12 Best antivirus software for gaming PC (October 2023)

What is Antivirus Software for Gaming PCs?

In the thrilling world of gaming, where every second counts, antivirus software for gaming PCs is your invisible, invincible shield. It's your steadfast guardian, tirelessly protecting your gaming paradise from the relentless onslaught of malicious threats. But what exactly is it? Let's dive in and explore.

At its core, antivirus software for gaming PCs is a specialized form of protective software. It's designed to detect, prevent, and eliminate any harmful software or 'malware' that might try to invade your gaming PC. These malicious invaders could be anything from viruses and worms to spyware and ransomware.

But here's the kicker: antivirus software for gaming PCs isn't just your run-of-the-mill antivirus software. It's a supercharged, turbo-powered version of it. It's built to offer robust protection without compromising on the gaming performance. It's like having a supercar that's also a tank.

Imagine you're deep in the heart of an epic battle in your favorite game. Your team is counting on you. The last thing you want is for your PC to start lagging because your antivirus software is running a scan. That's where antivirus software for gaming PCs comes into play. It's designed to work in the background, quietly and efficiently, without eating up your system's resources.

For instance, take the 'gaming mode' feature found in many antivirus software for gaming PCs. When activated, this feature ensures that the antivirus software minimizes its impact on the system's performance. It does this by suspending unnecessary notifications and postponing system-intensive tasks until you're done gaming. It's like having a personal assistant who knows exactly when to step in and when to stay out of the way.

Another key aspect of antivirus software for gaming PCs is its ability to protect your online gaming accounts. With the rise of online gaming, cybercriminals have found new ways to infiltrate and steal valuable game assets. Antivirus software for gaming PCs is equipped with advanced security features to safeguard your online gaming accounts from such threats.

In essence, antivirus software for gaming PCs is a powerful, performance-oriented solution that ensures your gaming experience remains smooth and secure. It's the silent hero that keeps the villains at bay, letting you immerse yourself in the captivating world of gaming without a worry in the world.

In the next section, we'll delve into the key features to look for in antivirus software for gaming PCs. Stay tuned!

Key Features to Look for in Antivirus Software for Gaming PCs

When it comes to choosing the right antivirus software for your gaming PC, there are a few key features that you should keep an eye out for. Let's uncover them one by one.

First and foremost, look for an antivirus that offers real-time protection. This feature works like a vigilant sentinel, constantly monitoring your system for any signs of malicious activity. It's your first line of defense, ready to spring into action the moment it detects a threat.

Next, consider the antivirus software's impact on system performance. The ideal antivirus for gaming PCs should be a lightweight champion. It should pack a powerful punch in terms of protection, but without slowing down your system. Look for features like 'gaming mode' or 'silent mode' that ensure the antivirus software doesn't interrupt your gaming sessions with notifications or system scans.

Thirdly, pay attention to the quality of malware detection and removal. A top-notch antivirus software should be able to effectively identify and eliminate a wide range of threats, from common viruses to sophisticated ransomware. Some antivirus software even offer heuristic analysis - a feature that can detect new, unknown threats by analyzing their behavior.

Another crucial feature to consider is online security. With the rise of online gaming, it's essential to have an antivirus that can protect your gaming accounts and personal information from cyber threats. Look for features like secure browsing, anti-phishing, and firewall protection.

Finally, don't overlook the importance of ease of use. A good antivirus software should be user-friendly, with a clean, intuitive interface. You don't want to waste your precious gaming time trying to navigate a complicated software.

To illustrate, let's consider an example. Norton Antivirus, a popular choice among gamers, ticks all these boxes. It offers real-time protection, has a minimal impact on system performance, excels in malware detection and removal, provides robust online security, and boasts a user-friendly interface.

In conclusion, when choosing an antivirus software for your gaming PC, don't just settle for the first one you come across. Take your time, do your research, and make sure it has all the key features we've discussed. After all, your gaming experience deserves nothing but the best protection.

12 Best antivirus software for gaming PC

1. Bitdefender Antivirus

Best for: real-time protection and ransomware attacks.

Claiming the top spot in our recent ranking, Bitdefender Antivirus is a solution that firmly secures your computer from a wide range of malicious software, including viruses, ransomware, and spyware. This advanced antivirus software uses complex methods and machine learning to find and stop harmful files and activities quickly. It works all the time to protect, always checking systems for any strange behavior and automatically acting to stop possible threats.

Besides its main antivirus function, Bitdefender Antivirus has more features that make online security better. These include web protection that stops users from going to harmful websites, anti-phishing that finds and blocks fake websites trying to steal personal information, and anti-fraud features that protect against online scams by finding and blocking strange websites and applications.

These extra features, along with its advanced threat finding abilities, make Bitdefender Antivirus a complete solution for antivirus needs, making sure a safe and secure browsing experience.

Features:

• Real-time Protection: Bitdefender Antivirus gives continuous real-time protection against viruses, harmful software, ransomware, and other online threats.
• Advanced Threat Detection: This feature uses advanced methods and machine learning to find and block even the most complex harmful software, including zero-day threats.
• Web Protection: Bitdefender Antivirus has web protection features that stop users from going to harmful websites and block dangerous downloads.
• Anti-Phishing: The software has anti-phishing that finds and blocks fake websites trying to steal personal information.
• Anti-Fraud: This feature protects users from online scams and fraud by finding and blocking strange websites and applications.
• Ransomware Protection: Bitdefender Antivirus gives strong ransomware protection, finding and blocking ransomware attacks before they can lock user files.
• Automatic Updates: The antivirus software regularly updates its virus definitions and software parts automatically to protect against the latest threats.
• Minimal Performance Impact: Bitdefender Antivirus is made to have minimal impact on a computer's performance, allowing users to work or play without interruptions or slowdowns.
• Safe Files: This feature protects important files from unauthorized access and ransomware attacks.
• Vulnerability Assessment: Bitdefender Antivirus checks systems for weaknesses and outdated software, giving recommendations to fix or update them to prevent possible security breaches.

2. Norton Antivirus

Best for: device security and data backup.

Nabbing the second place on our list, Norton Antivirus is a highly-regarded program that defends your devices from a myriad of threats. It is made to give real-time protection against hackers, viruses, harmful software, ransomware, and other online threats.

The program uses advanced security technology, including a smart firewall, which helps keep personal and financial information safe during online activities. Norton Antivirus works on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices, giving full protection for PCs, Macs, tablets, and smartphones.

It also has extra features like a password manager and cloud backup, which make devices even more secure. The program is easy to use, with a yearly subscription service that gives ongoing protection and a simple download and installation process.

Features:

• Real-Time Protection: Norton Antivirus gives real-time protection against ransomware, viruses, spyware, and harmful software, making a safe digital space for users.
• Smart Firewall: The program has a smart firewall for PCs and Macs, protecting devices and data from harmful attacks and suspicious network traffic.
• Device Security: Norton Antivirus makes sure device security for Windows PCs and Macs, protecting against various threats and keeping personal data safe.
• Password Manager: The program has a password manager that creates, stores, and manages passwords safely across multiple devices.
• Cloud Backup: Norton Antivirus gives 2 GB of cloud storage for important files and documents, making sure data is safe even if the device is lost or damaged.

3. McAfee Antivirus

Best for: online security and identity protection.

Securing the third position, McAfee Antivirus is a top-notch security tool that provides robust protection from numerous online hazards like viruses, malware, and ransomware. The program works to protect both online and offline, making sure users' devices are safe whether they are connected to the internet or not.

It works with Windows PCs, Macs, iOS, and Android devices, making it a good choice for users with different types of devices. A special thing about McAfee Antivirus is its personal data cleanup and online account cleanup. These help users take their personal information off of risky data broker sites and online accounts, which makes it less likely for them to have their identity stolen.

The program also watches for changes in users' personal information and credit activity. McAfee Antivirus is easy to use and gives users access to online security experts all day and night for help and support.

Features:

• Antivirus scanning: McAfee Antivirus does a full scan to protect against viruses, online dangers, and ransomware.
• Firewall protection: The program has a firewall feature to keep the home network safe and stop hackers.
• Secure VPN: McAfee Antivirus has a secure VPN that turns on automatically for unsafe networks.
• Personal data and online account cleanup: These help take personal information off of risky data broker sites and online accounts.
• Identity and credit monitoring: These watch for changes in users' personal information and credit activity.
• 24/7 online security experts: McAfee Antivirus gives users access to online security experts all day and night for help and support.

4. Kaspersky Antivirus

Best for: malware detection and web protection.

Kaspersky Antivirus is a software solution designed to fortify computers and devices against a range of harmful software like viruses, ransomware, spyware, and beyond. It uses advanced methods to find and stop threats quickly, keeping the computer safe.

Kaspersky Antivirus is always checking files, websites, and apps for harmful content, giving strong protection against online threats. One of the best things about Kaspersky Antivirus is its real-time protection. This means it is always watching the computer for anything suspicious, stopping harmful software before it can do any damage.

The software uses advanced methods to find and get rid of many types of harmful software, including viruses, Trojans, worms, and spyware. Besides these main functions, Kaspersky Antivirus has other features like web protection, email scanning, and automatic updates. These features keep the software updated with the latest security fixes, making sure the computer stays safe from new threats.

The software is also easy to use, making it a good antivirus solution for people with any level of computer knowledge. Its simple controls and easy-to-understand settings make setting up and managing the antivirus protection easy. Also, Kaspersky Antivirus is designed to not slow down the computer, so users can use their computer quickly and smoothly while being protected from harmful software threats.

Features:

• Real-time Protection: Always watches the computer for anything suspicious, stopping harmful software before it can do any damage.
• Malware Detection and Removal: Uses advanced methods to find and get rid of many types of harmful software, including viruses, Trojans, worms, and spyware.
• Web Protection: Gives web protection by checking websites for harmful content, stopping access to possibly harmful sites, and stopping phishing attacks.
• Automatic Updates: Regularly updates its virus database and software parts to make sure it has the latest protection against new threats.

5. TotalAV Antivirus

Best for: ad blocking and data breach monitoring.

TotalAV Antivirus has earned global recognition as a reliable antivirus and security software. It protects against harmful threats and viruses.

Over 30 million people around the world use it. It works on different operating systems like Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

Features:

• Real-time Protection: TotalAV Antivirus checks downloads, installations, and programs for viruses and threats each time your computer uses them.
• Award-winning Antivirus Protection: TotalAV Antivirus has won many awards for stopping harmful threats.
• WebShield: This feature protects against fake, scam, phishing, and spoofed websites.
• Total AdBlock: This feature blocks all ads, pop-ups, and notifications, including video ads during play, for a smooth browsing experience.
• Data Breach Monitoring: TotalAV Antivirus checks your personal email address and sends notifications if your data is at risk.

6. Webroot SecureAnywhere Antivirus

Best for: lightweight design and identity theft protection.

Webroot SecureAnywhere Antivirus is a comprehensive antivirus solution engineered to defend computers from a variety of online threats. This strong software uses advanced cloud-based technology to give real-time protection against harmful software, viruses, ransomware, phishing attacks, and other harmful actions.

Unlike normal antivirus programs that need signature updates, Webroot SecureAnywhere Antivirus uses a different method. It checks and studies files and processes in real-time, giving immediate protection against new threats.

One of the best features of Webroot SecureAnywhere Antivirus is its lightweight design. It is made to use very little system resources, making sure smooth and uninterrupted performance even during heavy scans and updates.

The software's easy-to-use interface and automatic updates make for a trouble-free user experience. The automatic updates make sure the software always has the latest threat definitions and security improvements.

This makes Webroot SecureAnywhere Antivirus a great choice for users looking for reliable and efficient antivirus protection.

Features:

• Real-time Protection: Webroot SecureAnywhere Antivirus gives constant protection against harmful software, viruses, ransomware, and other online dangers.
• Cloud-based Technology: The software quickly checks files and processes using cloud-based technology, giving immediate protection without the need for signature updates.
• Lightweight Design: The software is made to use very little system resources, making sure smooth performance even during scans and updates.
• Identity Theft Protection: Features like anti-phishing and anti-spyware capabilities protect personal information and stop identity theft.
• Automatic Updates: The software updates itself automatically, making sure it always has the latest threat definitions and security improvements.

7. Avira Antivirus

Best for: online threat blocking and PC performance enhancement.

Avira Antivirus has made its mark as a trusted computer safety application. It is known for its strong protection against dangers on the internet.

This full security program is made to protect users' devices, keep their privacy, and make their devices work better. The program works by stopping many types of internet dangers, like harmful websites, ransomware, and spyware.

This active defense system keeps users' online space safe, letting them use the internet without worry. A special feature of Avira Antivirus is its free Virtual Private Network (VPN). This not only makes online activities safe but also keeps them private.

With a limit of 500 MB each month, users can use the internet safely, protected from possible online dangers. The program also does more to make devices work better. It makes the system faster and cleans it, making it ready for the best productivity.

Also, Avira Antivirus gives identity protection with its Password Manager. This feature makes online accounts safe with strong, unique passwords, protecting users from possible phishing attacks.

Features:

• Online Threat Blocking: Avira Antivirus stops all online dangers, including harmful websites, ransomware, and spyware, giving a safe browsing space.
• VPN: The program has a free VPN to make online activities safe and private, with a limit of 500 MB each month.
• PC Performance Enhancement: Avira Antivirus makes PC performance better by making the system faster and cleaning it for the best productivity.
• Identity Protection: The program gives identity protection with a Password Manager that makes online accounts safe with strong, unique passwords.
• Phishing Attack Protection: Avira Antivirus protects against phishing attacks on social networks and in the inbox, including COVID-19 scams.
• Firewall: The program has a firewall to block sensitive access points to the device, keeping hackers away. It also helps fix weak points by updating apps and drivers, giving better security and performance.

8. Malwarebytes Antivirus

Best for: privacy protection and mobile security.

Malwarebytes Antivirus, a highly-rated software, offers protection against a variety of online threats such as hackers, malware, spyware, and ransomware. It's different from regular antivirus software because it gives active, real-time protection.

It uses smart technology to find and get rid of malware that other antivirus programs might not see. It's made to find and stop threats that could harm your online safety.

A big plus of Malwarebytes Antivirus is that it gives full protection without using up too much of your computer's power or sending too many notifications. It has features like stopping hackers, improving your web experience, giving expert advice, and stopping new threats.

Also, you can use Malwarebytes Antivirus on many devices like Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Chromebook. This means it can protect all your devices. Remember, the features and how available it is can change based on the operating system and subscription plan.

Even with its strong features, Malwarebytes Antivirus stays light and lean, making sure your device works well. Professionals in the industry highly recommend it and millions of users around the world trust it.

Features:

• Real-Time Protection: Watches and protects against threats all the time.
• Privacy Protection: Keeps your identity and privacy safe from hackers.
• Ransomware Protection: Keeps your documents and money files safe from ransomware attacks.
• Web Protection: Protects against harmful and fake websites that could harm your safety.
• Performance Optimization: Stops malware that makes your computer work less well and breaks programs.
• Mobile Security: Gives protection to phones and tablets, making sure all devices are safe.

9. AVG Antivirus

Best for: artificial intelligence detection and user-friendly interface.

AVG Antivirus is a reputable name in the world of antivirus software. It protects against many types of malware like viruses, spyware, and ransomware. AVG Technologies, a part of Avast, made this software. It is a strong tool for people and businesses who want to keep their digital things safe.

AVG Antivirus is special in the antivirus software market because of its features and strengths. It gives security updates in real-time and checks for malware and performance problems. It also does more than just remove viruses from your device. It works to stop future infections. This active way of keeping digital things safe makes AVG Antivirus different from many other antivirus tools in the market.

AVG Antivirus has a special feature called 'Artificial Intelligence Detection'. This feature uses advanced artificial intelligence on your PC to find malware samples that AVG ThreatLabs team has not yet listed. Another special feature is 'Turbo Scan'. This feature makes scan times shorter by skipping files it already knows are safe (i.e., files not changed since the last scan).

AVG Antivirus is very good at protecting and is easy to use. It protects more than just your computer. It also protects your web and email activities. The software's Email Shield technology targets email attachments to stop threats. Its Link Scanner helps you avoid dangerous websites. The software's easy-to-use interface lets users schedule scans, check for updates, and fix performance problems.

In the market, AVG Antivirus is a trusted choice for users who want strong antivirus protection. It is a complete security solution, offering features that meet the needs of both individual and business users.

Features:

• Artificial Intelligence Detection: Uses advanced AI on your PC to find malware samples that our ThreatLabs team has not yet listed.
• Turbo Scan: Makes scan times shorter by skipping files it already knows are safe (i.e., files not changed since the last scan).
• Email Shield Technology: Targets email attachments to stop threats, wherever they may come from.
• Link Scanner: Helps you avoid dangerous websites by checking clicked links for threats and warning you of anything suspicious.
• User-friendly interface: Lets users easily schedule scans, check for updates, and fix performance problems.

10. Windows Defender Antivirus

Best for: Microsoft users and multi-factor authentication.

Windows Defender Antivirus, an integral part of Windows 11, serves as a protective tool. It gives constant protection against harmful software, known as malware. This includes viruses, trojans, spyware, and ransomware.

Windows Defender Antivirus has advanced features to detect and protect against malware, making the computer safe for users. A special feature of Windows Defender Antivirus is Microsoft Defender SmartScreen. This warns users if a website, app, or download could be harmful.

Also, Windows Defender Antivirus has Windows Hello, which makes it safer to use Windows 11 devices. It uses a PIN, face recognition, or fingerprint to check users, adding more security. For online accounts, the Microsoft Authenticator app gives secure sign-ins using multiple ways of checking, sign-in without a password on the phone, or automatic password fill-in.

Other Security Features: Besides protection against harmful software, Windows Defender Antivirus has other security features. These include protection against fake websites, app security, Bluetooth protection, secure Wi-Fi, and private internet networks (VPN).

These features work together to make the computer safe, protecting users from online threats and stopping others from getting into their devices.

Features:

• Real-time Protection: Windows Defender Antivirus gives constant protection against different types of harmful software.
• Microsoft Defender SmartScreen: This warns users if a website, app, or download could be harmful.
• Windows Hello: A safer way to use Windows 11 devices using a PIN, face recognition, or fingerprint.
• Microsoft Authenticator App: Gives secure sign-ins for online accounts using multiple ways of checking, sign-in without a password on the phone, or automatic password fill-in.

11. Avast Free Antivirus

Best for: Wi-Fi network security and real-time protection.

Avast Free Antivirus is a comprehensive antivirus solution offering advanced privacy and security tools to safeguard your device from various threats. As a top company in cybersecurity with over 435 million users around the world, Avast Free Antivirus is known for giving reliable and strong protection.

The program is made with six security layers, giving full protection for your device. These layers include smart scanning of software, files, and apps to find weak spots, and a cloud-based system for checking suspicious files.

Avast Free Antivirus gives protection against viruses and malware all the time, keeping your system safe 24/7. It also has a special feature for Wi-Fi network security, which makes sure connections to any Wi-Fi network are safe, even public networks that are not secure.

With this feature, users can see who is using their home Wi-Fi and stop any unauthorized access. Another important feature is the protection against ransomware attacks, making sure that your personal photos, files, and documents are not at risk.

The program is easy to install and use, and works with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Features:

• Advanced Privacy and Security Tools: Avast Free Antivirus gives advanced tools to keep your device safe from different threats, like viruses, malware, and ransomware attacks.
• Six Layers of Security: The program gives full protection with six security layers, including smart scanning for weak spots and cloud-based checking of suspicious files.
• Wi-Fi Network Security: This feature makes sure connections to any Wi-Fi network are safe and lets users see and stop unauthorized access to their home Wi-Fi.
• Real-Time Protection: Avast Free Antivirus gives protection against viruses and malware all the time, keeping your system safe 24/7.

12. Panda Antivirus

Best for: parental control and VPN service.

Panda Antivirus, a superior antivirus software, provides protection against a wide array of digital threats. It is made from years of experience and work with top institutions in the fight against cybercrime.

Panda Antivirus is more than just an antivirus; it is a full security suite that makes sure users have a safe digital experience. The software protects all your devices, including those using Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It works with many Windows operating systems, like Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8/8.1, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP.

Panda Antivirus is known for its real-time virus protection, which always checks your devices to find and remove threats as they appear. It also has secure browsing and shopping features, protecting your online activities from possible threats and attacks.

Panda Antivirus has a special feature called parental control. This lets parents watch and limit device use for their children. This feature makes sure that children are safe online and do not see inappropriate content.

The software also has data and password protection features, keeping your private information safe from unauthorized access and cyber theft. Besides its main antivirus features, Panda Antivirus offers a VPN service for anonymous browsing and protection against hackers.

The software also has flexible payment options, like pay-as-you-go or discounted yearly plans, to fit different user needs and budgets. Panda Antivirus makes sure its users always have the latest protection with regular updates, new features, and security advice.

Panda Antivirus has a 100% virus detection rate, making sure that no threat is missed. It also does not slow down device performance, making sure that your devices run smoothly even with continuous real-time protection. This makes Panda Antivirus a trustworthy choice for protecting your devices and ensuring a safe digital experience.

Features:

• Real-time Virus Protection: Panda Antivirus provides real-time virus protection, always scanning your devices to find and remove threats as they appear.
• Parental Control: The software has a parental control feature, letting parents watch and limit device use for their children, making sure they are safe online.
• Data and Password Protection: Panda Antivirus keeps your private information safe with its data and password protection features, protecting against unauthorized access and cyber theft.
• VPN Service: Besides its antivirus features, Panda Antivirus offers a VPN service for anonymous browsing and protection against hackers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)