Microsoft Defender (free, built-in)
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Free with Windows 10/11, AV-TEST scores match paid AVs, no separate install needed. Best free option.
🆓 Best free
Free with Windows 10/11 — no install needed.
Microsoft Defender (built into Windows 10/11) is the right free pick for most home users. No separate install and no cost, and it is included in the independent labs' regular tests, so you can check its current results. It has no VPN and no identity theft monitoring.
Pros
- Free with Windows
- Detection matches paid AVs
- Lowest system impact
Cons
- No VPN bundle
- No identity theft monitoring
- Limited family features
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