Bitdefender Antivirus Free
Lightweight, unobtrusive, highly-rated free antivirus
- Uses the same malware engine as the paid version; laboratory testing consistently ranks it in the top tier for detection rates.
- Minimalist interface requiring virtually no configuration, suitable for beginners and users who prefer not to be interrupted.
- Minimal system performance impact, ideal for older machines or gaming enthusiasts who need always-running protection.
- Focuses on core protection with virtually no pop-ups or promotional content; very few advertisements.
💰 Completely free for individuals (Windows primary; Mac/Android free versions available in some regions).
Avast One Basic
One of the most feature-complete free security suites
- Achieved high scores in independent laboratory tests on Windows, macOS, and Android with real-time protection capabilities.
- Free version integrates antivirus, firewall, malicious URL blocking, privacy protection, and system optimization modules.
- Modern interface supporting unified multi-platform management, ideal for households with multiple devices.
- Drawback: installation wizard and main interface include some upgrade prompts and paid feature notifications.
💰 Free version covers multiple devices; paid premium version unlocks VPN and additional features.
AVG AntiVirus Free
Feature-rich free antivirus with abundant additional tools
- Uses the same malware engine as Avast with near-perfect protection rates in multiple tests.
- Provides email scanning, malicious link blocking, and basic performance optimization features.
- Clear interface, easy to learn, suitable for users who want to "install and go."
- Similarly includes some frequency of upgrade promotions and paid upgrade reminders.
💰 Free personal version; paid Premium Internet Security suite offers additional firewall and privacy protection.
Microsoft Defender
Built-in Windows 11 protection with zero cost
- Integrated into Windows Security Center with no additional installation required; updates delivered automatically through Windows.
- In recent years, independent laboratory testing shows significantly improved malware detection rates, sufficient for typical home use scenarios.
- Deep system integration with minimal performance impact and no excessive resource consumption.
- Drawback: weaker than professional security suites in phishing protection and additional privacy tools.
💰 Provided free as built-in antivirus for Windows 11/10 with no subscription fees.
Avira Free Security
Cloud scanning plus system cleanup in a classic free solution
- Cloud-based malware engine with detection rates approaching or reaching 100% in multiple evaluations.
- Low resource consumption with minimal impact on foreground applications during scanning; suitable for working while scanning.
- Free version includes browser security extension and basic privacy optimization, enhancing online shopping and browsing safety.
- Premium version unlocks more comprehensive network security modules and VPN functionality.
💰 Core antivirus and some tools permanently free; premium Internet Security suite from approximately $20-30 per year.
TotalAV Free
Free version excelling in system cleaning and ease of use
- Scores high in multiple evaluations for good malware detection rates and user-friendly interface.
- Focuses on system cleanup, startup item management, and browser junk cleaning, ideal for users wanting system speedup.
- Free version provides on-demand scanning and basic protection, with real-time protection and VPN requiring payment.
- During installation and usage, paid upgrade prompts are frequent and require careful attention.
💰 Free version offers basic features; paid version commonly sees first-year promotional pricing as low as approximately $20-30.
💲 High-Value Affordable Antivirus Software
TotalAV Antivirus Pro
Highest overall rating with extremely low first-year pricing
- Recognized in multiple media and independent evaluations as "best budget antivirus" with high detection rates and rich features.
- Includes real-time protection, ransomware protection, ad blocking, and system optimization tools in an integrated suite.
- Some packages include built-in VPN and password manager, suitable for "all-in-one security" needs.
- Ideal for users prioritizing value, seeking complete security suite at low prices.
💰 First-year promotional pricing commonly around $25-30, with renewal at standard official pricing.
Norton 360 Standard
Classic solution with included VPN and cloud backup
- Consistently maintains high scores in independent laboratory detection and performance testing, excelling in web and network threat protection.
- Includes real-time protection, firewall, password manager, VPN, and cloud backup, suitable for daily web browsing and online banking protection.
- Mature clients on both desktop and mobile platforms supporting cross-platform multi-device protection.
- Feature-rich interface requiring some time for new users to familiarize themselves.
💰 First-year common promotional pricing approximately $25-30, with renewal pricing higher but frequently discounted through promotions.
Bitdefender Antivirus Plus
Extremely high protection scores with affordable entry-level suite
- Multiple "Product Award" and perfect protection score achievements in laboratories including AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives.
- Includes web protection, anti-phishing, online payment protection, and password vault tools.
- Minimalist interface with default configuration delivering high security level, ideal for users avoiding frequent parameter adjustments.
- Low resource consumption after installation, suitable for gaming and heavy office work scenarios.
💰 In some regions, first-year pricing as low as approximately $10/year, with subsequent renewal following regional official pricing.
Surfshark One / Antivirus
Security suite with integrated premium VPN
- Lightweight antivirus module paired with reputable Surfshark VPN, ideal for users prioritizing privacy and cross-region access.
- Modern, user-friendly interface supporting multi-device protection with single subscription.
- Good performance in malware detection testing, though deep scan speed slightly lags traditional major vendors.
- Ideal for users needing integrated "VPN + antivirus + anti-tracking" functionality.
💰 Long-term packages averaging approximately $2-3 per month, including VPN and additional security features with good value.
Malwarebytes Premium
Lightweight solution focused on malware and ransomware blocking
- Outstanding performance in testing against adware, potentially unwanted programs, and ransomware.
- Extremely lightweight client suitable as "second line of defense" or deployed alongside other antivirus.
- Simple interface with clear policy rules enabling targeted investigation.
- Premium version unlocks real-time protection and ransomware defense; free version offers on-demand scanning only.
💰 Annual fee commonly in the $35-45 range with frequent promotional offers such as buy one year get several months free.
💡 Selection and Usage Recommendations
Prioritize Laboratory Results: Review latest AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives reports for combined detection and false positive rate performance.
Free Plus System Strategy: Regular users can combine Microsoft Defender with a reputable free antivirus to cover most risks.
Affordable Subscription Over Premium: For online banking, cross-border payments, and remote work, TotalAV, Norton, or Bitdefender affordable annual plans are recommended.
Avoid Multiple Antivirus Conflicts: Running two real-time protection engines simultaneously on one device causes slowdown and conflicts; recommend maintaining one primary tool with others in on-demand scanning mode only.
Safe Habits Equally Important: Regular system and browser updates, avoiding random attachment execution and pirated software are essential; antivirus reaches maximum effectiveness with good hygiene practices.