Free start
Best free antivirus software in 2026
Microsoft Defender and the serious free tiers. Honest about what free actually covers, what data the free brands collect, and when paying starts to make sense.
Tools
4
Type
Free start
From
$4.09/mo
Average
$5/mo
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Prices last checked on
Our top 3 picks
No time to compare everything? These are the best choices right now.
2. Built into Windows
- Real-time protection and firewall
- Ransomware folder protection
- No upsells, no installs
3. Great alternative
- Same engine as paid tier
- Basic web protection
- Windows, Mac, Android
$5
4 of 4 tools
AVG Internet Security
Gen Digital
Free & built-in4.1
From $4.99/moRenews at $99.99/yrVisit AVG Internet Security
Avira Free Security
Gen Digital
Free & built-in4.0
From $5/moRenews at $109.99/yrVisit Avira Free Security