Which antivirus choices are currently considered the best - both free and paid?

Hi there, big Q-man! ;)
 

Which choices are currently considered the best - both free and paid?

 

I'm running MB3 (paid) on my computer, with free Spywareblaster (SWB) and free WP to supplement.  I'm running various Windows laptops and desktops on W7 & W10.

I also need to look at options for my friend's computer, whose McAfee LiveSafe expired and has security programs on it that I've not heard of (ByteFence Anti-Malware [also expired] and PCKeeper Antivirus).  She's got a 2015 HP Envy all-in-one.  She's using W10.

 

Also, what are the currently recommended supplementary programs?  MBAM? SAS? SWB? WinPatrol? Spybot?  Which WP products are recommended?

 

I refuse to use AVG as I've noticed that they still do some funny things (like adding software without permission).

 

I'm also curious as to why I don't see Emsisoft being recommended here anymore...?

Thanks!

You may want to read:

• Choosing an Anti-Virus Program
• Supplementing your Anti-Virus Program with Anti-Malware Tools

The first topic includes choices for both free and pay for...it also includes my comments as to why I recommend Emsisoft Anti-Malware.

Links to some related discussion topics:

• What is a good free antivirus I can use for my new computer?
• Best antivirus for Windows 10
• Which anti-virus program are you using?
• Best Free Antivirus?
• Best Antivirus?

See my comments in this topic which includes what ransomware protection I use and a link to an updated list of other ransomware prevention tools.

Thanks!  Given the security problem that was reported about Kaspersky, I'm surprised it is on the list.  I'm also surprised to see AVG on the list given that AVG is sometimes bundled and sometimes gets installed surreptitiously.
 

But, what I'd really like to know is this: is my MB3 (paid) as good as, say, ESET and Emsisoft AM?  How does it stack up to the best free AVs, like Sophos and BD?  I had problems with it last year, but I got great support and got that straightened out.  Hoping it's improved.

I split your postings in the Antivirus, Antimalware, And Antispyware Resources thread into its own topic. Since you want to continue specific discussion and that thread is primarily for listing security resources.

As I noted in the other topic you posted...Some believe the targeting against Kaspersky is politically motivated.

Kaspersky Russian Spying Rumors: Should You Use This Antivirus?
Kaspersky Lab v. DHS: The Government's Response and Kaspersky's Reply

AVG is on the list along with others as alternatives so folks can make a choice. Being on that list does not necessarily mean it is recommended. I certainly do not recommend AVG for a variety of reasons and the same goes for avast.