Best antivirus for gaming PCs that doesn’t affect gaming performance

Getting a robust antivirus for gaming is essential, as it protects you from DDoS attacks, swatting, malware, and other threats that can ruin your gaming session and risk your personal safety. The best antivirus for gaming will protect you against these threats, as well as stopping anybody from doxxing you and leaking your personal information.

To find the best antivirus software for gaming PCs, I tested more than 20 antivirus packages on an Acer Predator Orion 7000 (i7 processor). I also made sure to run the same tests on a Macbook Air 13-inch M3 (2024) because performance can vary between desktop and laptop devices, and operating systems.

My top recommendation for the best antivirus for gamers is TotalAV, as it offers high real-time protection rates, a gaming mode, and additional safety features. Norton AV, Surfshark AV, Bitdefender, and Avira also provide excellent protection without impacting gameplay. Read on to learn about these top gaming PC antivirus programs to make an informed choice!

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Top 5 best antivirus for gamers in 2024

The best gaming antivirus solutions should have powerful performance-boosting features like silencing notifications, optimizing gaming processes, and system clean-up tools. They should protect you from malware and other online threats without impacting gameplay performance. Here are the top 5 gaming antivirus programs for 2024 that excelled in my tests:

1. TotalAV

   Best antivirus for gaming PC with perfect malware-detection rate
   9.7
2. Norton Antivirus

   Ultimate virus protection without affecting gaming performance
   9.1
3. Surfshark Antivirus

   Lightweight gaming antivirus with a VPN
   8.8
4. Bitdefender Antivirus

   Top antivirus for gamers to avoid lag, malwares, and viruses
   9.4
5. Avira

   Free antivirus for gaming PCs and laptops
   8.1

What to look for in the best security software for gaming PC?

When choosing security software for a gaming PC, ideally prioritize a gaming antivirus that has real-time malware protection, minimal impact on system performance, and a VPN. Check for software with a “gaming mode” to hide notifications when gaming, plus a high malware-detection rate, firewall protection, and anti-phishing protection.

Here’s a comparison of the best security software for gaming PC in 2024:

I tested each of these antivirus programs by installing them on my Alienware PC and laptop and identifying whether the key features above were included. However, I also tested every software client on a Mac – some gamers prefer macOS. Finally, I loaded sample malware files to determine the malware-detection rate of each antivirus for gaming. I compared these results against known detection rates provided by industry benchmarking experts AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives.

These test results gave me a full picture of the best security software for gaming PCs. As a result, I determined that the best antivirus for gaming is TotalAV. With a malware detection rate of 100%, powerful VPN, and optimized gaming mode, TotalAV strikes a perfect balance between security and performance.

Get the best gaming antivirus, TotalAV

Best antivirus for PC gaming in 2024: detailed list

1. TotalAV: Best overall gaming antivirus with real-time monitoring
2. Norton AV: Best antivirus for gamers with a gaming mode
3. Surfshark One: Best antivirus for a gaming PC with a VPN
4. Bitdefender: Secure antivirus with the lowest CPU load
5. Avira: Solid antivirus with a free version

Cyber attacks are constantly evolving, so antivirus software needs to be capable of detecting and protecting you against the latest emerging virus threats. Due to this, I thoroughly tested more than 20 antiviruses, and based on my experience, I can now share the best antivirus programs for gaming PCs.

1. TotalAV - best antivirus for gaming PC with real-time monitoring

TotalAV is the best antivirus for gaming as its minimal system impact makes it suited for busy gaming PCs. TotalAV’s real-time protection rate of 100% blocks ransomware, malware, and phishing attacks. However, it won’t hold you back – during my tests with Black Ops 6, TotalAV didn’t exceed 2.0% CPU power and peaked at 30-40% when I ran a full scan.

The System Tune-Up feature scans your device for unnecessary files and optimizes its startup processes. It also clears unnecessary cookies and unused extensions from your browser, while removing any duplicate files. This is useful for gaming PCs that can get clogged with bloatware from game installations. I used this tool with my Alienware PC and saw a reduction in load times when playing Skull and Bones on Steam.

TotalAV also comes with a VPN – a major factor in determining the best antivirus for gaming. A VPN shields your IP address from third parties online, which stops the risk of DDoS attacks or more dangerous crimes like swatting. Overall, my colleague found that TotalVPN is a solid VPN while reviewing the service.

WebShield scans website URLs you visit to block malicious sites and phishing attacks before they load. When I tested this with 10 known malware sites, including fake gaming sites, TotalAV blocked them entirely. TotalAV also comes with anti-spyware and adware tools that remove tracking software, malicious browser extensions, and unnecessary ad-spam software. These features combined boosted my gaming performance on Steam.

While TotalAV is the best gaming antivirus thanks to these features and low CPU usage, it lacks a dedicated gaming mode. Gaming modes typically prioritize gaming-related system processes, delay non-urgent scans and updates, and hide notifications. Fortunately, my tests revealed that TotalAV doesn’t slow down your system, even without this feature present.

You can get a huge 80% discount on TotalAV making it $2.42/month. TotalAV also has a free version, but it lacks real-time protection, WebShield, and system cleanup tools that are included in TotalAV premium. Finally, you don’t get TotalVPN either, and it even serves up ads instead of blocking them. Instead, I recommend trying the 1-week TotalAV free trial. Even if you change your mind, there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee. For more information, read our TotalAV full review – our best antivirus for gaming scored 9.7/10!

2. Norton AV - ultimate virus protection with a Game Optimizer

Norton's the best antivirus for gaming owing to its dedicated gaming package with optimization features. Norton GO (Game Optimizer) prioritizes your gaming tasks, pauses demanding background tasks, and claims to eliminate FPS lag. I put this to the test in Cyberpunk 2077, a game that’s known for poor optimization and FPS drops due to high graphics demands on your system. Running at the recommended 60 FPS, I saw my own frames-per-second rise from around 45 on average to around 48-50.

However, Norton doesn’t sacrifice threat protection performance for its gaming-optimized mode. Its real-time protection rate is 100%, confirmed through industry testing with AV-TEST in August 2024. My own tests included serving up 10 fake malware files to Norton, which was able to identify and quarantine all sample files. Norton also impressed me with a very low 1-3% CPU usage when running in the background, and 150-300 Mb usage.

Other features that benefit gamers include Notification Optimization, which pauses any notifications that aren't an imminent threat to your device. The built-in Full-Screen Detection Mode recognizes when you've launched a game and silences any other background tasks that can pull you out of your immersion. Norton VPN is included too, which will mask your IP against DDoS attacks, swatting, and doxxing.

With a special discount of 75% off Norton, you can get full protection when gaming for just $2.50/month. Norton 360 also has a 14-day free trial for PC and Mac. There’s also a generous 60-day money-back guarantee, which is longer than the usual 30 days that I tend to see from most providers. Our Norton Antivirus review has more detailed information about each feature.

3. Surfshark AV - lightweight gaming antivirus with a VPN

Surfshark Antivirus is the best antivirus for gaming thanks to 100% real-time protection and the best antivirus and VPN bundle. You'll get one of the most powerful VPNs on the market with robust privacy and security tools. Surfshark VPN will protect you from doxxing and DDoS attacks while delivering fast speeds that won’t cause lag.

Surfshark's antivirus was designed with system performance in mind; it has very little impact on your CPU. I never saw CPU consumption rise above 2% during my tests with Surfshark One and Elden Ring – one of the latest and most graphically demanding games. RAM consumption was very low too, not exceeding 150 Mb. You can schedule scans so that they only occur when you’re taking a break from gaming.

Surfshark Alert is a great bonus feature that will supply a detailed report of any data breaches that include your details. In my experience testing the feature, it even gives you new password recommendations and monitors for potential malware threats that can originate from a breach.

I was also impressed by Surfshark Search – a custom-built search engine with a focus on privacy. Unlike Google, it won't track what you search for, nor will it log any outclicks from its search results. It's completely ad-free; compare this Google, which tracks your activity and serves up custom ads. When I tested this feature, I noticed that you can manually choose your search region, and all search results are entirely unbiased.

Fortunately, Surfshark is also one of the cheapest antiviruses you’ll get, in addition to being one of the cheapest VPNs available. This means that Surfshark One costs just $4.25/month. You can’t get the antivirus without getting Surfshark One, but that’s not truly a drawback when both products are powerful cybersecurity tools for gamers.

4. Bitdefender - top antivirus for gamers to avoid lag

Bitdefender is a powerful gaming antivirus that features a dedicated, automatic gaming mode that kicks in when you launch a game. Bitdefender antivirus for gaming also scores a perfect malware detection rate in industry tests, and I couldn't fool it with 10 sample malware files either. With the lowest CPU usage among my test results, it won’t slow your PC down when you’re gaming.

Bitdefender's Game Profile mode is a huge benefit for gamers. It lets me optimize settings for which apps are prioritized when gaming. It can postpone tasks that aren't related to gaming, and it can even postpone system updates – though be sure you install them later to avoid risking your security. Best of all, this Game Profile is automatically activated when you launch a game.

Behind the scenes, Bitdefender uses cloud-based virus scanning. This reduces the load on your device as scans draw on cloud computing power instead, reducing the impact on your computer's memory and processing power. I expect that this plays a large part in why Bitdefender has the lowest CPU usage, even during system scans and didn’t impact on my FPS or cause lag during my tests with Valorant and Elden Ring.

Other useful features include a customizable firewall that lets you set up specific port forwarding rules to overcome gaming network issues. Webcam and microphone protection stop third parties from accessing your peripherals. Finally, the same system clean-up and optimization tools seen in other gaming antiviruses I reviewed are present here too.

Bitdefender is just $0.83/month with our special discount code, and you’ll get a 30-day free trial, even for the best package – Bitdefender Total Security. In case you change your mind, you can get a full refund with Bitdefender's 30-day money-back guarantee. My trusted colleague’s Bitdefender review sheds more light on these key features.

5. Avira - free antivirus for gaming PCs and laptops

Avira's Game Booster is a very powerful tool for gamers. It automatically detects when you launch a game, reallocating system resources to prioritize your session. While engaged with a game, you won't see any non-critical notifications, and scans are delayed to avoid unnecessary load on your system that could cause lag. When I put Avira to the test with League of Legends, I could see these tools in action. Avira’s CPU usage remained below 2% and its RAM usage was among the lowest I saw in my gaming antivirus tests.

Automatic app updates are another useful and unique feature for gamers. I mostly use my PC for gaming, but remembering to update key apps when you have limited time for your hobby can be tough. This feature keeps 150+ common gaming and security apps up to date without you having to lift a finger. It’ll make sure your PC is secure against zero-day threats but won’t impact your gaming since updates happen outside of Game Booster sessions.

While Avira has a free antivirus for gamers too, I recommend choosing the inexpensive premium tier. Avira's free version lacks internet protection tools and email phishing protection tools. While it includes useful extras like a limited password manager and VPN, Avira free doesn't have all the key components gamers will need. For example, the firewall with port forwarding and other ransomware protection.

Avira’s pricing starts from $2.25/month and includes a 30-day free trial for any subscription plan. You’ll also get a 60-day money-back guarantee regardless of the plan length you choose. Our Avira full review has more detailed information on both the free and paid options available for gamers.

Best gaming PC antivirus programs compared

To find the best gaming PC antivirus, I compared key metrics among the top 5 providers. While Surfshark consumed the least RAM during a gaming session in my tests, Bitdefender saw the lowest CPU load. That said, my FPS was highest and my load times were shortest when I ran TotalAV and loaded up Black Ops 6, Elden Ring, and Valorant. Here’s a comparison of those key metrics:

Get TotalAV: Best gaming antivirus in 2024

Antivirus programs excluded from the best AV for gaming list

I continuously review and test antivirus programs, and I’ve seen a significant shift in the best antivirus for gaming. While reviewing more than 20 antivirus programs, several popular and well-known antivirus software packages fell out of consideration. This was due to lag during gaming, overall high CPU and RAM usage, and even unsafe behaviors. Here are several antivirus programs I had to cut from the best antivirus for gaming list while testing:

• McAfee: I saw significant CPU spikes of up to 40-50% while trying to game with McAfee running in the background. Its background processes demand a lot of memory, and there are no dedicated gaming modes or optimization tools for gamers.
• Kaspersky: Kaspersky fell out of consideration due to the service’s sharp downturn after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began in 2022. Due to suspicion around data sharing activities, the US introduced a complete ban on the software.
• AVG Antivirus: I didn’t appreciate that AVG attempts to upsell you constantly, recommending its other products or encouraging you to constantly upgrade from the free version. This isn’t behavior I expect to see from a cybersecurity product.

Get the best gaming antivirus – TotalAV

Do you really need virus protection on a gaming PC?

You need a gaming antivirus to avoid the biggest risks to gamers, like doxxing and DDoS attacks, as well as for full system protection against constantly rising malware threats. This doesn’t just apply to day-to-day PC users, but gamers too:

• Deloitte recently reported a 400% increase in IoT (Internet of Things) device malware attacks, with criminals exploiting vulnerabilities in gaming devices.
• According to Bitdefender, hackers managed to infiltrate and load malware into the most popular PC gaming platform, Steam, in 2023.

These are just a couple of incidents that highlight how cybercriminals are evolving to target different groups of people with new tactics. Incidents like the attack on Steam’s secure platform are precisely why getting a strong gaming antivirus is crucial. Products like TotalAV guard you against a multitude of cyberthreats while gaming:

• Protests against increasingly sophisticated malware: Malware, ransomware, spyware, and trojans are becoming more sophisticated. I’ve seen such threats infiltrate community mods (modified game files), game torrents, mobile APKs and other apps, and through phishing links. You need an antivirus that’s constantly updated with the latest virus definitions to avoid accidentally becoming infected while gaming.
• Guards against doxxing, and swatting: Doxxing is when somebody intentionally tracks and leaks your personal details online. Swatting is a US term that originated after gamers and streamers made hoax calls to the police to send units to somebody else’s home. The best gaming antivirus solutions offer a VPN to cloak your IP and encrypt your personal information, preventing these attacks.

• Stops DDoS attacks: A 2024 report shows that there’s now a DDoS attack every 2 seconds worldwide, with gaming being one of the most-targeted industries. The built-in VPN software available from TotalAV and other best gaming antivirus solutions will also prevent DDoS attacks from affecting you by hiding your IP address so you can’t be targeted.

While a common approach is to assume you won’t be affected, malware gaming trends are growing alarmingly fast. Here’s a snapshot of the most-infected games of 2023 – many popular titles top the list:

All of this can be avoided with a gaming antivirus. TotalAV is the best antivirus for gamers, thanks to a 100% malware detection rate in both my own tests and industry benchmarking. It can be purchased together with TotalAV for complete protection against all of the threats outlined above.

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Does antivirus affect gaming performance?

Antivirus software has virtually no effect on gameplay, though it could have a small impact on CPU consumption while active. Antivirus software consumes computer processing power to scan for threats. This reduces the available system resources for gaming applications. It's particularly noticeable if you're running a scan while trying to play a game. This manifests in reduced frames-per-second and potentially lag.

However, the protections offered by this software are worth the very minor tradeoff in performance when you choose one of the best gaming antivirus. None of these antivirus programs consumed more than 6% CPU power in my tests. TotalAV came out on top with the best output in terms of FPS.

How to avoid viruses on a gaming PC?

Gaming PCs are particularly prone to viruses, as malware can be hidden in installations and unpleasant interactions with other gamers can lead to targeted threats. Here’s how to avoid viruses on your gaming PC:

1. Get the best antivirus for gaming: TotalAV and my other recommendations perfectly balance protection against malware with game-optimizing features that ensure you get the best FPS and load times out of your device. Included VPN software protects you further against DDoS, doxxing, and swatting attacks.
2. Regularly update your software: This applies to both your operating system and device applications. Otherwise, zero-day vulnerabilities can pose a threat.
3. Choose secure passwords: Using a password manager to suggest strong passwords is the best approach, especially when stored securely within a password vault.
4. Avoid clicking suspicious links: Clicking on unverified phishing links in emails or anywhere else online can install viruses directly onto your device.
5. Don’t download from unverified sources: While tempting, avoid using unofficial games downloads. I recommend using Steam for the safest gaming experience.
6. Use a firewall: Windows Defender isn’t enough in isolation. Use a firewall that’s built into the best antivirus software, like Norton 360 for Gamers, Bitdefender, or Avira.

The best antivirus for gaming doesn’t just protect you against malware; top programs like TotalAV and Surfshark One include a powerful VPN. With a VPN enabled, you cannot be targeted by DDoS attacks, doxxing, and other malicious threats.

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Do I need antivirus if I have Windows Defender?

Yes, you should use an antivirus for gaming rather than using Windows Defender. Windows Defender lacks endpoint protection and doesn't offer the same real-time protection and security as gaming antivirus software. What's more, it lacks built-in game optimization tools and automated game modes. Users should instead look to TotalAV, Surfshark One, and other premium AV software.

Are there any good free antivirus software for gaming?

Your best free antivirus for gaming alternative is Avira. While this is one of the best antivirus for gaming overall as determined through my tests, it also offers a respectable free version. In independent tests from AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives, it achieved a 99.2% real-time malware detection rate. However, it's lacking in most other areas – it doesn't have ransomware or phishing protection, and there's no firewall. It also tends to be more resource-intensive, slowing your device beyond the premium version’s excellent test results.

While having similar limitations, TotalAV is the better all-round free antivirus for gamers. That said, it is still lacking compared to premium TotalAV Antivirus and the other best gaming antivirus software I’ve recommended above. You also need to be cautious in exploring free options because they can leave you unprotected, or worse, could load malware onto your device. I recommend that you instead try TotalAV premium free with the 7-day free trial. If you need longer, you can still use TotalAV for up to 30 days while remaining eligible for a full refund.

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Final thoughts: is gaming antivirus software still needed in 2024?

An antivirus for gamers is more important than ever in 2024 as incidences of swatting, DDoS attacks, and doxxing continue to rise. The best gaming antivirus software offers real-time protection against these threats, as well as malware that can ruin an expensive gaming rig and put a stop to your hobby.

More than that, the best antivirus software for gaming PCs will improve your gaming session by optimizing your device. In my tests, I saw improved FPS and load times thanks to device tune-up and optimization tools. Other features like silenced notifications further add to the immersion and deliver an overall better gaming experience, speaking from extensive testing and two decades as a gamer myself.

TotalAV continues to be the best antivirus for PC gaming according to my test results. However, you can’t go wrong choosing alternatives like Norton 360 for Gamers, Surfshark One, Bitdefender, and Avira. Get a special discount on TotalAV and witness the improvement yourself – there’s a free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee available, so there’s no risk involved.

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FAQ

What antivirus do gamers use?

Gamers choose an antivirus that can offer a competitive edge when gaming by reducing lag, improving frames-per-second (FPS), and silencing background pop-ups. TotalAV can do all of this, while simultaneously prioritizing gaming-related processes and pausing unimportant tasks that can be resumed later. Norton for Gamers, Surfshark, Bitdefender, and Avita are powerful and popular alternatives.

Can antivirus improve gaming performance?

Yes, an antivirus can improve gaming performance by forcing your device to prioritize gaming-related processes and pause unimportant background tasks. During tests, I saw noticeable improvements in FPS and loading time on Elden Ring, Black Ops 6, and Skull and Bones.

Does Bitdefender affect gaming performance?

Yes, Bitdefender's Game Profile mode has a positive impact on gaming performance by optimizing your device's system priorities. It reduces background tasks and notifications while optimizing your graphics settings. During my tests, this had a noticeable effect on FPS, delivering a smoother, lag-free experience.

Is there a gaming mode on Bitdefender?

Yes, Bitdefender's gaming mode is called "Game Profile" and automatically activates when it detects a gaming application. It pauses notifications and other pop-ups, while reducing background CPU activity. It can even adjust your graphics settings for you.

What is the best antivirus for Windows 11 gaming?

TotalAV is the best antivirus for gaming thanks to low CPU usage, a high malware detection rate, and system tune-up tools that optimize your gaming rig. Norton 360 for Gamers, Surfshark One, Bitdefender, and Avira are powerful alternatives. I tested each of these Windows 11 antivirus to ensure that they wouldn’t slow down your device and cause gaming lag.

What's the difference between Norton 360 and Norton 360 for gamers?

Unlike Norton 360, Norton 360 for Gamers silences all but critical security notifications, letting you focus on gaming. It can also track whether your gamer tag is included in online breaches. Finally, if you're using a high-spec device with 4 or more CPU cores, Norton for gamers will not use every core so that your games have more processing power at their disposal.

Does Norton 360 for gamers have a firewall?

Yes, Norton 360 for Gamers includes a smart firewall feature to prevent unauthorized network connections and applications. With this feature, you can choose specific apps that may bypass the firewall, avoiding any potential gaming issues. You can also tailor the level of access each application has on an app-by-app basis.