Choosing the appropriate antivirus software for laptops—whether it’s a PC or a Mac—is now even more vital. 2025 cyberattacks outperform anything we have previously seen, and they are getting better at hiding. Nowadays, we’re under constant bombardment from hackers, using weaponized emails, texts, and phone calls to get at us and our data.

The good news is that the modern antivirus program isn’t just a ‘last line of defense’ anymore. It should and can do much more to protect you. And there’s no excuse for paying more than you have to. Whether you need basic protection or premium security suites, the following programs ensure that the laptop you do your banking and business on is a safe one.

What is Antivirus Software for Laptops (PC + Mac)?

• Designed to identify, block, and erase cyber threats including viruses. 
• Run on MacBook-based systems and all Windows computers. 
• Instant Threat Catching: System operations and files are observed to detect threats happening at once. 
• Prevents access to dangerous websites and dubious networks by means of web security and a firewall.
• Aspects of User Data Safety: Includes anti-surveillance tools, credentials steward, and virtual private network. 
• Configuration Optimization: Increases system speed by eliminating extraneous files. 
• Maintains recent viruses at bay by regularly revising definitions of what they are and how to fight them. 
• Simple controls for beginners and seasoned users alike are offered by intuitive interfaces. 

Why Do You Need Antivirus Software for Laptops (PC + Mac)?

• Guard Against Malware: Safeguards your instrument from malicious software including viruses, ransomware, spyware, and trojans.
• Safe Browsing stops your computer from being attacked by dangerous websites. Stops phishing attempts aiming to persuade you to give away personal data. Blocks unreliable downloads.
• Stops hackers from obtaining delicate information such as banking account details and passwords.
• Enhances Performance of Systems: Removes threats and unwelcome files that slow down your laptop’s performance.
• Detection of Real-Time Danger: Warns right away and removes hazards before their damaging impact.
• Offers protection throughout several devices and operating systems (PC + Mac).
• Necessary for Remote Work: Make sure digital meetings, shared papers, and associated documents are safe.

List of 10 Best Antivirus Software for Laptops (PC + Mac)

1. Bitdefender 

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus one of the most highly regarded Windows laptop security solutions is Bitdefender Antivirus Plus. It gives real-time threat detection, strong malware protection, and multi-layer ransomware protection. Anti-phishing solutions, web attack prevention, and safe VPN (200MB/day) guarantee flawless browsing and internet access.

Even when scans are running, system performance is almost unchanged. The same is true for activities utilizing any of the other features, considerably more numerous than in many rival solutions. Among these elements are a smart firewall, file shredder, and password manager; however, they are not confined to these. 

Services:

• Real-time malware & ransomware protection
• Web attack prevention & anti-phishing
• Multi-layer ransomware defense
• Secure VPN (200MB/day)
• Password manager
• File shredder
• Minimal system impact

Pricing:

• Starts at ₹1,299/year

2. Norton 360

Norton 360 is a premium, cross-platform antivirus suite that protects not just Windows laptops, but also Macs. It melds several real-time malware protections into one nearly impenetrable suite. Its second tier of defenses transitions from the on-device protective measures of a proprietary firewall and parental controls in the cloud to the VPN, dark web monitoring, and identity theft protection (which I would consider mostly a VPN service these days, especially effective as a VPN for Android devices).

All in all, with its combination of on-device and online protective measures, Norton 360 does an excellent job of offering robust, all-encompassing security.

Services:

• Cross-platform protection (PC + Mac)
• Real-time threat protection
• Secure VPN with unlimited data
• Cloud backup (Windows only)
• Password manager
• Parental controls
• Dark web monitoring

Pricing:

• Starts at ₹1,499/year 
• ₹3,999/year

3. McAfee

McAfee Total Protection, a fully loaded antivirus program supporting both PC and Mac, offers a powerful firewall, identity security, integrated VPN, and excellent malware detection. One of its outstanding characteristics is multi-device compatibility, which makes it perfect for families. The program also includes a password manager and file shredder to improve data privacy. As an added benefit, it functions well alongside top PC cleaners, ensuring your system remains secure and optimized.

Everyone benefits from its simple interface and little system impact. Anti-phishing tools and dark web monitoring let McAfee protect personal information. All things considered, it is a good solution for complete digital security. 

Services:

• Real-time antivirus and anti-malware
• Secure VPN
• Identity theft protection
• Firewall and safe web browsing
• Password manager
• File shredder
• Multi-device support

Pricing:

• Starts at ₹999/year 
• ₹3,199/year 

4. Kaspersky Plus

With its AI-driven malware detection engine, Kaspersky Plus (once Kaspersky Internet Security) offers excellent laptop virus protection for Mac and Windows users. Real-time defense against spyware, ransomware, and viruses is provided. For online shopping, the programme has a sophisticated firewall, phishing defense, and payment security.

Users also get a password manager and limited-use VPN (300MB/day). Known for its low system impact and intuitive interface, Kaspersky Plus offers a great balance of performance and security. It leverages advanced AI tools alongside privacy features that prevent unauthorized webcam and mic access. It is perfect for people looking for daily, reliable cybersecurity.

Services:

• AI-powered malware detection
• Anti-phishing & safe browsing
• Smart firewall
• Webcam and mic protection
• Secure payment browser
• Limited VPN (300MB/day)
• Password manager

Pricing:

• Starts at ₹1,299/year
• ₹2,099/year

5. Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security

Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security emphasizes sophisticated artificial intelligence-based threat detection and protection on Windows PCs. It overcomes phishing attacks, malware, viruses, ransomware. While its Folder Shield guards sensitive papers from unauthorized encryption, its Pay Guard tool guarantees secure internet shopping and banking.

Preventing email fraud and a secure browser are also provided by Trend Micro. Though it lacks features like VPN or multi-platform support, its great basic security really stands out. Light and user-friendly it is a great answer for clients looking for targeted, no-frills security with dependable performance and current malware protection. 

Services:

• Real-time protection against viruses & ransomware
• Pay Guard for secure banking
• Email scam protection
• AI-based web threat detection
• Folder Shield for data protection
• Simple, user-friendly UI
• PC Health Checkup

Pricing:

• Starts at ₹899/year

6. Avast One

Avast One, a modern antivirus suite, provides laptop virus protection along with all-in-one security for Macs and desktops alike. It offers real-time malware detection, firewall, built-in virtual VPN, and performance-optimizing technologies. Avast offers tracking avoidance and email breach notifications in addition to identity protection tools. Both tech-savvy people and more lay users will find its easy interface appealing.

The program’s user-configurable scanning choices and system cleaning features help to increase speed. Avast One distinguishes itself with a blend of robust security, ease of use, and privacy features. This is a great choice for anyone seeking performance gain in one bundle with security in mind. 

Services:

• Cross-platform antivirus protection
• Built-in VPN
• Firewall and ransomware shield
• Privacy advisor
• Email breach monitoring
• Device cleanup tools
• Smart scan technology

Pricing:

• Premium starts at ₹2,999/year for 5 devices

7. AVG Internet Security

AVG Internet Security on both Windows and Mac systems, AVG Internet Security offers powerful defence against spyware, ransomware, phishing, and viruses. It has improved firewall capabilities, real-time advanced detection, and email and web defense. AVG shields delicate data, detects bogus websites, and offers webcam protection. It runs quietly in the background with little system effect.

The interface is simple and elegant, therefore it is perfect for customers looking for strong but basic protection. AVG also automates its updates to address new threats. For people looking for dependable daily digital security with optional add-ons for improved capabilities, this is a great pick.

Services: 

• Real-time malware protection
• Enhanced firewall
• Web & email protection
• Webcam & ransomware shield
• Fake website detection
• Sensitive data shield
• Automatic updates

Pricing:

• Paid starts at ₹1,599/year
• ₹2,999/year 

8. ESET NOD32 Antivirus 

NOD32 Antivirus from ESET mostly for Windows users, ESET NOD32 Antivirus is a lightweight but effective solution that provides quick and thorough malware protection with little system impact. Its sophisticated heuristic and cloud-based identification prevent known and newly developing threats like ransomware and trojans. Low resource use, configurable settings, and lightning-fast scans make ESET well-known.

Though it misses a password manager and a VPN, it’s great for people more focused on strong core security than bundled bonuses. Anti-phishing solutions and device control for USB threats are also present in ESET. Its in-depth settings and strong threat detection engine will appeal to tech-savvy users. 

Services:

• Fast, light antivirus engine
• Anti-phishing protection
• Device control (USB protection)
• UEFI scanner
• Low system impact
• Cloud-based file analysis
• Gamer mode

Pricing:

• Starts at ₹1,290/year

9. Sophos Home

Sophos Home offers professional-grade laptop virus protection for personal use on Mac as well as Windows laptops. It blocks hazardous websites with strong malware detection, real-time defense, and online filtering. Perfect for households, the software features ransomware protection, parental controls, and remote management for many devices. For improved privacy, Sophos also offers webcam and keylogger protection.

Its simple dashboard and cloud-based administration make it approachable and efficient even if it lacks extras like VPN or performance tools. For individuals seeking professional-level protection in a basic, user-friendly package without extraneous features, it is especially perfect. 

Services:

• Business-grade malware protection
• Ransomware defense
• Parental website filtering
• Web and phishing protection
• Remote device management
• Webcam and keylogger protection
• AI-based threat detection

Pricing:

• Premium at ₹2,999/year 

10. Malwarebytes Premium

Malwarebytes premium for both Mac and PC, Malwarebytes Premium is a well-known name in malware and ransomware defense. As a trusted antivirus software for laptops, it finds and eliminates novel and developing dangers that conventional antivirus could overlook using behavior-based detection. It provides real-time protection, web filtering, exploit protection, and brute-force defense. Malwarebytes is compact, quick, and compatible with other antivirus software.

Particularly useful against zero-day threats and complex malware. With its clear, beginner-friendly user interface, the program provides regular updates. Perfect for individuals looking for more security or a powerful independent defense against contemporary cyberattacks. 

Services:

• Real-time malware & ransomware defense
• Advanced exploit protection
• Web protection
• Behavior-based threat detection
• Zero-day attack shielding
• Compatible with other antivirus software
• Fast and lightweight

Pricing:

• Premium starts at ₹2,499/year 

Conclusion 

Selecting the perfect antivirus software for laptops, whether for Macs or PCs, will help one achieve total digital security in today’s cyber environment. Real-time protection, safe browsing, privacy features, and system optimization—with growing risks including ransom, phishing, and spyware—are provided by a reliable antivirus. Products like Bitdefender, Norton 360, and McAfee Total Protection offer cross-platform protection together with additional functions including VPNs and password managers.

Basic protection comes with free plans; premium plans cover a set of devices completely. Finally, your budget, device type, and use requirements will define your best antivirus. Investing in a reliable antivirus solution helps you to unwind in your daily digital life and also improves system performance in addition to safeguarding your data. 

FAQs 

1. What Antivirus Software Truly Gets the First Pick for PC and Mac Laptops?

The big names include Norton 360, Bitdefender, McAfee Total Protection, and Avast One- and they just protect cross-platforms and boast excellent security features.

2. Are Antivirus Software Programs Truly Desirable on Macs?

Yes, as Macintosh systems protect themselves, they are still sometimes susceptible to malware, phishing, adware, and, thus, it cannot hurt to add that extra layer of antivirus defense. 

3. Are Free Ones Good Enough?

Generally, free antivirus programs provide just a little bit here and a little bit there, whereas paid ones offer VPN, ransomware protection, and identity theft monitoring. 

4. Can Antivirus Software Diminish the Laptop’s Speed?

They nowadays are made with speed in mind- an antivirus program such as ESET NOD32 and Bitdefender Protects you without slowing down any functioning part of the system.

5. Does One Antivirus Shield Multiple devices?

That is right! A piece of the antivirus suite (McAfee Total Protection or Norton 360 Deluxe) can suit any number of systems that include personal computers, Macs, and smartphones!