Smartphones have become an essential part of our daily lives, storing personal and sensitive information.
Keeping them protected from cyber threats is crucial, but choosing the right antivirus software can be overwhelming, especially when considering budget constraints.
This article will highlight the top 10 best free antivirus for android smartphones, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision on how to keep your device secure.
Top 10 Free Antivirus for Android Smartphones
Below is a list of the 10 best free antivirus for Android smartphones that will help you keep your data secure.
#1. Bitdefender: Advanced real-time protection and privacy features.
#2. Avast Mobile Security: Complete mobile security suite with anti-virus, anti-phishing, and anti-theft features.
#3. AVG AntiVirus Free: Comprehensive security with anti-malware and anti-theft options.
#4. Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus: Advanced protection with real-time security scans and anti-phishing.
#5. McAfee Mobile Security: Comprehensive mobile security solution with anti-malware.
#6. Sophos Mobile Security: Advanced protection with real-time scanning, anti-phishing, and anti-malware capabilities.
#7. Avira Antivirus Security: Simple and efficient antivirus solution with real-time scanning and anti-phishing capabilities.
#8. Norton Mobile Security: Robust mobile security with anti-malware, anti-theft, and anti-phishing capabilities.
#9. ESET Mobile Security: Lightweight and user-friendly antivirus solution with anti-malware, anti-spam, and anti-phishing features.
#10. Malwarebytes Security: Intuitive Antivirus With a Few Extra features.
Our Top Picks: Find Out the Best antivirus software
What Exactly is Free Android Antivirus for Smartphones?
Free Android antivirus is the superhero that saves your smartphone from the dangers of the digital world.
Think of it as a shield that guards against malicious software, viruses, spyware, and other harmful elements that lurk in the shadows of the internet.
With just a tap of a button, you can equip your Android device with this powerful tool, making sure it stays safe and secure at all times.
This amazing software scans your device regularly, searching for any signs of danger, and it springs into action the moment it senses a threat.
So, if you want your smartphone to be safe from harm and keep your personal information secure, free Android antivirus is your best friend.
How to Choose the Best Free Antivirus for Android Smartphones
Here are some things to look for when choosing the best free antivirus for Android smartphones:
- Ease of use: The best antivirus programs are those that are easy to use and don’t require a lot of technical knowledge.
- Effective protection: The program should be effective at detecting and removing security threats from your device.
- Regular updates: The program should be regularly updated to ensure that it can protect against the latest security threats.
- Customer support: If you have questions or problems, the program should have customer support available to help you.
- Free trial: Many antivirus programs offer a free trial to try out the program before you buy it. This is a great way to make sure that the program is a good fit for your needs.
Also Read: How to Choose the Best Antivirus App For Android?
When choosing an antivirus program, finding one that meets your specific needs is important. Not all programs are created equal, so it is important to do your research to find the best one for you.
How to Install the Best Antivirus on your Android Smartphone
Here is a list of steps on how to install a free antivirus on your Android smartphone:
Go to the Google Play Store: Open the Google Play Store on your Android device and search for free antivirus software.
Choose an antivirus: Choose the one that you trust and that suits your needs.
Download the antivirus: Tap the “Download” or “Install” button to start downloading the software.
Grant Permissions: After downloading, Grant the necessary permissions.
Start the installation process: Once the permissions are granted, the installation process will start automatically.
Update the antivirus: After installation, it is important to update the antivirus to its latest version.
Run a Scan: Once the update is complete, run a full scan of your device to check for any threats.
Enable Real-time protection: Make sure to enable this option to ensure constant protection for your device.
By following these steps, you can successfully install a free antivirus on your Android smartphone and keep your device protected from various threats.
7 Benefits of using a Free Antivirus on your Android Smartphones
There are many benefits of using a free antivirus on your Android smartphone. Let’s discuss some of the most important benefits in detail.
#1. Protection against malware:
Malware is a big threat to any smartphone. Antivirus programs protect your device from malware attacks.
#2. Protection against phishing attacks:
Phishing is a type of online fraud in which criminals try to trick people into revealing personal information such as credit card numbers, passwords, etc.
Antivirus programs protect you from such attacks.
#3. Protection against viruses:
Viruses are malicious programs that can infect your smartphone and cause serious damage. Antivirus programs protect your device from viruses.
#4. Protection against spyware:
Spyware is a type of software that can secretly gather information about you without your knowledge.
Antivirus programs protect you from spyware.
#5. Protection against adware:
Adware is a type of software that displays annoying ads on your smartphone. Antivirus programs protect you from adware.
#6. Protection against rootkits:
Rootkits are a type of malware that can gain control of your smartphone without your knowledge. Antivirus programs protect you from rootkits.
#7. Protection against Trojans:
Trojans are a type of malware that can damage your smartphone or steal your personal information. Antivirus programs protect you from Trojans.
There are many other benefits of using a free antivirus on your Android smartphone. These are just some of the most important benefits.
Top 10 Free Antivirus for Android Smartphones
Below we have tried to give a detailed overview of the best free antivirus for Android phones.
#1. Bitdefender: Best Free Antivirus for Android Smartphones
| Feature | Bitdefender |
| Price | $44.99 (on 1st year) |
| Max Devices Supported | 5 devices for premium plans |
| Customer Service | 24/7 support, online forums, live chat, and email support |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30-day money-back guarantee for premium plans |
Bitdefender is a highly regarded security software that provides a range of antivirus solutions for various devices. When it comes to Android smartphones, Bitdefender offers one of the best free antivirus options available.
With a user-friendly interface, advanced threat protection, and real-time scanning, Bitdefender ensures that your device is protected against malware, viruses, and other cyber threats.
Whether you’re a casual smartphone user or a busy professional, Bitdefender’s free antivirus for Android smartphones is reliable to keep your device secure.
Key Features of Bitdefender Antivirus Free
- VPN integration for unblocking websites.
- When connected to a trusted Wi-Fi network, smart unlock unlocks apps.
- While browsing, use web protection to scan for adware and malware.
#2. Avast Mobile Security: Intuitive With Decent Virus Scanning
| Feature | Avast |
| Price | $69.99/year |
| Max Devices Supported | 10 devices for premium plans |
| Customer Service | 24/7 support, online forums, live chat, and email support |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30-day money-back guarantee for premium plans |
Avast Mobile Security is a free antivirus app designed specifically for Android smartphones. It is known for its intuitive user interface and decent virus-scanning capabilities, making it a popular choice among Android users.
With Avast, you can easily scan your device for malware and other threats, as well as keep an eye on your privacy with features such as app permissions.
Avast Mobile Security offers a range of additional features such as anti-phishing protection, anti-theft protection, and call blocking, all of which work together to keep your device secure.
Whether you’re looking for basic virus protection or advanced security features. Avast is a solid choice for the best free antivirus for Android Smartphones.
Key Features of Avast Antivirus
- App insights allow you to see how much time you spend on each app.
- Junk cleaner that removes the cache and residual files.
- To protect photographs from unauthorized access, use a photo vault.
- Web shield for safe web browsing
#3. AVG AntiVirus Free: Antivirus for Android Smartphones
| Product | Price | Max devices supported | Customer service | Money-back guarantee |
| AVG AntiVirus Free | Free | 1 | Email and forums | No |
| AVG Internet Security | $59.99/year | 10 | Email, phone, and live chat | 30-day |
| AVG Ultimate | $89.99/year | Unlimited | Email, phone, and live chat | 30-day |
AVG AntiVirus is a well-respected antivirus solution that is designed to protect Android smartphones from various cyber threats.
With AVG, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your device is protected against viruses, malware, and other malicious software.
Its features a range of security tools, including anti-theft protection, app lock, and privacy features.
With its simple and user-friendly interface, AVG makes it easy to keep your Android smartphone secure.
It is a reliable and best free antivirus for android smartphones.
Key Features of AVG AntiVirus
- Antivirus with two engines for removing viruses and other malicious content.
- Battery life can be extended by enhancing performance.
- Photo vault for securing photos.
- The website allows a surveillance agent to remotely capture photos and record audio from the phone.
#4. Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus: Free Antivirus With Customizable Protections
| Product | Price | Max devices supported | Customer service | Money-back guarantee |
| Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus: Free | Free | 1 | Email and forums | No |
| Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus: Basic | $14.99/year | 1 | Email and forums | No |
| Kaspersky Internet Security for Android | $14.99/year | 1 | Email, phone, and live chat | 30-day |
Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus is a free antivirus solution that provides comprehensive protection for Android smartphones.
With customizable protection, Kaspersky allows you to tailor your security settings to suit your needs.
Whether you’re looking for basic antivirus protection or advanced features, Kaspersky has you covered.
It is equipped with real-time scanning, which ensures that your device is constantly protected against the latest cyber threats.
With its user-friendly interface and robust security features, Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus is a great choice for those who want a free antivirus for their Android smartphone.
Key Features of Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus
- Call filtering to prevent unwanted and spam calls.
- Find My Phone to locate your phone if it is lost.
- Background apps scan downloaded apps for malware.
- Strong anti-virus, trojan, and malware protection
#5. McAfee Mobile Security: Intuitive With Decent Virus Scanning
| Product | Price | Max devices supported | Customer service | Money-back guarantee |
| McAfee Mobile Security | $24.99/year | Unlimited | Email, phone, and live chat | 60-day |
McAfee Mobile Security is your ultimate Android bodyguard, shielding your smartphone from the dangers of the digital world.
With a sleek and intuitive interface, McAfee makes it easy to keep your device secure.
Whether you’re browsing the web or downloading apps, McAfee’s decent virus scanning capabilities are always working behind the scenes to protect you.
But McAfee is more than just an antivirus app. It’s also a privacy warrior, with features like anti-theft protection and app privacy protection to keep your sensitive information safe. It is a perfect partner to have by your side in this digital age.
Key Features of McAfee Mobile Security
- Thief Cam is used to photograph intruders.
- Option to remotely wipe data in the event of a mobile phone theft or loss.
- Uninstall protection to prevent a thief from uninstalling the antivirus app.
- Android Wear device to support
#6. Sophos Mobile Security: Free Antivirus for Android Smartphones
| Product | Price | Max devices supported | Customer service | Money-back guarantee |
| Sophos Mobile Security Free | Free | 1 | Email and forums | No |
| Sophos Mobile Security Premium | $29.99/year | 10 | Email and phone | 30-day |
Sophos Mobile Security is your trusty Android sidekick, providing free antivirus protection for your smartphone.
With its sleek and intuitive design, Sophos makes it easy to keep your device safe from the perils of the digital world.
Its advanced threat protection scans your device in real-time, hunting down viruses, malware, and other cyber threats with precision.
But Sophos is more than just an antivirus app. It also keeps an eye on your privacy, with features like app permissions and anti-phishing protection.
It is the perfect companion for your Android smartphone, providing peace of mind in an increasingly connected world.
Also Read: Which Are The Best Free Antivirus for Android Mobile?
Key Features of Sophos Mobile Security
- Web filtering prevents malicious websites from being accessed.
- Password-protect apps.
- Wi-Fi security to keep you safe from eavesdropping by middlemen.
- Call filtering to avoid spam calls.
#7. Avira Antivirus Security: Effective Antivirus for Android Smartphones
| Feature | Avira |
| Price | $11.99/year |
| Max Devices Supported | 1-5 devices for premium plans |
| Customer Service | Email support, knowledge base, online forums |
| Money-Back Guarantee | 30-day money-back guarantee for premium plans |
Avira is a comprehensive and effective antivirus solution designed specifically for Android smartphones.
It provides reliable protection against viruses, malware, and other malicious software.
The antivirus software features real-time scanning, which continuously monitors your device for new threats, and also includes anti-phishing protection and anti-theft protection.
With its user-friendly interface and robust security features, it is a reliable and effective choice for anyone looking for the best free antivirus for android smartphones.
Key Features of Avira Antivirus Security
- A privacy advisor will demonstrate how apps collect your data.
- Camera and microphone protection to prevent snooping attacks
- Anti-ransomware software to defend against ransomware attacks
- Malware protection via the internet
#8. Norton Mobile Security: Antivirus for Android Smartphones
| Product | Price | Max devices supported | Customer service | Money-back guarantee |
| Norton Mobile Security | $29.99/year | 5 | Email, phone, and live chat | 60-day |
Norton Mobile Security is an antivirus software designed to protect Android smartphones from online threats such as malware, viruses, and cyber attacks.
With its advanced security features, it helps users safeguard their personal information and keep their devices secure while browsing the web or using apps.
Whether you’re using your phone for work or personal use, Norton Mobile Security offers peace of mind and reliable protection.
Key Features of Norton Mobile Security
- Wi-Fi scanning will alert you to any unsecured connections.
- While browsing, use Safe Search to flag potentially dangerous websites.
- Call blocking is used to muffle spam and unwanted calls.
- Sneak Peek allows you to photograph someone who is unauthorizedly accessing your device.
#9. ESET Mobile Security: Effective Free Antivirus With Customizable Protections
| Product | Price | Max devices supported | Customer service | Money-back guarantee |
| ESET Mobile Security Free | Free | 1 | Email and forums | No |
| ESET Mobile Security Premium | $9.99/year | 1 | Email and phone | 30-day |
With ESET Mobile Security features, it helps you safeguard your personal information and keeps your device secure while browsing the web or using apps.
With customizable protections, you can choose which features to turn on or off to fit your needs.
Whether you’re using your phone for work or personal use, ESET Mobile Security offers effective protection that is both easy to use and customizable.
Key Features Of ESET Mobile Antivirus
- Every app report is brought to you by security reports.
- A real-time scanner scans apps and files on the go.
#10. Malwarebytes Security: Free Antivirus for Android Smartphones
| Product | Price | Max devices supported | Customer service | Money-back guarantee |
| Malwarebytes Free | Free | 1 | Email and forums | No |
| Malwarebytes Premium | $39.99/year | 1 | Email, phone, and live chat | 14-day |
Your Android smartphone is a portal to the digital world, but with that access comes the risk of malware, viruses, and other online threats.
Don’t let these dangers ruin your smartphone experience – enter Malwarebytes Security.
This free antivirus solution is like having a guardian angel for your device, shielding it from harm with its powerful technology and user-friendly interface.
So sit back, relax, and let Malwarebytes Security take care of your online safety. After all, you have better things to do with your smartphone than worry about malware.
Key Features of Malwarebytes Security
- Speed booster to clean up your phone’s RAM and improve your gaming experience
Filter for calls and SMS. - Intruder Selfie captures images of anyone attempting to break into your phone.
Risks and Disadvantages of Using a Free Android Antivirus
Limited Protection: Best free antivirus for Android smartphones may not provide the same level of protection as paid antivirus solutions, and may not detect all types of threats.
Outdated Definitions: Free antivirus solutions may not receive regular updates, which could result in outdated threat definitions and ineffective protection against new threats.
Slowing Down Your Device: Some free antivirus for android smartphones may slow down your device, impacting its performance and speed.
Privacy Concerns: Some free antivirus solutions may collect and share user data, which could pose privacy risks.
Also Read: Best Free Antivirus For Android To Protect Your Smartphone
Lack of Support: Free antivirus solutions may not provide the same level of customer support as paid antivirus solutions, which could make it difficult to get help when you need it.
Conflicts with Other Software: Free antivirus solutions may conflict with other security software already installed on your device, causing issues such as false positive detections or reduced protection.
Incomplete Features: Free antivirus solutions may not offer all of the features included in paid antivirus solutions, such as parental controls, online banking protection, and backup and recovery tools.
Free vs. Paid Antiviruses for Android Phones
When it comes to protecting your Android smartphone from viruses, malware, and other online threats, you have two options: free antivirus software and paid antivirus software.
Both have their pros and cons, and choosing the right one for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Pros of Free Antivirus for Android Smartphones:
- No cost: The biggest advantage of free antivirus software is that it is free to use. You don’t have to pay anything to get basic protection for your device.
- Widely available: Free antivirus software is widely available and easy to download from the Google Play Store.
- Regular updates: Most free antivirus software receives regular updates to ensure the latest protection against new threats.
Cons of Free Antivirus for Android Smartphones:
- Limited features: Free antivirus software often has limited features compared to paid software. For example, it may not include real-time protection, anti-phishing, or a firewall.
- Slower performance: Free antivirus software can slow down your device due to the limited resources available to it.
- Ad-supported: Some free antivirus software is ad-supported, which means you may have to deal with ads or pop-ups on your screen.
Also Read: Comparison of Best Antivirus for Android Smartphones Free
Pros of Paid Antivirus for Android Smartphones:
- Advanced features: Paid antivirus software often comes with advanced features such as real-time protection, anti-phishing, firewall, and parental controls.
- Faster performance: Paid antivirus software has more resources available to it, which can result in faster performance and better protection.
- No ads: Paid antivirus software is typically ad-free, which means you won’t have to deal with annoying pop-ups or ads on your screen.
Cons of Paid Antivirus for Android Smartphones:
- Cost: The biggest disadvantage of paid antivirus software is the cost. You have to pay for the software, which may not be affordable for everyone.
- Automatic renewals: Some paid antivirus software automatically renews at the end of your subscription, which can result in unexpected charges.
- Limited options: There may be limited options available for paid antivirus software on Android, which can limit your choices.
Both free and paid antivirus software have their pros and cons. Ultimately, the choice between free and paid antivirus software for your Android smartphone will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Conclusion
Protecting your Android smartphone from potential threats and viruses is crucial in today’s digital world.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.
However, the ten best free antiviruses for Android smartphones mentioned in this article provide ample protection without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a casual smartphone user or a tech-savvy individual, one of these free antivirus options will surely meet your needs.
So, take a moment to review your options, and choose the one that gives you peace of mind knowing that your smartphone is protected 24/7.
FAQs on Best Free Antivirus For Android Smartphones
In this FAQ section, we will cover all the important information and answer some of the most common questions on the best free antivirus Android for smartphones.
-
What Are The Best Free Antivirus For Android Smartphones?
Some of the top free antiviruses for Android smartphones include Avast Mobile Security, AVG AntiVirus, Bitdefender Antivirus Free, Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus, and Malwarebytes.
-
How Do Free Antivirus Programs Protect My Phone?
Free antivirus programs work by scanning your phone for potential threats, such as malware, viruses, and spyware.
It then either removes the threat or isolates it so it cannot harm your device.
-
Do Free Antivirus Programs Provide Enough Protection?
While free antivirus programs provide basic protection, they may not offer all the features and protections that a paid antivirus program would.
It is best to use a combination of a strong password, careful downloading habits, and a good antivirus program for maximum protection.
-
How Often Should I Scan My Phone For Viruses?
Most antivirus programs for Android smartphones will run a scan on a regular basis, typically once a week. You can also manually initiate a scan at any time.
-
What Kinds Of Features Can An Android Antivirus App Provide?
A free Android antivirus app can do more than just detect and remove malware.
– Maintain the confidentiality of your personal information (We recommend Norton Mobile Security).
– Ascertain that you are connected to a secure Wi-Fi network (Norton can also do this).
– Prevent your device from being lost or stolen (Avira’s free Android app includes some particularly effective anti-theft tools).
– Most antivirus apps include paid premium features, and for every free app, there are dozens more premium apps.
– If you have sensitive information on your phone that you don’t want others to see, it’s always better to go with a low-cost premium option like Norton. -
How do I know if my phone is infected with a virus?
Signs that your phone may be infected with a virus include slower performance, battery drain, increased data usage, and pop-up ads.
-
Can A Virus Damage My Phone Or Steal My Information?
Yes, viruses can damage your phone or steal your personal information, such as passwords and credit card numbers.
-
What Is The Difference Between An Antivirus And A Mobile Security App?
An antivirus specifically protects your device from viruses, while a mobile security app provides a wider range of protection, including antivirus protection, as well as anti-phishing, privacy protection, and anti-theft features.
-
Can I Have Multiple Antivirus Programs Installed On My Phone?
No, it is not recommended to have multiple antivirus programs installed on your phone as they can interfere with each other and cause problems.
-
Do I Need To Pay For An Antivirus Program If I Already Have One On My Phone?
The antivirus that comes pre-installed on your phone may provide basic protection, but for more comprehensive protection, it is recommended to purchase a premium antivirus program.
-
How Can I Choose The Best Free Antivirus For My Android Smartphone?
When choosing the best free antivirus for your Android smartphone, consider factors such as the level of protection offered, the reputation of the software provider, user reviews, and the user interface.
-
Is An Antivirus Required When Using A VPN?
You don’t, but it’s a good idea to have antivirus software running in the background while using a VPN to access geo-blocked websites.
In the case of piracy websites, having an antivirus to scan the files you download is essential, as they may contain malware and trojan.
-
Can A VPN And An Antivirus Programme Coexist?
They absolutely can! You will have no trouble running both VPN and antivirus apps in the background. To avoid having two separate apps hog your RAM in the background, look for antivirus apps that include a VPN feature.
-
What are the benefits of installing an antivirus app on my Android smartphone?
There are a few benefits of installing an antivirus app on your Android smartphone.
– First, antivirus apps can help to protect your device from malware and other threats.
– Second, antivirus apps can help you to identify apps that may be harmful to your device.
– Finally, antivirus apps can help you to manage your device’s security settings. -
Will an antivirus app slow down my Android smartphone?
An antivirus app may slow down your Android smartphone. However, the extent to which an antivirus app will slow down your device depends on the app.
-
Is there any downside to installing an antivirus app on my Android smartphone?Yes, there are a few downsides to installing an antivirus app on your Android smartphone.
– You may see a decrease in battery life.
– You may see a decrease in performance.Finally, You May Have To Pay For Some Features.