompassing various types of threats, including viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, and others. Antivirus software is designed to detect, block, and remove these threats, keeping your system clean and secure.

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

Adware

Adware is a type of software that delivers unwanted advertisements to your device, often in the form of pop-ups. While it’s not always harmful, it can be annoying and may pave the way for other malware. Antivirus can detect and remove adware.

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 cybercriminals without the users’ knowledge. They’re used for various malicious activities, including DDoS attacks. Antivirus software can prevent your device from becoming part of a botnet.

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

Keyloggers

Keyloggers are malicious programs that record your keystrokes, capturing everything from passwords to credit card numbers. Antivirus software can detect and neutralize keyloggers, protecting your sensitive information.

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

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts the victim’s files, demanding a ransom to decrypt them. It’s one of the most dangerous types of cyber threats. Antivirus software with a dedicated ransomware protection feature can help prevent these attacks.

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

Rootkits

Rootkits are designed to gain administrator-level control over a computer system without being detected. They are challenging to find and remove, but advanced antivirus solutions can detect and eradicate them.

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

Spyware

Spyware is software that spies on your online activity, collecting information without your knowledge or consent. It’s often used for identity theft. Antivirus software can detect and remove spyware.

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

Trojans

Trojans are malicious programs that disguise themselves as legitimate software. They can create a backdoor in your security, allowing cybercriminals to access your system. Antivirus software is designed to detect and eliminate trojans.

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

Viruses

Viruses are a type of malware that can copy themselves and spread to other computers, corrupting systems and destroying data. They’re one of the oldest types of cyber threats, and antivirus software is explicitly designed to combat them.

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

Worms

Worms are similar to viruses, but they spread independently without needing to attach themselves to a program. They can rapidly infect an entire network of devices. Antivirus software can detect and stop worms.

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

What cyber threats can antivirus not protect you from?

While antivirus software is instrumental in maintaining your online safety, it’s not a silver bullet. Certain types of cyber threats require user vigilance, awareness, and discretion to effectively combat. Here’s an exploration of some threats that may bypass even the most robust antivirus solutions:

Phishing

Phishing is a deceptive practice where cybercriminals impersonate trustworthy entities via email, text messages, or social media to lure individuals into revealing sensitive information like passwords or credit card details. While some antivirus software has anti-phishing features, these aren’t foolproof. User awareness and skepticism towards unsolicited communication are crucial in avoiding phishing scams.

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

Online Scams

Online scams come in various forms, from fraudulent online stores to fake lotteries and job offers. While an antivirus solution might block known scam sites, it can’t protect you from newly created ones or from your decisions. Carefully verifying the legitimacy of online deals, stores, and offers is a critical step users must take independently.

For more, read our blog post on online scams.

Social Engineering

Social engineering refers to psychological manipulation techniques used by cybercriminals to trick individuals into revealing confidential information or taking specific actions. Tactics include pretexting, baiting, and tailgating, none of which can be directly countered by antivirus software. Protection against social engineering relies heavily on personal awareness and education.

For more, read our blog post on social engineering.

Zero-Day Exploits

Zero-day exploits are attacks launched on the same day a vulnerability becomes known, leaving software vendors no time to create patches. Antivirus software can struggle to protect against these exploits because they’re based on unknown vulnerabilities. Regular software updates and the use of security solutions with proactive defense techniques, such as heuristic analysis, can help minimize this risk.

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.

As a general rule of thumb, even the best free malware removal programs, like Avast One, cannot compete with the comprehensive malware protection offered by paid solutions, like Norton 360 Deluxe or Bitdefender Total Protection.

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.