Windows is the most-targeted OS by malware. These 5 antivirus products combine top AV-TEST detection scores with low CPU/RAM footprint — letting your machine stay fast while staying safe.
Best Antivirus for Windows (2026)
Top detection scores + low system impact for Windows 11
1. Bitdefender Total Security — our pick
Bitdefender Total Security is the technical user's pick. Lightest footprint, top AV-TEST scores, advanced ransomware protection. Best if you don't need the bundled extras (VPN, identity protection) that Norton 360 includes.
Get Bitdefender Total Security → Full review →
2. Norton 360
Norton 360 is the all-in-one consumer security suite. Antivirus + VPN + password manager + dark web monitoring + identity theft protection. Best for non-technical users who want one product to handle all their digital security.
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3. Malwarebytes Premium
Malwarebytes Premium is the right pick if you already use Windows Defender and want a complementary second-line scanner. Best malware remediation in the industry. Not a full security suite — pair with Bitwarden + a standalone VPN for complete coverage.
Get Malwarebytes Premium → Full review →
4. Kaspersky Plus
Kaspersky's technical product is top-tier — perfect AV-TEST scores for years. But the geopolitical situation around Russian software has effectively eliminated it from US/EU enterprise markets. For consumer users outside high-risk professions, the product itself remains excellent if you can put aside jurisdiction concerns.
Get Kaspersky Plus → Full review →
5. Avast Premium Security
Avast Premium Security is the budget pick from a recognizable brand. The 2020 Jumpshot data-selling scandal hurt trust but the antivirus product remains technically capable. Now owned by Norton's parent (Gen Digital) — shared R&D with Norton 360. Best for users who want a known brand at $5/mo.