Our Pick Of The Best Antivirus For Mac

One defining aspect of Bitdefender is its adaptability across different operating systems without requiring complicated adjustments. This wide-reaching compatibility ensures uniform security measures across diverse devices.

Its features, including identity theft protection, parental controls and advanced ransomware protection, offer more than mere antivirus protection. The identity theft feature monitors personal information, adding an extra layer of security. Parental controls provide peace of mind for families and ransomware protection guarantees the safety of important files.

In addition to its protective measures, Bitdefender offers a smooth experience by detecting and neutralising threats quietly in the background. This efficiency is vital for continuous, uninterrupted protection. Another intriguing feature is the inclusion of secured virtual private network (VPN) traffic and credit monitoring. These extend beyond traditional security measures, emphasising Bitdefender’s insight into broader digital security needs. The provision of a strong password management system enhances user convenience and adds another layer to the overall protection.

The ease of installation and management reduces the challenges of incorporating a new security system into daily routines. Whether tech-savvy or new to Macs, users find Bitdefender accessible and effective.

By combining diverse functionalities with attentive design, Bitdefender aligns with contemporary digital lifestyles. It fulfills more than mere security demands and resonates with an audience seeking a thoughtful and effective solution.

Learn more: Read our full Bitdefender review.

Who should use it: Anyone seeking extensive and adaptable security solutions for various Mac devices with no compromise on system performance.

Malwarebytes positions itself as a specialist in malware detection, particularly appealing for Mac users seeking something beyond conventional antivirus software. With various plans to choose from, it provides real-time protection against malware and other cyber threats. The ability to crush threats on 40% of devices that already have another antivirus installed gives an indication of its prowess in detecting problems that other software might miss.

What makes it particularly enticing are features, such as Browser Guard, which enhances web browsing by blocking malicious web pages, ad trackers and annoying ads. This not only protects the user but also contributes to a faster and cleaner browsing experience. Another attractive feature is the Privacy VPN, offered in some plans, which aims to secure online privacy without the usual lag associated with traditional VPNs.

The availability of different plans for different numbers of devices offers flexibility to both individual users and small businesses. Each of these plans is reasonably priced, offering value for the features and protection provided. With all these factors taken into consideration, Malwarebytes becomes a strong contender in the Mac antivirus market, providing specific solutions to targeted problems without complicating the user experience (UX).

Who should use it:

Mac users seeking specialised malware detection and an enhanced browsing experience.

Avast earns its distinction through a balanced approach that caters to various user needs without sacrificing efficiency or effectiveness. Versatility is a multifaceted concept and Avast’s alignment with this criterion is evident in several key aspects.

The software’s adaptability is seen in its compatibility with various operating systems, devices and networks, allowing users from different backgrounds to benefit from its protection. This flexibility does not dilute its strength, and Avast maintains a consistent level of security across different platforms, making it an attractive option for those in search of a one-size-fits-all solution.

Versatility is also manifest in Avast’s ability to provide effective protection in varying threat scenarios. From malware to phishing, the software offers a tailored defense mechanism that can adapt to the complexity and diversity of modern cyber threats. This adaptability extends to both individual users and larger corporate environments, attesting to Avast’s broad applicability.

Performance is often linked to how smoothly software functions and Avast excels in this regard, managing to run extensive scans without bogging down the system. The balance between proper protection and system efficiency is a defining trait of Avast’s versatile performance.

Avast’s ability to provide a consistent, adaptable and effective solution across diverse platforms and threat scenarios make it our choice in the category of versatile performance. This choice recognises the thoughtful engineering and adaptability that places Avast as a leader in this specific domain.

Who should use it:

Mac users seeking multifaceted protection against malware, insecure web browsing, vulnerable Wi-Fi connections and ransomware attacks.

G Data Antivirus for Mac is our top pick for comprehensive scanning and analysis, owing to its multifaceted approach in detecting and mitigating digital threats. This becomes evident through its real-time protection that continuously scans the system, identifying and addressing a broad spectrum of threats, such as viruses, Trojans and keyloggers.

One of its noteworthy features is the quarantine functionality, where it isolates suspicious files, providing an additional safety layer that protects against potential hazards. It doesn’t simply detect threats on Mac systems but extends its vigilance to Windows malware, ensuring that infected files are not inadvertently forwarded to other platforms.

It also shows a keen focus on user needs by offering manual scans of removable media, automatic updates and drag-and-drop functionality (something we haven’t seen before) for immediate scanning. G Data’s emphasis on phishing protection and blocking malicious links shows a well-rounded approach, ensuring a secure browsing experience across various browsers.

However, it’s not just about what it protects against, but how it does so. G Data’s clear user interface, coupled with easily selectable options for scanning, exhibits a consideration for user accessibility without sacrificing functionality.

Its sophisticated scanning and analysis tools offer a well-considered balance of thorough protection and ease of operation. Its focus on real-time scanning, cross-platform malware detection and phishing protection places it in a favorable position for those looking for a vigilant security tool for their Mac.

Who should use it:

G Data Antivirus for Mac is a suitable choice for Mac users, families and businesses in need of effective protection against various digital threats without impacting system speed.

AVG offers a distinct advantage in providing both basic and full protection packages, allowing a tailored approach that extends beyond generic antivirus solutions. Its basic protection ensures real-time defences against common threats, such as viruses, spyware and ransomware, blocking unsafe links, downloads and email attachments. More advanced needs are met through the full protection plan, including additional layers of ransomware protection, payment safety measures and anti-phishing functions.

A crucial aspect of AVG’s appeal lies in its flexible subscription system. Users can opt for a plan that ranges from a one-month commitment to multiple years, allowing adaptability to various lifestyles and budgetary constraints. The auto-renewal feature emphasises AVG’s ongoing support while clear communication regarding any price changes ensures a transparent relationship between the provider and the customer.

What adds more weight to AVG’s choice is its focus on continuous improvement. By offering automatic updates, AVG stays abreast of the ever-changing threat environment, providing users with the latest protection technologies.

The multilayered approach to security, flexible subscription terms, ongoing support and adaptive threat protection make AVG a fitting choice for Mac users with varying security needs and preferences.

Who should use it: Mac users in search of an adaptable antivirus solution with tiered protection offerings that align with their individual security requirements.

In an increasingly connected world where the line between personal and professional lives often blurs, Webroot provides the much-needed security that every Mac user seeks.

Webroot offers not only antivirus protection but a variety of features, including identity theft protection, real-time anti-phishing and fast scanning without slowing down your device. Its storage consumption is minimal, a mere 15MB, leaving ample space for the files and programs you love on your Mac. Additionally, Webroot has real-time threat protection to defend against the newest forms of malware and viruses.

The lightning-fast scans, with an average time of 20 seconds, mean that users can carry on with their tasks without interruption. Its cloud-based updates ensure that the software is always prepared to guard against the latest threats without the wait time. For those concerned about support, Webroot’s customer service is noted for its quality and availability around the clock.

What sets Webroot apart is its adaptive security approach tailored for Macs and its emphasis on user convenience. By focusing on essential protection without overloading the system, Webroot has created a product that doesn’t compromise on functionality or speed.

Who should use it: Mac users seeking quick and efficient antivirus protection without burdening their system’s storage or processing power.

We picked Avira Antivirus Pro for Mac users due to its balanced focus on security, privacy protection and accessibility. It offers a set of features that align with the unique needs of Mac users, going beyond mere antivirus protection. The heuristic analysis allows the software to detect newly emerging and mutating ransomware threats, a critical need in the fast-paced world of cybersecurity.

Its cloud-based threat detection system ensures that users are quickly immunised against new threats. Privacy is a concern for many Mac users and Avira addresses this by providing browser tracking blockers and ad-blocking extensions for popular browsers, including Chrome, Firefox and Opera. Its toll-free customer support and no-ad policy further add to a quality experience.

By focusing on not just thwarting malware but also providing a well-rounded security environment, Avira Antivirus Pro positions itself as a suitable choice for Mac users who need great protection without sacrificing usability or privacy. For Mac users who are navigating a world filled with complex and evolving cyber threats, the availability of these features in one package presents a valuable proposition. It’s this combination of adaptable security measures, privacy features and user-focused support that makes Avira Antivirus Pro a compelling pick for Mac users.

Who should use it:

Mac users looking for a balanced blend of security, privacy protection and accessible customer support.

McAfee provides a solution that extends beyond conventional antivirus protection, particularly resonating with Mac users. Its three different ways to scan Mac devices, including real-time scanning, on-demand scanning and scheduled scanning, provide a layer of adaptability that caters to different user needs. The inclusion of a firewall, with customisable options, strengthens its protective shield in recognition of the fact that Mac users are not completely immune to file-based threats.

A notable feature is the multi-device protection that encompasses the small business or the modern family’s diverse device pool, ensuring safety across Windows PCs, Macs, tablets and smartphones. McAfee has also made strides to cater to Mac users by offering Mac-specific antivirus and anti-malware capabilities, even extending a free trial to assure enhanced peace of mind.

The familial approach to protection allows each family member to set up and manage personalised protection, acknowledging the diverse online presence within a household. Emphasizing real-time threat protection and ease of use, it accommodates both seasoned users and those who might be new to the digital world.

What distinguishes McAfee, and why it occupies this particular category, is its specialised focus on Mac users, its flexibility in safeguarding various devices and its commitment to a broader perspective on digital safety, all without compromising the distinctive requirements of Mac systems.

Who should use it: Mac users seeking adaptable, multidevice security, including families with diverse device usage and individual privacy concerns.