I would use Windows Defender if you're using Windows 10, along with Malwarebytes as an on-demand scanner.
This is what I use on all our systems here.
I do not pay much attention to those AV lab comparisons or tests. Why? Because no matter how hard they try, or try to convince us otherwise, they are all synthetic. The real proof is out in the "real world". And in the "real world" just about any popular anti-malware solution is just fine. And since Windows Defender is already built in, stays current with Windows, and is 100% free (without ads or pressure to upgrade! :)) why not use it? If it was not effective, there would be 100s of millions of infected systems out there. And that just is not happening.
In fact, Windows 10 by itself (if kept updated) is the most secure Windows to date. W10 along with Windows Defender is so secure that it is nearly impossible for the bad guys to use brute force to compromise our systems. So many now focus on hacking corporate, government, and organization networks instead (like
Twitter). When it comes to home computers they rely on socially engineered methods of malware distribution. That is, they rely on the gullibility of humans by tricking them to click on unsolicited links, attachments, popups and downloads. That is, they put on a pretty face in the hopes the user will open the door and invite the bad guy in.
You don't need an Abrams Tank to be safe. You just need a recent car, keep it properly maintained and you must DRIVE DEFENSIVELY. Same with your computer. Keep Windows and your security program updated and avoid risky behavior. That is, avoid illegal activities on the Internet and don't be "click-happy" on unsolicited downloads, links, popups, or attachments - the exact same things you must do (or not do) regardless your primary anti-malware solution of choice.
It always amazes to see some folks immediately dismiss Windows Defender. Why would anyone think Microsoft doesn't known how to protect its own operating system from security threats?
Consider this: Microsoft is the
only company that makes security software that has a true incentive to rid the world of malware. Why? Because Microsoft knows they will be blamed if Windows gets infected - just as they did for years with XP even though it was the bad guys developing and distributing the malware, and Norton, McAfee, TrendMicro and all the others
who failed to prevent the infections!
Note that Norton, McAfee, TrendMicro and all the others have no financial incentive whatsoever to rid the world of malware. Why? Because if malware went away, those companies would cease to exist! Something to think about.
