Whether you use Windows 11 or still hold onto Windows 10, one thing’s certain in 2025: malware threats are evolving fast, and Microsoft’s built-in defenses alone aren’t enough. From phishing scams to ransomware, spyware, and keyloggers, Windows users need an antivirus that does more than just scan and delete.
We tested the best antivirus tools to find the top options that deliver strong protection, real-time threat detection, VPNs, and system performance — all without annoying popups or slowing down your PC.
For most users, TotalAV is the best antivirus for Windows in 2025. It’s lightweight, fast, and packed with essential tools like a VPN and ad blocker. Surfshark Antivirus and Nord Antivirus are also excellent picks, especially for privacy or business-grade protection.
Best Windows Antivirus Software Compared (2025)
| Antivirus | Best For | Free Version | VPN Included | Price (Yearly) | Rating (0-10) | CTA |
| TotalAV | All-around protection | ✅ | ✅ | From $19 | 9.5 | [Try Now] |
| Surfshark AV | Privacy-first users | ❌ | ✅ | From $29.88 | 9.3 | [Try Now] |
| Nord Antivirus | Real-time defense | ❌ | ✅ | From $35.88 | 9.2 | [Try Now] |
TotalAV – Best Overall Antivirus for Windows
TotalAV continues to dominate in 2025, thanks to its powerful malware engine, as well as VPN, system optimization tools, and a user-friendly dashboard. It works flawlessly on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Highlights:
- Real-time protection against malware, spyware, and phishing
- Built-in VPN with unlimited bandwidth
- Ad blocker, system tune-up, and browser cleaner
- Easy-to-navigate UI, even for non-tech-savvy users
Pros:
- Fast, lightweight, and beginner-friendly
- Great value (often $19 or less during promo)
- Includes VPN, which is rare for the price
Cons:
- No customizable firewall settings
- Limited cloud protection features
Best for: Everyday users, remote workers, and students
Final Word:
TotalAV is a smart, no-fuss solution for Windows users who want fast, reliable protection and built-in privacy tools — without overpaying.
Try TotalAV today — powerful, private, and surprisingly affordable.
Surfshark Antivirus – Best for Privacy & All-in-One Security
Surfshark Antivirus is part of Surfshark One — a robust privacy suite that includes a secure VPN, identity breach alerts, tracker blocking, and more.
Highlights:
- Antivirus + VPN + breach monitoring + private search
- Strong ransomware and phishing protection
- Minimal system impact on Windows 10 and 11
- Unlimited devices with a single plan
Pros:
- Excellent value as a full security suite
- Ideal for frequent travelers and remote workers
- Beautiful desktop and web interface
Cons:
- No free version
- Must purchase Surfshark One bundle
Best for: Privacy-conscious users and cross-device protection
Final Word:
Surfshark offers the best all-in-one privacy suite for users who care about security across all their devices. It’s ideal if you want antivirus, VPN, and identity protection in one simple subscription.
Try Surfshark Antivirus – powerful, private, and built for today’s digital lifestyle.
Nord Antivirus – Best for Real-Time Threat Detection
From the makers of NordVPN, Nord Antivirus offers cloud-based scanning, real-time threat prevention, and next-gen security features.
Highlights:
- Advanced real-time protection
- Integrated VPN with fast global servers
- AI-based threat detection + ransomware shield
- Ideal for high-risk browsing and file handling
Pros:
- Great for Windows power users
- Regular updates and cloud scanning
- Top-tier malware lab results
Cons:
- Slightly pricier
- Some features roll out slower on Windows Home editions
Best for: Professionals, freelancers, and power users
Final Word:
Nord Antivirus is a powerful option for users who expect real-time protection, secure browsing, and cloud-based defenses — all with a sleek interface.
Try Nord Antivirus – engineered for serious security on Windows.
How to Choose the Right Antivirus for Your Windows PC
Every Windows user has a different digital life, and a one-size-fits-all antivirus just doesn’t cut it. Whether you’re a gamer who needs speed, a remote worker handling sensitive data, or a parent protecting the family PC, the best antivirus for you depends on how you use your device. Here’s what to consider before you click “Install”:
Key Features to Look For:
- Real-time protection: Stops threats like ransomware and trojans before they do damage.
- Built-in VPN: Encrypts your connection and protects your data on public Wi-Fi.
- Ransomware shield: Protects your personal files from encryption-based attacks.
- System performance: Should run smoothly on both Windows 10 and 11 without hogging resources.
- Privacy tools: Includes breach monitoring, ad blocking, and secure browsing extensions.
Match Your Profile:
- Working remotely or often on the go? Choose TotalAV or Surfshark for their built-in VPNs.
- Privacy-focused user? Surfshark is best known for its breach alerts, private search, and tracker blocking features.
- Handling sensitive data or downloading frequently? Nord offers cloud-powered scanning and rapid threat response.
Your Windows PC deserves protection that matches how you work, browse, and live — without getting in your way.
How We Tested These Windows Antivirus Tools
To provide you with real-world insights, we tested each antivirus software hands-on using a Windows 11 Pro laptop and a Windows 10 desktop.
Our Evaluation Criteria:
- Malware detection: We ran live tests with zero-day malware samples, phishing links, and PUPs (potentially unwanted programs).
- System performance: We tracked memory and CPU impact during idle, full scans, and background protection.
- VPN performance: We evaluated speed, server coverage, and streaming reliability for each bundled VPN.
- Ease of use: We scored each dashboard on simplicity, clarity, and the overall first-time setup experience.
- Feature set: We assessed ransomware shields, ad/tracker blockers, smart scan utilities, and breach monitoring tools.
All three tools were tested over a two-week period, with typical daily use, as well as stress testing during downloads, streaming, and multitasking.
Final Verdict
Windows is the world’s most targeted OS — but you don’t need to be vulnerable.
TotalAV gives you everything you need to stay protected at an unbeatable price. Surfshark covers privacy like no other. Nord Antivirus is best for users who want proactive, intelligent security.
Ready to secure your PC? Start with TotalAV — fast, smart, and trusted by millions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Microsoft Defender still free?
Yes, Microsoft Defender is pre-installed with Windows and is available for free use. However, while it offers decent baseline protection, it lacks many advanced features, such as VPNs, identity theft monitoring, ad blocking, and advanced ransomware protection, that are found in third-party antivirus software.
Which antivirus is best for Windows?
Based on real-world testing in 2025, TotalAV is the best all-around antivirus for Windows users. It combines real-time protection, a VPN, system tune-up tools, and great value. Surfshark is best suited for privacy-focused users, while Nord offers the strongest real-time cloud-based threat protection.
Do Windows PCs still need antivirus in 2025?
Yes — even with Windows Defender. A third-party antivirus offers stronger malware protection, real-time defense, and additional features such as VPNs and breach monitoring.
What’s the best antivirus with VPN for Windows?
TotalAV, Surfshark, and Nord all include top-tier VPNs. TotalAV offers the best value, while Surfshark has the most privacy tools, and Nord is fastest.
Can antivirus slow down my PC?
Yes — but only if it’s outdated or bloated. Modern antivirus software, such as TotalAV, Surfshark, and Nord, is designed to be lightweight and efficient, minimizing its background impact even on older PCs. You’ll barely notice they’re running — but you’ll definitely notice if they’re not.
Is free antivirus good enough?
Free antivirus software can offer basic malware scans, but it typically lacks critical features such as real-time protection, ransomware shields, identity monitoring, and a VPN. If you browse, shop, or work online regularly, a paid antivirus is a small investment for far better protection and peace of mind.
Which antivirus works best on Windows 11?
All three — TotalAV, Surfshark, and Nord — are fully optimized for Windows 11. They also remain fully compatible with Windows 10, so you’re covered regardless of your OS version.
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