What’s the best antivirus for a gaming PC?
For gamers who want performance-first protection, Panda Dome Premium stands out with its dedicated Gaming Mode, built-in VPN and system tune-up tools that enhance security without sacrificing speed.
In 2023, 6.06 billion malware attacks were detected around the world. That’s about 192 malware attacks every second. Imagine getting pinched 192 times a second — that’s what your PC would feel if it could!
And while many gamers believe antivirus software will slow down their system, the real threat is what you don’t see: viruses, spyware and hackers who can steal your login info, ruin your performance mid-match or even brick your rig.
If you’re a gamer, you need more than just basic protection. You need a smart antivirus that keeps you safe and your system fast. Features like gaming mode, low CPU usage and smart background scanning make all the difference.
But not all antivirus programs are built for high-performance systems. Some are heavy, slow or interrupt gameplay with pop-ups and scans. Let’s cut through the noise and find the best antivirus for gaming PCs that blocks threats in real time, avoids interrupting gameplay and uses as few resources as possible.
The Best Antiviruses for Gaming PCs at a Glance
We compared six of the best antivirus programs for gaming PCs across key features, including real-time protection, performance impact, VPN access and more. Here’s a quick overview to help you see which tools check all the right boxes for your setup:
| Antivirus | Low RAM usage during gameplay | Price (Starting at) | Free version | VPN | Gaming mode | Real-Time monitoring | Device cleaning | Password manager |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panda Dome | ✅ | $34.99/year | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Bitdefender | ✅ | $29.99/year | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Malwarebytes | ✅ | $44.99/year | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Norton | ✅ | $29.99/year | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| TotalAV | ✅ | $99/year | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| McAfee | ✅ | $39.99/year | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
1. Panda
Best for:
- Serious gamers who want top-tier security without losing performance
- Families, streamers and anyone who wants an all-in-one suite with tools like a VPN, password manager and PC cleanup
Panda Dome stands out for its gamer-friendly design and smart resource management. Whether you’re grinding in an open-world RPG or competing in a high-stakes FPS, Panda works quietly in the background to keep your system protected without slowing you down.
Its unique zero-trust security approach helps it detect threats early, even ones that haven’t been officially identified yet. This is thanks to its cloud-based AI, which constantly learns from millions of data points to block different types of malware before they can do damage.
With five different plan levels, Panda lets you choose the exact level of protection you need. From lightweight free protection to full-featured Premium plans, it’s flexible, modern and built to protect what matters most to gamers.
Key Features
- Real-time protection with minimal performance impact
- Smart Gaming Mode for uninterrupted play
- AI-powered threat detection with zero-day protection
- Built-in firewall to secure online connections
- VPN for privacy and access to restricted games (Premium tier)
- PC tune-up tools for better speed and performance
- Password manager to store sensitive info securely
- Parental controls for safer family gaming
- Cloud-based scanning for faster, lighter antivirus checks
Pricing and Free Antivirus Options
Panda offers several plans for individual users to fit different needs and budgets:
| Plan | Key features | Annual price |
|---|---|---|
| Panda Dome Free | Basic antivirus with real-time scanning | Free |
| Panda Dome Essential | Adds a firewall and Wi-Fi protection | $34.99 |
| Panda Dome Advanced | Includes ransomware protection and identity theft defense | $41.99 |
| Panda Dome Complete | Adds a password manager and PC cleanup tools | $53.99 |
| Panda Dome Premium | Full package with unlimited VPN, premium support and all advanced features | $56 |
2. Bitdefender
Best for:
- Gamers who want fast, lightweight antivirus protection with strong malware detection
- Users who care about privacy, webcam/microphone protection and safe online shopping
Bitdefender is known for its top-rated malware detection, quick scans and low impact on system performance — all things gamers love.
Its Autopilot mode and Game, Movie and Work Profiles adjust settings automatically, so you won’t get interrupted mid-game. Bitdefender also uses behavior-based threat detection, which adds another layer of real-time security and helps avoid online gaming risks.
Compared to Panda, Bitdefender offers fewer extras in its lower tiers, like no built-in VPN unless you upgrade to Premium. Its interface can also be a bit more complex for first-time users. But when it comes to pure protection and smooth gaming performance, Bitdefender is one of the best.
Key Features
- Advanced real-time threat detection and ransomware protection
- Game, Movie and Work Profiles for automatic resource optimization
- Autopilot mode for hands-off, intelligent security management
- Cloud-based scanning to reduce system load
- Multi-layer ransomware defense and file encryption
- Safe online shopping and banking features (Safepay browser)
- Webcam and microphone protection
- Network threat prevention for safe online play
Pricing and Free Bitdefender Antivirus Options
Bitdefender offers both a free version and several paid plans, including:
| Plan | Key features | Annual price |
|---|---|---|
| Bitdefender Antivirus Free | Real-time antivirus and malware protection — no VPN or advanced tools | Free |
| Bitdefender Antivirus Plus | Adds multi-layer ransomware protection, secure browsing and file shredder | $29.99 (first year) |
| Bitdefender Total Security | Adds system optimization, anti-theft and coverage for all OS types | $59.99 (first year) |
| Bitdefender Premium Security | Full plan with unlimited VPN, priority support and all advanced features | $79.99 (first year) |
| Bitdefender Ultimate Security | Includes firewall, webcam protection and parental controls | $89.99 (first year) |
| Bitdefender Ultimate Security Plus | Includes financial fraud protection and credit report monitoring | $119.99 (first year) |
3. Malwarebytes
Best for:
- Gamers who want fast, no-fuss protection with a clean interface
- Users who prefer simplicity and strong malware defense without extra features they may not use
Malwarebytes is well-known for its strong malware and ransomware protection and its ability to detect threats that traditional antivirus tools sometimes miss.
It’s lightweight, fast and simple to set up, making it a favorite for gamers who just want solid protection without slowing down their system. Its Play Mode automatically suppresses alerts during gaming or streaming.
That said, compared to Panda or Bitdefender, Malwarebytes has fewer built-in features. It lacks a full firewall, password manager and system cleanup tools. While it excels at keeping malware away, it may not be the best all-in-one solution for gamers looking for extra privacy or performance tools.
Key Features
- Fast, lightweight malware and ransomware protection
- Play Mode to silence notifications during full-screen gaming
- Behavior-based threat detection for zero-day attacks
- Clean, easy-to-use interface with minimal system impact
- Web protection to block phishing and malicious sites
- Exploit protection for vulnerable software and games
- Optional VPN available in higher-tier plans
Pricing and Free Malwarebytes Antivirus Options
Malwarebytes keeps things simple with just a few plan options:
| Plan | Key features | Annual price |
|---|---|---|
| Malwarebytes Free | Manual malware scanning only; no real-time protection | Free |
| Malwarebytes Standard | Protection from malware, virus, ransomware and phishing, plus ad blocking | $44.99 |
| Malwarebytes Plus | Antivirus, anti-malware, browser protection and no-log, ultra-fast VPN | $59.99 |
| Malwarebytes Ultimate | Device security, VPN, identity protection and personal data remover | $119.99 |
4. Norton
Best for:
- Gamers who want a well-rounded security suite with lots of extras
- Families, streamers and users looking for identity protection and cloud backup, along with antivirus
Norton has been around for a long time, and it’s still one of the most trusted names in antivirus. It offers strong real-time protection, frequent updates and useful extras like cloud backup and dark web monitoring.
Its Game Optimizer feature sets it apart for gamers, as it helps boost system performance by managing background apps and prioritizing CPU power for games.
However, Norton’s full features come at a slightly higher cost than others, and some tools, like the VPN and identity protection, are only available in top-tier plans. It’s also heavier on system resources compared to lightweight options like Malwarebytes, though its Game Optimizer helps balance that during gameplay.
Key Features
- Game Optimizer to boost in-game performance
- Real-time malware, spyware and ransomware protection
- Smart firewall to block online threats
- Dark web monitoring for identity theft alerts
- 50GB to 500GB of cloud backup, depending on plan
- Secure VPN included with most paid plans
- Parental controls and school time monitoring (higher tiers)
- Password manager to protect gaming and personal accounts
Pricing and Free Norton Antivirus Options
Norton offers several plans under its Norton 360 product line:
| Plan | Key features | Annual price |
|---|---|---|
| Norton AntiVirus Plus | Real-time protection and firewall — no VPN or Game Optimizer | $29.99 (first year) |
| Norton 360 Standard | Adds VPN, dark web monitoring and 10GB cloud backup | $39.99 (first year) |
| Norton 360 Deluxe | Adds Game Optimizer, parental controls and 50GB cloud backup | $49.99 (first year) |
| Norton 360 Select Plus | Includes identity theft protection, credit monitoring and 100GB cloud backup | $99.99 (first year) |
5. TotalAV
Best for:
- Gamers who want a beginner-friendly antivirus with strong core protection and helpful performance tools
- Users who want one-click optimization and privacy features without digging through settings
TotalAV is one of the newer players in the antivirus space, but it’s earned a solid reputation for ease of use and effective malware detection.
It offers real-time protection, a system tune-up tool and a WebShield to block unsafe websites — all in a clean, easy-to-use dashboard. Its low system impact makes it a great choice for gamers who want protection without annoying slowdowns.
That said, TotalAV’s free version is very limited, offering only on-demand scans. Also, its VPN, ad blocker and advanced features are only available on the higher-paid tiers, which can be more expensive than similar options like Bitdefender or Panda.
Key Features
- Real-time antivirus and ransomware protection
- System optimization tools to reduce lag and free up space
- WebShield for safe browsing and phishing protection
- Ad blocker to speed up gaming-related web use
- VPN included in higher-tier plans
- Easy-to-use interface with one-click scans and cleanup
- Identity protection — U.S. only, higher tiers
Pricing and Free TotalAV Antivirus Options
TotalAV offers one of the best free malware scanners, but real protection starts with a paid plan:
| Plan | Key features | Annual price |
|---|---|---|
| TotalAV Free | On-demand malware scanning only — no real-time protection | Free |
| TotalAV Premium | Real-time protection, system optimization and WebShield | $99 |
| TotalAV Internet Security | Adds VPN (Safe Browsing) | $129 |
| TotalAV Total Security | Adds ad blocker and password manager | $149 |
6. McAfee
Best for:
- Gamers who want multi-device coverage, strong identity protection and solid antivirus performance
- Families or streamers who use multiple platforms and want all-in-one security
McAfee has come a long way in recent years, offering a smoother, faster experience that works well on gaming PCs.
Its real-time protection and firewall block threats without dragging down performance, and the Gamer Security version (previously a standalone product, now integrated into McAfee+ tiers) is designed specifically to prioritize CPU power for games.
Still, McAfee uses more system resources than lighter options like Malwarebytes and Panda Dome. Plus, many of its best features — like VPN and identity monitoring — are only in the top tiers. But if you’re looking for cross-device protection with privacy and optimization tools, McAfee is a strong pick.
Key Features
- Real-time antivirus and anti-phishing protection
- Performance optimization to reduce lag and improve speed
- Secure VPN included in most paid plans
- Identity monitoring for personal data leaks
- Personal data cleanup from risky data broker sites (higher tiers)
- Multi-device protection across Windows, macOS, Android and iOS
- Gamer-friendly performance settings in McAfee+ plans
Pricing and Free McAfee Antivirus Options
McAfee focuses on paid protection, but offers strong value in its bundles:
| Plan | Key features | Annual price |
|---|---|---|
| McAfee Free Tools | Limited tools like web protection and password manager trials | Free |
| McAfee+ Premium Individual | Real-time protection, VPN, password manager | $49.99 (first year) |
| McAfee+ Advanced Individual | Adds features like identity monitoring and personal data cleanup | $89.99 (first year) |
| McAfee+ Unlimited Individual | Adds features like $2M ID theft coverage and security freeze tools | $199.99 (first year) |
How to Choose an Antivirus for Your Gaming PC
Picking the best antivirus software for a gaming PC isn’t just about staying safe — it’s about protecting your investment and making sure nothing interrupts your gaming experience.
Here’s what to look for in the best security software for gaming PCs:
- Performance impact: Look for antivirus programs that work in the background without slowing down your games. A tool that eats up CPU or RAM during a match can ruin your experience.
- Robust threat detection/protection: Gaming PCs are targets for malware, ransomware and phishing, especially when downloading mods or using voice chat. You need reliable, real-time protection to stay safe.
- Dedicated gaming mode: The best antivirus tools offer a gaming mode that pauses scans, updates and pop-ups while you play. This keeps your sessions smooth and uninterrupted.
- Resource usage: Check for tools with low RAM and CPU usage. Many programs publish benchmarking data so you can see how they perform during gaming.
- False positives and game files: If you mod games or develop them, some antivirus tools might wrongly flag your files. Choose software that allows exceptions or has a strong track record with gamer communities.
- UI and gamer friendliness: A clean, simple interface makes it easier to manage your settings. Bonus points for dashboards that show gaming status or performance tools.
- Cross-device security: Many gamers stream or use mobile apps while playing. A good antivirus should protect game and stream setups and offer safe mobile gaming tools, too.
- Customer support: If something goes wrong, quick and knowledgeable support is a must, especially for fixing false flags or restoring quarantined files.
Whether you’re a casual player or a full-time streamer, these features will help you avoid the risks of online gaming for kids and adults alike while keeping your rig running at full power.
Why Gamers Need Antivirus
Even the most experienced players can get caught off guard. Hackers are getting rich through gamers — stealing logins, draining accounts and spreading malware through tools disguised as mods, cheats or game cracks.
From Discord token stealers to phishing links in gaming communities, the threats are real and growing. Some malware even hides in popular platforms like Cheat Engine or shady performance boosters, tricking users into installing dangerous files. You need a solid antivirus to spot these risks and stay safe while gaming or streaming.
Level Up Security for Your Gaming Antivirus With Panda
Still not sure which is the best antivirus for your gaming PC? Well, the ideal gaming antivirus should offer real-time protection, a dedicated gaming mode and low resource usage to keep your system running smoothly.
Panda Dome checks all these boxes, with advanced AI-powered detection, gaming mode for uninterrupted play and a proactive approach to blocking emerging threats like malware, ransomware and phishing scams. For budget-conscious gamers, Panda has a free version that offers great security.
Compare Panda Dome plans, pick one that best fits your needs and protect your gaming rig.
Best Gaming PC Antivirus FAQ
Here are some common questions gamers have about antivirus software and how it affects their experience. Let’s clear up the confusion!
Can Gaming PCs Get Viruses?
Yes, gaming PCs are just as vulnerable to viruses as any other computer. While gaming is mostly focused on performance, malware can still sneak in through websites, mods or downloads.
Can I Use Free Antivirus for Playing Games?
Yes, you can use free antivirus software while gaming, but even the best free antivirus software often lacks advanced features like real-time protection and gaming modes. For the best experience, consider upgrading to a paid option like Panda Dome Premium.
Can I Turn Off My Antivirus While Gaming?
It’s not recommended to turn off your antivirus while gaming. Disabling protection leaves your PC vulnerable to malware, ransomware or phishing attacks. Instead, use gaming mode, which suspends unnecessary background scans and notifications without compromising your security.
Does Antivirus Affect Gaming Performance?
Most modern antivirus software programs are designed to have minimal impact on gaming performance, but some still can use system resources during scans, leading to a slight drop in FPS. Panda received an Advanced+ Award from AV-Comparatives’ antivirus performance test.
Does Running Antivirus Reduce FPS?
Running antivirus can slightly reduce FPS, especially if the program is running background scans or updates during gameplay. Choosing lightweight antivirus software designed for gaming, like Panda Dome, will help prevent noticeable FPS drops.
What Is Gaming Mode?
Gaming mode is a feature that optimizes your antivirus software for a seamless gaming experience. When activated, it pauses background scans, updates and notifications to ensure your system’s resources are focused entirely on your game.
Are All Gaming Modes in Antivirus Software the Same?
No, not all gaming modes are the same. Some antivirus programs offer basic features that just turn off pop-ups, while others, like Panda Dome, actively optimize CPU usage, block unnecessary background processes and reduce the impact on system resources.
Do I Need Antivirus if I Have Windows Defender?
While Windows Defender provides basic protection, it might not offer the same level of security and features as dedicated antivirus programs. Antivirus offers additional layers of protection, including malware detection, ransomware defense and gaming modes.
What Features Should the Best Antivirus Have for Gaming?
The best antivirus for PC gaming should offer:
- Real-time protection
- Low resource usage
- A gaming mode
- Robust threat detection
- Protection against ransomware
- A VPN
- Password managers
Can Antivirus Software Block Online Game Servers?
Yes, some antivirus software can mistakenly block online game servers, especially if they involve unusual connections or data packets. But most antivirus programs have an allowlist feature that allows you to safely add game servers or applications you use frequently.
Should Streamers Use Antivirus While Live?
Yes, streamers should use antivirus software while live. Streaming exposes your system to additional risks like phishing, malware and DDoS attacks. Antivirus ensures that you stay safe without sacrificing stream quality.
Can Antivirus Detect Cheat Software or Mods?
Yes, antivirus programs can detect cheat software or malicious mods, especially if they contain malware or are used to exploit the game’s systems. Use only trusted sources for game mods since some may trigger false positives.
Panda Security specializes in the development of endpoint security products and is part of the WatchGuard portfolio of IT security solutions. Initially focused on the development of antivirus software, the company has since expanded its line of business to advanced cyber-security services with technology for preventing cyber-crime.
You May also Like
Input your search keywords and press Enter.