Software & apps

Rankings

• Best Antivirus Software

  Bitdefender Total Security is the best antivirus software for home users protecting Windows and Mac computers in 2026, at $59.99 for the first year on up to 5 devices; Norton 360 suits families who want a VPN, cloud backup and dark web monitoring in one plan, from $94.99 for the first year. The cheapest option is free: Microsoft Defender Antivirus is built into Windows and Avast One has a free plan, while Webroot Essentials is the cheapest paid pick at $34.99 for the first year on one device.

  1. 1. Bitdefender Total Security9.1
  2. 2. Norton 3608.7
  3. 3. ESET HOME Security8.6
• Best Password Managers

  1Password is the best password manager for individuals and families who want the easiest everyday app in 2026, at $2.99 a month billed yearly in its current first-year offer; Bitwarden suits people who want the most for the least, with a free plan and Premium at $1.65 a month billed annually at $19.80. The cheapest options are free: Bitwarden, Proton Pass, NordPass and RoboForm have free plans, and Apple Passwords and Google Password Manager come built into their devices and browsers.

  1. 1. 1Password8.9
  2. 2. Bitwarden8.9
  3. 3. Proton Pass8.8
• Best VPN Services

  Proton VPN is the best VPN for people who want privacy on public Wi-Fi and access to streaming abroad in 2026, with a free plan and VPN Plus at $3.49 a month on its 2-year plan; Surfshark suits households that want unlimited devices for $47.99 a year on the US App Store. The cheapest options are free: Proton VPN's free plan has no data limits, and Windscribe gives 10GB a month free, while Private Internet Access is the cheapest paid plan at $2.03 a month on its longest term.

  1. 1. Proton VPN9.1
  2. 2. Surfshark8.9
  3. 3. NordVPN8.8