1
N3
Norton 360
Antivirus with VPN, backup and identity tools
- 60-day money-back guarantee on annual plans
- Unlimited VPN included in Norton 360 Deluxe
- Password manager and cloud backup
Updated October 2026 · detection · devices · extras
Compare the Best Antivirus Software (2026)
Protect your computers and phones from malware, phishing and scams. Compare detection results, device coverage and included extras.
About 1 minto see your matches
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Facts checkedOctober 2026
Step 1
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Providers
Featured antivirus providers
2
B
Bitdefender
Top-scoring antivirus with light system impact
- Strong results in independent lab tests
- Covers Windows, Mac, Android and iOS
- Safepay secure browser for banking
3
M
McAfee+
Antivirus and identity protection for every device
- Unlimited devices on McAfee+ Premium
- VPN and password manager included
- Dark web monitoring
Our top picks, explained
Best all-in-one suite
N3
Norton 360
A full security bundle with a longer refund window than most.
Pros and cons
- Long refund window
- Lots of extras
- Renewal price is much higher than year one
Best malware protection
B
Bitdefender
Excellent protection that stays out of your way.
Pros and cons
- Excellent detection
- Light on resources
- Included VPN has a daily data cap
Best for unlimited devices
M
McAfee+
Covers an unlimited number of devices in the household.
Pros and cons
- Covers every device
- Identity features
- Frequent upsell prompts
Side-by-side comparison
N3 | B | M | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trustpilot rating | – | ||
| Devices | Up to 5 (Deluxe) | Up to 5 (Total Security) | Unlimited (Premium) |
| VPN | Unlimited | Limited daily data | Included |
| Money-back | 60 days | 30 days | 30 days |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, ChromeOS |
| Visit site | Visit site | Visit site |
Provider details were checked against public sources in October 2026; confirm current rates and terms with the provider. Listings may include providers that compensate The Top 10 Experts. Order and placement may be influenced by compensation. Advertiser disclosure.
Before you choose
What to compare
Use these points to compare any antivirus provider, whether or not it appears on The Top 10 Experts.
Detection
Lab test results
Independent labs such as AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives test how well each product blocks malware.
Devices
Device coverage
Plans cover a set number of devices or unlimited devices across Windows, Mac, Android and iOS.
Extras
VPN and identity tools
Bundles may include a VPN, password manager, cloud backup or dark web monitoring. Check for data caps on the VPN.
Renewal
Auto-renewal price
First-year discounts are steep. Check the renewal price and how to turn off auto-renew.
Common questions
Is Windows Defender enough?
Microsoft Defender gives solid basic protection. Paid suites add extras like VPNs, identity monitoring and support.
Do Macs and phones need antivirus?
They're targeted less often, but phishing and scam protection is useful on every device.
Will antivirus slow my computer?
Modern products have little impact on everyday performance.
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