Top 10 Best Antivirus For Mac In 2023

With the prevalence of cyber threats on the rise, it’s important to know how to protect your Mac from viruses, malware, and other malicious software. 

With so many antivirus programs available on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. This article will provide you with a list of 10 of the best antivirus programs for Mac. 

10 Best Antivirus for Mac in 2023

Make your Mac safe and secure with the best antivirus. From free options to premium antiviruses, here are our picks for the best programs to keep your Mac safe and secure.

#1. Intego: Best Overall Mac Antivirus of 2023

Intego is the best Mac antivirus of 2023. It offers the most comprehensive protection against malware, spyware, and other online threats. It also has a very user-friendly interface and is easy to use. 

Intego: Best Overall Mac Antivirus of 2023
Image Credit: Wikipedia

It is the best choice for anyone looking for comprehensive protection against all types of online threats.

Specifications

MacOS Compatibility10.9 Mavericks and later
Hardened/Secure BrowserNo
Browser ExtensionsNo
FirewallYes
Webcam ProtectionNo
Password ManagerNo
Ransomware file protectionNo
Parental controlsNo
Scan schedulingYes
Support optionsEmail, FAQs

Features of Intego

  • Malware protection in real-time.
  • Mac optimization and cleaning.
  • Backup application.
  • Adaptive firewall.
  • Parental authority.

Our Editor’s Choice: Best antivirus software

Pros of Intego

  • Intego is one of the most comprehensive and best Mac antivirus solutions available.
  • It offers excellent protection against all types of malware, including viruses, spyware, adware, and more.
  • Intego’s virus definitions are updated regularly to ensure that your Mac is protected against the latest threats.
  • The software is easy to use and has an intuitive interface.
  • Intego offers a wide range of features, including real-time protection, malware removal, and more.

Cons of Intego

  • Some users have reported that Intego slows down their Macs.
  • The software is not available for Windows or Linux platforms.
  • The price of Intego is higher than some other antivirus solutions on the market.

#2. McAfee Total Protection: Best for Mac Optimization

McAfee offers real-time protection against online threats, including viruses, malware, and phishing attacks. It also includes a firewall to protect your Mac from network-based attacks. 

McAfee Total Protection: Best for Mac Optimization
Image Credit: Wikipedia

In addition, it provides parental controls to help you keep your children safe from inappropriate content online. 

McAfee Total Protection is an excellent choice for Mac users who want comprehensive protection against all types of online threats.

Specifications

MacOS compatibilityMacOS compatibility
Hardened/secure browserNo
Browser ExtensionsYes
VPNNo
Parental controlsNo
FirewallYes
Password managerNo
Scan schedulingYes
Ransomware file protectionNo
Webcam protectionNo
Support optionsPhone and online chat

Features of McAfee Total Protection

  • Real-time malware protection.VPN (with unlimited data).
  • Password manager.
  • ID theft protection.
  • Scheduled antivirus scans.
  • Network firewall.
  • Web protection tools.
  • Anti-phishing.

Pros of McAfee Total Protection

  • Protects your Mac from viruses, malware, and other online threats.
  • Provides real-time protection against new and emerging threats.
  • Automatically scans your Mac for viruses and malware.
  • Blocks phishing attacks and other malicious websites.
  • Scans email attachments and downloads for threats.

Cons of McAfee Total Protection

  • May conflict with other security software.
  • Some features require a paid subscription.
  • Not as effective at removing existing malware as some other products.

#3. Bitdefender Total Security: Antivirus for Mac

Award-winning protection against all Internet threats, including viruses, spyware, phishing, and identity theft. 

Bitdefender Total Security: Antivirus for Mac
Image Credit: Wikipedia

Advanced security features include a firewall, parental controls, intrusion detection, and prevention.

Specifications

MacOS compatibility10.10 Yosemite and later
Browser ExtensionsYes
Webcam protectionNo
Password managerNo
Hardened/secure browserNo
Parental controlsNo
FirewallNo
Ransomware file protectionYes
Scan schedulingNo
VPNYes, but limited
Support options24/7 phone, email, chat, plus FAQs and forums.

Features of Bitdefender Total Security

  • Parental controls.
  • System optimization.
  • Ad blocker.
  • Anti-tracker.Time Machine Protection.
  • VPN (200 MB data per day per device).
  • Web security.

Pros of Bitdefender Total Security

  • Excellent malware protection for Macs.
  • Ransomware protection.
  • User-friendly interface.
  • Good value for money.
  • Parental controls.

Cons of Bitdefender Total Security

  • Some features require a subscription.
  • No live chat support.
  • Cannot schedule scans.

#4. TotalAV: Best for Mac

TotalAV for Mac is one of the best antiviruses on the market. It offers excellent protection against malware and has a very user-friendly interface. 

TotalAV is also one of the most affordable antiviruses, making it a great choice for budget-conscious users.

TotalAV: Best for Mac
Image Credit: TotalAV

TotalAV is compatible with all versions of macOS, from Mavericks to Catalina. 

It also provides protection against phishing attacks, system scans, and browser extensions that might be intrusive or malicious. 

Plus, TotalAV can scan for vulnerabilities and fix them with one click.

Specifications

MacOS compatibilityMac OS X 10.9 Mavericks and higher
Browser ExtensionsYes
FirewallYes
Hard DiskMinimum 1.5 GB of free disk space
CPU64-Bit Intel Core 2 Duo processor or higher.
BrowserSafari 6 or newer.
Password ManagerYes
VPNYes, (with unlimited data).
Webcam protectionYes
Support options24/7 phone, email, chat, plus FAQs and forums.

Features of TotalAV

  • Web protection.
  • Password manager.
  • Ad blocker.
  • Data breach monitoring.
  • Identity theft protection (US only).
  • Mac cleanup and optimization.
  • VPN (with unlimited data).
  • Network firewall.

Pros of TotalAV

  • Easy to use and install.
  • Lightweight and unobtrusive.
  • Excellent protection against malware and other threats.
  • Fast scanning speed.
  • Free trial available.

Cons of TotalAV

  • Limited features in the free version.
  • Some users have reported issues with false positives.
  • No phone or live chat support.

#5. Norton 360: Top Antivirus for Mac

Norton 360 is a comprehensive security suite that helps protect your Mac from online threats. 

It includes an antivirus engine, firewall, and web protection to block phishing attacks and other malicious websites.

Norton 360: Top Antivirus for Mac
Image Credit: Wikipedia

It also has a password manager and two-factor authentication to help keep your accounts secure. Norton 360 is available as a free trial, but you’ll need to purchase a subscription to continue using it after the trial expires.

Specifications

MacOS compatibility10.14 Mojave and later
Browser ExtensionsYes
Hardened/secure browserNo
Ransomware file protectionNo
Password managerYes
FirewallYes
Parental controlsNo
Scan schedulingYes
Webcam protectionNo
VPNYes, unlimited
Support options24/7 phone, email, chat, plus FAQs and videos

Features of Norton 360

  • Password manager.
  • VPN (with unlimited data).
  • Mac cleaning tools.
  • Web security browser extension.
  • Smart firewall.
  • Dark web monitoring.

Pros of Norton 360

  • It provides real-time protection against mac viruses, malware, and other online threats.
  • It’s fast and lightweight, so it won’t slow down your Mac.
  • The intuitive interface makes it easy to use.
  • You can schedule scans and updates, so you’re always protected against the latest threats.
  • Norton 360 offers a money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.

Cons of Norton 360

  • Norton 360 is a bit more expensive than some other Mac antivirus software.
  • The subscription required for some features can be a turnoff for some users.
  • Some users have reported that Norton 360 can be difficult to uninstall.

#6. MacKeeper: Best for Mac Optimization

MacKeeper is one of the best antiviruses for Mac. It offers excellent protection against viruses, malware, and other online threats. It also provides a variety of features to help keep your Mac running smoothly.

MacKeeper: Best for Mac Optimization
Image Credit: Wikipedia

MacKeeper is a great choice for those who want comprehensive protection for their Macs. It offers real-time protection against viruses and malware, as well as against phishing attacks and other online threats. 

It also includes various security features, such as a firewall and intrusion detection. MacKeeper provides some nice bonus features, such as a file shredder and a bootable backup drive.

Specifications

MacOS compatibilityMacOS 10.9—10.10.
FirewallYes
RAM2 gigabytes (GB)
CPU64-bit Intel-based processor, Apple M1, or newer.
Disk Space113 megabytes (MB)
VPNYes, unlimited
Support options24/7 phone, email, chat, plus FAQs and videos

Features of MacKeeper

  • Ad and tracking link blocker.
  • Data breach monitoring.
  • Mac performance & cleanup tools.
  • VPN (with unlimited data).

Pros of MacKeeper

  • Protects against the latest threats.
  • Fast and lightweight.
  • Easy to use.
  • Affordable.
  • 24/7 customer support.

Cons of MacKeeper

  • Some features require a paid subscription.
  • May not be compatible with all Macs.
  • Can slow down your computer.

#7. Panda Dome Essential for Mac: Effective Antivirus for Mac

Panda Dome Essential is one of the best antiviruses for Macs. It offers great protection against malware and viruses, and it’s also straightforward to use. 

Panda Dome Essential for Mac: Effective Antivirus for Mac
Image Credit: Wikipedia

Panda Dome Essential is available for free, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for a free antivirus for your Mac.

Specifications

MacOS compatibilityMac OS X 10.10 or later.
Password managerYes
FirewallNo (For Windows only)
Hard disk200 MB free space
VPNYes(150 MB per day)
Parental controlsNo

Also read: Best Antivirus For Windows

Features of Panda Dome Essential for Mac

  • Anti-phishing protection.
  • Real-time malware protection.
  • VPN (150 MB per day).

Pros of Panda Dome Essential for Mac

  • Real-time protection against viruses, malware, and other online threats.
  • Complete security for all of your devices with just one account.
  • Easy to use and install.
  • Fast and lightweight.
  • 24/7 support from Panda Security.

Cons of Panda Dome Essential for Mac

  • Some features are only available in the premium version.
  • Does not include a firewall.
  • Cannot schedule scans.

#8. Kaspersky: Best Antivirus for Mac

Kaspersky is a comprehensive program that offers protection against a wide variety of threats, including viruses, malware, and phishing attacks.

Kaspersky: Best Antivirus for Mac
Image Credit: Wikipedia

It also includes a number of extra features that make it a great choice for Mac users. 

For example, Kaspersky includes a VPN service that can be used to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your privacy online.

Specifications

MacOS compatibilitymacOS 10.12 Sierra or later
Browser Extensions Yes
Scan schedulingYes
Ransomware file protection No
Password manager Yes, but limited
Webcam protectionYes
FirewallNo
Parental controlsYes, but limited
VPNYes, but limited to 300MB per day
Hardened/secure browserYes
Support options24/7 phone, chat, or email support; FAQs and documents

Features of Kaspersky

  • Webcam protection.
  • VPN (unlimited data).
  • Anti-phishing.
  • Password manager.
  • Real-time protection.
  • Web protection and safe online shopping.

Pros of Kaspersky

  • Kaspersky provides comprehensive protection against all types of malware, including viruses, Trojans, worms, and spyware.
  • Kaspersky’s real-time protection technology delivers instant protection against new and emerging threats.
  • It is easy to install and use, and it comes with a free trial.
  • Kaspersky offers excellent customer support and a money-back satisfaction guarantee.

Cons of Kaspersky

  • Some users have reported that Kaspersky’s antivirus software slows down their Macs.
  • Kaspersky’s Mac antivirus software is not compatible with all versions of macOS.
  • Some users have reported that Kaspersky’s customer support is slow to respond to inquiries.

Also Read: How to Choose The Best Antivirus for macOS

#9. Avira Free Antivirus for Mac: Best for Mac Optimization

Avira Free Antivirus is a great option for those who are looking for a free antivirus solution. It offers protection against all types of malware, including viruses, Trojans, worms, and more. Also, it has a real-time protection feature that will scan your system for threats automatically.

Avira Free Antivirus for Mac: Best for Mac Optimization
Image Credit: Wikipedia

One thing to keep in mind is that Avira Free Antivirus does have some limitations. 

For example, it doesn’t offer ransomware protection or a firewall. However, it’s still a great option if you’re looking for basic protection against malware.

Also Read: Avira Free Download Antivirus

Specifications

MacOS compatibilityMacOS 10.15 (Catalina) or higher
FirewallNo
Password managerYes
Hard Disk500 MB free hard disk space
Parental controlsNo
VPNYes (150 MB/month)
Ransomware file protectionNo
MalwareYes

Features of Avira Free Antivirus for Mac

  • Password manager.
  • Basic optimization tools.
  • Real-time malware protection.
  • Anti-phishing and anti-tracking.
  • VPN (500 MB per month).

Pros of Avira Free Antivirus for Mac

  • Protects against viruses, malware, and other online threats.
  • Scans for vulnerabilities in your system and apps.
  • Blocks phishing attacks.
  • Includes a firewall to protect your network connection.
  • Automatically updates to the latest virus definitions.

Cons of Avira Free Antivirus for Mac

  • Does not include live support.
  • May slow down your Mac.
  • Limited features compared to a paid version.

#10. Malwarebytes: Most Cost Effective for Mac

Malwarebytes is a powerful, lightweight antivirus that can be used on both Mac and PC. It has a simple interface and is easy to use. 

Malwarebytes: Most Cost Effective for Mac
Image Credit: Wikipedia

Malwarebytes has a free trial with full features available, and a premium version for $39.99/year which includes real-time protection, automatic updates, and priority support.

Specifications

MacOS compatibilityMacOS 10.15 Catalina (minimum version 10.15.4), macOS 11 Big Sur, macOS 12 Monterey
FirewallNo
Ransomware ProtectionYes
Hard disk space250 MB of free space
VPNYes, (with unlimited data)
Exploit ProtectionYes
Browser ExtensionSafari, Chrome, Firefox,
Support options24/7 phone, chat or email support.

Features of Malwarebytes

  • Ad and tracking link blocker.
  • Data breach monitoring.
  • Mac performance & cleanup tools.
  • VPN (with unlimited data).

Pros of Malwarebytes

  • Malwarebytes is available in both a free and premium version, so you can choose the level of protection that’s right for you.
  • The Malwarebytes Anti-Malware engine is highly effective at detecting and removing malware.
  • Malwarebytes is easy to use and has a simple, intuitive interface

Cons of Malwarebytes

  • The free version of Malwarebytes only offers basic protection, so you may need to upgrade to the premium version to get full protection.
  • Malwarebytes doesn’t offer real-time protection against malware, so it won’t stop an infection from happening in the first place.

Comparison of the Best Antivirus for Mac in 2023

There are a lot of antivirus programs for Macs out there. It can be hard to decide which one is the best for your needs. 

That’s why we’ve put together a comparison of the best antivirus for Mac in 2023.

We have looked at features, performance, security, and ease of use to find the best antivirus for Mac. 

We have also considered pricing, so you can find an option that fits your budget.

AntivirusBasic PriceFirewallVPNFree Mac VersionMoney-Back GuaranteeRating
1. Intego$19.99YesPurchase separatelyNo30 Days9.5
2. McAfee$29.99YesUnlimited dataNo30 Days9.6
3. Avira$49.99YesUnlimited data (with Avira Prime) / 500 MB/day on free planYes60 Days9.0
4. Panda$44.24Yes150 MB/day on free planYes30 Days8.9
5. Kaspersky$41.96YesUnlimited data (with Kaspersky Plus and Premium)No30 Days8.9
6. Malwarebytes$44.99NoUnlimited data (with Premium + Privacy)Yes60 Days9.0
7. Norton$74.99YesUnlimited data (with all 360 plans)No60 Days9.1
8. Bitdefender$39.99Yes200 MB/day per deviceYes30 Days9.3
9. TotalAV$19.00YesUnlimited data (with TotalAV Internet Security)Yes30 Days9.1
10. MacKeeper$74.52 Per YearNoUnlimited dataYes14 days8.9

How Does Mac Antivirus Software Work?

Mac antivirus software works in a similar way to antivirus software for other platforms. 

It scans files on your computer for signs of malware and removes any infected files it finds.

It is important to keep your Mac antivirus software up to date, as new malware is constantly being created. 

Antivirus software providers release regular updates to their programs to ensure that they can detect and remove the latest threats.

Mac antivirus software can be run manually or set to run automatically at regular intervals. 

It is generally recommended to run scans regularly, especially if you download files from the internet or open email attachments from unknown sources.

How to Choose the Best Antiviruses for Mac in 2023

Before you buy or install Mac antivirus software, you should first determine what you truly require. Fortunately, this procedure is very similar to shopping for Windows antivirus software.

Do you own and use both Macs and Windows PCs? If so, a multiplatform, multi-device bundle such as Norton 360 Deluxe, Sophos Home Premium, or McAfee Antivirus Plus should be considered. 

Similarly, Bitdefender and Kaspersky offer internet security suites that include the same software that we’ve listed here.

Do you only have Macs in your house? 

Then there’s no need to go overboard: Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac or Kaspersky Internet Security for Mac’s one- or three-device versions should do.

Do you have any young children or teenagers? 

Consider Mac antivirus software like Kaspersky Internet Security for Mac or Sophos Home Premium, which includes parental controls or web-content filters.

The next step is to determine how much you can spend. If money is an issue, consider Avast Security for Mac or the free tier of Sophos Home. 

The disadvantage is that these are not as good as many paid programs.

If you can afford to spend $50 every year, you have a lot of possibilities. 

Most antivirus vendors routinely provide discounts of up to 60%, either directly from their websites or through online shops, at least on the initial purchase.

How We Test the Best Mac Antivirus Software

We have a dedicated team of Mac users who test antivirus software on a regular basis. 

Our testing process is designed to give each program a fair chance at detecting and removing malware.

We start by downloading the latest version of each program from the developer’s website. We then install the program on a clean installation of macOS Sierra. 

We make sure that all other security measures, such as a firewall, are turned off to give the antivirus program sole responsibility for protecting the system.

We then infect the system with various pieces of malware, including viruses, trojans, spyware, and adware. We observe how well each program detects and removes these threats. 

We also take note of any false positives, which is when the program incorrectly identifies a harmless file as being malicious.

After our initial round of testing, we may run additional tests if there are any red flags that need further investigation. 

For example, if one program consistently detects more threats than another, we will run more tests to see if this is an accurate reflection of its abilities or if it is simply triggering more false positives.

Once our testing is complete, we compile our results and publish them in our annual roundup of the best Mac antivirus software.

Top 5 Best Tips for Securing Your Mac 

It is important to be familiar with the steps to secure your Mac. To help you out, below are the steps for securing your Mac.

#1. Turn on your firewall

The firewall serves as your first line of defense against any security threats. 

To enable your firewall, navigate to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Firewall

To make changes, click the padlock icon in the lower-left corner of the window and enter your password. 

Then click the Turn On Firewall button. Select Firewall Options for more advanced tuning.

#2. Avoid opening unknown files

Never open email attachments or other files received from unknown or suspect sources. Examine the email and the name it appears to be from.

#3. Be careful of software providers

Install software only from trusted sites you know you can trust, and avoid downloading pirated software.

#4. Make use of strong passwords

Make sure your Mac, as well as all of your local and internet accounts, are secured with strong passwords of at least eight characters. 

Check Which Antivirus Software Is Best?

Numbers, letters (both upper and lowercase), and special characters should all be included in passwords. Here you may put your password strength to the test.

#5. Maintain software updates

Always keep your Mac and software up to date. Not from pop-ups, but from the developers’ websites or the App Store.

What Should I Look for in Mac Antivirus Software?

Look for the following features in antivirus software:

#1. Performance: 

First and foremost, the best antivirus can detect, prevent, and remove all sorts of malware, including viruses, worms, adware, and others. 

Antivirus software should also be capable of detecting phishing attempts. 

Our Best Antivirus Software for Macs of 2023 and Best Antivirus Software of 2023 evaluations can direct you to lists of efficient antivirus programs.

#2. Pricing: 

Only purchase programs that have the ability to cover all of your PCs, tablets, phones, and other devices.

#3. Ease of Use: 

If the software offers a free trial, take advantage of it to ensure that the program is simple to use and does not slow down your computer.

Conclusion: Best Antivirus for Mac

With the ever-growing threat of cybercrime, having the best antivirus for Mac is more important than ever. 

We have provided you with 10 of the best antiviruses for Mac to help make sure that your data and personal information are protected from malicious attacks. 

Take the time to research your options and choose a platform that works well with your computer’s system software so that you can keep it safe and secure all year round.

FAQs – Best Antivirus for Mac

We Have Discussed Antivirus Software for Macs and Mac Security Tips Previously. 

To Gain A Better Understanding Of The Best Mac Antivirus See below for answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs).

  1. Which Mac Antivirus Software Is The Best?

    Intego is the best antivirus software for Mac, according to my team and my tests. 

    It’s cheap, offers an outstanding set of tools that outperform some of Apple’s built-in security measures, and is the only antivirus on this list that’s made particularly for macOS. 

    This means you can rely on Intego to defend you from the most recent Mac-specific attacks. With its money-back promise, you may test Intego risk-free.

  2. Does Apple recommend any antivirus software?

    All Macs come with XProtect, Apple’s proprietary antivirus software. XProtect analyses all programs and files for viruses and malware using a threat database that Apple updates on a daily basis. 

    If XProtect finds malware in a file or application, it alerts the user and prevents the download.

  3. Why Do Macs Need Antivirus Software?

    A prevalent misconception about Mac devices is that they are immune to virus infection. 

    While the risk of antivirus is lower for Mac computers than for Windows systems, Mac devices can nonetheless receive viruses. To secure your computer, you must install an antivirus.

  4. Which Free Antivirus is best for Mac?

    There are a lot of antivirus programs out there and it can be hard to know which one is the best for your Mac. Here is a list of the best free antivirus programs for Mac.

    – Intego VirusBarrier X96.
    – McAfee VirusScan for Mac
    – Sophos Home
    – Avast Free Mac Security
    – AVG AntiVirus for Mac

  5. How Do I Scan My Mac For Viruses?

    If you’re worried that your Mac might be infected with a virus, there are a few ways you can scan for viruses and remove them if necessary.

    First, you can use Apple’s built-in malware scanner, which is called XProtect

    To use this, simply open your System Preferences and go to the Security & Privacy pane. Then, click on the FileVault tab and make sure that “Scan for known malware” is checked. 

    This will scan your system for any known malware and remove it if found.

    Alternatively, you can use a third-party antivirus program to scan your system for viruses. 

    There are many different options available, so be sure to do some research to find one that suits your needs.

  6. Can Mac get viruses from websites?

    The Answer Is Yes! Mac can get viruses from websites. While Macs are less susceptible to viruses than PCs, they are not immune. 

    There are a number of ways that your Mac can get infected with a virus, including through email attachments, downloading infected files, and visiting infected websites.

    Be careful what you download, and only download files from trusted sources. If you’re not sure whether a file is safe, don’t download it.

  7. Is Free Antivirus Enough To Secure Your Mac?

    The majority of free antivirus software only provides rudimentary protection. 

    Although basic protection may do for most individuals, businesses should invest in a paid antivirus with sophisticated security features. 

    For sophisticated threats like ransomware, a free antivirus program is insufficient.

  8. What exactly is antivirus software?

    Antivirus software protects you against hackers. Cybercriminals’ harmful programs will be scanned and removed by the software. 

    In addition, the software helps safeguard your computer from adware and ransomware threats.

  9. Is it possible for my Mac to have a virus even if I don’t download anything from the internet?

    Yes, even if you don’t download anything from the internet, you can get a virus on your Mac. Viruses can spread in a variety of ways, including email attachments, compromised websites, and malicious software disguised as legitimate software.

    Even if you are cautious about what you download and only visit reputable websites, you may be infected with a virus. Even if you’re cautious about what you download and browse online, you should have an antivirus program installed on your computer.

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