The search for the best free antivirus for Mac has become increasingly critical, especially in 2024, as cyber threats evolve. With a plethora of options available, identifying the most reliable and effective antivirus software is essential for every Mac user. To simplify your search, we have compiled a list of the top 10 free antivirus products available on Amazon. This article will not only highlight these products but also provide a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best free antivirus for Mac tailored to your needs.
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
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| 1 |
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McAfee Total Protection 2024 | 3 Device | Cybersecurity Software Includes Antivirus, Secure VPN,... | $19.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 2 |
![AVG Ultimate 2024 | Antivirus+Cleaner+VPN | 5 Devices, 2 Years [PC/Mac/Mobile Download]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/519x8xeqT1L.jpg)
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AVG Ultimate 2024 | Antivirus+Cleaner+VPN | 5 Devices, 2 Years [PC/Mac/Mobile Download] | $34.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 3 |
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McAfee Total Protection | 3 Device | Antivirus Internet Security Software | VPN, Password Manager,... | $24.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 4 |
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McAfee AntiVirus Protection 2024 | 1 PC (Windows)| Cybersecurity software includes Antivirus... | $12.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 5 |
![Norton 360 Deluxe 2024, Antivirus software for 3 Devices with Auto Renewal - Includes VPN, PC Cloud Backup & Dark Web Monitoring [Download]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41aSszzCYmL.jpg)
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Norton 360 Deluxe 2024, Antivirus software for 3 Devices with Auto Renewal - Includes VPN, PC Cloud... | $19.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 6 |
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McAfee Total Protection 2024 | 5 Device | Cybersecurity Software Includes Antivirus, Secure VPN,... | $22.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 7 |
![Malwarebytes | Amazon Exclusive | 18 Months, 2 Devices | PC, Mac, Android [Online Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/4118eGOCJGL.jpg)
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Malwarebytes | Amazon Exclusive | 18 Months, 2 Devices | PC, Mac, Android [Online Code] | $29.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 8 |
![Norton 360 Deluxe 2024, Antivirus software for 5 Devices with Auto Renewal - Includes VPN, PC Cloud Backup & Dark Web Monitoring [Download]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41+R3WlQE6L.jpg)
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Norton 360 Deluxe 2024, Antivirus software for 5 Devices with Auto Renewal - Includes VPN, PC Cloud... | $34.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 9 |
![Avast Ultimate 2024 | Antivirus+Cleaner+VPN | 10 Devices, 1 Year [PC/Mac/Mobile Download]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41LTB6bLGsL.jpg)
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Avast Ultimate 2024 | Antivirus+Cleaner+VPN | 10 Devices, 1 Year [PC/Mac/Mobile Download] | $24.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 10 |
![Norton 360 Premium 2024, Antivirus software for 10 Devices with Auto Renewal - Includes VPN, PC Cloud Backup & Dark Web Monitoring [Key card]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41+rVGeRVPL.jpg)
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Norton 360 Premium 2024, Antivirus software for 10 Devices with Auto Renewal - Includes VPN, PC... | $24.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Top 10 Best Free Antivirus for Mac
1. Avast Free Antivirus for Mac
Avast Free Antivirus for Mac is highly regarded for its robust protection features and user-friendly interface. It offers real-time protection against malware, adware, and spyware. The software includes a password manager and network security scan, making it an excellent choice for protecting your online privacy.
One of the standout features of Avast is its ability to perform deep scans, identifying potential vulnerabilities in your system that other products may overlook. Additionally, it has a minimal impact on system performance, allowing for uninterrupted usage of your Mac.
The only downside is that the free version lacks some advanced features available in the premium version. However, for basic protection, it’s a solid choice in the realm of best free antivirus for Mac.
- THE ULTIMATE SUITE: Security, privacy, and performance in one all-powerful premium package.
- AVAST PREMIUM SECURITY: The ultimate in antivirus protection.
- AVAST SECURELINE VPN: The ultimate in online privacy.
- AVAST CLEANUP PREMIUM: The ultimate PC junk blaster.
- AVAST ANTITRACK PREMIUM: The ultimate in online anonymity.
2. Bitdefender Antivirus Free for Mac
Bitdefender is known for its strong virus detection capabilities and easy-to-use interface. The free version offers real-time protection against threats, along with web protection features that keep you safe while browsing. It’s lightweight and performs well without consuming too many system resources.
Bitdefender leverages cloud-based technology for threat detection and adds layers of security to its scanning methods, offering one of the best free antivirus for Mac options. Although the free version lacks customer support and some advanced features, it provides essential protection for everyday users.
- MCAFEE TOTAL PROTECTION IS ALL-IN-ONE PROTECTION — delivering award-winning antivirus for 3 devices, with identity monitoring and VPN
- ID MONITORING — we'll monitor everything from email addresses to IDs and phone numbers for signs of breaches. If your info is found, we'll notify you so you can take action
- BANK, SHOP, AND BROWSE ANYWHERE SECURELY WITH UNLIMITED VPN — protect your online privacy automatically when connecting to public Wi-Fi
- SECURE YOUR ACCOUNTS — generate and store complex passwords with a password manager
- AWARD-WINNING ANTIVIRUS — rest easy knowing McAfee will notify you of risky websites and protect you from the latest threats
3. Malwarebytes for Mac
Malwarebytes has earned a reputation for being highly effective at detecting and removing malware. While it is best known for its premium version, the free antivirus for Mac offers great basic functionality. It excels in the area of malware removal and can identify potential threats in real time.
One downside is that the free version does not offer real-time protection; it requires manual scans. Nevertheless, its speed in detecting malware and the ability to run alongside other antivirus solutions make it a valuable tool for maintaining your Mac’s security.
- Protects your identity and privacy from hackers
- Prevents virus, spyware, and malware infections (PC and Mac only)
- Detects and removes malware and potentially unwanted programs from a device that has already been infected
- Protects your documents, financial files, and photos from ransomware
- Keeps you safe from malicious and fraudulent websites (PC and Android only)
4. Sophos Home Free
Sophos Home Free is a cloud-based software that provides web filtering, parental controls, and ransomware protection. The software allows you to manage your Mac and up to nine other devices from a single dashboard, which is a significant advantage for families or small businesses.
Its user-friendly interface simplifies the monitoring of your device security, and the real-time malware detection is robust and effective. Sophos Home Free is an excellent solution for those seeking an all-encompassing, best free antivirus for Mac with added features beyond just antivirus protection.
- Consolidate your email protection with anti-spam, DLP, and encryption. We recommend Sophos Central Email Advanced for the best cloud-based email protection solution. If you require on-box email protection, this module offers essential anti-spam, DLP and encryption.
- Ensures always-on business continuity for your email, allowing the firewall to automatically queue mail in the event servers become unavailable.
- Provides protection from the latest spam campaigns, phishing attacks, and malicious attachments.
- Gives employees direct control over their spam quarantine, saving you time and effort.
- Unique to Sophos, SPX makes it easy to send encrypted email to anyone, even those without any kind of trust infrastructure, using our patent-pending password-based encryption technology.
5. AVG AntiVirus for Mac Free
AVG AntiVirus for Mac Free offers powerful virus protection alongside features like email scanning and website safety checks. The intuitive interface makes it easy for users of all experience levels to set up and run scans. AVG is well-regarded for its ability to detect and block a wide variety of malware.
While AVG does include some advertising for its paid plans, the free version adequately covers essential protection needs, making it one of the contenders for the best free antivirus for Mac in 2024.
- AVG ULTIMATE: Your all-in-one antivirus, VPN, and tuneup combo.
- OUR BEST SECURITY: Enjoy our advanced, real-time security for your computers, tablets, and phones.
- OUR BEST PRIVACY: Secure your privacy with powerful encryption so no one can see what you do online.
- OUR BEST PERFORMANCE: Improve the performance of all your devices with our specialized tools.
- OUR BEST TRACKER BLOCKER: Stop websites and advertisers from following you online.
6. Norton Security Lite
Norton Security Lite is known for its extensive security features, allowing for a lightweight but effective antivirus solution. Although it’s a scaled-down version of Norton’s premium offerings, it provides substantial protection for your Mac.
With real-time threat detection and a user-friendly interface, Norton Security Lite does an excellent job at keeping your system secure without taxing system resources significantly.
The primary drawback is that the free version has less in terms of additional features compared to the premium offerings. Nonetheless, it remains a strong player in the best free antivirus for Mac category.
![Norton 360 with LifeLock Select, All-in-one protection for your devices, privacy, and identity, 1 Year Auto-Renewing Subscription [Online Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/411HO5ze0dL.jpg)
- For new LifeLock subscriptions only at an introductory price
- ALL IN ONE PROTECTION Norton 360 with LifeLock Select offers protection for up to 5 PCs, Macs, smartphones or tablets, secure VPN and 100GB PC cloud backup.
- MILLION DOLLAR PROTECTION PACKAGE Includes up to $1M coverage for lawyers & experts, plus up to $25K stolen funds reimbursement and up to $25K personal expense compensation.**
- IDENTITY ALERT SYSTEM Monitors for fraudulent use of your Social Security #, name, address, or date of birth in applications for credit and services. Get alerts by text, phone, email, or app.***
- PRIVACY MONITOR helps reduce public exposure of your personal information. We scan common public people-search websites to find your personal information and help you opt-out.
7. Kaspersky Security Cloud Free
Kaspersky Security Cloud Free is an advanced antivirus program offering comprehensive online protection. The software features include real-time scanning, webcam protection, and a password manager, making it a robust option for Mac users.
As with some other antivirus solutions, Kaspersky’s free version lacks some of the more advanced functionalities like VPN services and privacy tools, which are available in the paid versions. However, the core functionalities are sufficient to satisfy most everyday users’ needs.
- ONGOING PROTECTION Download instantly & install protection for up to 3 PCs, Macs, iOS or Android devices in minutes!
- REAL-TIME THREAT PROTECTION Advanced security protects against existing and emerging malware threats, including ransomware and viruses, and it won’t slow down your device performance
- SECURE VPN Browse anonymously and securely with a no-log VPN while using public Wi-Fi Add bank-grade encryption to help keep your information like passwords and bank details secure and private
- DARK WEB MONITORING will monitor and notify you if we find your personal information on the Dark Web**
- 25GB SECURE PC CLOUD BACKUP store and help protect important files as a preventative measure to data loss due to hard drive failures, stolen devices and even ransomware***
8. ClamXAV
ClamXAV is a renowned open-source antivirus solution for Mac. It is particularly effective in scanning files, email attachments, and USB devices for potential threats. ClamXAV is straightforward to use and allows for flexible scheduling options for automated scans.
However, it may not provide real-time protection as effectively as some of its counterparts. Still, its robust scanning capabilities make it an attractive option for users looking for a classic antivirus solution without frills.
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9. Webroot SecureAnywhere Antivirus
Webroot SecureAnywhere Antivirus is known for its fast scans and rapid updates, ensuring that your Mac is protected against the latest threats. It is lightweight and does not slow down your machine, making it ideal for users who prefer a seamless experience.
The software offers essential features including real-time protection and browser protection, albeit more advanced options require a premium subscription.
Overall, Webroot offers solid basic protection, and its user-friendly nature will appeal to many Mac users in search of effective antivirus solutions.
- POWERFUL, LIGHTNING-FAST ANTIVIRUS: Protects your computer from viruses and malware through the cloud; Webroot scans faster, uses fewer system resources and safeguards your devices in real-time by identifying and blocking new threats
- IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION: Protects your usernames, account numbers and other personal information against keyloggers, spyware and other online threats targeting valuable personal data
- REAL-TIME ANTI-PHISHING: Proactively scans websites, emails and other communications and warns you of potential danger before you click to effectively stop malicious attempts to steal your personal information
- ALWAYS UP TO DATE: Webroot scours 95% of the Internet three times per day including billions of web pages, files and apps to determine what is safe online and enhances the software automatically without time-consuming updates
10. Aiseesoft Free Mac Cleaner
A separate but notable mention is Aiseesoft Free Mac Cleaner, which while primarily a cleaning tool, includes aspects of antivirus capabilities within its offering. It can help free up space and enhance the performance of your Mac, and while it doesn’t offer the full suite of protections, it’s a handy tool to have alongside your antivirus solution.
This software helps remove junk files and system caches, thus preventing any potential vulnerabilities that a cluttered system might present. While not a traditional antivirus, it offers some peace of mind in a different way.
- Ultimate Protection: Safeguard your MacBook screen from imprints and oil transfers with this premium microfiber screen cleaning cloth, a top choice for MacBook cleaner.
- Durable Microfiber: Made from high density microfiber, this screen cleaner cloth ensures effective cleaning and long-lasting use for all your MacBook accessories.
- Precision Design: Laser cut edges prevent fraying, making this cloth a reliable Mac screen cleaner and a must have among MacBook accessories.
- Comprehensive Cleaning: Remove fingerprints, smudges, dust, and grime from screens and smooth surfaces with this versatile microfiber screen cleaning cloth.
- Extra Large Size: Measuring 11.5 x 7.8 inches, this screen cleaner cloth is ideal for MacBook Pro 13", 14" and MacBook Air 13" and 15", providing thorough cleaning coverage.
Buying Guide for the Best Free Antivirus for Mac
Choosing the best free antivirus for Mac in 2024 requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure that you select software that meets your specific needs. Here are some aspects to keep in mind:
1. Protection Features
Look for antivirus software that offers robust protection against various types of malware, including viruses, spyware, adware, and ransomware. Real-time protection is a critical feature that constantly monitors your system for potential threats.
2. Performance Impact
It’s essential to select an antivirus program that does not slow down your Mac. Read reviews and consider products that have minimal system impact while still offering solid protection.
3. Usability
A user-friendly interface is vital, especially for those who may not be tech-savvy. The software should be easy to navigate and allow users to run scans, review results, and update settings without a steep learning curve.
4. Customer Support
Free antivirus versions may not offer comprehensive customer support; however, it’s good to check if any help services are available, whether that be through forums, FAQs, or live chat options.
5. Additional Features
Some free antivirus solutions provide additional features beyond basic protection, such as software updates, VPN services, or password managers. Determine what additional functionalities are necessary for your needs.
6. Compatibility and Updates
Ensure that the antivirus software is compatible with your MacOS version and check how often the software updates its virus definitions to ensure maximum protection against newly evolving threats.
In conclusion, with the increasing reliance on digital devices and the simultaneous rise in cyber threats, choosing the best free antivirus for Mac is more important than ever in 2024. By reviewing these top ten products and considering the buying guide, you can make an informed decision that will keep your Mac secured against potential threats. Remember to regularly update your antivirus software and remain vigilant about online security practices to maximize your protection.
Last update on 2024-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | votechriscarrillo.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.