Your PC is home to a lot of valuable information about you. Much like you want good security for your home, you want good security for your PC too. If something goes wrong, such as a virus or malware infection, you could run the risk of losing crucial data or, worse, handing it over to a nefarious source. Windows 11 has Microsoft Defender built in, which provides a strong baseline level of protection, but many people will feel more comfortable supplementing it with additional antivirus protection.I’ve spent significant time using many different antivirus packages. There are plenty of useful products out there, but you want something that’s easy to use, effective and doesn’t bloat your PC or get in the way. Often, antivirus software also includes extra features such as a VPN or identity theft protection, further enhancing your security. I’ve looked at these packages too.Below, you’ll find my choices for the best cheap antivirus. These include popular brands you may already have heard of, such as Norton and McAfee, as well as services like Surfshark, which offer a lot more than just antivirus protection. I looked at pricing, what features are included, how easy each product is to use and how well each performed. Before we get started, all prices listed are for the first year of use, with prices often increasing for the second year and beyond. Make sure to read the small print if you plan on sticking around for longer than a year and consider disabling auto-renew to stay in full control.Read more: Bitdefender Total Security review I’ve tested a number of cheap antivirus services (Norton)The best cheap antivirus services in 2026 are:Best overall – Norton 360 Deluxe: £29.99, Norton.comBest premium option – Bitdefender Premium Security: £59.99, Bitdefender.comBest for multiple devices – McAfee+ Premium: £49.99, Mcafee.com Best with extra features – Surfshark One: £38.85, Surfshark.com