Many modern antivirus systems offer real-time scanning in hopes of allowing users to still use their computer while performing a malware detection scan. However, this can become counterintuitive, since the software often slows down your computer and increases your CPU usage. It can become even more cumbersome, as some scans can consume a whole day’s worth of time you could have been spending on your computer, resulting in a clunky experience. That is where alternatives come in. The antivirus software listed below has been thoroughly tested to ensure users can have a seamless experience using their devices, while also staying protected from hackers and malware.

The Top 5 Best Antivirus Software That Doesn’t Slow Down Your Computer

  1. Kaspersky – Best Basic Protection
  2. McAfee – Best for Options
  3. Norton – Best Overall
  4. Panda – Best Bundled Protection
  5. Bitdefender – Best Value

1. Kaspersky – Best Basic Protection

PRICING: From $9.99-$26.99 per year depending on the device and level of security you desire.

Driven by AI protection, you can feel safe using the internet knowing that Kaspersky is always one step ahead. By targeting the latest viruses and malware, and defending against hackers, the software allows you to go about your online business while it powers on in the background. Never have to wonder if a website or file is safe again. Kaspersky has it covered and secure.

KEY FEATURES:

  • Antivirus engine database.
  • System cleanup tools.
  • Data encryption and shredder.

REASONS TO BUY:

  • Secure browser to make online payments secure.
  • Webcam protection.
  • Backup and restore protocols.

REASONS TO AVOID:

  • Kaspersky is lacking in some essential features compared to its competitors such as two-factor authentication and dark web monitoring.

2. McAfee – Best for Options

PRICING: $29.99-$89.99 depending on how many devices you want to protect. A 30-day money back guarantee and a free trial is available.

McAfee empowers users to take their security in their own hands with personalization and customization features. Choose from a variety of different intensity levels for firewall protection, color coded safety ratings, and even controlling your device’s performance. It is entirely up to you what type of protection you need without skimping on software functionality. McAfee has a 100% malware detection rating no matter what.

KEY FEATURES:

  • Top of the line antivirus scanner.
  • Powerful and highly customizable firewall.
  • WebAdviser for blocking suspicious sites and hackers.

REASONS TO BUY:

  • Performance and cookie optimization tools.
  • File encryption.
  • Monitor new devices that may be connecting to your networks.

REASONS TO AVOID:

  • Not the most time efficient when scanning.

3. Norton – Best Overall

PRICING: Varies from $9.99-$69.99 per year. A 7-day free trial is available.

Norton is the most advanced virus protection out there. The software covers all bases including hosting a firewall, has cloud backup features, and extensive identity protection tools. More importantly, it is capable of all of this and more without slowing down your systems and devices. Unlike competitors, nearly every feature Norton has to offer is worthwhile in ensuring cyber safety and security. It is no wonder the software is trusted by millions worldwide.

KEY FEATURES:

  • Anti-malware search engine.
  • Quick, Smart, and Custom scans, as well as Norton insights which flag suspicious files.
  • Smart Firewall to detect network intrusions.

REASONS TO BUY:

  • Cloud file backup.
  • Privacy tools including identity theft protection.
  • Dark web monitoring.
  • Gaming mode and performance boosting.

REASONS TO AVOID:

  • Software can be clunky for desktop and not seamless for mobile.
  • Not as fast as some competitors.

4. Panda – Best Bundled Protection

PRICING: From $35.99-$100.49 per year depending if you have Windows or Mac. Per month options are available for Windows varying from $4.99-$8.99. There is also Android protection on offer. A 30-day money back guarantee is available plus you can get your first month free.

Panda offers a comprehensive suite of virus and hacker protection. This army of defense is packed with advanced malware testing to ensure safe browsing, real-time protection, and other measures to ward off any potential threats. To tie everything together, it is complete with a visually appealing and easy to use interface so there is no question as to what is happening with your devices.

KEY FEATURES:

  • Critical, full, and custom device scan options.
  • Unique “Rescue Kit” feature in the event malicious files corrupt your computer. You will be able to recover your files.
  • File encryption and shredder.

REASONS TO BUY:

  • USB protection and scans.
  • Parental Controls.
  • Has a VPN.

REASONS TO AVOID:

  • Web protection is only capable of 50% performance in detecting questionable sites.
  • Customer support is lacking.

5. Bitdefender – Best Value

PRICING: From $39.98-$69.98 per year for up to five devices. They also offer VPN and identity protection services.

Bitdefender provides award-winning cyber security for you and your family. Best of all, it has little to no impact on your computer or CPU. The software proves itself trustworthy with a variety of security and protection features. From web protection to a cloud-based scanner, you can surf the web safely with 100% malware detection, guaranteed.

KEY FEATURES:

  • Real-time, wide-spread protection including within networks, boot sectors, and keyloggers.
  • Quick, System, Custom, and Vulnerability scans.
  • Anti-phishing web protection.

REASONS TO BUY:

  • Cloud-based so it doesn’t slow down computers.
  • Advanced ransomware protection.
  • Webcam and microphone protection.

REASONS TO AVOID:

  • IOS mobile features are limited.
  • Password management isn’t as advanced as some users would like.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does Virus Protection Work?

Once installed onto your device, antivirus software acts as a security system for your laptop, desktop, or smart devices. Everytime you visit a website or download something new, the antivirus software puts it through inspection before it can do any damage. This works in the background of your devices, so you’ll never know it’s there unless it has detected a threat. You can also conduct regular scans manually if you wish. In addition to catching potential threats and intruders, antivirus software also has what are called ‘heuristics,’ which act as a fingerprint system for your already existing applications. Some malware takes action at a later time when the app is already downloaded onto your device, so the antivirus protection has you covered there as well. As soon as there is a “fingerprint” match of suspicious activity, the software isolates and eventually abolishes the threat.

Is Virus Protection Necessary?

If you are generally careful about what you browse and download, or you use your devices for general use, it may not be absolutely worthwhile. However, to a certain extent, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Once a piece of malware is given access to your devices, it can be very difficult to get rid of, wreaking havoc on your files, CPU, and even your personal information. If you are a gamer, visit various different websites, or download many applications, it is a wise decision to get antivirus protection. Especially if you have important work on your devices, it is not worth the risk of having your files corrupted or lost forever. If cost is a deterrent for you, there are many affordable and worthwhile options listed above. Most even have deals going on currently.

What About Free Virus Protection?

It is true that it is better than nothing, but it is often severely limited in what it can offer. Sure there are some that offer a robust selection of basic features, but because antivirus software can be hugely affordable to begin with, it may be worth getting the extra layer of features to stop viruses in their tracks. It all comes down to personal preference.

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