Top Antivirus Software for Windows PCs in 2025: Reviews and Recommendations - Tech Digital Minds
The digital landscape is evolving at lightning speed, and as we embrace more advanced technologies, so too does the threat landscape. Cyberattacks are increasingly sophisticated, thanks in large part to innovations in artificial intelligence (AI). As highlighted in a recent PCWorld article, we are seeing a surge in AI-fueled attacks that can easily deceive even the most tech-savvy individuals. This makes investing in antivirus software more critical than ever. Whether it’s malware, spyware, ransomware, or phishing attacks, antivirus protection serves as an essential safety net to shield your computer from these emerging threats.
While Windows computers come equipped with basic security features, these options may not be sufficient for everyone. For those who require more comprehensive security solutions, upgrading to a robust antivirus suite can make a significant difference. Fortunately, many antivirus products offer excellent protection, a range of worthwhile features, and minimal impact on system performance. This article will guide you through what to look for in antivirus software, helping you make an informed choice—especially during the current season of holiday deals.
Our evaluation process for antivirus software is thorough and multi-faceted. First and foremost, we assess each suite’s effectiveness in detecting and neutralizing malware and other online threats. However, our testing doesn’t end there. User experience and interface are critical components. We gauge whether the software is intuitive enough for users to navigate easily and whether essential tools, such as PC scans, password managers, and VPNs (if included), are readily accessible.
Alerts from the software also play a significant role in our assessment. We believe that notifications should be clear, relevant, and easy to understand, ensuring users can respond appropriately to any potential threats.
Next, we delve into the available features. Reliable antivirus solutions should include the basics like real-time protection and thorough scanning capabilities. Higher-tier subscription plans often boast bonus features such as a password manager and firewall. While some extras can offer genuine benefits, others may simply serve as marketing gimmicks.
To see how an antivirus app affects system resources, we perform several benchmarking tests. We utilize PCMark 10’s Extended test, which mimics everyday tasks such as document editing, web browsing, video chatting, and light gaming. Next, we leverage UL Procyon, specifically emphasizing document editing in popular applications like Microsoft Word. Lastly, we conduct a rigorous Handbrake test, transcoding a large video file into a smaller version. This taxing endeavor typically maxes out CPU usage on most consumer-grade PCs.
All benchmarks are executed on our Windows 11 testing machine—an Acer Aspire 3 15 with an AMD Ryzen 5 7520U, 8GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD. Initially, we run the tests without the antivirus suite installed. Following its installation, we repeat the benchmarks to assess performance under normal operating conditions, then again while performing a full scan with the antivirus software activated. This method allows us to compare performance scores and highlight any declines in efficiency.
For evaluating detection capabilities, we rely on recognized testing organizations such as AV Comparatives and AV Test. We also give particular attention to subscription pricing, ensuring that the features provided justify the cost.
It’s worth noting that we primarily use free trials for our evaluations. This approach gives us the same experience that paying customers would encounter, while we utilize provided review codes solely to capture clean screenshots devoid of promotional messages.
If you would like to delve deeper into our testing methodology, feel free to read our comprehensive explanation of how we test antivirus software.
PCWorld has dedicated decades to testing and evaluating computer hardware, software, and services since 1983, with a strong focus on security suites. Our commitment to thorough testing means that we put every product through an exhaustive review process, combining hands-on evaluation with benchmarking. We don’t recommend anything we wouldn’t use ourselves, and our credibility relies on the quality and rigor of our assessments.
This article was curated by Alaina Yee, PCWorld’s security editor, who brings over 15 years of experience covering consumer tech, from PC hardware and software to online security.
Moreover, as the landscape of antivirus software continues to change, additional features have become standard. Today’s security suites often include backup services for essential files, mobile compatibility for both Android and iOS devices, advanced firewall protection, content restrictions for family safety, and multi-device licensing options. Access to a virtual private network (VPN) and a password manager has also become increasingly prevalent.
Your own needs and budget will ultimately dictate whether you should invest in these additional features. For those seeking to enhance their security beyond the fundamentals, we recommend choosing a suite that includes a solid firewall, device support for all your gadgets, and additional options like a password manager and VPN—if those services are not already managed separately. If you’re unsure about your requirements, be sure to check out our guides on security suite features, the necessity for password managers, and the role of VPNs in security software.
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