Knowing how to change desktop icons is a great way to make a PC personalized and unique to you. You may have a new desktop wallpaper and want to take your layout to the next level with custom desktop icons, or you might be seeking a more organized scheme. There are a few great ways to customize your icons on Windows, some of which can greatly change the look and feel of your desktop. 

Windows actually has a few built-in icons that you can choose from, but there are also loads of icons that can be downloaded on the internet from websites such as Iconfinder or DeviantArt. I went for a minimalist look for my desktop background and wanted the aesthetic reflected in my icons. Some people might not want to download any icons from the internet, so luckily Windows comes with a number of built-in icons that can be easily changed in your computer's settings. 

If you have one of the best home computers then knowing how to change the desktop icons can make it feel more comfortable and pleasing to use. If you want to make one of the best laptops more personal, then custom desktop icons can change the look of your desktop.  After trying out these 9 desktop organization tips, changing my desktop icons was the finishing touch to create a fun, easy-to-navigate computer. If you have already made your workspace comfortable and easy to use with the best wireless keyboard and mouse bundles, then having a desktop that matches makes perfect sense.

Which desktop icons can you change? 

You can change pretty much all of your desktop icons. I personally only like to change icons for things such as the recycling bin or network information as changing the icon for shortcuts can get confusing. Computer, recycle bin, network and other Windows icons will have a few built-in options that you can choose from without having to download any custom icons. Granted, the built-in options are not anything too impressive, but they will be enough for some users who don’t want to change the look of their desktop too much. 

Why should you change your desktop icons?

Changing your desktop icons is an easy way to create a cohesive aesthetic that is visually pleasing, whether that's a dark look or an ultra-minimal design. 

Custom desktop icons can also make your PC feel more personal. If you have a certain theme that suits you, then it gives a much more personal feel to your whole setup. Most people will have a personalized desktop background, and changing the icons is the extra step to make your desktop suit you. If you use your computer for work, you can change the icons to give a more professional feel, or alternatively, if you use your computer for games and relaxing, you can match it to your favorite theme. 

How to change desktop icons 

Changing desktop icons is an easy process. Once you have chosen your desired icons then you can change them with a few clicks.

1. Find your desired icons

If you plan on using personalized icons, then you will want to browse online for custom desktop icons. There are a lot of websites that will offer free downloads for custom icons in many different themes and aesthetics. If you aren’t interested in downloading custom icons online then you can browse through the pre-built icons that Windows offers in your system settings.

2. Navigate to your system settings 

To change your icon, you will need to navigate to Desktop Icon Settings. This can be done by following this path in your Windows settings:

For Windows 10: Settings > Personalization > Themes > Desktop Icon Settings

For Windows 8: Control Panel > Personalize > Change Desktop Icons

3. Select an icon

After you have navigated to the Icon Settings, there will be a number of built-in options for you to choose from. Simply choose your desired icon from the pop-out window and click “Apply”. 

If you are choosing an icon that you have downloaded, then you will need to select the “Browse” button at the top of the window and choose your downloaded icon. In the same way as built-in icons, when you have selected your desired icon simply hit “Apply”. 

Where to find custom desktop icons

There are a few decent websites that offer custom desktop icons for free, but in my opinion, these are the three best places to source them:

DeviantArt

DeviantArt is an online art community where people share their own artwork with things ranging from fan art to desktop backgrounds. There are hundreds of custom desktop icon packs that can be downloaded from DeviantArt that will suit a range of aesthetics and themes. There are choices for minimalistic designs, as well as some more wacky and zany designs for people who want their desktops to really stand out. It's by far the best place to acquire custom desktop icons, and I would thoroughly recommend it.

Iconfinder

Iconfinder is the world’s largest online marketplace for icons, illustrations and 3D illustrations in various formats. While some of the icons require payment, there are still hundreds, if not thousands of free icons that can be downloaded and used straight away without payment. Iconfinder can be a great way to search for a specific theme, such as minimalist or dark-themed icons to match your desired aesthetic. Iconfinder is easy to navigate and will have icons for almost everyone. If you really want to push the boat out and pay for an icon pack then some of the more premium-looking icons are sure to impress. 

IconArchive

Similar to Iconfinder, IconArchive offers over 750,000 free downloadable icons in a variety of themes. Iconfinder specializes more in icons than the other two websites, so you can expect to find some really complex and wacky-looking icons on their website. I personally wasn’t a fan of a lot of the designs that I saw, as they are often a bit too in-your-face and complex for my taste, and I wasn’t a huge fan of the idea of having a shiny lion as my recycling bin icon. If you are a maximalist that wants your desktop to really stand out then this could be the best place for you to look for new desktop icons.

The laptops with best battery life allow you to work, play, browse and game for hours on end, worry-free. After all, the portability of a laptop isn’t much use in practicality if you’re spending all your time tethered to a plug socket. Unfortunately there are plenty of laptops out there with dismally short battery life, where you’ll see that indicator plunge towards zero the moment you start any task that’s even slightly intensive on the processor. This guide is to help you avoid them.

We’ve picked out the five laptops that represent the best battery life you can get right now. First, we’ve crowned our number-one pick of the laptop with the best battery life – and after that, we’ve anointed four worthy runners-up. We’ve made sure to include a range of manufacturers (spoilers: the list isn’t all MacBooks) and options at different price points, so that there are choices for all users. 

At the bottom of the guide, we’ve also included some buying advice to guide you through the kinds of questions to think about when buying a long-lasting laptop, and the pros and cons of this type of computer.

Lots to get through then! If you prize portability in your computers, make sure you also check out our guide to the lightest laptops – but for now, let’s end the suspense and reveal our nomination for the laptop with best battery life…

Laptops with best battery life

We've rounded up the five laptops with the best battery life that are currently available to help you find the right one for you and your home office. We've considered a range of budgets and processing needs, so dive in below to find the perfect laptop for you. 

Laptop with best battery life

Well, they set out to do it, and they did it. The MacBook Pro 16-inch (M2 Max, 2023) is the new king of the hill in terms of MacBook power, and it also manages to throw in the best laptop battery life you can get right now. A 100-watt-hour battery powers the 2023 edition of the MacBook Pro – it’s rated to last up to 22 hours in the official literature, and real-world tests generally have it lasting between 18 and 19 hours of browsing and general usage. That really is quite something. 

Elsewhere across the board, of course, this laptop performs outstandingly. The top-end flagship version is equipped with Apple’s proprietary M2 Max chip, and you can also get versions with the M2 Pro. Whichever you go with, you’re getting incredible speed and performance – load the laptop up with tabs, programs, windows and whatever you like, and it’s unlikely you’ll see even a stutter. It’ll handle high-end gaming with aplomb too; thanks to the 38-core Apple GPU, your favorite games will run great at high frame rates. It’s not as dazzling as a discrete GPU, but it’s still more than good enough for most users.

So what’s the catch? Let’s not kid, you know perfectly well what the catch is – the 2023 MacBook Pro in its simplest configuration runs up a retail price of $2,699, and if you max out on the specs, it’ll run you up to $5,299. Apple lets you play around with configuring the specs before you buy, but there’s no way this laptop isn’t going to be a serious, significant investment. If you’ve got the budget and need the performance, it’s most certainly worth it – but ultimately, that’s up to you.

More best battery-life laptops

Not a Mac person, or don’t fancy the outlay required for the MacBook Pro 16-inch (M2 Max, 2023)? Never fear – we’ve picked out four more excellent laptops with the best battery life.

What to look for in laptops with the best battery life

Why is a long battery life important?

Having long-lasting battery life in a laptop is hugely important if you’re the kind of worker, gamer or creative who is always on the move. With more people embracing remote working and a more nomadic approach to their jobs, there’s no practical reason you need to be tethered to the same desk all day. If you’re someone who regularly takes long flights or spends a lot of time working outdoors (such as on a location-based photoshoot) then you’ll certainly know the But of course, you can only work for as long as your laptop has power, and that means getting something with a long-lasting battery.

In terms of laptop type, generally the laptop with best battery life is going to have a traditional hinged design, or a convertible type 360-degree hinging display. Smaller detachable tablet-style laptops tend not to have room for a big enough battery to last very long. However, the good news is that a long-lasting laptop doesn’t have to be heavy – indeed, if you’ve already perused our list you may have noticed it includes a few ultraportables. This is largely thanks to advancements in processor architecture, as well as the chassis design of the laptops themselves. Technology has come a long way.

The other thing to remember is that there’s no fully objective measure of a laptop’s battery life, because it’s always going to depend on what you do with it. Some computing tasks are much more power intensive than others – like video editing or gaming – so if you’re going to be crunching your laptop’s capabilities pretty regularly, you should lower your expectations when it comes to battery life.

How to extend your laptop’s battery life

Something important about laptop battery life is that it doesn’t stay rosy forever. The more you use, deplete and recharge a laptop battery, the less effective it becomes at storing power. And while newer laptops and batteries are better at mitigating this, it is still a fact of life and chemistry that if you use any laptop for a number of years, it’s going to need charging more frequently.

There are plenty of good practices you can get in the habit of that can extend your laptop’s battery life over the long term. One of the best things you can do is avoid letting the battery drain down to absolute zero before charging it – if your laptop uses Windows, turning on the Battery Saver mode in settings is a good way to do this.

You may have heard that you’re supposed to unplug your device when it reaches 100% charge – however, most modern laptops are smart enough to stop charging when they are full, so this isn’t a problem in the way it used to be. The most effective thing you can do for longevity is prevent the laptop from discharging beneath 20% or so – so keeping it topped up when you can is a good idea, and charging it up beforehand if you know you’re not going to use it for an extended period of time.

However, all this is but a stopgap. If you keep a laptop for a long time, its battery will lose some of its capacity – that’s just a fact of life. However, with one of the picks in this guide, you can enjoy plenty of lengthy charging cycles before that happens.

Lenovo vs HP: Design

When it comes to looks, this could go either way. Are you looking for a laptop that cuts a unique figure when you open it? Then the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 might be worth a look, with its vents tucked away on the outcrop at the back.

It certainly gives it the look of a gaming laptop, with the white lighting on the keys a nice touch – although many have complained that the keyboard itself feels a little on the cheap side.

On the other hand, we quite like the Omen’s more subtle design. It’s a sleek-looking machine (although we could do without the branding on the inside), and the RGB is understated and smart.

With that said, it does have a sizeable lower bezel that makes the 16-inch display somehow feel a little smaller than it should.

Winner: Tie

Lenovo vs HP: Display

As we’ve mentioned on a few of these versus articles, we’d always advise looking for as high a resolution as possible. That’s made comparing 1080p panels to 2.5K and 4.5K ones nice and easy, but here we have two with a Full HD resolution and there’s little to tell them apart.

Sadly, both are a little on the dark side, so you may struggle with outdoor usage, but the HP does offer a 144Hz refresh rate compared to the 120Hz offered by the Lenovo.

That’s enough to give it the win, particularly when paired with the slightly larger display area, but we’d definitely recommend the QHD version with a resolution of 2560x1440. Even if you don’t need it now, it allows you to futureproof the laptop for years to come.

Winner: HP Omen 16-n0007na

Lenovo vs HP: Audio

The Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 isn’t a bad laptop for audio, but it does fall into the usual trap of offering plenty of mid but lacking the soundstage to offer anything higher or lower, leading to washed-out treble and bass.

If you’re wearing headphones, that’s no big deal, but the HP comes packed with Bang and Olufsen speakers that offer a much wide range of audio, whether you’re listening for footsteps in a game or enjoying the deep “boom” of an action scene in a superhero movie.

For the much more nuanced audio output, this round goes to the HP Omen.

Winner: HP Omen 16-n0007na

Lenovo vs HP: Performance

It’s a close one here, but Lenovo’s RTX 3050 is a slither more powerful than the RTX 3050 TI found in the HP Omen, but the latter closes the gap with double the RAM.

That means for multitasking, the HP could be the way to go, but the Lenovo has a little more power across gaming and creative tasks.

As we’ve alluded to multiple times, though, we’d still go for the HP but with the AMD Radeon 6650M. It’s still a mid-range card but it’s considerably newer and faster – although not as power efficient.

Since it’s not a standard option, though, we’ll call this one a tie.

Winner: Tie

Lenovo vs HP: Value

With both machines at similar price points, it’s tough to say which offers the best bang for your buck because the design choices are subjective and the performance (at the base level) is very similar aside from the additional RAM.

For better speakers, we’d argue that the HP tips the scales in its favour, but it really is a difficult one. We’d look for discounts on either, or on the HP version with the more powerful GPU and 1440p display.

Winner: Tie

Lenovo vs HP: Verdict

With comparable specs from the GPU to the display, to just about everything else, this is certainly a tough “versus” to pick a winner from.

In the end, we’ve gone with the HP Omen, but with a catch – we’d recommend spending the extra for the AMD Radeon 6650 for any gaming, and would recommend considering the QHD screen version to go with it.

Alienware vs ASUS: Design

As we’ve already alluded to, both manufacturers certainly took different turns when designing these machines. The narrower hinge of the Alienware laptop is certainly different, revealing blank space under the display that stands out.

The ports are all located on the back, too, which certainly means it looks cleaner from the sides - but may mean you need to adjust your setup to clear room.

On the other hand, the ASUS TUF Gaming A17 looks much like you’d expect any laptop to look – there are no wild cut-outs, the ports are on the side, and it’s a pretty standard black (or gray) colorway, too.

The only true indication that it’s a gaming laptop comes with the keyboard layout, with the WASD keys highlighted, and a nice degree of backlighting throughout.

Ultimately, though, it’ll come down to personal preference.

Winner: Tie

Windows laptops come in many shapes and sizes, and while we’ve already compared Alienware to Razer, it’s Alienware vs ASUS that we’re taking a look at this time.

It’s very difficult to find a “bad” manufacturer these days, but both Alienware and ASUS are excellent options. The former may be an offshoot from Dell, but it tends to pack great value into its machines, while ASUS runs the gamut between productivity laptops, 2-in-1s, and its own gaming models, too.

With that in mind, we picked the two models for comparison here between the Alienware x15 R2 Gaming Laptop, and the ASUS TUF Gaming A17. Both are valued at around £1500 without discounts, and the idea is to work out which is worth you parting with that cash. Unlike our Alienware and Razer comparison, both laptops here are gaming machines, making the comparison much closer, while both have productivity chops, too. 

If you're still undecided about what brand or tech you want to invest in, check out our guides to the best home computers and the best laptops.

Alienware vs ASUS: Display

To get the negative out of the way first, both of the displays here are 1080p panels. That’s still solid, but if you’re looking for a 1440p screen you’ll have to spend a bit more – something to consider for gamers.

On the plus side, both offer high refresh rates, with the ASUS having 144Hz for smoother animation and the Alienware hitting as high as 165Hz.

Neither are touch screens, but it’s hard to look past the monolithic display afforded by the ASUS TUF Gaming A17. That 17.3-inch display is huge, and is likely to feel like a cinema you carry in your backpack. The Alienware’s 15.6-inch panel is solid enough, but it just can’t compete for immersion.

Winner: ASUS TUF Gaming A17

Alienware vs ASUS: Audio

Both laptops offer left and right speakers for stereo sound, but the ASUS TUF Gaming A17 has a little boost on the Alienware x15 because it includes Dolby Atmos.

Dolby Atmos is object-based surround technology that allows for more immersive audio. That, paired with the huge display, makes the ASUS option attractive for cinephiles on the move.

Winner: ASUS TUF Gaming A17

Alienware vs ASUS: Performance

The Alienware x15 comes with an Nvidia RTX 3060 by default, but can be fitted with up to a 3080 instead if you’re happy to pay considerably more. It’s a solid card that’ll make the most of the 1080p resolution, but the ASUS option has a little more grunt under the hood.

That’s because the ASUS has an RTX 3070 Ti inside. While the 3060 can run the likes of Cyberpunk 2077, you’ll find things are smoother and more detailed on the ASUS’ GPU.

According to userbenchmark.com, there’s a 58% increase in 3D GPU speed from the 3060 to the 3070Ti, which could make a sizeable difference both in gaming and creative work.

Outside of that, both laptops are running Windows 11 right out of the box, and are powerful enough for more standard work – running through spreadsheets, sending emails, and more.

Winner: ASUS TUF Gaming A17

Alienware vs ASUS: Value

While both machines are priced similarly, the ASUS TUF Gaming A17 appears to be regularly discounted through ASUS itself. That gives it the edge here, with hundreds of pounds/dollars of savings available throughout the year, but you can also drop to a 3060 and save more (at the cost of the performance boosts we’ve mentioned above).

That, paired with the larger screen, makes it an easier recommendation of the two machines – unless you’re particularly wedded to the more quirky design of the Alienware x15.

Winner: ASUS TUF Gaming A17

Alienware vs ASUS: Verdict

It’s almost a clean sweep for the ASUS TUF Gaming A17 on a category-by-category basis, with its larger screen, better GPU, and Dolby Atmos helping it edge out the Alienware x15.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more stylish and portable, the Alienware x15 is still a great option.

Picking between Dell vs Apple desktop computers is certainly a big enough decision to warrant a guide such as this.

Both are great manufacturers, but there are plenty of differences on the micro and macro levels that can make picking a winner an entirely subjective choice. Aside from the hardware differences (which are plentiful), there’s also the consideration of macOS vs Windows.

While the former is great for ease of use for many (and a huge selection of apps), Windows is more ubiquitous for gaming. There are positives and negatives for each, but for the purposes of this discussion, we’ve picked two similarly-priced, all-in-one desktop computers - the iMac with M1 chip, and the Dell Inspiron 27. Both retail for around $1200, but which offers the best bang for your buck and will help you get your work done better?

Both come with everything you need to get started creating, playing, or browsing. Here’s our rundown of the Dell Inspiron 27 vs the Apple iMac M1.

Looking for more tech comparison content? Be sure to check out our guide to whether you should buy an iPad or a Chromebook. If you're looking for more desktop recommendations, check out our best home computers buying guide.

Dell vs Apple: Design

Both machines are all-in-one computers, meaning all of the innards are within the screen itself. That makes either ideal for desk setups that don’t have room for a tower or separate unit.

Both take slightly different routes with their design, though. The Dell Inspiron 27 has thinner bezels, and the 1080p camera pops up from behind the screen. That makes it easier to get lost in that 27-inch display.

We’re less keen on the two legs of the stand, but it does mean you can slide the keyboard between them for more desk space.

On the other hand, the iMac’s camera is buried in its bezels, which are a little larger than we’d like. As lovely as the display is, it feels a little antiquated when surrounded on all sides.

Still, it does come in some lovely colors, with this base version available in Blue, Green, Red, or Silver. More colors are available for the next model up.

Still, for the sheer sleekness of the machine and the way it puts the screen front and center, it’s a win for Dell here.

Winner: Dell Inspiron 27 

Dell vs Apple: Display

This comparison shows that bigger isn’t necessarily better, and while the Dell's 27-inch display is sizeable, you’ll lack the sharpness of other models with the 1080p resolution.

The 24-inch display on the iMac is smaller, but it offers a 4.5K screen with True Tone technology that adjusts to the surrounding light, and supports 1 billion colors.

It’s a big win for the Mac in this category, and while the Dell is solid, Apple’s 4480x2520 resolution is spectacular by comparison.

Winner: iMac M1 

Dell vs Apple: Audio

Both machines offer sophisticated audio setups, with a soundbar-style setup on both. While the iMac’s are built into the chassis, there’s a more distinct divide with the Dell, but both are great for watching movies or listening to music.

We’d give the iMac the edge here, with a six-speaker array that’s great for music across all genres, although both may tempt you to pick up external speakers just for a smidge of additional bass.

Still, the Dell Inspiron 27 roars back with the option to use its speaker system via Bluetooth – meaning you can connect your phone and stream audio to it.

Winner: Tie

Dell vs Apple: Performance

It’s here that Apple’s M1 chip can stretch its legs a bit, but it comes with the caveat that if you need Windows, you’ll be better suited to the Dell (or another Windows option).

With the M1, though, the CPU and GPU are all in the same system on a chip (SoC). This makes it more power efficient (less important than in, say, a laptop), but also considerably quicker.

That, matched with the SSD drive, make it a much more capable machine than the Dell Inspiron 27. Sadly, the 256GB at the base end is woefully inadequate in today’s world.

While the Dell does offer 1.5TB of storage out of the box, it’s split into an SSD for system files and a now massively outdated spinning hard drive for the bulk of the storage. That means it’s cheaper now but could fail in the years to come.

When it comes to complex workflows and creative work, the iMac will likely come out on top – there’s an 85% bump from the prior Intel versions in terms of CPU speed.

For gaming, though, we’d always recommend going for a Windows machine – we’d just pick one with a better GPU, sadly.

One area where the iMac does fall short is in its ports, especially with the base configuration. There’s a pair of USB-C ports at Thunderbolt speeds, but that’s it unless you move to the next version – which adds an additional two USB-C ports.

The Dell Inspiron 27, on the other hand, has USB-A, USB C and HDMI ports. Still, the sheer performance of the M1 makes this another win for Apple.

Winner: iMac M1

Dell vs Apple: Value

This is a little on the subjective side, because it may just come down to how big you want your display. In that case, the Dell Inspiron 27 is the way to go, but the higher resolution of the iMac is a much more compelling prospect for a similar price.

Still, the lack of ports and the measly 256GB storage means we’re going to put this one down as a tie.

Winner: Tie

Dell vs Apple: Verdict

While we have to maintain it should be starting with at least 512GB of storage, we feel the iMac 24-inch is the better machine in this comparison.

It may be leapfrogged by an M2 variant in the coming months, but even now it’s more powerful than the Dell Inspiron and it scales more handily to creative tasks, too – without needing a dedicated GPU.

Lenovo and Asus may not be the first brands you think of when you think of computing, but both have been in business for years and thrive through varied options between functional workstations and powerful gaming devices.

Both manufacturers offer a huge number of devices, though, making a true “one-to-one” comparison difficult. Still, we’ve gone via pricing to pit the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 laptop against the ASUS Vivobook Pro 14.

So, why these machines? Both come in at around £800-£900, and have plenty of differences that make a comparison worthwhile while also having plenty of common ground. They’re ideal for both work and play, with reasonably impressive specs, but there’s a clear winner, too.

For other comparisons, be sure to check out our look at the iMac vs the Dell Inspiron 27, or Alienware vs Asus.

Lenovo vs Asus: Design

A laptop can only ever change up a few things before it feels too unfamiliar for mass consumption, but the IdeaPad Gaming’s outcrop at the rear (which houses a series of vents for cooling the machine) certainly sets it apart from other similar machines. It’s not the most stunning-looking laptop, but it certainly doesn’t hurt that it’s more eye-catching – particularly in the white version.

On the other hand, the ASUS Vivobook Pro 14 is, well, a laptop – and a fairly sleek one at that. The two-tone finish between the gray of the keyboard and surroundings and then the black bezel around the screen is nice, and it certainly looks a little more premium – even if the plasticky materials in some areas say otherwise.

We’ve given this one to the Lenovo just for taking a little more of a creative risk, but it’s naturally entirely subjective based on whether you want your laptop to stand out or not.

Winner: Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3

Lenovo vs Asus: Display

Ok, we’ll admit, this one is a little on the subjective side, too. That’s because your preference for display on a laptop, between these two options, will come down to resolution vs display size.

The Vivobook Pro may have a smaller 14-inch display, but it’s got a 2.8K resolution that makes for a much sharper image than you’ll find on the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3.

It’s also an OLED screen, meaning it’s much brighter and with much deeper blacks. On the other hand, the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 has an IPS panel that can often be too dark in certain lighting conditions.

The Lenovo does have a higher refresh rate, but for our money, we’d opt for the ASUS here.

Winner: ASUS Vivobook Pro 14

Lenovo vs Asus: Audio

Laptop speakers are never traditionally more than passable, at least until you get to high-end, MacBook Pro audio output, but this is another category where the ASUS Vivobook Pro 14 prevails.

That’s because it has harmon/kardon speakers that offer impressive bass in such a small form-factor. On the other hand, the Lenovo speakers aren’t mad, but they’re just not great at isolating treble or bass, so everything feels like it meshes together in the mids.

Naturally, if you’re looking to wear headphones anyway, this is a dead heat.

Winner: ASUS Vivobook Pro 14

Lenovo vs Asus: Performance

Here’s where things get a little better for the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3, because by default, the Lenovo packs an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 which handily trumps the ASUS Vivobook Pro’s integrated Iris Xe graphics as shown in the base model.

However, for around the same price, you can get an NVIDIA GTX 1650 installed instead which does improve things considerably.

Still, if you’re looking to play games, we’d go for the Lenovo here. Even with the 1650, there’s a 74% increase in 3D speed with the RTX 3050. While the 1650 will serve you fine for creative work, we’d suggest the more powerful GPU for gamers.

Winner: Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3

Lenovo vs Asus: Value

Given the wins in almost every category here other than performance and design (and even that one is subjective), it’s hard to look past the ASUS Vivobook Pro 15. It’s just a more rounded machine, with a better display, and better audio – and it costs around the same.

Naturally, if you’re insistent on picking up a laptop with a larger display, it’s a harder sell, and therefore the 15.6-inch display of the Lenovo may be your best bet. For us, though, you gain so much more with the ASUS that it’s an easy win.

Winner: ASUS Vivobook Pro 14

Lenovo vs Asus: Verdict

As you can probably tell, the ASUS Vivobook Pro 14 is our winner here, handily besting the Lenovo Ideapad Gaming 3 for every use case except gaming.

While Lenovo’s laptop has a unique design, it’s darker display, weaker speakers, and cheap-feeling keyboard can’t make moving to the 15.6-inch display feel worthy.

When it comes to gaming laptops, there are two brands that are certainly jostling for position at the top of the food chain – Razer and Alienware, an offshoot from Dell’s more straight-laced machines.

While both are manufacturers with a wealth of experience in portable computing, it was tough to find a pair of laptops in a similar pricing bracket for the purposes of pitting Alienware vs Razer in this test.

That’s because while no gaming laptop is particularly cheap, the Alienware x15 actually looks like a solid value proposition next to some of Razer’s similarly-specced 15-inch machines. Since value is a huge part of this article, we opted for the similarly priced (£1799.99) Razer Book as our comparison point.

Both are great laptops, but both actually have very different roles here. The Razer Book, for example, offers a touchscreen, while the Alienware packs a much more powerful GPU. With that in mind, picking a winner between the two will likely come down to what you intend to do with either machine (much like our iPad and Chromebook comparison) – but we’ll get to that shortly. 

Alienware vs Razer: Design

It’d be fair to say that the Razer Book looks like a pretty standard laptop. It has a nice clean design, with a TKL keyboard and the Razer logo embossed on the lid. It’s not going to win any fashion contests, but it really doesn’t need to – it’s designed to be carried into your office or workplace and not cause too much fuss.

There are hints of Razer’s gaming chops, though, with per-key RGB lighting within the keyboard, and that gorgeous display which we’ll come to shortly.

On the other hand, the Alienware x15 wants to be seen. Its hinge is separated from the rest of the base by cutouts on either side, giving the impression of its screen rising up to meet your gaze. It has vent cut-outs above and to the side of the keys, and its own RGB lighting, while its ports are conveniently tucked behind.

While we’re not big fans of the big “15” on the lid, much of this category comes down to preference. The x15 has style, but if you’re looking for something more low-key, the Razer Book is great.

Winner: Tie

Alienware vs Razer: Display

If you’re looking to do any creative work, a higher resolution is likely to be important to you - and the Alienware x15’s 1080p may not cut it for you.

That’s not to say it’s a bad display by any means, with a 165Hz refresh rate that makes it idea for twitchy shooters.

In terms of the core specs though, we have to plump for the Razer Book in this category. It’s down to 60Hz, sure, and 13.4-inches but unless you’re gaming on it you’ll appreciate a much sharper 3840x2400 resolution and wider viewing angles.

The Razer Book has a touch screen, too. That may not be quite what you’re after, but it doesn’t hurt to have the option anyway.

Winner: Razer Book

Alienware vs Razer: Audio

When it comes to audio, the Alienware x15 has double the speakers of the Razer Book, further cementing its place as a media consumption and gaming device.

Cranking the audio with the keys on the side of the keyboard allows for an impressive range of audio, although we’d be lying if we said it was anywhere near as good as the latest MacBook Pros from Apple.

Apple also doesn’t get a great deal of competition from Razer in this space, either, although we would say the speakers on the Razer mid offer great mids – we’d just have liked more oomph from the bass.

We also found that the fan noise gets pretty loud on the Razer Book, and that means we handed this category to the Alienware x15.

Winner: Alienware x15

Alienware vs Razer: Performance

Despite being a Razer laptop, the Razer Book’s performance is dependable but lacks real power. That’s because it’s using an integrated graphics card, which doesn’t have the guts for running the latest titles.

You may have some solid results in games that don’t rely on quick movement, and it’ll run The Sims 4 just fine, but it’ll struggle to hold a candle to the Alienware x15.

The latter’s 3060 card is by no means an industry leader, but it’ll run the likes of Cyberpunk 2077 at decent settings.

Away from gaming, though, you’ll find very little difference using either for your day-to-day tasks. Whether it’s managing email, streaming music, or editing photos, both are great laptops. For the gaming prowess, though, we’ve given this one to the Alienware.

Winner: Alienware x15

Alienware vs Razer: Value

As we keep coming back to in this article, the Razer Book is a great laptop – but it’s not a “true” representation of what the brand is capable of since Razer’s gaming laptops at the high-end are almost prohibitively expensive.

That makes it look like a relatively pedestrian machine when pitted against Alienware’s x15, but even that could be fitted with a more powerful GPU and more storage at a high cost.

It’s a difficult proposition, but as an all-rounder, we’ve gone for the Alienware.

Winner: Alienware x15

Alienware vs Razer: Verdict

Based on the number of categories alone, this is an easy win for the Alienware x15 – but that doesn’t tell the whole story. 

If your budget can stretch to the heights of the Razer gaming lineup, there are formidable options available for just over £2000. It’s a tough sell, though, when the Alienware x15 is such a solid performer at around £300 less.

The Razer Book isn’t a bad laptop by any means, and its display trumps the x15 with ease, but its productivity focus means the two are fighting for two different markets.

Looking for the lightest laptop in 2023? We’ve got you covered – in this guide, we’re running through the slimmest, most ultra-portable computers you can get. Also known as the best ultrabooks and “ultraportables”, these laptops are all about packing as much computing power as possible into as slim a body as possible. There are a number of excellent options from a range of manufacturers – and we’ve got the scales out especially to bring you the best ones here.

We’ve put together this guide with a total of five recommendations. At the top is the lightest laptop you can buy right now; this is a recent portable computer that is widely available and, in our view, is genuinely worth its asking price. After that, in case that particular laptop doesn’t suit your needs or your budget, we’ve included a series of alternatives at a range of price points. 

A quick note before we start – we’ve kept our list to just laptops that are readily available in the US, which means there are a few omissions. For instance, in 2022, Fujitsu released the Lifebook WU-X/G2, weighing a slender 1.4 lbs, but it’s only available in Japan. Close behind it is the GPD Win P2 Max, a tiny take-everywhere notebook weighing just 1.43 lbs, but it’s not the easiest to get hold of. The laptops on this list can all be easily picked up at major retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, Amazon and others – and they’re all extremely lightweight.

There are different reasons you might want a light laptop as opposed to the best home computers – and some reasons you might not. We’ll get into these later in this guide, but first, let’s find out what is the lightest laptop you can buy right now…

The lightest laptop

Samsung’s remarkable ultrabook is a laptop you can slip into your bag and practically forget you are carrying. Weighing in at less than two pounds – just 1.92lbs or 868g according to the literature – it really is a slip of a thing. It measures just 0.44 inches thick (only very slightly thicker than most phones), and still manages not to skimp on physical ports, with USB, Thunderbolt and HDMI connections all included.

The AMOLED display is a Full HD unit, with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, so while it lags behind 4K monitors in terms of sheer pixel numbers, it makes up for it by delivering rich colors, with deep blacks and exceptional contrast. Power-wise, the Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 13 is outfitted with an Intel Core i5-1135G7 CPU and 8GB of RAM, as well as a built-in solid-state drive offering 256GB. These specs are good enough, if unremarkable, and will do the job well enough for general productivity tasks and office work. Multi-taskers who expect to find themselves itching to upgrade to 16GB of RAM should note that the Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 13 is non-upgradeable – what you see here is what you get.

Otherwise, for a take-everywhere lightweight laptop, the Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 13 delivers on all fronts. It’s got great battery life that will easily last for a day out and about, and as long as you don’t plan to push it too hard with high-intensity tasks like video editing, it’ll keep up capably.  

More of the lightest laptops

What to look for in a light laptop

Why is a light laptop important?

The main benefits of a light laptop are fairly self-explanatory: it’s more portable, and easier to carry around with you. More and more of us have embraced flexible working over the past few years, and an ultraportable laptop allows you to be flexible in when and how you get your tasks done. If you’ve never carried a MacBook Pro around in your backpack for an entire day, believe us, it’s not something you stop noticing. Ultraportables, on the other hand, weigh not much more than a full water bottle.

There are technological benefits too. Ultraportable laptops tend to have very good battery efficiency, due to their smaller displays and less powerful processors. You’lll get a good full day’s use out of a battery charge on any of the laptops we’ve featured in this guide, further lightening your load as you can get away with not bringing a charger out with you. 

Ultraportables will invariably use solid-state drives (SSDs) for storage, as these are much lighter than hard disk drives (HDDs), meaning you should get a decent amount of storage at your disposal. This is also what makes them so snappy to start up and allow your programs to load so quickly – as the computer can load data off the SSD very quickly. 

What are the trade-offs of a light laptop?

Ultra-light laptops aren’t necessarily for everyone, and there are a few trade-offs to buying one that it’s worth being aware of before you make your buying decision.

First, you may have clocked this already, but ultraportable laptops tend to err on the expensive side. They aren’t the absolute priciest laptops you can buy – at the high end, the weight pendulum swings the other way as we start to meet big powerful beasts like the MacBook Pro. However, they definitely also aren’t the cheapest, and you do need to factor in that in terms of computing power on the dollar, ultra-portables aren’t the most efficient option out there.

Second, it’s also worth noting that there is a computing power ceiling on lightweight laptops. Just as with the quietest PCs, lightweight laptops have to contend with the fact that a fast and powerful computer requires a lot of cooling so as not to overheat. Therefore, in order not to have to include bulky fan mechanisms, ultra-light laptops may use less powerful CPUs, or incorporate CPU throttling technology in order to slow the processor down whenever it’s in danger of getting too hot. So if you want to edit 4K video, or play the latest games, an ultraportable isn’t really the way to go.

Lastly, we should touch on the human factor. Look deep into your soul, and ask yourself: how careful am I with my laptop? Ultraportables aren’t as tough as heavier laptops, and if bashed about too much they can be easy to break – especially given that they’re so light it’s easy to forget one is in your bag. If you worry you might be the sort of person to treat an ultraportable laptop too roughly, maybe shell out for something that can withstand a little punishment. 

It's easy for your computer desktop to quickly become cluttered and overwhelming, but with a few simple desktop organization ideas and hacks, you can find a way to keep track of your most important files. Whether it's removing unnecessary shortcuts or offloading unused apps entirely, there are a few ways to clear up your desktop and maintain the organization indefinitely. 

If you're like me, you often download things and drag them straight to your desktop for convenience's sake - this is what started my downward spiral to the most chaotic, messy desktop around. After I spent a good 20 minutes looking for a gaming mod that I had previously downloaded, I realized I needed to get my act together and clean things up. 

It was definitely tough at first, especially when it came to uninstalling apps that I hadn't used for years. The constant thought of "what if I decide I want to use it?" made me reluctant to make any decisions, but I knew I had to be strict. Enter: A new filing system and completely new desktop wallpaper to help me keep things organized. 

I've decided to share my wisdom so that you too can create a tidy home screen and keep one of the best home computers running smoothly. Here are the best desktop organization tips and hacks that helped me to declutter for good.

1. Offload or uninstall apps that you don't use

I know it can be tough, but uninstalling apps that you don't use is an important step to having a clear, clean desktop. Worst case scenario, you can redownload an app if you decide you really need it. I was trying to think of any reason not to uninstall Audacity, but after realizing it's been two years since I touched it I was quick to remove it from my PC. 

Some apps such as ManicTime or ProcrastiTracker will show you how much time you have spent on each app, making it a lot easier for you to clearly see apps that you don't use so that you can get rid of them altogether. 

2. Use multiple desktops

Windows allows you to have multiple desktops. This was not something I had previously thought about until I wanted to start separating out my work files from video games. Creating a second desktop is a good way to half the number of icons on your desktop as you can make it specialized for topics such as editing, studying or work. 

Of course, there's also always the option to just create a shiny, clean new desktop and forget that your old, cluttered one ever existed (out of sight out of mind, right?).

3. Make your folders easy to navigate

If your folders are titled 'New folder (1)' then you can't expect it to be easy to find what you need. Name your folders something clear, and number any duplicates appropriately. Try to stop yourself from randomly dumping stray files in new folders, and come up with an organized folder system that suits you.

Try to categorize them into subjects, such as editing, studying, photos (dated or themed), applications or shortcuts. If you want to maintain a clean and organized desktop in the long run, then this is a really important habit to get into, and once you have started it's super easy to maintain. 

4. Choose a nice desktop background

I often find that when I have a nice desktop background it reminds me to keep my desktop clean. Setting your desktop background to something cozy or aesthetically pleasing makes you want to organize any stray folders or files which are blocking the image. The more personal your desktop feels, the more likely you will be to clean it, so think about a background that you would like (maybe a photo of your family or a piece of pop culture) and start making your desktop more 'you'. 

5. Use planning wallpapers 

Planning wallpapers are desktop backgrounds that are designed to help you organize your desktop. They often feature boxes and sections designed for specific files and shortcuts, giving an ordered look to your desktop. 

Some of the boxes can be quite small, which would encourage you to remove any unnecessary shortcuts or files from your desktop. You can also use sticky notes or other desktop features to keep on top of work or studying. 

6. Utilize sticky notes and other features

Features such as Windows Sticky Notes can help you to have a much tidier desktop. Creating an easy to read to-do list is one of the main benefits of this feature, but sticky notes also allow you to have notes directly on your desktop without creating the dreaded New Text Document (67). Before I started using sticky notes, I would simply create text documents, and would often find myself searching through dozens of old text documents before I found what I needed. 

Sticky notes are also much easier to edit than regular notepads, as you can simply change or delete text without having to open a file and save it manually. 

7. Use a dynamic wallpaper 

Dynamic wallpapers are a great way to take your desktop to the next level. Dynamic wallpapers are animated desktop backgrounds, which can be anything from a whole video to a clip of the northern lights. Some dynamic wallpapers even play music or sound effects. 

Wallpaper Engine is available through Steam, and they offer tens of thousands of dynamic wallpapers which can be applied straight to your desktop. Users can create their own and share them through the Steam workshop for you to use free of charge. 

A couple of things to note when looking for dynamic wallpapers, they can slow down your PC and may not be compatible with older models. Some can be quite GPU intensive, so if you plan on using your PC to play video games or for graphic design then it may be best to stick with static wallpapers. On Wallpaper Engine specifically, there are a number of NSFW wallpapers, so be sure to filter these out when you launch the app to avoid any accidents when setting a new wallpaper. 

8. Be proactive

One of the easiest ways to keep your desktop organized is to be proactive. Instead of downloading or saving things to your desktop, save them directly to the folder that they should be in. This will stop stray files or images from slowly consuming your desktop, and will give you peace of mind and ease of access to your important files. 

When a new shortcut is created, or a new file is placed on your desktop, categorize it and sort it straight away, then keep this up for all of your new downloads. By staying on top of things you will avoid the inevitable clean-up day when things get out of hand. 

9. Hide shortcuts that you don't use a lot

Shortcuts don't have to be exclusive to your desktop. You can also pin shortcuts to your taskbar or start menu. I actually use my taskbar for my most used apps and use my start menu for shortcuts that I don't use often. You can also toggle your taskbar to be hidden automatically so that you can access it by moving your cursor to the bottom of your screen - this is a great way to keep a cluttered start bar from ruining the look of your new, organized desktop. 

If your taskbar and start menu are already full, you can create a new folder exclusively for shortcuts and categorize the shortcuts inside into their respective types. For example, you can have one for editing software, one for video games and one for streaming services. 

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Welcome to our guide to the quietest PC on the market. If you want a computer that’ll do its thing silently, without filling a room with irritating fan noise, then this is where you want to be. Many computer enthusiasts will advocate that the best way to get a quiet PC is to source the parts and build it yourself – this is arguably true, but isn’t a desirable option for everyone. So, all the quiet PCs we’ve included here are fully built and ready to use straight out of the box.

For this guide, we’ve made a total of five recommendations. First is our overall pick for the quietest PC – a recent model that impresses us with its performance while also running completely silently. However, this may not be the right quiet PC for everyone, so we’ve listed a few others with compelling differences – whether they’re smaller, cheaper, or better optimized for high-intensity tasks.

Why do PCs make so much noise? It’s all to do with heat. CPUs, the processors that power computers, generate a lot of heat – they just do. Figuring out how to control and dissipate this heat to prevent it from damaging the computer is one of the key design challenges of making a PC, and this is why so many powerful PCs come with big, whirring fans. They make a lot of noise, yes, but they also allow the computer to handle heavy-load processing tasks without overheating. 

Quiet PCs do away with the fans and use different methods of cooling. We’ll get into what some of these are and how they work later in the guide. Quiet PCs do come with some trade-offs in computer power that may affect whether one is right for you. 

Quietest PC

We've rounded up the quietest PCs that you can currently buy to help you find the right model for you. We've rounded up the key specs and features that you need to know and highlighted any potential pitfalls to help you make your decision. 

The quietest PC

A relative newcomer to the market, the ECS EliteGroup LIVA Z3 is a tiny PC that uses a fanless design to run completely silently. Barely the size of a standard internet modem, the ECS EliteGroup LIVA Z3 is designed to be unobtrusive and keep out of the way. In a handy touch, it comes with a VESA mounting plate, meaning you can attach it to the rear of a compatible monitor, or mount it on a wall.

The ECS EliteGroup LIVA Z3 uses a Jasper Lake SoC CPU, released by Intel in 2021. As standard, it comes with 4GB of RAM, though there is capacity to upgrade this to 16GB if the user is so inclined. Default storage is 128GB, and it sports USB, USB-C and HDMI ports, as well as a headphone jack.

In use, the ECS EliteGroup LIVA Z3 runs in practical silence. There are no fans – there’d be no space for them in a unit this small – and passive cooling is achieved via vents in the sides of the chassis. Of course, this can only take you so far, so a number of other design choices have been made to help with heat dissipation. The Pentium Silver N6000 is not the fastest chip in this series, but unlike the faster N6005 SoC, it doesn’t require active cooling, negating the need for noisy fans. Also, its quad-core design makes use of thermal sensors that measure and adjust the clock speed in order to avoid overheating. 

Reviews of the ECS EliteGroup LIVA Z3 consistently praise its silent operation, and if you want a PC that’s going to stay quietly in the background, it’s one of the best options you can buy – with a caveat. The fact that the LIVA Z3 has to use a slightly less powerful chip to avoid the need for active cooling does mean that it’s not the most powerful PC around. For general office use, watching TV and online browsing, it’s going to be absolutely fine – and let’s be fair, this is all baked into the premise of a silent PC. If you want to enjoy high-end gaming, 4K streaming and resource-hungry applications, you are likely going to have to put up with a little fan noise here and there. For prioritizing a silent, out-of-the-way PC above all else, the ECS EliteGroup LIVA Z3 is an excellent choice. 

More of the quietest PCs

While the ECS EliteGroup LIVA Z3 is a great option, it might not be quite right for you. However, we've got four more fantastic quiet PCs with slightly different specs that might suit you better below. 

What to look for in a quiet PC

Why is a quiet PC important?

There are lots of reasons you might want a quiet PC. For instance, plenty of people use a PC as their main device for streaming, by casting it to a TV screen. When you’re watching your favorite movies and TV shows, you don’t want to be distracted by huge amounts of fan noise.

By a similar token, those who host a lot of virtual meetings or presentations on Zoom or similar platforms will not want a loud, whirring computer to be constantly humming away in the background whenever they are talking. In some PCs, the fans and internal microphones are placed annoyingly close to one another, which can make for an unpleasant experience on the other end of the call. 

And it’s not just about the immediate user. Most of us share our living and working space with other people, and a loud PC can be a constant nuisance to another person trying to work or relax in the same room. If you want to keep your home life running smoothly, a quiet PC could definitely be the way to go!

Finally, quiet and silent computers can also be very useful for simple business tasks – particularly powering digital signs or billboards. As we’ve seen in our listings, many quiet PCs are small and unobtrusive things, easy to mount to wall or tuck away, meaning you can have them in your customer-facing business without bothering people with clutter or fan noise.

What are the trade-offs of a quiet PC?

With all this said, you may be wondering why everyone doesn’t use quiet PCs all the time. The fact of the matter is that there are trade-offs with quiet PCs that are worth being aware of before you decide to buy one.

The key factor is quite simply that a quiet or silent-running PC has a ceiling in terms of how powerful it can be. Remember that computer processing produces a lot of heat. Silent or fanless PC designs cannot run too hot, as they don’t have the means to cool down. Some will be designed with ventilation built into the chassis to help with heat dissipation, but this can only do so much. 

Some quiet PCs employ liquid cooling systems, which circulate a liquid glycol solution through the CPU heatsink in order to allow the heat to dissipate. These tend to be quieter than air-cooled systems, but they still do involve fans, which create noise. Plus, they add to the price of the PC.

A quiet PC can be a fantastic addition to your home – as long as you’re aware of its limitations. If you value peace and quiet over computing power, and would rather stream a movie in peace than be able to run the latest games in 4K, then a quiet PC should fit right into your home life.

There's little more frustrating than logging on to a work call and not being able to hear your colleagues, leaving you desperately searching for 'how to fix computer audio'. Or, you may have purchased a brand new sound system or a pair of the best headphones to listen to your favorite bands and music in high fidelity, but when you’ve unpacked it and gone to use it there’s no sound coming out.

This handy guide will run through how to use wired devices and set up wireless speakers and headphones that connect via Bluetooth. Some computer and phone manufacturers have taken away the long-standing 3.5mm physical connection for audio, though if you’d like to continue using a wired connection you can get a USB-C or Lightning to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter. If you’re hearing a static or crackling sound when plugged in you’ll want to check the 3.5mm jack is inserted fully until you’ve heard an audible click, and inspect the cable for any frayed wires which could be causing the issue. If there is no sound when connected, or it’s very quiet, check that the volume is turned up and also not muted.

However, most new audio devices connect via Bluetooth, so we’ll run through how to set up and pair your Bluetooth devices and diagnose any audio issues. Let’s get to it…

Fixing audio issues on Apple Mac computers

Make sure your audio device is connected to the 3.5mm audio jack port, or switch them on if they connect wirelessly via Bluetooth. Currently, MacBook laptops still have a physical 3.5mm audio jack, though the latest iPhones don’t feature one, so you’ll need a lightning to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter to use a physical audio connection with them.

Alternatively, if your audio device connects wirelessly you’ll need to make sure it’s turned on and then consult your device on how to put the device into its pairing mode if you’re using it for the first time. On our Sony WH-1000XM4 wireless headphones, this is done by holding down the power button until hearing 'Bluetooth Pairing'. 

You now need to click on the menu bar at the top of your Mac display, then click 'Bluetooth'. Make sure Bluetooth is switched on, you should then be able to see your device, such as WH-1000XM4, and click to connect to it. While every audio device is different it should then be paired and will come out of the pairing mode. The device may change the LED color to indicate this or say something along the lines of 'Device Paired' or 'Bluetooth Connected'. For more options, you could go to 'System Preferences' and then click 'Bluetooth'. Here you have extra options such as allowing Bluetooth devices to wake up your Mac.

It’s now a good idea to check if the audio is coming through the headphones or speaker. Play some music from Spotify or a video on Youtube for example and you should hear the audio coming through your connected audio device. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to go to System Preferences and then click on 'Sound'. Go to the 'Output' tab and make sure your audio device, for example, WH-1000XM4, is highlighted, you can then set the 'Output' volume using the slider or using the volume hotkeys on your keyboard. If your device has a microphone, such as a headset, you’ll also want to go to the 'Input' tab and make sure your device is set rather than the default (MacBook Pro Microphone). This way you can use the microphone on your headphones.

 Fixing audio issues on Windows PC 

If you’re connecting your audio device by a wired connection you should have a 3.5mm headphone port on your Windows laptop, though desktop PCs usually have a range of 3.5mm ports which can make it a little more complicated. There will likely be a 3.5mm jack on the front or top of desktop machines with a headphones icon, or a green 3.5mm jack on the back of the PC, though this varies between models. If you have a dedicated sound card you’ll want to plug your headphones or speaker into the green 3.5mm audio jack on the sound at the back of your PC.

For a wireless audio connection to your Windows computer, such as a pair of Bluetooth headphones, you’ll need to switch them on and enable the Bluetooth pairing mode. On our Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones this was done by holding down the power button on startup until “Bluetooth Pairing” is heard, but check the manual of your specific Bluetooth audio device for instructions on how to put your device into pairing mode.

Now switch on your PC and log in to the desktop. Click on the speaker icon in the bottom right corner (if your desktop bar is across the bottom of the screen). Now choose your Bluetooth device from the list that appears. If it’s not there, you’ll need to click on the Search Bar in the bottom left of the screen and type ‘Bluetooth’, then click ‘Bluetooth and other devices settings’.

If you can see your device under the 'Audio' heading then select it and then click 'Connect'. If you can’t see it, click 'Add Bluetooth or another device'. Then, in the menu that appears choose 'Bluetooth' and you’ll see all of the available devices you can connect to. As your headphones are currently in 'Pairing Mode' they should appear here now so click them. You’ll now be connected and ready to turn the volume up to 11!

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A good home computer can help you with your daily tasks, but if you pick the wrong model, you might get one that's too slow or expensive. With so many manufacturers and specs, figuring out where to start is hard. Some models have customizable parts and components, while others are prebuilt and ready.

The best tablets and laptops are more portable, but computers have better performance and power. A large monitor is perfect for gaming, watching videos, and editing photos.

You want to find a computer that fits your budget, space, and, most importantly, your needs. If you do video editing or coding, you'll need a powerful computer with a powerful graphics processor (GPU). The same goes for playing the latest games in high settings, but there are many more affordable options for checking emails, viewing family photos, and writing documents.

Regardless of your budget or needs, we've got the best home computers for you.

The best home computers we recommend in 2025

Top Ten Reviews is on a mission to review everything we feature in our buyer's guides. Still, while we work hard to make this a reality—or where this isn't possible—some of our guides still feature rankings based on our team's considerable expertise and research.

While we haven't been able to test any of the units in this guide in person, we've instead honed in on top-rated brands and used our knowledge of the best features to help you make the right decision for your home, all for the best price.

The best home computer overall

The HP 27" Touch-Screen All-in-One has received a positive reception from users, who appreciate its excellent performance and features. This is especially true for those who need a versatile machine. Its large screen, powerful hardware, and user-friendly design make it a great all-in-one option despite mixed reviews about software stability and build quality.

Reviewers love the HP 27 "All-in-One's powerful AMD Ryzen 7 processor and 16GB of RAM, saying it's great for browsing, streaming, and even more intensive gaming and graphic design tasks. It also has a 1TB SSD, so there's plenty of storage and fast loading times.

The HP 27" All-in-One design has also received positive remarks for its sleek, modern aesthetic. Users also like the adjustable height feature, which keeps the device comfortable for a long time. The 27-inch touchscreen is easy to use, making it an excellent choice for people who want a more interactive experience.

It's easy to set up, and many reviewers said they didn't have to deal with excessive bloatware. It's been a pleasant surprise for users who have cumbersome installations with other brands. However, some users have reported software glitches or issues with the operating system, though they're not universal.

Despite the positive feedback, some people are concerned about the device's build quality. Some have expressed disappointment, saying the design is neat but won't last as long as expected.

The best home computer on a budget

Users like the HP 23.8" Full HD Touch-Screen All-in-One for its performance and design, particularly for handling everyday tasks. However, potential buyers should know about the slightly disappointing camera quality, even though it's otherwise a good machine for basic computing needs.

With an Intel Core i3 processor and 8GB of RAM, the HP 23.8" All-in-One is well-suited for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming videos, and word processing. It's a solid choice for students and professionals who need a reliable machine for basic computing needs, and users love the 512GB SSD for its ample storage and quick boot times.

The HP All-in-One's sleek, modern design has also received positive feedback. Its Starry White color adds a touch of elegance, making it look good in any workspace, and users have commented that the 23.8-inch touchscreen is vibrant and responsive, enhancing usability, especially for those who like interactive features. The all-in-one design saves space, and the build quality is decent.

Several users have complained that the built-in camera isn't great. Users who rely on the device for remote work or virtual meetings have complained that the camera is terrible, especially for video calls. Many users have commented that the audio quality could also be better since the speakers don't deliver the best sound.

The best premium home computer

This home computer is excellent for those who want a high-performance, all-in-one PC that can handle various tasks. Lenovo's Yoga AIO 9i's powerful performance, stunning display, and elegant design have earned it high user reviews.

Users consistently praise the Yoga AIO 9i's performance, citing its Intel Core i9 processor as a key feature that delivers fast processing speeds. This device handles multitasking well, making it a good choice for work and home. AIO 9i performs exceptionally well, often exceeding users' expectations, whether running demanding apps, gaming, or streaming high-definition content. With 16GB of RAM and 512GB SSD, it has quick load times and efficient operation, making it a strong all-in-one.

It has a 31.5-inch screen that users also love. They say it's vast and vibrant, which provides an immersive viewing experience, and many users like the screen's clarity and color accuracy - perfect for creative work like editing photos or videos. 4K resolution enhances the overall visual experience, making images crisp and detailed.

The Yoga AIO 9i is known for its sleek, modern design. Its Storm Gray finish adds a touch of elegance, and many users say it's compact with a big display, saving desk space. Wireless charging pads are also a popular feature, so users with compatible devices can charge wirelessly.

Many users appreciate the ease of transitioning from their old laptops to the Yoga AIO 9i, as setting it up is easy. Although the device runs on Windows 11, some users aren't happy with compatibility issues with older software. Still, most people find the interface intuitive and user-friendly, and it's a good experience.

Some users have pointed out limitations, including the webcam quality, which could be improved for better video conferencing. While the performance is strong, some users have also mentioned that the all-in-one features, particularly port locations and expandability options, could be improved.

The best home computer tower

The Inspiron 3030 is an excellent choice if you're looking for a versatile and efficient desktop. Although some minor graphics and audio quality concerns exist, it's a solid choice overall.

The Inspiron 3030 gets excellent user reviews, mainly because of the Intel Core i7 processor. The desktop is fast and responsive, making it great for daily computing and more demanding tasks, and it has 16GB of RAM, so users can run multiple apps without noticing lag. 1TB SSDs are known for their ample storage capacity and quick access to files and programs, making a big difference in performance, so for those who value efficiency, boot times are speedy.

The Inspiron 3030's design has also garnered positive feedback for its compact size and modern aesthetic. Some users like how well it fits into various spaces, such as a living room or a home office, and reviewers also say the build quality feels solid and durable.

Inspiron 3030 users say it's easy to set up, with no complicated configurations needed. This ease of use is convenient for those who may not be as tech-savvy, as they can navigate it easily.

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some users have pointed out a few limitations. Concerns about the lack of advanced graphics capabilities may not meet the needs of serious gamers or those requiring high-end graphics performance. Some reviewers also say the built-in audio could be improved since it doesn't provide the best sound. However, if you use headphones or external speakers, you can usually get around this.

The best mini home computer

With its powerful performance, stylish design, and ease of use, the Lenovo IdeaCentre Mini Desktop gets excellent reviews from users. Though some have concerns about graphics and cooling, the IdeaCentre Mini is a good choice for people who want a compact desktop that works well.

Its Intel Core i7 processor is a big hit with users, who say it's super fast and efficient. Many reviewers say the desktop easily handles multitasking, so it's perfect for productivity apps, media consumption, and light gaming. In addition to the 16GB of RAM, there's a 512GB SSD for fast boot times and file access, and users find the performance more than adequate for everyday computing needs, often exceeding their expectations for a mini desktop.

Many users like the IdeaCentre Mini because it's so compact. It fits nicely in small spaces, like small desks or living rooms.

Some users have pointed out a few limitations, though. One is the lack of advanced graphics capabilities, which may not meet the needs of high-end gamers or those who do graphic-intensive work. The desktop does okay for casual gaming and general use, but if you're looking for better graphics, you'll need another computer. Some reviewers have also said the cooling system could be improved since it gets hot after a while, but despite this, many users believe that the performance benefits outweigh this minor drawback, often a trade-off for the compact design.

The best Apple home computer

The 24-inch Apple iMac with the M4 chip is undoubtedly an incredible machine and an excellent choice for people looking for a reliable, all-in-one computer that can handle professional and leisure tasks. The iMac is also great for anyone looking for a stylish desktop computer, although it has minor criticisms about storage capacity and audio quality.

Reviews consistently mention that it's fast and efficient because of its 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU. The computer seamlessly handles multitasking and demanding applications, making it great for graphic design, video editing, and browsing. Its 256GB SSD means you can boot fast and access files quickly, and its 16GB of memory means you can run multiple apps without lag.

The iMac stands out in terms of design, as it is sleek, minimalist, and has vibrant colors. However, the 256GB storage might not be enough for large media libraries, and the built-in speakers could be improved.

The best home computer for RAM

Some complain about its price and storage capacity, but the Mac Studio is a good choice for creatives and professionals. Apple has always been committed to quality and innovation, offering cutting-edge technology and elegant design. Thus, the Mac Studio is an excellent choice for a high-performance workstation.

It's fast and efficient, regardless of the application you're running, and with 1TB read and write speeds, you can multitask without lag.

The Mac Studio's compact and minimalist design makes it easy to integrate into various workspaces. It also has premium build quality, an elegant Silver finish, and a quiet cooling system.

Mac Studio is easy to set up, and its integration with macOS is seamless and intuitive, so even non-tech-savvy people can use it. Its Thunderbolt, USB-C, and HDMI ports make it easy to connect your peripherals.

Some limitations include the high price, which may not suit everyone's budget. While the 1TB SSD is good enough for most people, it may be problematic for people with big media libraries. If you're looking to customize your system over time, it's hard to upgrade components.

How to choose the best home computer for you

There are several key components to the best home computers. Here’s a quick rundown of what they are and what they do.

CPU

Short for “Central Processing Unit,” think of the CPU as the brain of a home computer that’s in charge of lining up tasks and ensuring they’re completed.

In Apple machines, the company now uses its own system on a chip (SoC), which contains multiple components. This makes it quicker because it’s not transferring data.

On the other hand, Intel and AMD are the primary manufacturers of CPUs on Windows and ChromeOS machines, and they’ll pass on information to the GPU.

GPU

The Graphics Processing Unit is more commonly referred to as a graphics card, and the more powerful your GPU, the more impressive graphical fidelity you’ll get while working on large video projects or playing the latest games.

Because Apple now integrates both the CPU and GPU on the same chip, their machines have a sort of “ceiling” depending on the chip in your device. On the other hand, Windows machines are much more customizable (if you know what you’re doing), and you can put a GPU that outpaces the latest game consoles inside.

RAM

If your CPU is the brain and your GPU is the muscle, then RAM essentially acts as the nerves connecting the two. Short for Random Access Memory, the more RAM you have, the more you can do at once – meaning more RAM is ideal for multitasking.

More RAM is also ideal for gaming because it means the CPU and GPU can “talk” more easily. Many GPUs even have their own dedicated RAM so that they have more resources to pull from.

Storage

While your personal memories and files used to be stored on large mechanical hard drives (HDDs) that were prone to failure after extended periods of use, things are a little different in the modern computing world.

That’s because much of the industry has moved to Solid State Drives (SSDs), which don’t have moving parts and are more reliable in the long term. They’re also much faster than older drives and have advanced to take up much less space – allowing for slimmer computers.

Home computer FAQs

Choosing between integrated vs dedicated graphics card can be a tricky process. Whether you're shopping for the best laptops or best best home computers, or hunting down parts to build something for yourself, it pays to do your research and make sure you get the right kind of graphics card for the sorts of tasks you have in mind. This will hopefully prevent either of the nightmare scenarios with this kind of purchase decision – i.e. getting a card that can't cope with the tasks you need it to, or vastly overpaying for power you don't need.

So, you may be wondering what the differences are between integrated and dedicated graphics cards. We're going to get more into the weeds of it throughout this article, but for a basic primer, integrated graphics cards don't have their own CPU (also known as processor), and instead rely on system RAM and system CPU. Dedicated graphics cards, also known as “discrete graphics cards”, have their own CPU, which is known as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and have RAM of their own.

Integrated vs dedicated graphics cards

Which one is right for you? As with most purchase decisions, it's about weighing up your needs and your budget and finding the card that hits the sweet spot between the two. Let's take a closer look at each type in turn to help figure it out...

Integrated graphics cards

As touched upon above, an integrated graphics processing unit doesn’t utilise it’s own RAM, instead drawing upon the system’s memory. Integrated graphics will use anything between one and five percent of the available memory for graphics which means your system may slow down if you’re performing a resource-intensive task such as rendering video or playing a game.

There are some benefits to an integrated unit, they’re a lot cheaper and make the laptop more affordable. This might even free up budget for other features like a bigger screen, faster processor etc. Integrated graphics cards use drastically less power than their dedicated counterparts which increases battery life while also decreasing the amount of heat generated.

If you’re only going to use your computer for run-of-the-mill, vanilla-type graphics processing, then an integrated unit will more than meet your needs. Such activity would include 2D gaming, general office work, web browsing and watching videos. You can still play 3D games so long as you turn the graphics settings down to avoid in-game slowdowns. Integrated cards are better for things like video editing software too.

Dedicated graphics cards

A dedicated graphics card has its own source of memory, independent from your system’s RAM. For instance if your desktop computer has an Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 video card with 6GB of video memory, that memory is entirely separate from your computer’s 16GB of system memory. If you do a lot of resource intensive work like high-end gaming or professional graphic designing, then a dedicated card is definitely the way to go.

There are a few downsides to dedicated cards though, they can put out a lot of heat if you don’t have a good fan or the right design, and the GPU will heat up quicker the harder you make it work. This can be countered to some extent by ensuring you get a laptop with single or dual fans and plenty of vents. There are also special cooling stands available if you want to keep temperatures down even more.

Switchable cards are also available, which offer the GPU as both an integrated and dedicated card. When you’re editing an office document or browsing the web the card switches to the integrated unit, load up a high-end game or watch a high-def movie and it’ll power up and work as a dedicated card. Performance will increase and battery life will decrease accordingly.

Verdict

Picking the right card will very much depend on how you want to use it. If you just want to work, browse the internet and watch movies then integrated graphics will do the job perfectly.

If a greater visual experience is needed; 3D design or serious gaming for instance, then include a dedicated video card on your “must have” specs list. Be sure to plan ahead and buy a card that will do the job and hold up, as games and design software are constantly improving and becoming more resource intensive.

The best computer protection software is your front line security to keep your machine safe as well as your identity stored within. You may have already seen our best antivirus software guide and want to dive deeper into computer specific cover. You're in the right place.

This will mean that all your important data and personal information can be stored safely on your computer without worry of intrusion. The right computer protection software will not only keep your machine safe but will also keep your identity online secure. That means making sure nobody gets access to your data but also, in many cases, this spots if that does happen and takes action to help.

Some options offer multiple device protections, meaning you can have your smartphone and your tablet covered too, for example. These are similar to the best computer protection software, but we classify them as internet security software as they cover all kinds of devices.

It's also worth keeping an eye out for extras that might be of use. The password manager, which means a one click sign on for all your devices, is a useful addition. As is a VPN, which means your location is kept hidden when online. 

Read on to find out which is the best computer protection software for you.

Best computer protection software 

We've rounded up the best computer protection software to help you find the right service for you. From keeping your data safe and secure to protecting multiple devices, there are plenty of features to look for in the perfect service. Discover the best one for you below. 

Best computer protection software

When it comes to complete multi-layer protection for your personal devices, few can compare to Norton 360. There are many packages to choose from, but for the average user we would recommend Norton 360 Deluxe. This is because it's the most cost-effective way to get a multitude of benefits and top-class protection for your devices, while also keeping things easy to comprehend for the average tech user. 

Norton 360 will block viruses, ransomware, spyware, and malware while also giving you a password manager, VPN and up to 200GB of cloud storage. You will also receive data breach alerts, so that you can update and change your passwords if they ever get leaked. Norton is so confident in its ability to protect your PC that it will give you a full refund if you catch a virus while using their software.  

If you choose to go for the most expensive "Norton 360 Advanced" package, then you will be able to install Norton 360 on up to ten devices at once, with active firewalls and a 100% virus protection promise on all of them. The advanced package also offers dark web monitoring - Norton will scan the dark web for your personal details and will notify you if your private information has ever been leaked or stolen. 

When it comes to freedom of choice, Bitdefender has a plan for almost everyone. Whether you are a business owner or you just use your devices for online shopping, Bitdefender will have a plan that meets your needs. The more you pay, the more you will get from your package, but not everyone needs the expensive options. For the average internet user, the Internet Security package or the Family Pack will be enough to cover all of your devices and help you browse in confidence. 

The Internet Security package will protect three devices with an effective antivirus. This will ensure that your devices are protected against harmful malware that could potentially slow down your computer or steal your personal information. As well as protection against viruses, Bitdefender Internet Security will also help you browse the internet worry-free with their new and improved VPN. The VPN will help protect you while online by encrypting all of your internet traffic so that you can't be tracked easily online. 

If you have more devices or have a family that you want to keep safe then the Family Pack could be a better choice for you. The Family Pack covers up to 15 devices at once and offers protection for macOS, iOS, and Android as well as Windows. The Family Pack also offers parental control, to stop your children from viewing potentially harmful material on the internet. 

If you are looking for computer protection software that has more features than just antivirus and a VPN, then AVG Ultimate could be the best choice for you. Its antivirus is capable of identifying harmful cookies and malware before it even has a chance to infect your device, sniping it from any dodgy links or downloads that you may unknowingly click on.

AVG Ultimate also comes with AVG TuneUP, a tool that clears up junk from your PC to keep it running at maximum efficiency. During our testing, AVG TuneUP cleared around 6GB of junk from our hard drives, resulting in a notable increase in performance. 

AVG Ultimate is available on Windows, macOS, Android 5.0 or above, and iOS 10.0 or above. This gives you the freedom and comfort to use it across multiple devices so that you can always browse the internet worry-free.

Throughout our testing process, we did find one major flaw with AVG Ultimate. A lot of its features are not particularly novice-friendly. Tools such as their internet filter or the process of "allowing" certain files take a relative amount of tech knowledge to utilize and will not be easily accessible for the average device user. 

As a novice, you will still be able to get a lot out of AVG Ultimate but to truly get your money's worth (especially after 1 year when the subscription price increases) you will want to take some time to learn what each part of the software does, and how to use it properly. 

McAfee Total Protection is designed to monitor your cryptocurrency accounts and stop threats that try to hack in. This means Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency attacks can be avoided best with this software. 

McAfee Total Protection works on Mac, PC and smartphones to protect them against viruses, malware, spyware and ransomware. It offers a firewall, password manager, file shredder, a secure VPN, identity theft protection, tech scam protection, and file-less attacks.

There aren't as many plan options as some others, but McAfee has managed to cover all the bases with just a few tiers of protection.

Avast Premium Security is an antivirus suite that offers plenty of features at a decent price. This is a more comprehensive version of the Avast Antivirus offering which is free and does a lot, when that value is taken into consideration.

Avast is pirate speak for stop and that's what this does when it comes to viruses trying to get into you Mac, PC or smartphone. Go for single device cover or get 10 covered at once depending on the package you pick. Either way you'll get protection from viruses, malware, ransomware, phishing attacks and more. This will even scan your WiFi to find weaknesses.

The Trend Micro Antivirus Plus Security offering is a powerful one that not only covers your computer but also your mobile devices. So if you want cover when on the go as well as on your computer, this option – which gives you a VPN too – is a great choice. At the top end, with Maximum Security, you get lots of premium features.

Up to five devices can be covered at once and that includes iOS and Android. The service offers dark web monitoring, meaning should your identity be compromised and used online, you will be notified right away. There's even 24/7 technical support to help you take action and remote login to let a pro access your device to fix any issues for you. 

F-Secure Anti-Virus falls into three categories of, Anti-Virus, SAFE and TOTAL. The latter, at the upper end, offers the best overall protection. Not only do you get virus protection – with perfect test scores – but also malware cover for Mac, PC and smartphones.

This software is very light too, putting little processor strain on your device which means it can work in the background without you noticing. Cover runs for up to seven devices at once, with cheaper options for five or three devices. 

Thrown in is the F-Secure FREEDOME VPN that means your identity is kept secure and location secret. Dark web monitoring will alert you if your details appear online and you can use smartphone notifications to be alerted if any service you use is hacked and you may be compromised. 

If you're concerned about your computer protection software slowing down your PC, then VIPRE Advanced Security is definitely an option to consider. VIPRE leaves a minimal footprint, meaning that your device's RAM and CPU usage are kept low. This is great if you want to use your PC for activities such as gaming or graphic design, as it will not cause any major lag spikes or stuttering while you're busy. 

VIPRE defends against ransomware and various forms of malware, such as Trojans, rootkits and spyware. It also comes with an active firewall that protects against incoming and outgoing internet traffic. This will mean that you have an active layer of protection when online. For advanced users, there are customizable settings to tailor your firewall to your exact needs. 

Compared to others on the list, VIPRE is very basic. This can be a positive if you are a computer protection software newbie, as there isn't a lot of complicated jargon or tools to wrap your head around. 

However, if you're an experienced tech user and know how to tackle these things, then you will find VIPRE quite underwhelming. It doesn't offer many extra layers of protection that the others give you (such as a VPN or an internet filter). If you're uncertain whether it's for you, VIPRE offers a 30-day free trial so that you can test it for yourself. However, if you commit to a full subscription you will most likely need to find a VPN and other security tools elsewhere. 

Webroot Secureanywhere is a very, very light way to get your device protected. The install package is just 4MB, so that can give you some idea of how little this affects the performance of your machine. This is thanks to an antivirus program which runs minimally, locally, but keeps its big AI brain up in the cloud. 

You still get protection against viruses, established or new, malware, phishing, hacks and more. Only this does that by monitoring locally until the cloud smarts decides action needs to be taken. As such any threat that has caused damage can be annihilated and the changes rolled back so you're secure and running as normal.

You won't get extras like a VPN or parental controls for a price that isn't much cheaper than the competition and there are antivirus performance questions still floating around, so this is lower down on our list for now.

Buying advice for the best computer protection software

Do you need an antivirus for Windows 10?

Windows Defender has come a long way and now scores pretty high in third-party security tests for detecting and protecting against malware. Windows 10's bundled virus protections do a solid job securing PCs from internet threats, but it's no match for a dedicated computer protection program.

While no antivirus software can guarantee 100 percent virus protection (though some programs, like Norton, come with such a guarantee), all of the options we reviewed here will enhance the protection of your Windows 10 computers beyond what Windows Defender can provide. For example, Bitdefender stops threats from within your web browsers from infecting your computer in the first place, plus it comes with extra tools to secure your passwords, monitor your internet connection and scan for weak points in your system in ways Windows alone can’t. 

Other programs, such as McAfee Total Protection, include spam filters designed to monitor your incoming email messages for not only malicious links and downloads, but phishing schemes. This is something Windows Defender can’t do on its own. We also feel most standalone antivirus programs are easier to use than Windows Defender.

Antivirus vs. Internet Security vs. Computer Protection Software

Most internet security companies offer more than one protection solution. These programs often include antivirus, internet security or computer protection in their name. These days the lines between antivirus, internet security programs, and computer protection have been blurred, but there are still some difference between them, even if there is a lot of overlap. Here are the biggest differences between these types of programs.

Antivirus software is very bare boned. Its main function is to stop threats like viruses, ransomware and Trojans from infecting your computer through a malicious download online, an infected file sent via email or uploaded from a thumb drive, or shared through a USB-connected device, like a cellphone. The best antivirus programs, like Bitdefender Antivirus Plus, stop threats before they have a chance to open on your machine, while others wait until the threat is loose before rounding it up and placing it in quarantine. Antivirus software typically comes with just a single user license to protect one computer or mobile device.

Internet security suites build on the basic antivirus platform. Along with malware protection, internet security software also includes other tools that provide additional internet protection. These often include password managers, safe browsing features, safe banking tools and parental controls. They also include a personal firewall that is a good tool for monitoring your internet connection to ensure hackers can’t get into your computer, especially when connected to a public hotspot, and for disconnecting anyone trying to illegally piggyback on your home internet connection. Internet security suites typically come with three or five user licenses so you can protect more than one computer in your home.

Computer protection software typically is a suite, or bundle of multiple security programs, each compatible with a different device or operating system. For example, Kaspersky Total Security includes the internet security solution for Windows computers, its antivirus software for Mac computers, and a mobile program for cellphones and tablets. Every security feature offered by the developer, which often includes VPNs and webcam monitoring, is included in addition to the protections that come with the internet security software. Also, computer protection software comes with multiple user licenses; the best companies offer a minimum of 10 or even unlimited licenses.

How much can I expect to pay for complete computer protection?

Computer protection suites include a wide range of protection tools and multiple-use licenses. and they typically include a mobile security element, so you can expect to pay between $70 and $120 for a good program. Most computer protection software comes with five to 10 user licenses that are compatible with both Windows and Mac computers and laptops as well as cell phones and tablets.

How Does Malware Get Onto Your Computer?

The term "malware" encompasses any type of computer threat, including viruses, Trojans, rootkits, ransomware and hackers. Phishing schemes and spam email messages are also classified as malware, since they put you at risk of identity theft. While there are many ways for your computer to become infected with malware, according to computer security expert Mitch Stephens, the most common way is through email. Too often people click on links in emails that look safe but really send them to forms that collect personal information or pages with malicious downloads. Also, you can accidentally click on a malware file online, or someone may inadvertently share one with you through a USB drive.

The best way to lower the risk of infecting your computer with malware is to learn how to spot fake email. This includes looking closely at the sender’s email address, evaluating if correct grammar and punctuation are used, and avoiding clicking links embedded in messages. The next best defense against online threats is using an antivirus software designed to spot malware in email messages; block malware from downloading; and protect sensitive information with tools like spam filters, VPN, personal firewalls and password managers.

Can viruses steal personal information?

Viruses aren’t able to swipe any personal information on your computer; however, there are other types of malware that do. Trojans are threats that look like a legitimate program, but much like the Trojan Horse in ancient Greek mythology, threats are hidden inside. These threats are used by hackers to sneak into your computer system specifically to steal personal information. This is one reason experts suggest never saving your passwords on your computer unless you encrypt the document. But even then, a hacker can use a Trojan to install a keylogger. Keyloggers capture every keystroke as you make them, even if you don’t save a document or hit the Enter key. It isn’t difficult to capture passwords using this type of program, and having one on your computer will leave you vulnerable.

We recommend using an antivirus program, like Norton 360, that includes a firewall. This tool monitors your internet connection and is a good way to stop Trojans from sneaking in. It also stops these, and other malware files, from downloading from the internet. Other important tools included with Norton Security are an encrypter and a password manager. This means you can encrypt documents and files on your computer without having to buy a separate, standalone program. The password manager hides all your passwords in a way that is difficult for a hacker to break through.

Important Features to Look for When Buying Computer Protection Software

Before we started testing computer protection software, we chatted with Mitchell Stephens, a security consultant with Emagined Security, to get an idea how to best test these programs. Stephens explained that antivirus software is proactive, meaning it is designed to prevent your computer from being infected in the first place. Since most threats come through the internet, that is where we chose to focus our live malware tests.

"Attackers, for the most part, are looking for sensitive information they can use for either financial gain or destructive purposes (i.e., Social Security numbers, bank account information, nonpublic company information)," Stephens said. "The best way to strengthen the overall security is to maintain safe practices online. Keeping your system patches up to date is also good, [and] make sure [you use] good password construction."

The best computer protection software includes tools to help further secure your computer while you are online. For example, a password manager, such as the one included with F-Secure TOTAL, keeps your credentials secure as you log into online accounts. It also helps you create long, complicated passwords you don’t have to remember each time you log in.

Vulnerability scans look for weak spots in your system, such as out-of-date software, and recommend patches or updates. McAfee Total Protection provides a link to these updates so you don’t have to search for them and accidentally click through to a malicious site.

Watch What You Share on Social Media

Some computer protection programs, like McAfee Total Protection, include tools that look for phishing schemes and malicious links posted on social media sites. However, other dangers lurk on these sites. Here are some tips for staying safe from hackers and identity thieves on social media:

1. Don't share personal information

Twitter, Instagram and Facebook all ask for your birthdate, full name, email address and phone number to create your account. However, you don’t have to make this information public. In fact, even your friends and family don’t need this information. It’s safer to keep these details private so people can’t swipe them.

2. Use a separate email address for social media

Some sites require you to share personal information – for example, LinkedIn does because it’s a networking site intended to connect you with potential employers or employees. In that case, create a separate email account just for business purposes. Many free email services let you have more than one account at a time. Also, be careful about the work history you post. You don’t have to give exact dates or share addresses for a legitimate company to find you or be impressed.

3. Be careful what you click on

A lot of feel-good stories or to-good-to-be-true deals hide a phishing scheme or malware download. Only click on links you trust are from legitimate sources. If you’re not sure, type the store’s URL into your web browser or do a search for a specific news story. You will see the same information, deals, etc. if it was offered by a legitimate source.

4. Don't post info from your passwords

For example, some people post challenge questionnaires on social media that ask for information about where you went to school, your favorite pet’s name or your nicknames. This information is often used to create passwords and armed with these details, a hacker could break into your online accounts. Other games challenge you to find your alter ego by combining words based on your birthdate. Again, this information can be used to steal your identity, so be careful about participating.

If you have children who use the internet, ensuring their safety while browsing is important. While the internet can be a great source of information and entertainment for kids, it also contains inappropriate content that they should not be exposed to. Fortunately, you can use the best internet filter software to block harmful websites, restrict access to social networks, and prevent downloads of unwanted files.

Some software also allows parents to set screen time limits, view reports on internet usage, and track device locations. Whether your little one browses on the best home computer or the best laptop, the internet filter software we've highlighted in our guide will help protect them.

Once you know what operating system your device uses, you might want to consider which of the best internet security software programs would be best for you. However, if you're solely interested in filtering out inappropriate content for your kids, then the best internet filter software may be all you need. 

The best internet filter software we recommend

Top Ten Reviews is on a mission to review everything we feature in our buyer's guides. Still, while we work hard to make this a reality—or where this isn't possible—some of our guides still feature rankings based on our team's considerable expertise and research.

While we haven't been able to test any of the units in this guide in person, we've instead honed in on top-rated brands and used our knowledge of the best features to help you make the right decision for your home, all for the best price.

The best internet filter software overall

Qustodio is our top pick for internet filters in part because it is easy to install on both computers and smartphones. It’s also simple to use and has a variety of features that make it a perfect tool for parents to keep their children safe on the internet. 

You can access each child’s profile from your phone and adjust their access and time allowances; you don’t have to be at a computer or on the device itself to adjust the settings. Qustodio has 29 filter categories to quickly and easily block websites and content children don’t need to see.

The time management controls enable you to control timeframes for internet access (so your child can’t get online when they are supposed to be asleep or at school), and they also let you control how long kids can stay logged on during allowed times. For example, if your kids are allowed online between 6 pm and 9 pm on school nights, you can set Qustodio to kick them off after an hour or two, controlling overall screen time.

You can also set time limits for each individual application that your child uses. So, if you don't mind them accessing TikTok, but you don't want them wasting hours on it (but you equally want them to continue to be able to access their device), then this is a great way to create balance for your kid.

Qustodio records a lot of details about what your children do online and provides a detailed report. While other programs simply tell you when your child has accessed their email account or chatted with someone through an instant messenger program, Qustodio captures the whole conversation. You can also tag words and phrases, such as "come alone" or “don’t tell your mom,” so if someone sends a message with these phrases, you will know.

The best for tracking kids' social media activity

Net Nanny is one of the cheapest internet filter programs we tested, but it still includes the most important protection tools to block dangerous content online.

There are 18 filter categories to help you quickly restrict access to websites about pornography, drugs and alcohol, suicide, and gore. The program sends an email alert if your child enables a proxy or privacy server to hide their internet searches.

One of the most unique features of Net Nanny is the profanity blocker that masks swear words on websites so your child can’t see or read them. It also prevents children from typing these words into search fields and chat messages. You can set it to change the funny words or symbols as they’re typed, or the program can completely erase the word. Net Nanny sends a notice through the parent reports when profanity is typed or blocked from being seen.

Net Nanny includes time controls to block kids from the internet when they should be asleep, at school, doing homework or chores. Because you can set up an account for each child, older children can be given longer time limits for school projects, online games, or streaming videos. The biggest drawback of Net Nanny is that some important tools, such as social media monitoring, chat message capturing, and text notifications for parents, require you to purchase a separate program that works alongside the Net Nanny internet filter program.

The best internet filter software with a free package

As far as free options go, OpenDNS is a reliable choice for people who want to save money on internet filter software. 

You have the option to pay to unlock even more features, but the free plan offers adequate protection to help keep your family safe online. 

OpenDNS enables you to filter what your children can see by 50 categories spanning across seven million potentially malicious domains, enabling you to thoroughly control what your children can and can't access when browsing the internet at home.

In addition to its free plan, Open DNS offers a range of paid options that will give you access to even more tools to help protect you and your loved ones from internet dangers. These can include phishing scams, identity theft, and various pieces of malware. 

The "VIP Home" option enables you to keep track of your internet statistics for up to a year, giving you an accurate and frequent supply of information regarding your family's internet usage. Additionally, the VIP Home plan enables you to whitelist specific sites that may be wrongly filtered under the wrong category, giving you the ability to access them if they were blocked by mistake. 

OpenDNS also offers an extensive setup guide for multiple devices, meaning that you can easily set it up on anything from a home router to your child's smartphone. The guide is thorough and easy to follow for people with limited knowledge of technology, making it accessible to everybody who wishes to set it up on their home devices. 

The major downside with OpenDNS is that a lot of the most important features are locked behind a paywall, meaning that some of the other options may be more tempting when it comes to aspects such as phishing and identity protection. 

The best internet filter for safeguarding your child's cell phone use

Surfie is compatible with both Android and iOS cellphones and tablets, plus it has a Windows computer version. All versions let you filter and block web content you don’t want your children exposed to.

It comes with 18 filter categories that make it easy to block related websites under each category, including pornography, violence, and online gaming. But you can also whitelist sites that you are okay with your child visiting, even if they fall under a filter category, or blacklist specific pages that don’t fall under a watched group. On top of web filters, Surfie lets you control when your child has internet access and how long they can be online, even on cell phones.

One of the best features of Surfie is its keyword monitor that alerts you if someone sends your child a test, email, or instant message with words or phrases that tend to be red flags. These include several programmed phrases such as “Don’t tell,” “Are you home alone?” and “Give me your phone number.” But you can also add your own keywords, and Surfie will shut down the program your child is using and internet access when one of them is used. It also works in reverse to monitor what your child sends, prohibiting them from using your tagged keyword and from sharing personal information online. All emails, instant messages, and text transcripts are recorded for you to read.

The best internet filter software for virus protection

AVG Ultimate is an all-in-one antivirus, tune-up, anti-tracker, and internet filter that can be used across multiple devices. 

We tested AVG Ultimate ourselves, but our final review is still in progress. We found that the antivirus and anti-tracker elements to be great tools, as they will intercept and block any potentially harmful cookies or malware before they get a chance to gather any information from your PC. 

AVG will also scan every download and installation so that your devices are safe from any unwanted software or viruses, stopping them before they have a chance to infect your device. In addition to the preventative measures, AVG will automatically do regular virus scans on your device. 

AVG Ultimate does have an internet filter, but it's not as novice-friendly as the others on the list. If you are a tech-savvy individual, AVG's internet filter offers uncapped potential when it comes to blocking websites, as the sites have to be added manually rather than by category. 

To the experienced tech user, this could be seen as a positive, as it offers uncapped filtering potential. However, for those who are less experienced, it can be tough to block large amounts of websites in a time-efficient manner. This is the main downside that we found while testing the product.

During our testing process, we found AVG to be a great all-around set of internet security tools, but there are better products out there for those specifically looking for the best internet filter software. 

The best internet filter software for Mac users

For Mac computers we highly recommend ContentBarrier by Intego. 

This internet filtering software is specifically designed for Mac computers and includes preset filter categories that make it easier to block harmful content.

You can add specific websites you want to block to the blacklist, or you can add a site blocked by the preset filters to the ContentBarrier whitelist if you feel it’s OK for your child to visit. ContentBarrier X9 also has time controls so you can ensure your kids are focused on homework, chores, or bedtime instead of playing online. If you don't fancy manually blocking multiple websites, you can flip it around and use a whitelist functionality instead, which will only allow users to access the websites that you've okayed. 

You can create separate accounts for each of your children with one program and set different filters for each depending on their age and maturity. It is also only compatible with Mac desktops and won’t work on iPhones, iPads, or other Apple mobile devices.

ContentBarrier also has an Anti-Predator chat monitoring feature that watches for objectionable chat content and blocks anything that it deems to be inappropriate. You can also set up this feature so that you receive email alerts whenever this happens. In fact, you can also receive an email activity report for websites that were blocked, keyword triggering and attempts to access encrypted sites as well.

ContentBarrier can also take screenshots of your child's activity and includes a Time Machine-like control that means that you can easily view recorded screens. 

How to choose the best internet filter software for you

Every internet filtering app will have a range of pre-set blocklists that stop your children from accessing inappropriate content. They tend to cover a wide range of topics, but the best apps will have a broader range of pre-set lists – they’ll cover everything, from sexual and violent material to gambling and shopping sites. It’s also worth seeking out an app that supports custom blocklists if you’d like a little more control.

Most parental control apps have scheduling tools that can restrict how much time your kids spend online, and you’ll usually be able to set different rules for different days – so you can be stricter in the week, for instance, and more lenient at weekends.

Apps often have features that allow parents to monitor their kids’ search history and supervise what apps they’re using. Plenty of internet filtering tools watch social media apps to check that kids’ posts and conversations aren’t problematic. Those social media options are critical given how important those apps are to children and teenagers, but we’d always recommend that you check which apps are supported by each software package – it’s no good shelling out for a filtering tool if it doesn’t cover the apps that your kids love to use.

It’s worth seeking out a filtering tool that has a dashboard and regular reporting so you can easily see summaries of your kids’ online activity. If you want to check on your kids in the real world, you can also find software that uses GPS tracking. 

There are plenty of areas where apps offer a more diverse range of features. Some filtering and security tools can restrict device access, track calls, and instant messages, and check what videos your kids are viewing. 

Internet filter software FAQs

It’s never been so important to take care of our planet, and the Acer Aspire Vero is one of the only laptops on the market with an eco-friendly design – so it could be a worthwhile purchase if you’d like a notebook that reflects your own environmental values.

There are plenty of areas where Acer has gone above and beyond. Thirty percent of the laptop’s chassis uses from recycled material, and 85% of the box is made from recycled paper. The plastic packaging is 100% recycled, and the box even folds into a laptop stand.

A logo highlighting Acer’s use of recycled materials sits alongside the keyboard, and the Vero has embossed logos rather than stickers to avoid using more materials. This machine doesn’t even have paint, because that’s not very eco-friendly – instead, the Vero has an eye-catching design that combines the plastic’s grey color with yellow flecks.

Look beyond the eco-friendly exterior and there’s plenty to like. The Vero has a sub-2kg design and a 15.6in Full HD display, and on the inside it’s available with Intel Core i5 and Core i7 processors.

We’ve taken a deep dive into the Acer Aspire Vero to find out if this green machine is worth a spot in our best laptops buying guide – or if it’s not worth your cash, despite the good intentions. 

Acer Aspire Vero: Design

• Environmentally-friendly design
• A decent selection of everyday ports and features
• A comfortable, responsive keyboard and trackpad 

There’s no doubt that the Vero’s environmental credentials are welcome, and the Aspire impresses in other design departments.

Its 3,9 lbs weight is a good figure for a 15.6-in laptop, and the 18mm-thick body means this machine is no bruiser. If you want anything slimmer or lighter without compromising on screen size, you’ll have to spend significantly more.

The Vero’s keyboard is fast, crisp and quiet, and it’s got a numberpad, a wide Space bar and a double-height Return key. It’s easily able to cope with everyday workloads, and we like the reversed R and E buttons that highlight the Vero’s recycled materials. The keyboard feels a bit light when compared to more robust typing units, but only serious typists should look elsewhere. The trackpad is fine, too: large and responsive.

The Acer’s left-hand edge loads up on connectivity. There are two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports alongside a Type-C port, an HDMI output and Gigabit Ethernet socket. On the right-hand edge the Vero serves up a slower USB 2.0 port. The Vero has a webcam, and a fingerprint reader in the trackpad.

That’s a rock-solid range of features at this price, but in some areas the Vero disappoints. The build quality isn’t great: the laptop’s underside flexes, there’s too much movement in the wrist-rest and the display twists too easily. Acer claims that this machine has been through the same durability tests as its conventional machines, but the Vero doesn’t feel strong.

And while the Vero’s eco credentials are great, Acer isn’t alone here. Some HP laptops already use more recycled material than the Acer, and Apple’s pricier MacBook Pro notebooks have been using 100% recycled aluminum since 2018.

Acer Aspire Vero: Performance

• Capable power from the Core i5 chip, and more creative grunt from the Core i7 
• A good thermal performer, albeit with some processor throttling 
• Not suitable for gamers, or for really demanding workloads 

The Acer reviewed here is the pricier of the two models, with an Intel Core i7-1195G7 processor with four Hyper-Threaded cores and a top speed of 5GHz. The i5-1155G7 in the cheaper model isn’t much different, with the same core count but slower speeds. Both chips use Intel’s entry-level Iris Xe graphics core, and both are low-power CPUs designed for slim laptops.

Both machines remain similar outside of their processors, with the same 16GB of memory, dual-band 802.11ax wireless and Bluetooth 5.0. The Core i5 rig has a 512GB SSD, while the Core i7 model doubles that storage capacity.

The Core i7 chip is a capable performer. It has no trouble running loads of browser tabs simultaneously and tackling word processors and spreadsheets while you’ve got communication and media apps running, and it handles mainstream photo-editing and programming. It has no problem with streaming TV shows and movies and video calls. For the vast majority of people it’s ample power, and the fast SSD keeps the laptop responsive.

The Core i5 part is ideal if you’d like to save cash. It’s not suitable for tougher tasks, like photo-editing or programming, but it handles everything else. And, no matter what CPU you choose, the Vero stayed cool and quiet: even if you really stress the hardware you’ll only hear a puny fan noise.

That’s a good bill of health, but there are downsides here. We noticed that the Core i7 chip didn’t achieve its full speeds during tougher tests. It’s not unusual to find a processor throttling to keep the noise and heat down, but you’ll want to shop around if you need maximum power.

Indeed, if you’re willing to shop around in the Core i7 rig’s price range then you’ll certainly find more pace. Take your budget up to £999 or $999 and you’ll see laptops with full-power Intel and AMD processors that offer more speed, and they’ll be better for tricky workloads. The cheaper Core i5 model doesn’t suffer in this way – at that price, the Core i5-1155G7 is about as good as it gets.

The Core i5 Vero is a solid everyday machine and the Core i7 rig handles tougher creative and programming tasks, but neither is suitable for gaming. The Intel Iris Xe graphics core can play basic esports titles and casual games, but that’s it. If you do want a laptop with a proper graphics core to run proper big-name games, expect to spend nearer to $1,000.

Acer Aspire Vero: Display and audio

• A 15.6-in display with a Full HD resolution and a helpful anti-glare coating 
• Mediocre quality levels leave the screen looking washed-out 
• The speakers are loud and reasonably punchy, but they’re not perfect 

The Acer Aspire Vero has a 15.6-in IPS display with a 1,920 x 1,080 resolution and a matte finish. That’s a good specification for hammering through everyday tasks, and you’ll only find more experimental displays with taller aspect ratios or higher resolutions if you spend more.

Start to use this screen, though, and it becomes obvious that it’s a budget panel. The peak brightness level only hits 270 nits, which is too low for outdoor usage, and the display only produces 58% of the sRGB color gamut with mediocre accuracy levels – so it doesn’t render every shade that mainstream web pages, games and TV shows need. 

The panel’s contrast ratio of 1,350:1 is better, but that’s the only real good attribute. It’s not enough to help the panel stand out, and ultimately the display looks pallid and underwhelming. It’s fine for everyday use, but nothing looks vibrant.

The speakers have good volume and they supply a pleasingly crisp mid-range sound, but they lack bass. They fire downwards from the Vero’s base, too, so they’re easily muffled. They’re fine for everyday media duties, but nothing more.

Acer Aspire Vero: Battery life

• All-day longevity in most conventional situations 
• Push the hardware and you’ll still see seven hours of use 

With a video test running and the display at a moderate brightness level the Acer Aspire Vero lasted for twelve hours. That’s enough to get you through a whole day of use, but expect that figure to drop by a couple of hours if you ramp up the screen brightness.

If you stress the components in tougher tasks, the Vero lasts for around seven hours. In most situations, though, you’ll make it through a full working day with this notebook.

It’s a reasonable result, but it’s not too difficult to find machines with better battery life, especially at the top end of the Acer’s price bracket.

Acer Aspire Vero: Price

To get your hands on the Vero you’ll have to pay either $699 / £649 for the Core i5 model, and the Core i7 rig costs $899 / £849.

The Core i5 model offers better value than the Core i7 notebook – because the Vero’s more affordable specification is very similar to competitors. At that price, you’re almost always looking at low-power Core i5 processors or equivalent AMD chips alongside comparable memory and storage configurations.

Instead of finding big component differences at the lower price, consider the Vero’s ports, sockets and screen quality when up against rival notebooks, and whether those other machines are good for the environment.

You've got some more wiggle room if you’re considering the pricier Core i7-powered Vero. As you approach $1,000 / £1,000, you can opt for more powerful processors, albeit at the expense of other attributes. You’ll also find machines with OLED screens, high-quality convertible chassis designs, or better battery life. The Vero only offers mediocre value in its Core i7 guise, and it faces a wider array of rivals.

Acer adds value and longevity to both machines thanks to a base panel that can easily be removed – it makes component upgrades and replacements easier. The laptop only has single memory and M.2 SSD slots, though, which is disappointing. Don’t expect anything extra from the warranty, as it’s a standard one-year deal.

Acer Aspire Vero: User reviews

User reviews have been positive about the Acer Aspire Vero. Lots of people on Amazon in the UK and US are delighted with the Vero’s environmental credentials, with one saying that “knowing it’s part made from recycled materials makes it even better”.

Beyond the green design, lots of people enjoy the Vero’s easy setup procedures and its performance. It boots quickly and easily copes with emails, web-browsing and media streaming, so it’s a good everyday notebook.

Other owners praised the Vero’s quiet operation, comfortable keyboard and the Core i5 model’s 16GB of memory, as many affordable notebooks only use 8GB.

Not everyone was pleased with their purchase, though. Lots of people found the grey, yellow-flecked design divisive, saying that the looks won’t be to everyone’s taste. Others found the fingerprint reader setup procedures irritating.

Should you buy the Acer Aspire Vero?

The Acer Aspire Vero has impressive environmental credentials, and in more practical areas it has a comfortable keyboard, decent mainstream performance and reasonable battery life and features. If you’d like a well-balanced laptop, the Vero is absolutely fine.

That said, the Vero’s build quality isn’t brilliant, and the display is dull. Those issues are more forgivable at the lower price, but the pricier Core i7 model suffers in comparison with other laptops, and you can find more power and versatility elsewhere at the higher price.

If you’d like an affordable everyday notebook with some extra environmental nous, then the Vero’s Core i5 model is a contender – it’s well-balanced and effective. But the Core i7 model is poorer value, and you should hunt around if you need more speed or display quality.

If this product isn’t for you

The Acer Aspire Vero is a decent everyday machine, but the busy laptop market throws up plenty of good alternatives.

If you’d like a lighter, sturdier laptop with a better screen and more power – and if you’re happy switching operating systems – then consider the Apple MacBook Air M1. The entry-level model costs $999 in the US and £999 in the UK and it exceeds the Vero in several areas.

If you’re on a budget and want to stick with the 15.6in form factor, consider the Dell Inspiron 15. Dell’s mid-range machine is available with a capable Core i5-11320H processor and a low-power chip for $549 in the US, and the Inspiron 15 Plus models add an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics core for light gaming at £869 and $1,329.

If you prize display quality, consider the Asus VivoBook K553. It’s got a 1080p OLED display that delivers stunning contrast, and in most other areas its specification matches the Acer Aspire Vero. It’ll cost you $849 in the US and £799 in the UK.

Remember when you bought your computer? It was fast, apps loaded quickly, and the world was your oyster. Sadly, though, devices slow down with age; drives get slower, components fail, and the accumulation of files and software can mean you need to learn how to fix a slow computer.

Thankfully, there are a few things you can try, and many of them won’t cost you money. While there are some rules of thumb which we’ll mention below, you may be able to keep the best home computers going for a little while longer.

How to fix a slow computer

Regularly sweeping your PC for unused files and leftover pieces of apps you’ve deleted is recommended, even if it’s just every few months.

Secondly, if your device is upgradeable and is still running off an HDD (hard disk drive), we’d recommend looking into SSDs (solid-state drives). These have no moving parts so tend to last longer, and they’re faster, too.

There are a few things you can try to help speed up the performance of a Windows PC.

Check which apps open at startup

Many apps can give you the option to open them automatically when you turn on your PC or log into it, but if too many try and open at once your machine’s performance will take a hit.

If you press Ctrl-Shift-Escape together, you’ll instantly open your Task Manager. From here, tap the Startup tab to see what’ll open at login. Now, you can disable each one individually.

Clear resource-hungry applications

Sticking with the task manager, the “Processes” tab will give you a look at which applications are using up your memory (don’t be surprised to see Google Chrome there, particularly if you have plenty of tabs open).

This way, you can close down applications by clicking on the process and then clicking “End Task”.

We’d avoid closing “Background processes” unless you’re sure you know what you’re doing, though – these can sometimes be confusingly named and you may end up closing something you need, or worse still end up losing work you haven’t saved.

Close apps that are running in the background

It can be easy to miss apps that are open, but are found within the taskbar. These can range from Google Drive sync, to game launchers, to messaging apps, but you may not want them all open at once.

Thankfully, you can click the small chevron on the right-hand side of your taskbar to see open apps, then right-click each to find the option to remove them.

Clear away files and apps that you don't need

Almost everything you delete on your PC will be sent to your Recycle Bin, which can itself then become a sizable resource hog. Right-click and select “Empty Recycle Bin” to clear it.

You should also check documents and files you don’t need and be ready to delete them. It’s easy to become a digital hoarder, but if you’re using an old HDD things can really slow down.

You can also delete applications to make more room. Press the Windows logo on your taskbar (or press your Windows key) and search for “Add or Remove Programs” to instantly open a list of your installed applications.

You may be surprised by what you find, but you can safely uninstall applications from this window.

Check your power settings

Windows will change how much power your device uses if you need to manage, say, a laptop battery, but it’ll also manage power consumption on a desktop, too.

Open the Start menu (Windows key again), and search for “Power & Sleep settings”. Here you’ll find a slider that’ll let you move between energy-saving and best performance.

You can also set a “Power Plan” through the “additional power settings” option, letting you customize your power to energy consumption ratio with more granularity.

Cleanup and defrag

Windows offers a couple of handy tools for computer maintenance. The first is Disk Cleanup, which you can find by searching for it in the Start menu.

Here, you can select a drive and then the type of files you want to get rid of. Once you’ve ticked them, simply hit “Clean up system files”. If you’ve got multiple drives, you’ll need to repeat this step for each.

Defragmenting is something you’ll only need to do if you have a HDD, and while Windows will generally do this on a weekly cadence, it’s worth knowing how to do manually. Think of it as a “file wrangler” that grabs disparate pieces of your drive and realigns the files for smoother operation.

You’ll need to go to “This PC” through the Start menu, right-click your drive, and then click Properties, then Tools. There, you should find an option for Optimize and defragment drive. Click Optimize, then highlight the drive in question and click Analyze.

If Analyze is grayed out, you can’t defrag because you’re using an SSD instead.

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Knowing how to control a computer remotely can help you out of a sticky situation. Computers are wonderful things, whether it’s for getting your daily work done, connecting with friends, or playing games. In fact, we’ve come to rely on them for much of our interaction with the outside world in recent years.

Connecting to one of the best home computers or the best laptops remotely may not be something you need to do all that often, but it’s a handy thing to know how to do – whether it’s looking for a file someone sent, or because there’s a document you didn’t manage to upload to the cloud yet.

• Read more: Laptops vs home computers

Here’s everything you need to know about how to control a computer remotely.

How to control a computer remotely

The concept of remotely accessing a computer means you’re logging into one device from another, often through the same network but sometimes from an external source.

The advantages, then, are pretty straightforward; you can copy files from one computer to another, maybe prepare a lengthy download, or simply stream home movies you have on one PC to another in your home.

Before we begin…

We’re going to be focusing on Windows remote access that’s set up through the OS settings here, but there are a wealth of third-party options available for both PC and Mac.

Options like Zoho Assist are relatively easy to use and can let you access your PC or Mac from anywhere. Third-party options are also much better at communicating between a Mac and a PC or vice-versa without needing to jump through many hoops.

For gamers, there are options like Nvidia’s GeForce Now, which let you remotely login to a high-powered gaming PC to play the latest and greatest games – although it’s a little different because you’re logging into Nvidia’s own hardware. 

Finally, we alluded to the cloud earlier but it’s something to consider. Google Drive, Dropbox, and iCloud Drive all put your files in the cloud, so you can access them remotely from a web browser or your mobile devices.

How to control a PC remotely

On your Windows PC, the process is the same for Windows 10 and 11. For both, you’ll need to have Windows 10 Pro or Windows 11 Pro – meaning your current setup may not have access to system-level remote desktop options.

To find out, head to Settings, System, and then About. Your Windows 10 and 11  Edition can be found on this page.

If you do have Windows 10 Pro or Windows 11 Pro, then the good news is that it’s very easy to remote desktop.

Step 1
Press Start, then Settings, then System.

Step 2
Head to Remote Desktop, Enable Remote Desktop, and make a note of the login info on the page.

Step 3
If you’re logging in via a PC on the same network, use the search button on the task bar to search ‘Remote Desktop Connection’, and then find the PC’s name.
If you’re logging in from an external device or network, use Microsoft’s Remote Desktop app (a free download on all platforms) to access the PC.

How to control a Mac remotely

Apple allows remote access in macOS, but you’ll need to set it up. Thankfully, the process isn’t too tricky.

Step 1
Click the Apple logo in the top left of your screen, then select System Preferences.

Step 2
Head into Sharing, and then Remote Management. Tick the box next to it if it isn’t activated already. Tick all of the options that apply to what you want to do with the remotely accessed Mac.

Step 3
Here, you’ll want to note the login info provided. It should be something like “computername.home”. The computer name will be listed at the top of the Remote Login window (for example, MacBook Pro would be “macbook-pro”).

Step 4
You’ll also need to know the IP address of the Mac. The easiest way to find this is to use a service such as whatismyIPaddress.com.

Step 5
Navigate to Terminal, a macOS application, on the Mac you want to access your current one from. You can find it by bringing up Spotlight search with “Command + Space” on your keyboard, or head into your Application folder followed by utilities.

Step 6
Entering “ssh yourname@computername.home” command into Terminal on another Mac will let you login, so long as you follow up with a password and hit return.

If you’re using a DNS service, you’ll have a string of numbers instead of your computer name, but the process is still the same.

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Find the most secure web browsers could be considered an essential part of modern computing, but they aren’t all created equal. Some are faster than others, some offer plenty of additional features, while others are focused on your privacy – both in terms of keeping your private information locked down, and preventing unauthorized access.

There are a few of the best web browsers with a focus on privacy, but many still offer a variety of options that can make it tricky to pick the one for you. Here are our picks for the most secure web browser 

Which is the most secure web browser?

The most secure web browsers are focused on online safety and minimizing data collected on you. That data is used to build a profile of you that helps inform the adverts and content you see.

That means there’s a gap in the market for a browser that helps you stay safe online while also ensuring advertising companies don’t know as much about you, and there are plenty of options to do just that.

Brave Browser

• Doesn't sacrifice speed for privacy
• Rewards program
• Lacking in extension support

Brave’s tagline is that it offers “the best privacy online”, and it’s hard to argue. For most people, it’s likely to be the de-facto option thanks to its sheer speed.

As you’d expect from a privacy-focused browse, though, it’s also great at blocking all ads. In fact, it blocks every ad by default and has some smart built-in features like a customizable news feed and video calls.

Sadly, if you’ve come to lean heavily on browser extensions, you won’t find them here, but the platform does offer a rewards program that lets you redeem your browsing time against gift cards and more.

Tor

• 'Onion routing' creates layers of connections
• Maintains anonymity
• Slower performance

Often cited as a pillar of anonymity, Tor has somewhat of a reputation for being the browser you use when you don’t want to be seen – for better and for worse.

Still, Tor is run by a nonprofit group as opposed to a company selling your data for ads, and isolates each site so nothing can track your moves from one webpage to the next.

It uses a technique called “onion routing” to allow for traffic to be encrypted multiple times and passed through volunteer-run servers. This is a boon for remaining anonymous, but it can lead to slower performance.

Mozilla Firefox

• Extension support
• Great anti-tracker capabilities
• Not as fast as others

Firefox has long been an excellent browser, and that’s still the case in 2022. It offers a variety of extensions, called add-ons, to allow users to install additional tools, while also removing over 2000 trackers.

It’ll let you know when your data is compromised through breach reports, and even offers a built-in VPN (that you’ll have to pay extra for).

Firefox can be a little bit of a RAM hog on desktop, though, but it is nice and customizable, and stores your passwords locally.

Iridium Browser

• Looks great
• Built-in ad blocker
• Built on the same framework as Chrome

Iridium Browser is open-source, meaning you can see exactly what’s been changed at any point. The focus is on privacy, of course, but it’s actually built off of Chromium – the same thing that Google Chrome started from.

The difference is that there’s a built-in ad blocker, and while the developer notes it does “call home to Google”, it’s always looking to tweak things to keep your activity private.

That Chromium base is a blessing, too, because it means Iridium is snappy to use and you can pick it up without having to re-learn anything you know from Google Chrome.

What is the most secure web browser?

In truth, all of the above are more secure than the likes of Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, but Tor offers arguably the most comprehensive suite of anonymity-first features.

Still, for a browser that’s doesn’t compromise on speed or utility, Brave is a great choice, while those that use a wealth of add-ons or extensions will likely lean the way of Mozilla Firefox or Iridium.

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The very best internet security software could be the barrier between you and the deepest darkest depths of the internet finding their way into your life. Yes, life, not just device – as the two are so very closely enmeshed nowadays, making this software more valuable than ever before.

But how do you know which is best when it's difficult to even keep up with all the threats? One of the best places to start building a more robust defence system is with antivirus software. While that's a great way to fight viruses and malware, it's also worth considering tools like VPNs, password managers, banking protection and more.

Quite often you will find that when you pick a service it will come with a selection of package deals, so you may be best served going for your antivirus along with other protection tools, all from one provider. Or you may want to mix them up for the best of each, regardless of price.

From browsing the internet and online shopping to downloading files and banking digitally – there are lots of ways to be exposed both financially and in terms of personal privacy when you go online. As such it's worth considering tools that not only protect your devices – yup, smartphones as well as computers – but also protect your digital identity. Have that stolen and you can lose a lot and end up paying for it long after the fact.

So make sure you have the right protection even if you do own one of the best smartphones, best tablets, best laptops or best home computers – nothing is immune.

Some big names to look out for include the likes of Norton, McAfee and Bitdefender – but there are plenty of other options all varying in services and pricing. We've picked out a selection of nothing but the best options out there so whichever sounds like it's right for you, know that's it's been selected for quality over all others.

The right software isn’t just powerful, either – it’s versatile, too. Big-name products from companies like Bitdefender, Norton and McAfee are sold in different tiers. That means you can get the protection you need without paying over-the-odds for modules that you just won’t use – or, if you need a more robust solution, you can buy a premium product with additional features.

There are loads of great internet security software packages around, but so much choice can be confusing. We’ve done the hard yards so you don’t have to, though, by rounding up the top nine options and exploring their pros and cons – all you’ve got to do is pick the best product and get downloading. And for extra security, consider investing in the best antivirus software too.

Internet Security Software Explainer

Malware
Malware is a shortened name for malicious software. It’s an overarching term used to describe computer viruses, worms, trojan horses, adware, spyware and any other form of software that can harm your devices or steal your data.

Firewall
Firewalls are network security programs designed to monitor incoming and outgoing traffic on your devices, and to block malicious and unauthorized traffic. Most computers come with a built-in firewall these days, but the best internet security software will come with its own more powerful firewall.

VPN
VPN is an abbreviation for virtual private network. Using a VPN, you can encrypt your network signal and bounce it off a server anywhere in the world. This means that websites and other software can’t tell where your actual location is. This stops advertisers from targeting you with specific ads, but also stops hackers from getting into your network. You can also use a VPN to access region-locked content.

Best internet security software

1. Bitdefender Total Security: Best internet security overall

The Bitdefender name is now synonymous with internet security, and powerful protection at that. 

The company has built its reputation year after year by continuing to score highly in all the scores that matter when it comes to keeping you and your devices safe online. As such Bitdefender Total Security is a top pick and an ideal place to start for anyone new to internet security as well as a worthy upgrade for those more seasoned users.

There are several packages available meaning there should be something to suit most needs with a varying price structure that can help with budget ranges too. The basic plan – although the comprehensive tool list is anything but basic – is simply called Bitdefender Internet Security. This gets you sterling security but will be for your PC only and should you want wider device coverage you'll need to go up a plan level.

Protection offered, even at the most basic level, keeps you safe from malware, spyware, viruses and ransomware. You also have a firewall on top of all that to keep any of those nasties out of your machine from the outset. 

As mentioned previously this scored well in testing, both with AV Test and AV Comparatives, where the experts are solely focused on how internet security software performs. In recent testing Bitdefender blocked nearly all viruses and malware that were fired at it.

Extra features include parental controls and a VPN for geo-restriction evasion. There's plenty more besides but it's worth weighing up budget with what you think you'll need – although you can rarely have too much security.

2. Norton 360: Best premium security

Norton has been a huge name in the world of internet security pretty much since it all began. 

While that could mean sitting on its laurels, this brand has done anything but and is still leading the way when it comes to tackling the ever evolving threats that the internet houses. Norton 360 is the package which covers nearly all needs with varying levels of protection to suit each person's requirements.

At the base there is the Norton 360 Standard plan which, despite that name, offers more than enough security for most needs. Primarily you have the Norton Antivirus system which will keep infections off your machine. This will also work at fighting malware, spyware and ransomware which all threaten your digital identity and, as such, your finances. 

This level also throws in a firewall which should mean hackers are kept at bay along with anyone else trying to access your device without permission. Unlike some other providers, Norton also throws in a VPN at this level which means you can hide your location or appear to be somewhere you are not - ideal for accessing your content when away from home.

Spend a bit more and the tiers increase the number of features to offer identity theft protection and financial coverage if you do succumb to identity fraud. At the top-end you even have coverage for unlimited devices and get 401k monitoring so your retirement is safe too. 

All that and the performance of this software is tip-top, with expert testing finding this is able to block 100% of attacks – giving real peace of mind.

3. Kaspersky Internet Security: Best malware protection

Kaspersky has gone from strength to strength in recent years and has firmly established itself as the name when it comes to blocking malware. 

While the other offerings on this list do offer impressive protection, it is Kaspersky that has a perfect track record, blocking 100% of malicious software under the expert testing of AV Test and AV Comparatives. 

Like the other brands in this guide Kaspersky does break up its offerings into tiers which are priced at varying levels so as to suit the needs of most people, without breaking the bank. 

Start at the base level and you will find the price of Kaspersky Internet Security very competitive even before you look into what that includes. Dig a little deeper and you'll see that gets you the company's flawless antivirus software to keep viruses, malware, spyware and ransomware totally at bay. You also get a firewall to keep out any threats that might try to hijack your device. Plus there is a VPN thrown in so you can spoof your location to keep hidden and add extra security when on public WiFi or abroad, for example. 

But that's not all, this basic plan also gives you an ad blocker which means your internet browsing can be a far more minimalist experience without distractions to slow you down. It also means no more pop-ups or auto playing videos, which could save you on data when using your smartphone. 

The top end package is Kaspersky Total Security which offers more premium features including parental controls – but thankfully even this level is reasonably priced comparatively.

4. Avast Premium Security: Best for casual use

Avast may sounds like a pirate cry, and leave you feeling that a jokey start for something as serious as security isn't ideal. 

But in reality this company is able to joke as it is so secure in the knowledge that it offers premium and powerful protection against all the threats the interwebs can muster.

Unlike many other services Avast Premium Security also offers a free protection plan which is frankly the best free internet security system out there right now. That said, the premium paid for version, Avast Premium Security, isn't quite as impressive as the others higher up in this list.

Go for the free package and you get yourself a very capable antivirus software system which will battle any viruses, malware, spyware and ransomware that may attack. There's also a firewall as part of that offering to keep snoopers from getting into your device in any way. Rather uniquely this also offers a helpful sandbox feature which allows you to wall-off any area of your machine to open potentially threatening software without it being able to attack the rest of your device.

For anything else you'll need to upgrade to the paid-for plan. Go for the Avast Ultimate package and you're going to have a lot more powerful features at your fingertips. That includes a helpful VPN to mask your location, a password manager to keep you secure net-wide, webcam protection and a helpful file shredder.

Should you want parental protections you will be left wanting, which isn't great when you're paying for these features. 

5. McAfee Total Protection: Best for technophobes

McAfee is not only a big name in internet security but it's also one that aims to distill all its years of experience and prowess into a single offering. 

As such the McAfee Total Protection is a one-stop-shop solution that does it all – for more people – without overcomplicating it with different tier options. 

That isn't to say this is totally fixed, as there is a variation in price based on the number of devices you want covered. But it's one system that applies to all, making this a super simple security pick for anyone new to this world or those that just want it easy.

Primarily this security protection is well tested and performs respectably. When it comes to antivirus and malware protection, McAfee was able to block a massive 97%. It's not perfect, like some of its rivals, but it's still impressive. 

So this will keep you safe from malware, spyware, ransomware and viruses. And it will do all that with a simple solution. But if you want more then you may find the payment system frustrating. There is an option to get a VPN, to spoof your location, and also identity theft protection to keep you financially safe online. But to get access to those features you'll need to be paying for your software with an auto-renewal payment setup. Not everyone wants that level of commitment. 

So if a simple one-stop-shop solution is what you need then this is a great pick but if you want a little more then it might be worth taking the time to consider the plans of other offerings.

6. F-Secure Antivirus SAFE: Best for ease of use

The F-Secure Antivirus SAFE software is the powerful yet simple to use antivirus protection program from a brand that is well known and respected. F-Secure has been around for many years where it has consistently done well in fighting threats online and protecting personal data. 

The antivirus software at the centre of this package is very much the star of the show as it is very powerful. That means this will repel viruses, malware, spyware and ransomware as well as phishing schemes and more. For all the features of other offerings this does the core – and arguably most important – work really well and without taking up too much of your system resources.

The package gives you multi-device coverage meaning you can have seamless protection running across your computers but also your mobile devices with iOS and Android specific protection offered here. Usefully this can also be used to help you find any device the software is installed on. 

Misplace your smartphone or tablet? Use another device and you'll be able to locate it immediately. Of course this also applies if your smartphone gets stolen, making recovery a genuine possibility – helpful financially but also in terms of your data security.

Since the F-Secure Antivirus SAFE system keeps things simple it's a great choice for older machines that might otherwise struggle with some of the beefier solutions. It also means, on newer and more powerful machines, you're going to get the most energy and time efficient system protection without the bloat some others come with.

7. Trend Micro Antivirus Plus: Best for ransomware cover

Trend Micro, a big name in PC security for years, goes beyond with the aptly named Trend Micro Antivirus Plus. 

That plus denotes that this is not a minimal product by any means and offers a robust selection of services which is built primarily on excellent malware protection.

If you want to avoid getting spyware, malware or ransomware on your machine – all of which can leverage your personal data against you – then this system is one of the most powerful and comprehensive ways to protect you. You even have anti spam and anti phishing protection meaning you can rest knowing you won't be bombarded by attempts to get into your machine – from any angle.

While this can be a little more resource intensive than other solutions – making it more for newer machines – this does offer broad protection. Plus you get a 30-day free trial so if you're not sure, you can always try before you buy to see how it works on your device.

One feature that stands out is the folder shield. This allows you to put enhanced protection on specific folders on your device, making it ideal for highly sensitive data which you might be responsible for.

There is a browser that is built specifically for fighting intrusions and you can have a booster for your firewall to make sure nobody can get into your device without your permission. 

8. VIPRE Advanced Security: Best for minimal strain

VIPRE Advanced Security comes from a company that is rated and used by the US military in some areas, which says a lot right from the outset. 

It's been around for over 25 years, growing and changing as it has developed. But, despite being a heavyweight in its ability to fight attacks, it treads very lightly on your device. 

This is thanks to a minimalist system which won't use lots of your device's resources to get the job done. That makes this a great pick for slower machines or anyone that wants their protection running in the background without their noticing.

Protection is real-time, with the software working to scan programs as they are in use, so that should mean if attacks happen, it can protect you immediately. That said, in testing this didn't score as well as some of the competition when it came to malware protection -- and phishing protection was poor. It's also worth noting that many of the firewall features are disabled by default. That said, the firewall does stealth ports and offers program control in a super easy to use way.

From the AV Test Institute the scores were the highest you can hit, putting this up there with the other big names in digital security. The same can be said for testing at AV Comparatives where, again, the highest score was achieved. So although the malware isn't the best, as mentioned above, this is not to be mistaken for a tool that isn't great as this is still one of the best you can get. 

9. Webroot Secureanywhere: Uniquely light system

Webroot Secureanywhere comes in low on this list but that isn't to say it's poorer than the others, simply that it is quite different. 

In fact this is pretty unique in the way it works. While most protection suites will be downloaded to your device and work as a software on the system to protect you, this offering works in the cloud.

Why would you want to use the cloud when all the others use software on the machine? Because this uses an advanced artificially intelligent brain to do the thinking. So while traditional systems need to quickly spot a threat and stop it before damage can be done to your device, Webroot Secureanywhere works backwards at its own pace.

If a threat is detected the AI brain will assess and make sure it is a problem, once it's decided that it is, everything will simply be rolled back to just before the incursion took place. All that means the strain on your system is minimal with just a 2MB file, compared to 700MB on most others. So that makes this great for older and slower devices.

Since this works uniquely it is also difficult to assess properly. As such the test results are mixed with a few very impressive scores but also some noticeable issues that are worth keeping in mind. But should you be worried, the company is aware of this, since it's relatively new, and offers a peace of mind trial. You can try out Webroot Secureanywhere for a massive 70-days during which time you can get all of your money back whenever you want, guaranteed. 

Buying advice for the best internet security software

Why trust us on internet security software?

We’ve researched all the packages on this list to compare their features and pricing. We’ve also analyzed results from several important third-party testing labs, including AV-Comparatives and AV-Test, to see how each application handles a selection of threats and how efficient they are in terms of computing resources.

This approach allows us to see how each application performs over an extended period with a wide variety of threats, and it also means we can see what each package is like in day-to-day use – after all, it’s no good if the software performs well, but it’s got a complicated or awkward interface. 

What is the difference between antivirus software and an internet security suite?

A top-quality antivirus package will protect your systems from viruses, malware, trojan horse applications and other similar threats. Many antivirus packages also protect you from ransomware and phishing attempts.

Internet security suites include all those features, but they also provide extra tools that deliver a broader range of benefits. You’ll typically find firewalls, VPNs, parental controls, identity theft prevention and online banking protections in internet security suites.

Internet security suites don’t just come with additional features. They’re usually sold with more licenses, too – you can typically install the software on more devices. That makes a full suite a better choice for families and ideal if you want to protect phones alongside PCs and laptops.

One other difference between basic antivirus software and internet security suites is the number of user licenses you get. Most antivirus solutions come with a single license to protect one computer. Internet security suites, however, usually come with at least three licenses, and are sometimes compatible with mobile phones and tablets so you can protect multiple web-enabled devices at once.

What should internet security software come with?

Internet security is a multifaceted system which should come with several tools in order to give you the full protection that is needed online. That said, the core of most systems is the most important part and if all others were forsaken this would still do a good job of keeping you safe. That is the antivirus software. 

A decent antivirus program will protect you from viruses, malware, spyware, ransomware and in some cases phishing attacks too. By keeping these threats at bay -- at least spotting them if they get in -- the system is able to ensure further infection to your device is stopped. That, in turn means keeping your personal details, and finances, safe. 

But it is also worth thinking about other powerful tools like a firewall -- although many machines already have these built in. But a strong one can mean a layer to keep threats at bay and ensure individuals can't get into your data.

A VPN is also worth considering as this will mask your IP address by running it through another server somewhere else in the world. That means keeping you private and hidden, ideal for security and worth using if on unsecured WiFi like at a coffee shop or airport. But it also means you can access content that might otherwise block you with geo restrictions. Want to get your local shows while abroad? You can appear at home by using your VPN and still get them. This can also be great for banking.

Password managers are also very helpful tools as these can generate strong passwords for you to use and save them for you. This means you have different passwords for everything you use, increasing the security should one be compromised -- keeping everything else out of reach.

Parental controls can work well for anyone that wants to limit their kids' access to certain websites that may be potentially threatening. But these are also helpful for seeing what your kid is up to -- ideal for tackling potential cyberbullying.

How much does an internet security program cost?

Internet security packages offer more functionality than antivirus software, so they do typically cost more. If you want a year’s worth of protection from one of the big names then you should budget for at least $40 or $50, and some of the top packages cost twice as much.

There’s plenty of wiggle room here too, though. You’ll often find discounts available for new users, and prices become more cost-effective if you purchase a multi-year deal. Conversely, packages with more features or with licenses for extra devices cost extra. 

Happily, big companies do tend to make it easy to compare products and features, so you can see what’s available in each product. That makes it simpler for users to find out what they need – so they can avoid paying over-the-odds for protective software. 

The best antivirus software is important to stop any viruses or other threats from infecting your PC. A lot of people use their computers to handle finances, medical records or other sensitive things so it is more important than ever to be protected. Some viruses can steal your passwords and personal information - this can lead to financial loss, and can slow down your PC or stop it from working altogether. 

With the best antivirus software, you don't have to worry about the best home computers becoming infected. They can also be used to protect the best smartphones and the best tablets, with some even offering plans that can cover multiple devices so that you can keep the best laptops protected too. 

A good quality antivirus will protect a number of devices, whether it's your personal computer or your smartphone. Company's are often monitoring and logging the most recent threats so that any new viruses can be stopped in their tracks before they have a chance to infect your device - much like physical viruses, computer viruses are constantly evolving and changing, with new threats emerging every day. 

Some of the best antivirus software utilize AI (artificial intelligence) to monitor your PC and react almost instantly to any unusual changes. Once it is installed on your device you can browse the web without worrying about your personal information being leaked. 

The majority of antivirus tools are available as an annual or monthly subscription, with many of them offering different tiers to cover different needs, budgets and devices. This means if you only need to cover one device, you have the option to save money by going for a more basic package without sacrificing any security. If you don't want to spend any money, then there are some free options that can offer a decent level of protection. 

You might also want to consider the best internet security software for more all-around protection. These will offer antivirus software while also including VPNs, firewalls and password management/encryption. 

Antivirus software explainer

Malware
Malware is short for malicious software, and it's a catch-all term to cover various types of threats that your device faces, including viruses, worms, trojan horses, spyware, adware etc.

Firewall
A firewall is a network security device on your computer that monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic, and blocks unauthorized or dangerous traffic. Windows and Mac computers have built-in firewalls, but many antivirus programs come with their own firewall program too.

VPN
VPN stands for virtual private network. These programs offer you a way to stay anonymous online, by encrypting your network signal and bouncing it off another server. This prevents websites from knowing where you are. They can also be used to access content that is region-locked. Some antivirus and internet security programs come with VPN access included.

Best antivirus software

It was definitely close but we believe BitDefender is the best antivirus software on the market. With the basic antivirus package, BitDefender Antivirus Plus, you get protection against many different types of viruses, including spyware, ransomware, trojans, worms and any new threats that may emerge. You can get plans for home use or for your business so that you can keep your family and company files safe. If you need antivirus for your business, BitDefender also offer a number of other cyber security features which can help to keep you and your employees safe - they can even help to keep Microsoft Office documents and Google Cloud safe and secure. 

BitDefender has been tried and tested and blocked between 99.5% and 100% of malware attacks set against it when tested by white hat industry experts - they have the testing to back up their claims. 

The software also includes a VPN alongside its impressive antivirus software. VPNs are a great way to browse the internet anonymously so that you can't be tracked by corporations, your ISP, or individuals with malicious intentions. Paired with good antivirus software, VPNs will allow you to browse the internet with complete confidence.

BitDefender has a Safe Files feature which will encrypt and safeguard important files further so that they are extra safe in the rare case when something damaging slips through the cracks. Costs start at $19.99 for the first year of cover, which is really a great price when you consider the features and protection that you get. 

• Read the Bitdefender Antivirus Plus review.

Coming in a close second on our list, Norton 360 Antivirus Plus only misses the top spot by a hair. You get a highly effective, highly protective antivirus software suite that protects you against a multitude of virus types, including ransomware, spyware, trojans, worms and file infectors. Much like BitDefender, Norton backs up their claims with excellent results in industry tests from AVTest and AV-Comparatives where Norton 360 scored perfect marks in the most recent round of testing, with almost every single infection being stopped in its tracks and eliminated effectively. 

Norton 360 Antivirus Plus also includes a password manager and 2GB of online cloud storage, which you can utilize to store your most sensitive and vulnerable files that could otherwise be corrupted or stolen if your home computer is infected or compromised. 

Norton 360 Antivirus Plus offers protection for Windows PCs, Macs, smartphones and tablets. Some of the more expensive subscriptions allow you to protect multiple devices at once, with the most expensive option offering protection on 10 devices simultaneously.

The PC cloud backup varies in size from 2GB to 100GB depending on the subscription that you choose, but we would not recommend buying a more expensive option purely for the cloud storage as there are a number of free options such as Google Drive and Dropbox which do the same thing without costing any extra money. Subscriptions that offer multiple device protection also feature parental controls and school timers, so that you can keep your children safe from inappropriate content. 

• Read the Norton 360 Antivirus Plus review

AVG Ultimate is an all-in-one antivirus, tune-up, anti-tracker and internet filter that can be used across multiple devices. When we tested AVG Ultimate, we found that the antivirus and anti-tracker elements to be great tools, as they will intercept and block any potentially harmful cookies or malware before they get a chance to gather any information from your PC. 

AVG will also scan every download and installation so that your devices are safe from any unwanted software or viruses, stopping them before they have a chance to infect your device. In addition to the preventative measures, AVG will automatically do regular virus scans on your device. 

AVG Ultimate does have an internet filter, but it's not as novice-friendly as the others on the list. If you are a tech-savvy individual, AVG's internet filter offers uncapped potential when it comes to blocking websites, as the sites have to be added manually rather than by category. 

To the experienced tech user, this could be seen as a positive, as it offers uncapped filtering potential. However, for those that are less experienced, it can be tough to block large amounts of websites in a time-efficient manner. This is the main downside that we found while testing the product.

During our testing process, we found AVG to be a great all-around set of internet security tools, and an ideal choice if you want a thorough anti-virus.  

What would you say if we told you that one of the best antivirus softwares on the market costs absolutely nothing? Nada, zilch, bupkis. Well it’s true, because Avast Free Antivirus is, as the name suggests, completely free. There are no hidden fees or delayed costs. It’s just free.

But surely it can’t be as good as the other antivirus programs out there, right? Wrong. Avast Free Antivirus offers you the same levels of protection as many of the other big names in the field, covering your devices from attacks by viruses, spyware and various other forms of malware. It performs excellently too, blocking between 99.7 and 100% of attacks levied at it by experts during their latest rounds of testing.

The downside is that it doesn’t run as efficiently as some premium antivirus software, so you may experience noticeable slowdown on your computer, especially if you’re using an older device. A small price to pay, when you’re not paying any price at all though.

• Read the Avast Free Antivirus review

While other companies have tiered their offerings, McAfee only offers a single antivirus solution called McAfee Total Protection. This is more of a full blown internet security software in truth, but it does include antivirus protection so we’d be remiss not to mention it here.

When it comes to antivirus protection, McAfee has been one of the big names for years now and it still offers a great product, though some of the competition might have started to pull away. The antivirus stood up to between 97.8 and 98.4 % of attacks in the most recent round of expert tests, which is excellent, but falls short of some of the other antivirus programs on our list.

You get a ton of other features rolled into the package, including a firewall, password manager, file shredder, and a secure VPN. But these aren’t freebies or extras, they’re part of the security package that you’re paying for. Pieces start at $29.99 for single device coverage for a year. That’s not bad, but if you just need an antivirus program you can get more devices covered for cheaper elsewhere.

• Read the McAfee Total Protection review

F-Secure Antivirus SAFE is quite the serious piece of antivirus software. It comes with fantastic additional features to keep your system secure, such as banking protection for safe online shopping, and safety tools to protect your entire family, including time limits and content blocking. This protection extends beyond your desktop computer, too, with a device finder that can help you track down a lost Android or iOS device - and remotely lock or wipe it too, to keep data safe.

F-Secure Antivirus SAFE delivers premium antivirus protection, receiving high marks after testing by major labs, including AV-test. It’s worth pointing out that some noted more false positives were generated than other antivirus software packages, but whether that affects you will depend on how you use your computer. 

We like that this antivirus software program runs lightly - making it ideal for an older system. Another pro is the clean, easy-to-use interface. F-Secure Antivirus SAFE is an impressive package, and well-deserving of a place in our best antivirus software guide.

• Read the F-Secure SAFE review.

Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security delivers highly effective protection. The antivirus software scores particularly well for anti spam, and comes with an effective ‘Folder Shield’ module to block ransomware. It has a reputation for being easy to use too.  

Although the best testing labs agree that its protection is very good, there’s some inconsistency to the details. AV-Comparatives, for example, reports a comparatively high number of false positives; while AV-Test found very high accuracy and no issues with false positives. One issue some agree on though is that Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security may be more resource intensive than others, making this antivirus software better suited to newer, more powerful systems.

We didn’t notice any performance problems, however. We found protection levels to be similar to Bitdefender, false positives were only marginally higher, and it didn’t slow down our system noticeably more than anything else.

Happily, there’s a free 30-day trial – which we’d advise running to check how the program performs on your system. If there are no noticeable issues, Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security is one of the best antivirus software programs you can choose.

• Read the Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security review.

VIPRE Advanced Security is the easiest antivirus software program to install and use among the antivirus programs we tested. It’s easy to find the tools, functions and folders you need because they are clearly marked with large icons and big text. 

Subfolders and tools, like the quarantine folder and custom scan settings, are in the main folders where you would expect them to be, so it’s not hard to navigate this program. Also, setting up VIPRE doesn’t take a lot of guesswork, and it doesn’t cause much slowdown of your computer while its running, even during deep virus scans.

While third-party test laboratories don’t test VIPRE very often, we checked out how well it protects against malware and were happy to see it blocked 99 percent of the over-300 live malware samples we used for testing.

• Read the review: VIPRE Advanced Security

If you’re looking for a truly lightweight tool, Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus is the best antivirus software you can choose. Sure, most other products claim to be lightweight, but Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus is the only one to really live up to the claim: it’s tiny – and it’s exceptionally fast.  

It takes just seconds to install, and the program files are barely 2MB in size (some antivirus software can more than 700MB), with no bulky signature updates to hog your bandwidth. But just because it’s light on space, it doesn’t mean Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus is light on features. Aside from the core protection, it comes with smart behaviour monitoring, accurate real-time antiphishing, a firewall and network connection monitor, enhanced anti-ransomware, and other bonus features.

The top testing labs don’t evaluate Webroot's products very often, so it’s tough to directly compare this program’s accuracy with that of the other best antivirus software programs. But when they are tested, they score well - and certainly our tests revealed solid, reliable protection.

The company is so confident you’ll like it, Webroot has given SecureAnywhere AntiVirus a generous 70-day 100 per cent money-back guarantee. If you’re fed up of bloated engines, Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus is a very good product and worth a shot.

• Read the review: Webroot SecureAnywhere Antivirus

Norton 360 Deluxe is the big brother of Norton 360 Antivirus Plus. It offers one of the best antiviruses on the market, while also giving you several other security features. 

With this subscription, you get a secure VPN, which will anonymize you online and allow you to browse with complete security without the worry of being tracked by corporations, governments, or your ISP. Norton will give you a good deal on your first year, with prices often up to 75% off for first-time customers. 

Norton 360 Deluxe also offers Dark Web Monitoring. If your personal details are stolen or leaked and appear on the Dark Web, Norton will inform you so that you can change passwords or email addresses to keep your sensitive information and logins safe. 

One of the features that really stand out to us is the password manager. When you sign up to a website or service, Norton will generate a super strong password and automatically save it so that you can make note of it or use it automatically when you log into a specific site. This is much better than using the same password for every site, as your entire online presence may be compromised if one of them gets leaked. You also get SafeCam, a feature that alerts you if someone attempts to access your webcam and helps you to block future unauthorized access to it. 

With this particular subscription, we would only recommend spending the extra money if you really think it is worth it. If you don't see yourself utilizing the extra features then we would recommend Norton 360 Antivirus Plus or one of the other more basic options on our list. 

How we tested the best antivirus software

We’ve thoroughly researched antivirus software from all the big names in internet security, including Norton, McAfee, and Bitdefender. We’ve spent hours finding out what each antivirus software offers and how much they cost and discovered how they perform in real-world situations.

We turn to industry experts and in-depth laboratories when deciding our overall antivirus ratings, and with good reason – these facilities test for malware, zero-day threats, false positives, and other security issues.

X-HEAD: Can antivirus software remove existing viruses? 

It can be challenging for any antivirus software to find and eliminate threats that were already on your system – because lots of viruses and malware applications block detection or mimic legitimate applications. 

Ultimately, antivirus applications will remove some existing malware, but not all of it. And these apps can’t usually repair existing damage.

If your PC is already infected, we recommend that you seek professional help – computer stores and local experts will be able to remove malware and get your PC fighting fit. 

Once your PC has been thoroughly cleaned, you should install an antivirus package to ensure that you don’t end up in the same situation again. 

Antivirus software FAQs

Can antivirus software remove existing viruses?  

It can be challenging for any antivirus software to find and eliminate threats that were already on your system – because lots of viruses and malware applications block detection or mimic legitimate applications. 

Ultimately, antivirus applications will remove some existing malware, but not all of it. And these apps can’t usually repair existing damage.

If your PC is already infected, we recommend that you seek professional help – computer stores and local experts will be able to remove malware and get your PC fighting fit. 

Once your PC has been thoroughly cleaned, you should install an antivirus package to ensure that you don’t end up in the same situation again. 

How much does good antivirus software cost?

Mainstream antivirus packages don’t tend to be expensive. The top utilities generally cost between $20 and $50 per year, but prices vary between brands. Prices change elsewhere, too: you’ll often get a discount if you buy a multi-year package, but you may also have to pay more if you want to protect multiple devices. 

If you want to save cash, many antivirus software companies have introductory discounts, and you can switch to a different provider the next year to take advantage of another deal. And, at the other end of the scale, expect to pay more if you want additional features.

Companies like Avast, Avira and AVG produce free antivirus software. They don’t have the features of paid products and they’re usually ad-supported, but they will certainly protect your PC.

Using your data to help others

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus 2020 also has a data sharing program that allows the software to send information about viruses, Trojans, rootkits and other malware found on your computer back to its databases. This is a way to keep tabs on new threats and pass along protection to other Bitdefender users before the malware becomes a cyber outbreak. 

There hasn’t been any evidence of Bitdefender gathering inappropriate or unauthorized information, so we’re confident Bitdefender is safe to use. However, you can turn off this feature altogether from the Bitdefender dashboard if it worries you. 

What is the best mobile antivirus software?  

Most smartphone operating systems have built-in antivirus software alongside loads of other security features, but you can also deploy third-party applications if you’d like an extra layer of protection.

Bear in mind, though, that most basic and entry-level antivirus applications don’t cover smartphones. If you want smartphone protection, you’ll need to purchase a more comprehensive package, like McAfee Total Protection or Norton 360 Standard. Those products tend to cover PCs, laptops, and smartphones for one price.  

What is the best antivirus for business? 

We found that Kaspersky is the best antivirus choice for small businesses, with superb malware protection alongside straightforward design – it’s easy to use even if you’re not experienced with technology. Kaspersky also uses cloud computing to keep its apps updated, which is ideal if you don’t have an in-house IT team.

Kaspersky’s small business software covers up to 50 users, so it’s well-suited to protecting all devices in more compact organizations – and it covers smartphones and tablets as well as PCs and laptops. As well as antiviral protection, it includes password managers, backup tools, anti-spam and anti-phishing modules and web controls. 

We’d also highlight Avast’s business products for larger firms. There are various products that can protect up to 100 or 1000 devices, and the packages include firewall and VPN modules for added security. Avast’s products also have a vulnerability scanner, so you’ll get alerts about potential threats before they’re exploited, and it can even monitor employee webcams.

Do I need to uninstall an old antivirus program before installing a new one? 

Most antivirus software competes with other protection programs, so you need to uninstall your old program before installing a new one. Also, antivirus programs take up substantial memory, and having two installed will cause your computer to run much slower. During the installation process, most programs perform a scan to see if any other antivirus software or components are already installed, and they will either uninstall the old program for you or prompt you to uninstall it manually.

However, there are a couple programs that work in tandem with other antivirus software. Both AVG and Avast work alongside other protection software to add a second layer of security, catching threats your main program may miss. In both programs, you can turn off the virus detection and scan features – your main program can provide those specific service, and you can still take advantage of AVG’s and Avast’s more advanced tools like safe banking and password managers. 

If you install Avast or AVG as a secondary antivirus program, make sure to install it after your main antivirus. Otherwise, your primary program will require you to uninstall it before completing the installation process.

What is a personal firewall?

Firewalls should form a critical part of any security setup – because they inspect your internet traffic and block harmful content. Firewalls are included in modern operating systems, in routers, and in antivirus packages and security software. 

Many operating system and router firewalls are not infallible, though, because they don’t check inside packets of information for hidden threats – so malware can still creep through.

Firewalls from leading security companies do tend to look inside these packets, though, so they do a better job of spotting tricky threats. If you want to be truly secure, it pays to use a third-party firewall that can better identify and eliminate potential problems.

If you’re tired of clicking through endless tabs and applications on your computer, knowing how to run multiple desktops on Windows and Mac could help organize your daily workload and declutter your computer screen.

You may want to separate your domestic or leisure use from your work or business use, in which case multiple desktops are the answer. They provide a separate space for you to group applications, such as the best web browsers, in a way that frees you up to concentrate on one task at a time.

Most of the best home computers and the best laptops run some form of operating system, usually Windows or MacOS, and both have their distinct methods for running multiple desktops. We’ll show you how to run multiple desktops on Windows on Mac in just a few easy steps.

How to run multiple desktops in Windows

In Windows 10 or Windows 11, follow these steps to create an extra desktop or several:

1. On the taskbar, select Task View – a little icon showing overlaid panels - then New desktop
2. Simply open the apps that you want to use on that desktop
3. Simply open the apps that you want to use on that desktop
4. If you want to switch between desktops, click on Task View again or hold the Windows Key at the same time as the Tab key. You’ll see the available desktops at the top of the screen.

How to run multiple desktops in Mac

Mac OS has a desktop feature called Mission Control to allow you to manage multiple desktops

• Press F3 or Control + Up
• Click Mission Control on your Mac’s Dock
• Swipe up on the trackpad with three or four fingers
• You should now see a Mission Control window with available desktops at the top of the screen. You can open additional desktops by clicking the + icon located towards the right of the screen.

And that’s it! With just a few simple steps you can now use multiple desktops to better organize your work and leisure activities on any Windows PC or Mac.

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Knowing how to upgrade RAM on a laptop could significantly improve its speed and functionality. It could also save you money that you might spend replacing the device altogether.

Even the best laptops can use a little TLC after a time, and upgrading your laptop’s RAM is one of the easiest methods to boost performance. While it might seem daunting to have a go at upgrading yourself, we’ll show you how to upgrade RAM on a laptop in just a few easy steps.

The same steps can be adapted to upgrade RAM on desktop computers like those in our guide to the best home computers. For this guide, however, we’ll be upgrading a laptop running with a Windows operating system. Many of the same principles apply to upgrading an Apple laptop such as the Apple M1 MacBook Pro, for which you can find more specific support on Apple’s support pages.

To upgrade RAM on a laptop, all you’ll need is a screwdriver, a new RAM module, and an understanding of your computer’s specification and RAM compatibility.

What is RAM?

The first step to knowing how to upgrade RAM on a laptop is understanding what RAM actually is and what it does. RAM is an acronym for 'Random Access Memory', and provides a computer with fast access short-term data storage. RAM is the memory your computer uses to load and run multiple operations at once such as web browsing, email, gaming and a host of important functions that run in the background. Your laptop’s everyday tasks all require RAM to function, which is why your computer might tend to slow down if you’re running many tasks at once.

As a simple rule, the more RAM your laptop has, the better it can run multiple tasks at the same time, helping to keep things fast and smooth. Having more RAM enables you to carry out more tasks and run more applications, which is something more and more users need to do in order to work and manage their lives with help of their computers or laptops. Older laptops in particular might struggle with contemporary workloads.

What RAM do you need for your laptop?

What RAM a laptop requires differs from one make to the next and is affected by specific memory technology, your laptop’s motherboard, storage size and more. Consult your laptop’s manual or the manufacturer’s website to know which RAM is compatible with your laptop, or use a third-party system scanner to retrieve the same information.

RAM for laptops are usually small units or modules that are rated in speed (in MHz) and storage (in GB), increasing from 8GB, to 16GB to 32GB, and as single configurations or combinations of two or more units. Which RAM you choose depends on your system’s compatibility and your budget, with cheaper 8GB RAM modules selling for around $30 and 32GB modules selling for $100+.

How to upgrade RAM on a laptop 

The first step to take when performing any maintenance on a laptop or computer is to disperse any static electricity you might have built up in your body. Protect your laptop’s internal components from static electricity by touching a metal part on your computer’s frame or a nearby metal object such as a radiator, or by wearing an ESD wrist strap.

When handling the RAM module you want to install, avoid touching the gold connector pins. Instead, hold the RAM unit by the plastic edges.

1. Shut down your laptop and unplug any power and peripheral cables.
2. If your laptop has a removable battery, remove this according to the manual’s instructions.
3. Open the case following any instructions in your owner’s manual
4. Locate the existing memory module and remove by pulling the side clips away to release it. Note how the previous RAM connected to the laptop to make the next step easier.
5. Install your new RAM module. Align the notches with the spaces in the slot, then firmly insert the RAM module. Don’t be alarmed if this action requires some pressure; just make sure everything’s aligned correctly and hold the card firmly as you insert.
6. Reinstall the battery if required and close up the case.

Congratulations: you’ve just learned how to install RAM in a laptop, and your computer should now perform much faster than before.

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The best USB microphones bring the quality of high-end audio recording into a simple-to-use computer peripheral. That means you don't need to shell out on an XLR microphone and preamp like you'd find in a studio – yet you can still get high-quality audio end results.

All that means that the best USB microphone can be used both by beginners – as they're simple to setup and use – but also by professionals. So if you're a podcaster, vlogger or musician then you may find that the best USB microphone for you will do the job without costing you too much. These are ideal for those just starting out as well as anyone more seasoned at audio recording.

For those recording in one place a cardioid mic, which aims forward, serves the purpose. For anyone looking to record the room, or two-people opposite each other, then a stereo, bidirectional or omnidirectional mic may be needed.

Pairing your chosen USB microphone with a decent audio editor is important so be sure to check out our guide to the best audio editing software. For musicians the best beat making software is also worth a look.

Once you've got your mic, you've got your editing software, are you good to go? It's worth also looking into a pop shield, to avoid distortion. A sound absorbing panel is also worth considering to give that studio quality finish, especially if you're in an echo-prone space.

Best USB microphones 2022

This list breaks down the very best USB microphones out there right now with a range of types, prices and stand-out features. They're organized clearly so you can pick out the one that suits you. If it's not on this list then you likely need not look into it as these are the best and most well-priced options you can buy right now.

1. Apogee HypeMic: Best USB microphone overall

The Apogee HypeMic blurs the lines between professional XLR microphones and USB microphones to give you the best of both worlds. That means top-end 24-bit and 96kHz recording quality but with a simplicity to use that means this can plug right into your computer or even iOS device.

The catch? This isn't cheap. But it's high-quality with a reassuring weight, useful physical controls like a gain knob and status LED, plus 3.5mm headphone output for zero-latency monitoring. 

This cardioid microphone has lots of presets meaning it works well for musical vocals as much as for podcasting or vlogging. It also comes with a useful stand and pop-shield making it portable while still getting you that studio quality finish wherever you find yourself. 

The rare analogue compression of this mic sets it apart from the other USB microphone competition, which helps to justify the price. For those that want premium audio recording, this is the way to go. That said, there is a pricer option that some may find even higher quality in the Shure MV7 which also has XLR, but more on that lower down the list.

2. JLab Talk Pro USB Microphone: Best affordable option

The JLab Talk Pro manages to keep its price relatively low while still cramming in lots of features and quality recording abilities. That means you get three condensers for cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional and stereo recording. So if you need a mic that can go anywhere and serve all kinds of needs, this is the one.

From recording a podcast alone to an interview on a vlog, to audio when out in the field – this will do it all. Crucially it does this with a 3.5mm audio out so you can monitor with zero-latency. It also offers valuable physical controls for volume and gain while displaying recording levels on the LED front display.

With 192kHz and 24-bit audio recording the quality of this is pro-level and the 10-foot braided cable included helps make this easy to use in your setup. How this all manages to stay under $100 is hard to grasp as this is a super powerful, impressive performing USB microphone.

3. Audio-Technica AT2020USB+: Best for build quality

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ microphone comes from a brand synonymous with quality and there is no difference here. The weighty microphone comes packaged with a plush bag, tough cable and metallic build quality that all feel pro-grade. Inside this theme continues with the fixed-charge back plate and permanently polarized condenser.

Capable of 16-bit and 44kHz quality, this might not have the numbers of some but the quality is fantastic thanks to the A/D converter hardware taking that sampling rate to its max.

You also have physical volume and monitor controls, useful when using that zero-latency headphone monitoring setup. The tripod is a little flimsy and takes some fiddling to get right. But with little else to complain about this is a powerful microphone for the money.

4. Shure MV7: Best dual USB and XLR microphone

The Shure MV7 is the microphone for anyone that wants both USB and XLR connectivity. As such it's also one that offers premium quality and professional level performance. The price reflects that as the most expensive on this list.

This is a microphone that's designed specifically for podcasting, meaning its single condenser cardioid build is made for forward facing with a single voice input. the fact this lets you record in both USB and XLR, at the same time, is fantastic as it can mean two quality recordings. A lower quality version is useful for editing and testing – a real pro-level feature here.

5. Beyerdynamic Fox: Best for quality on a budget

The Beyerdynamic Fox is another affordable microphone that offers far more than the price would have you expect. From a solid metallic build quality to an included pop filter, this immediately stands out. The audio does the same with high-quality 96kHz and 24-bit recording.

There are physical controls for volume and gain and you also get a zero-latency monitoring setup thanks to the 3.5mm output. Details like the orange USB cable – making it easy to spot in a bag – show how above-and-beyond this manufacturer goes when it comes to attention to detail.

Everything is super portable and easy to use making this great for anyone on the go a lot that wants pro-level audio but in a package that's easy to use anywhere.

6. Trust Rudox GTX 259: Best for gamers and podcasters

The Trust Rudox GTX 259 is a standout option as the price includes a useful reflection shield. That makes this single cardioid microphone superb for podcasters and gamers that want the clearest vocal audio possible. Even in larger spaces, or those with background noise like a machine running, this will shield the mic to focus only on the voice being picked up.

The stand is of a high quality with a reassuring weight. It's all super simple to setup and get running right away and the controls are physical, making it easy to use and tweak to ideal settings. Despite all these features this stands at a similar price to a lot of the competition making it a really compelling option.

7. Blue Yeti Nano: Best budget microphone

The Blue Yeti Nano is a sub-$100 USB microphone yet it still offers professional grade audio at 24-bit recording quality. Using analogue recording this quality can be heard immediately.

This features two condensers with cardioid, for podcasting, and omnidirectional, for most other uses, both included making this very versatile. The modes can be switched using a physical button and there is also an LED to make you aware of how it is working. More controls for volume and gain would have been a welcome addition though. There is an app dedicated to this which may work just as well for many people who have that setup.