The advent of smart computers still hasn’t found a formidable fortress against malware and viruses but has made a workaround with Antivirus protection software. It is vital to regularly review your PC’s health to keep it safe from cyber-attacks from scammers. Investing in the best antivirus for Windows 10 is equivalent to investing in protection from a syndicate of hackers who can access your sensitive information such as your personal or corporate banking details. 

Windows make up for nearly every 3 in 4 desktops and due to this, harbors a larger susceptible base of devices and is easily on the radar of cybercriminals. When you’re picking the best antivirus for Windows 10, find one that is convenient to use, doesn’t take up a lot of space on your system, can identify unknown online threats, sports a reasonable price, and most importantly, maintains the privacy of your system’s technical data that it amasses to provide protection. 

We’ve listed 2023’s 3 best Antivirus Software for Windows 10 including picks with free antivirus software and their pros and cons as well. 

Best Antivirus For Windows 10 And Windows 11: Top 3 Picks

1. Norton 360 With LifeLock Select

Available For: Windows 10, Windows 11, macOS, Android, iOS

For the longest time, NortonLifeLock (previously Norton Security) has been amongst the best antivirus for Windows 10 as well as for other platforms. Rated for its robust antivirus software against detecting malware such as ransomware, phishing, spyware, and viruses, Norton 360 with LifeLock Select provides industry-leading protection. 

Norton 360 with LifeLock Select typically costs $180 per year for a five-device subscription but the first year is charged only $100. 

Pros: 

1. Norton is known for its comprehensive security system that employs multiple layers of defense mechanisms for detecting and blocking threats. 
2. The advanced features of Norton 360 with LifeLock Select include real-time threat detection, identity threat protection, VPN security, parental controls, and web protection with a firewall. 
3. With intelligent scanning algorithms, users enjoy a glitch-free experience as Norton’s optimization techniques minimize resource usage and deliver a strong performance. 
4. Norton is also known for its reliable customer support for assistance and troubleshooting, through various mediums of live chat, online, and call service. 

Cons:

1. While Norton’s 360 LifeLock Select is efficient in its protection, some intense full system scans can temporarily cause a slowdown in the Windows performance. 
2. Being the best antivirus for Windows 10, Norton also comes along with a higher price tag compared to its other free antivirus software that offers similar features. 
3. The wide range of antivirus features on Norton’s 360 LifeLock Select can be a complex interface for a beginner. 
4. Norton’s best antivirus for Windows 10 may limit its features on other platforms including macOS or Linux.

2. Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition

Available For: Windows 10, Windows 11, macOS, Android, iOS

As its eponymous name, Bitdefender is one of the best free antivirus software available in the market. It does offer a paid version as well. Although it is important to note that certain formidable features are available in its paid version. 

Pros:

1. Bitdefender harnesses a user-friendly and clean interface making it easily accessible for users with limited tech knowledge. The entire process of the free antivirus software is silent and straightforward. 
2. Bitdefender’s free antivirus software is designed to be lightweight on the system, hence does not slow down the interface. 
3. This best antivirus for Windows 11 is trained to detect malware such as Trojans, worms, ransomware, and viruses. 
4. Bitdefender extends its free antivirus software to automatically take action on an auto-pilot mode without constant intervention and prompts to the user. 

Cons:

1. Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition displays promotional messages to encourage users to upgrade to its paid version. 
2. There is no direct customer support.
3. As it is a free antivirus software, Bitdefender misses some of the advanced features of a firewall, real-time protection, and an additional layer of security.

3. Microsoft Defender

Available For: Free Antivirus built into Windows 10 and Windows 11

Previously Windows Defender, Microsoft Defender Antivirus software runs for free on Windows 10 and 11. It is one of the best antivirus for Windows 10.

Pros:

1. Microsoft Defender is seamlessly integrated into the operating system and needs minimal resources. 
2. It provides real-time protection against malicious software. 
3. It is easy to configure the settings of this best antivirus for Windows 10 and provides a centralized interface to manage security features. 
4. Microsoft Defender is regularly updated to combat emerging threats and malware. 

Cons:

1. Microsoft Defender is criticized for its antivirus testing in third-party antivirus solutions.
2. It lacks advanced customizable features that other paid antivirus software provides.
3. Microsoft Defender is limited to Windows OS.
4. Customer support is limited to community forums and online documentation, in contrast to other antivirus vendors who have personalized assistance options.

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