10 Best Antiviruses for Mac [2022]: Free & Paid (with Discounts)

I tested and compared 67 antiviruses in order to identify the best protection for Mac computers. They are able to detect and block Mac-specific malicious software, as well as improving upon Apple’s already-built-in protections.

I was not surprised to see that the majority of antiviruses focus only on protecting your PC. They don’t provide any better protection than Apple’s own security features, or they ignore Mac security.

I did find a few Mac antiviruses which were far superior to the rest. They had features such:

• Real-time malware detection.
• Comprehensive antivirus scanner.
• Ransomware protection.
• Network firewall.
• Anti-phishing.
• Mac cleanup, optimization tools.

Each of the antiviruses on this list adds additional functionality to Apple’s built-in security features. They include enhanced firewall protection and safer browsing with Safari. Some even offer better backup functionality than Apple’s Time Machine. All are affordable, simple-to-use and 100% secure.

Quick summary of the best Mac antivirus software for 2022:

• 1.🥇 Intego — Best overall macOS antivirus and anti-malware protection in 2022.
• 2.🥈 McAfee — Excellent anti-malware engine with a good range of cybersecurity protections.
• 3.🥉 TotalAV — Easy-to-use internet security suite, great for beginners.
• 4. Norton — Advanced malware scanning with great web protections.
• 5. Bitdefender — AI-based virus scanner with excellent ransomware protection.
• 6. MacKeeper — Best for Intuitive Security Management
• 7. Avira Free Antivirus for Mac — Best Free Mac Antivirus
• 8. Panda Essential for Mac — Good Choice for Beginners
• 9. Kaspersky Internet Security for Mac — Decent macOS Malware Protection
• 10. Airo AV — Lightweight Software for Mac

🥇1. Intego — Best Overall Mac Antivirus of 2022

Intego, the best Mac antivirus program that I tested, has the highest malware detection rates. Additionally, it offers many Mac-focused cybersecurity optimization features.

Intego was tested against the most advanced Mac malware that I could locate, and it detected and blocked 100% all of my test items, including trojans, ransomware, or spyware.

Intego’s malware scanner is extremely fast. This is because Intego’s file scanning technology — which skips over any files it already scans – makes subsequent scans faster.

Intego has also:

• Real-time malware protection.
• “Smart” firewall.
• Parental control.
• Mac optimization and cleanup.
• Backup tools.

NetBarrier by Intego is far better than the macOS-based firewall. NetBarrier automatically alters your firewall settings based upon where you are — whether you are at home, at work or on a public Wi Fi network. NetBarrier makes it easy to grant or block permissions to programs that attempt to connect to internet. This will prevent unsavory apps like Spybots from accidentally sending your personal data to unwelcome areas.

Intego’s Personal Backup backup function was also a big hit with me. It is almost like Apple’s Time Machine but far better! Personal Backup helped me back up my whole iMac, including OS X. I then quickly backed the backup onto my MacBook. Now my MacBook looks almost exactly the same as my iMac.

Intego’s cheapest plan Mac Internet Security X9 offers essential antivirus protection with Intego’s firewall. Mac Premium Bundle X9, which adds parental controls, system optimization, and Personal Backup, is more expensive at D912,980 /year.

Bottom line:

Intego, the best antivirus engine for Mac users, offers excellent Mac-based virus detection rates, advanced internet security protections and Mac optimization tools. Intego has many additional features that vastly improve on Apple’s existing security features. All features can be tested risk-free with Intego’s 30-day refund guarantee.

🥈2. McAfee Total Protection — Comprehensive Antivirus & Internet Security Suite

McAfee offers one of the most reliable antimalware engines for Mac — it blocked all of my macOS malware and ransomware sims that were launched during my testing. It also detected spyware and keyloggers.

McAfee’s web security was also impressive. It blocked all of the phishing and dangerous sites I tried to access with Safari.

McAfee features really excellent features that are built on top of macOS security tools, such as:

• Real-time malware protection.
• Scheduled virus scans.
• Network firewall.
• Website protection tools.
• Anti-phishing.
• VPN is a virtual private network.
• ID theft protection.

McAfee macOS software is lacking many tools, but it does have the most important security features. McAfee has a firewall that is much better than the macOS’ built-in firewall. This firewall is very user-friendly and can be set up by anyone. More advanced users can customize the firewall’s settings to improve their network security.

McAfee Total Protection starts from D912,980/year. This includes coverage up to 10 Macs. But, the subscription can also be used to cover Windows and Android devices.

Bottom Line

McAfee provides a strong anti-malware platform that stops me from visiting dangerous sites via Safari. McAfee Total Securitycovers 10 devices (including smartphones), and comes with a 30-day refund guarantee.

🥉3. TotalAV — Best for Mac Optimization

TotalAV offers strong internet security, and Mac optimization tools. TotalAV’s antivirus software was able to detect all Mac-based malware samples and performed nearly flawlessly in my tests. However, TotalAV’s real-time engine failed a few simulated zero-day malware attack attempts.

TotalAV has a very high detection rate, but it is also easy to use. TotalAV brings together all the features in one intuitive dashboard. It’s perfect for people with limited tech skills.

TotalAV also includes:

• Mac cleanup & optimization.
• VPN (with unlimited Data).
• Network firewall.
• Web protection.

TotalAV’s Mac optimization tool, which includes junk file removal and a manager for startup programs, is a great choice. All of these tools significantly improved my Safari browsing experience, and my system speed during testing.

TotalAV’s VPN also impressed me. I tested it on several servers across the globe and was able secure access to streaming and torrenting sites. It comes bundled as an antivirus and is one of the fastest VPNs. There was no lag when streaming, downloading, or browsing.

TotalAV’s firewall doesn’t have the same controls or extra functionality as McAfee, Intego, and McAfee firewalls. It is still functional, however, and it blocked all of the simulated network attacks.

TotalAV’s Antivirus Pro (D662,070/year), covers three devices and includes the anti-virus scanner and web protections. The Internet Security package (D890370/year), covers 5 devices and includes the VPN. The Total Security Package (D1,346,970/year), covers 6 devices. It also includes an ad blocking and a password manager.

Bottom Line:

TotalAV is extremely easy to use and includes a large number of security features. TotalAV’s Mac optimization tool was a big help to me. I also really liked the included VPN which performed very well across all servers and had fast speeds. Although Intego has a better firewall than TotalAV’s I still think TotalAV’s is superior. TotalAV packages come with big discounts on their first year, as well as a 30-day money-back warranty.

4. Norton 360 — Best for Web Security

Norton 360 uses an advanced antimalware engine that detected all malware samples against my iMac.

Norton 360also provides a range of features for Macs.

• Web security browser extension.
• Password manger.
• VPN (with unlimited Data).
• Mac cleaning and maintenance tools.

Norton’s range web security browser extensions “Safe Web” & “Safe Search”, are both compatible with Safari. These extensions do a better job of blocking phishing and other malicious sites than Safari.

Norton’s password manger is available as a browser extensions for Safari. It makes it super easy to store logins as well as keep passwords current.

Norton offers many features but its dashboard does not support Macs. It displays features such as cloud backup and parental controls that are only available on Windows PCs. Norton’s Mac-based antivirus software is not the same as Norton’s Windows software. It was ranked as the top antivirus of 2022.

Norton’s 360 plans still offer great value at D342,230/year. Norton 360 Standard provides protection for one device. This includes antivirus and web security, device optimization tools, and VPN. Norton 360 Deluxe includes coverage for up five devices, and parental controls are available (for non-Mac) while Norton 360 with LifeLock adds protection against identity theft and $1,000,000 coverage for identity damage (only for US users).

Bottom Line

Norton 360for Mac is a robust antivirus program that protects against malware and offers a range of online security tools. I love Norton’s web browser extensions, which enhance Safari’s protections. Norton could improve its macOS software. It’s currently an exact copy (with many features disabled) of its Windows version. Norton’s Mac protection remains high, and you can still try it risk free for 60 days, with a 60 day money-back guarantee.

5. Bitdefender Total Security — Great macOS Ransomware Protections

Bitdefender total security includes an extremely advanced anti-malware system that uses artificial Intelligence (AI) to detect threats before they cause damage — Bitdefender stopped all of the ransomware, as well as other macOS-based malware.

Bitdefender also offers some cool additional features like:

• Time Machine backup security.
• VPN (200 MB per day).
• Web security.

Bidefender’s Time Machine protections, which protect backup files from ransomware attack designed to encrypt them, impressed me. So even if you were attacked by ransomware, you can still restore your system with the most recent Time Machine back up! I still think Intego has better backup tools. They offer more customization options, and are slightly simpler to use.

Bitdefender’s web safety features are also very effective. These features worked well with Safari. They showed me which website links were safe and dangerous, something that Safari doesn’t by default.

Bitdefender’s VPN also appeals to me — it is one of the most efficient and lightweight VPNs available. The only problem is that it limits you to 200MB per day. This isn’t enough data for browsing and streaming video. The premium VPN is available at checkout for a very affordable price.

Bitdefender Mac Protection is available only on the Bitdefender Total Security plan. This plan covers 5 devices (including Androids and iOS) at a cost of D821,880 per annum.

Bottom Line

Bitdefender offers excellent protection against macOS ransomware and malware. The web security tools of Bitdefender are great, as well as the Time Machine backup and protections. However, the VPN should offer unlimited data. Bidefender’s Total Security plans are good. Even though the daily data cap is 200 MB, you can still try it risk-free and get a 30-day refund.

6. MacKeeper — Best for Intuitive Security Management

MacKeeper is extremely user-friendly and has excellent security features. I was able to detect most malware samples, which were quickly removed from my system. MacKeeper also didn’t slow my device down during system scans. This allowed me to continue working, watching video, and running CPU-intensive programs without interruptions.

MacKeeper also features:

• VPN (with unlimited Data).
• Ad blocker and tracking link blocker.
• Identity theft protections.
• Mac Performance & Cleanup Tools.

MacKeeper makes it easy to use all of its internet security features. Only one click is required to activate the VPN. It’s integrated into MacKeeper Dashboard. Safari seamlessly integrates the ad/tracking link blocker which, during my tests, blocked hundreds upon hundreds of ads.

MacKeeper also has identity theft tools that I like. This made it simple to see if any online accounts linked with my email address were hacked.

MacKeeper’s lack of parental controls or a firewall is a problem. These features are available in Intego.

MacKeeper plans have the same features. Prices vary depending on whether you choose a longer subscription or how many devices to be protected. You have three options: a monthly subscription to 1 Mac (D249990/month), a annual subscriptions for 1 Mac (3D917770/year) or a yearly membership for 3 Macs (3D1,150,640/year).

Bottom Line:

MacKeeper features a large range of intuitive security options, such as a VPN or an ad/tracking link blocker and identity theft protections. MacKeeper has an excellent antivirus scanner that detects almost all malware files and causes no system slowdown. MacKeeper can be used by anyone, including those with no technical skills. MacKeeper can be tried risk-free for 14 days with a money-back promise.

7. Avira Free Antivirus for Mac — Best Free Mac Antivirus

Avira Free Antivirus for Mac features one of most powerful malware scanners. It found every piece of malware I downloaded and performed a complete system scan in just 40 minutes. (Faster than most competitors!) It didn’t slow down my system’s performance when I was using CPU intensive video editing software.

Avira also provides a wide range of free features.

• Real-time malware protection.
• Antiphishing and anti-tracking.
• VPN (500 MB per month).
• Password manger.

Avira’s anti-phishing, anti-tracking protections were very effective. They caught almost all of the phishing sites that I attempted to open. Also, they prevented companies tracking my data as I browse. Avira’s browser Extension includes these protections and a cool tool that allows you to find the best online deals. Unfortunately, the extension isn’t available on Safari. It works only with Chrome, Firefox, Opera.

Avira VPN is also something I like. It provided me with an anonymous, fast and steady internet connection when I tested it. I was able watch streaming videos and had no DNS leaks. Avira’s free VPN has a limit of 500 MB per month. This is enough to browse the internet for approximately 6-7 hours per week or to view 1 episode of a TV Show (which isn’t a lot). ).

Avira Free Antivirus Mac provides all the essentials including malware scanning, web protections, and limited VPN. But, those who want more functionality should upgrade to Avira Prime, which gives you unlimited browsing data and advanced Mac optimization and cleaning tools. Coverage for up to 5 devices is available for D1,369-580 per annum.

Bottom Line

Avira Antivirus for Mac – It is my favorite free Mac antivirus. It has a very good malware scanner as well as excellent anti-tracking, anti-phishing, and anti-tracking protections. Avira VPN is good, but 500 MB per year isn’t enough to download 1 episode of a TV series. Avira Prime provides unlimited browsing data, advanced Mac optimization, cleaning tools and coverage for up to five devices.

8. Panda Essential for Mac — Good Choice for Beginners

Panda for Mac is an antivirus that provides good protection against Mac-based malicious software — Panda’s malware engines caught more than 98% (it missed two tricky spyware files, as well as one trojan) which were all detected by top antivirus products like Intego McAfee or Norton.

Panda’s malware scan took me almost six hours to complete my system scan. Most competitors do full scans in two hours. Panda was a lot faster!

Panda offers a few additional features, aside from the malware scanner.

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

Panda’s VPN wasn’t as impressive as I thought. I was impressed by Panda’s antiphishing protections, which blocked almost all of the phishing site I tried to access during testing. The VPN doesn’t limit you to 150 MB per daily. It also doesn’t allow you to select the server to which you want to connect. You might experience significant slowdowns if you cannot connect to a server closest to you.

Panda Premium Mac Upgrade (D1,529-390 per Year) provides unlimited browsing data, multi-device coverage and the ability to choose the server that you want to connect to.

Bottom Line:

Panda Essential Mac is an antivirus that does not require any additional software and provides strong protection against Mac malware. It provides decent anti-phishing and VPN protection. You cannot choose the server to which you want to connect, and the VPN only allows you to access 150 MB per month. Panda Premium is available for Mac. This gives you unlimited VPN coverage and no restrictions. All Panda purchases come standard with a 30-day refund guarantee

9. Kaspersky Internet Security for Mac — Decent macOS Malware Protection

Kaspersky’s Mac antivirus engine performed well in my tests — it detected over 95% malware samples I downloaded to my test iMac.

Kaspersky does not have many extra features but it includes all the basics, including:

• Secure online shopping.
• Protection of webcams.
• VPN (300 MB per day).

Kaspersky’s online shopping safety feature makes it easy to shop online without worrying about hackers. Kaspersky also offers webcam protections for Mac users, which is a rare feature in Mac security software.

Kaspersky Internet Security for Mac is only D912,980 per year. However, it’s not the most valuable antivirus on this list. Intego and McAfee have more features and are similar in price.

Bottom line:

Kasperksky provides Mac users with a high level of malware protection as well as a few decent internet security tools. However, Kaspersky’s Mac version has webcam protections and an online shopping protection. It also offers a VPN (limited at 300 MB per day). Kaspersky is risk-free. You can use its 30-day money back guarantee.

10. Airo AV — Lightweight Software for Mac

AiroAV is a lightweight antivirus that is exclusively designed for Mac users. It only takes a fraction my Mac’s CPU power, which is great news for Mac users who use CPU-intensive applications on their Macs, such as video editing software and gaming apps.

Airo AV’s simplicity is what I love the most. It has a simple design with all the features easily accessible. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone who doesn’t have the time or desire fancy features.

Airo AV isn’t packed with many features but it does include a browser security extension that plugs directly into Safari. It protects against malicious pop-ups and phishing links appearing in search results.

The software is well-designed and targets many threats. However, I find it to be quite expensive. Especially since it doesn’t include additional features like Mac cleaning tools or a VPN.

Bottom line:

Airo Antivirus is light, compact, and capable of protecting Macs against a variety of malware. Airo AV has a 30-day money-back policy.

How I Rated the Best Antiviruses for Mac in 2022

A Mac antivirus will be different than a PC antivirus. Traditional “viruses”, which are more common on Windows than Macs, are not so problematic for Macs. Therefore, a Mac antivirus should enhance the existing macOS security features and add value by fighting new types of malware. These are the elements I used in creating this list.

• Real time malware protection. In order to make sure the products I recommend could handle the most advanced real-time threats, I ran a series on viruses, adware, and ransomware.
• Malware scanning and virus detection.
• Ease-of-use. Each program I downloaded was easy to install and had good customer service.
• Additional features. I assessed each antivirus to see if it had additional tools like junk cleaners or VPNs (virtual private network) and identity theft protection.
• Value. Each piece of software in this list has great features and high performance, all at a fair price.

Top Brands That Didn’t Make the Cut:

• Avast/AVG. Avast may have sold browsing information to users for years. As such, we are not recommending Avast or any Avast firm (like AVG) on this website.
• BullGuard. BullGuard has great malware protection. It also offers a lot of features for Android and Windows. But, Apple and iOS aren’t as good as other antivirus software.
• Webroot. Webroot is very user-friendly and offers some excellent features. However it failed to recognize Mac-specific malware when I tested it.

Do Macs really need antivirus software?

100% Yes. Macs have become more vulnerable to cyber attacks as hackers continue to develop sophisticated Mac-based malware. Antivirus software is essential to protect your Mac from data theft and system destruction.

You should be cautious about downloading unreliable and fraudulent antivirus software. You will lose trust in your antivirus if it isn’t working properly.

The antiviruses in this list offer good protection for Mac computers. They have efficient malware scanners and a range of internet security protections.

What is the best antivirus for Mac?

Intego has been my favorite antivirus program for Mac since 2022. It is specifically made for MacOS, it is affordable, and it offers a wide range of tools to optimize Mac security and optimization.

However, there are many excellent Mac antivirus programs.

Don’t Macs already have an antivirus built into the OS?

Macs are equipped with several security features.

• App Evaluation. Audits Apple Store apps before downloading.
• Gatekeeper. Scans Apps for Malicious Code before Launching.
• Web security. Blocks malicious pages and tracking hyperlinks on Safari.
• Antitheft tools. Allows to track Mac and iOS devices, in the event they are lost/stolen.

These features can be useful but not enough to protect Macs from ransomware or spyware.

Even the most current macOS doesn’t have real-time protection against malware, ransomware, optimization tools or advanced protection against phishing. A comprehensive macOS-based antivirus program like Intego is the best choice. It’s designed to protect 100% against all cybersecurity threats.

Is there a free antivirus for Mac?

Avira has a good free antivirus that works on macOS. However, free antiviruses don’t come without a catch. Usually, these companies will ask you to upgrade to a paid program.

A free antivirus should work fine if your Mac does not store sensitive data. However, if you are like me and store your login details, credit cards, photos, documents and other sensitive data on your Mac then I recommend spending a few dollars to get a premium Mac antivirus like Intego.