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Windows Security (Defender) is competent for a careful user who patches, does not sideload random EXE files, and uses a password manager. Paid suites are for people who want a second opinion, a VPN bundle they might not need, or a parent who will not babysit every download.
Idle CPU cost
If a trial spikes fans on a quiet desktop, uninstall it. Bitdefender, ESET, and Microsoft’s own stack are the boring names that usually fail less. Avoid anything that installs a new-tab search hijack.
Ransomware rollback
A paid suite’s rollback is only useful if you test a dummy file. Backups on a disk that is not always mounted still beat a coupon SKU. OneDrive/version history helps; it is not a full backup plan.
When Windows Security is enough
It is enough for a single PC, unique passwords, and no piracy. Add a paid suite if you support relatives who click every “your computer is infected” pop-up. Skip extra toolbars either way.
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