The Best Free Antivirus Software for Mac 2025

TotalAV, AVG, and Avast are three of the best free antivirus solutions available, and they have plenty of features for Mac users.
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Best for bundling

4.7
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On TotalAV's website

TotalAV
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Best for high protection scores

4.8
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On AVG's website

AVG
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Best for advanced features

5.0
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Avast's website

Avast
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TotalAV, AVG, and Avast are three of the best free antivirus solutions available, and they have plenty of features for Mac users.

TotalAV has many additional products that can be easily bundled together to create an excellent security stack. AVG knocks it out of the park with its high protection scores and ease of use. Avast offers some of the best features we’ve seen for Mac users, especially considering the product is free.

We’ll review the three best free antiviruses for Mac and explain why they stand out from other products on the market.

Try Lightweight Protection for macOS with Guardio Free Trial
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On Guardio's website
Antivirus Software
Guardio
7-day free trial & exclusive 40% off deal
  • Easy-to-use online security tool that cleans up your browser, removes malicious extensions, and checks for privacy violations
  • Blocks harmful emails, texts, and webpages
  • Stops invasive notifications and monitors data breaches for your information

In this article
The best free antivirus software for Mac
TotalAV: Best for bundling
AVG: Best for high protection scores
Avast: Best for advanced features
Best premium antivirus for macOS alternatives
How to choose the best free antivirus for a Mac
Pros and cons of using free antivirus for Macs
FAQs
Bottom line: The best free antivirus programs for Macs

The best free antivirus software for Mac

Antivirus protects you from all of the malicious things floating around the internet. Good antivirus makes your online experience better overall. It’s a fallacy that Macs can’t contract viruses and malware infections. It's much more difficult to infect a Mac than it is to infect a PC, but it’s not impossible. To help you out, we rounded up the top free Mac antivirus software.

  • TotalAV: Best for bundling
  • AVG: Best for high protection scores
  • Avast: Best for advanced features

Top 3 free antivirus products for Mac compared

Antivirus
Star rating
4.7
4.8
5.0
Starting price Free or starts at $29.00/first yr Free or starts at $39.99/first yr Free or starts at $35.88/first yr
Max # of devices (paid plans) 8 10 30
Free version for macOS
AV-TEST scores for macOS 17.5/18 18/18 18/18
Phishing protection
Ransomware protection
Learn more Get TotalAV

Read TotalAV Review

Get AVG

Read AVG Review

Get Avast

Read Avast Review

How we test and rate antivirus software

We use our proprietary grading rubric in all of our testing, which considers ease-of-use, third-party testing scores, internal testing scores, price, compatibility, and features offered, among other metrics. 

This means that our testing process is designed to ensure that the product isn't too confusing, protects as it claims, and offers you a lot for a reasonable price. We download and run each program on our own computers on home networks, just like you would. Our ratings reflect the real-world performance of the antivirus product. This ensures that we can recreate a similar experience for you and give our best advice on whether or not it's worthwhile.

To learn more about how we test, check out our full antivirus testing methodology here.

TotalAV: Best for bundling

No Fuss, Real-Time Online and Mobile Protection
4.7
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On TotalAV's website
Antivirus Software
TotalAV
First year discount on paid plans
  • Real-time protection from viruses, malware, and online threats
  • Blocks tracking cookies and ads, proactively monitors for data breaches, and option to schedule smart scans
  • 100% compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS operating systems on up to 3 devices

Who it’s best for

Anyone who wants more than one product to enhance their security. TotalAV offers a variety of products, including antivirus software, an ad blocker, coupon savings tools, browser protection, and a virtual private network (VPN). You can grab one or use them all together.

The dashboard for TotalAV
TotalAV protection dashboard

What we liked

TotalAV can be downloaded for free, but the paid product offers so much more. With the free antivirus, you get antivirus protection, cloud file scanning, a VPN, junk cleaner, and protection against tracking cookies, plus more.

When you upgrade to a paid version, you add protection from ransomware, phishing, and potentially unwanted programs, plus system tune-up tools, a browser scanner and cleaner, a password manager, ad-blocking capabilities, and protection for multiple devices.

The verified search results you get with all TotalAV plans can help you distinguish between legitimate websites and scam sites. As scammers continue to defraud people online, increased online protection is so helpful. It’s definitely worth downloading just for this.

What we didn’t like

TotalAV’s different offerings can be a little confusing. In addition to what you get with the product, there are other add-ons, like a password manager and identity theft protection, that you can purchase separately.

TotalAV specs

Starting price Free or $29.00/first yr
Free version Yes
Firewall No
Phishing protection Yes
Ransomware protection Yes
Webcam protection No
Network protection No
Parental controls No
Extras System tune-up tools, disk cleaner, browser manager and cleaner, Total Adblock, TotalVPN, Total Password
Learn more Get TotalAV

Read TotalAV Review

AVG: Best for high protection scores

Trusted Protection by 435 Million Users Worldwide
4.8
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On AVG's website
Antivirus Software
AVG
Save up to 75%
  • Award-winning antivirus, malware, and ransomware protection for up to 10 devices
  • Includes webcam protection, safe browsing and email, automatic updates, and 24/7 protection
  • Suite of protection benefits including a secure VPN, anti-tracking capabilities, safeguards against phishing sites, and more

Who it’s best for

Anyone who wants a free antivirus boasting high protection scores should consider AVG. Two of the top independent antivirus testing sites, AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives, gave AVG the highest scores possible for malware protection, device performance, and usability. If you’re looking for proven protection, AVG is a top choice.

AVG Internet Security main dashboard with scan options dropdown open

What we liked

AVG is easy to install and use, along with being incredibly powerful. The free version offers virus and malware protection, browsing protection, a malware scanner, and real-time security updates, so your protection stays as up to date as possible. All this together equals great free software.

If you want additional features, like anti-phishing protection, you can upgrade to AVG’s paid plan. We found the free version to be perfectly adequate, however, and definitely a long-term solution to antivirus protection. You could use it without needing another antivirus and rest assured that you have top-tier protection.

What we didn’t like

We wish AVG’s paid plan had more features. There isn’t a huge jump in features that would justify the upgrade for us. We love AVG’s protection capabilities and approach to security, which means we’d probably be all about the upgrade if it included extras like a VPN and parental controls.

AVG specs

Starting price Free or $39.99/first yr
Free version Yes
Firewall No
Phishing protection Yes
Ransomware protection Yes
Webcam protection Yes
Network protection No
Parental controls No
Extras Unsafe site and download blocker, security updates
Learn more Get AVG

Read AVG Review

Avast: Best for advanced features

5.0
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Avast's website
Antivirus Software
Avast
Save up to 65%
  • Perfect third-party test results, verifying comprehensive antivirus, ransomware, and malware protection
  • Includes advanced security features like a VPN, firewall, data breach alerts, privacy tools, device optimization, and more

Who it’s best for

Anyone looking for a free antivirus program that comes with additions like a VPN and email scanner should download Avast. Avast Free Antivirus offers a variety of advanced features that scan social media and emails, and it even adds extra network protection. The free plan is pretty comprehensive, but the paid plans offer even more, including identity theft protection for your entire family.

Main dashboard for Avast
Avast main dashboard

What we liked

While most of Avast’s bonus features come with the paid products, Avast Free for Mac still offers extensive protection. It includes anti-hacking, email scanning, a VPN, a data breach checker, and even the Privacy Advisor, which will scan your social media accounts for data sharing and accessibility. It’s really impressive for free software.

We like that you can add identity theft protection for yourself or your family by purchasing a paid plan. You’ll also get advanced features that protect you while shopping online, hide your digital fingerprint, clean up your photo albums, tune your device, and offer the ability to search through old and new data breaches for your information.

The VPN feature goes from 5 GB a week to unlimited when you upgrade, which can save you money on a VPN by bundling.

What we didn’t like

Avast offers a parental control product to partners for co-branding but doesn’t sell it to the public on its website. The lack of parental controls is definitely a con for us when it comes to Avast, especially since it apparently already has the technology built. We hope it will offer parental controls with its family protection plans in the future.

Avast specs

Starting price Free or $35.88/first yr
Free version Yes
Firewall Yes
Phishing protection Yes
Ransomware protection Yes
Webcam protection Yes
Network protection Yes
Parental controls No
Extras VPN, device cleanup, identity protection, tracker blocker, privacy advisor, photo library cleanup, email scanning
Learn more Get Avast

Read Avast Review

Best premium antivirus for macOS alternatives

Choosing a paid service for antivirus can net you a lot of extra features to enhance your experience. Whether you’re looking for parental controls or heavy network protection, one of these has what you need. The best antivirus providers offer a lot of variety to give you the best online experience possible.

  • Norton: It’s been around a long time and for good reason. Norton offers a variety of plans, pricing, and features so you get exactly what you want in a security suite. It even includes extras like parental controls and identity theft protection with some plans, so you’re protected everywhere.

    5.0
    Antivirus Software
    Norton 360 Antivirus
    • Tested protection against hackers, viruses, malware, and ransomware
    • Includes VPN, parental controls, and more
    • Backed by a 100% Virus Removal Guarantee
    Learn More

    Read Our Norton Review

  • Surfshark Antivirus: Lightweight protection is a cornerstone of Surfshark’s antivirus pledge. Not only is it running constantly to protect you from viruses and malware, but it does so without a lot of components bogging down your machine. For even more protection, couple Surfshark antivirus with Surfshark’s VPN and identity protection suites.

    4.7
    Antivirus Software
    Surfshark Antivirus
    • Powerful app that offers 24/7 virus and malware protection that won’t hog your CPU or RAM
    • Includes webcam protection, fully customizable security, full or quick scans, and more
    • Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Android on unlimited devices
    Learn More

    Read Our Surfshark Antivirus Review

How to choose the best free antivirus for a Mac

We Mac users want more from our security products, so we chose only those services we’ve tested ourselves. TotalAV, AVG, and Avast, along with our honorable mentions, are all great antivirus solutions.

When looking for software, especially free software, you need to make sure it’s reputable and trustworthy. You should also consider the following:

  • Great protection scores
  • Ease of use
  • Malware protection including spyware, adware, and ransomware
  • Features available for Macs
  • Lots of compatibility options
  • Anti-phishing technology
  • Device cleanup tools
  • Device enhancement tools
  • Upgrade and bundle options

Pros and cons of using free antivirus for Macs

It’s often said that free software isn’t trustworthy, and, in many cases, that’s very true. There are free antivirus solutions on the market that are trustworthy and good products. Most of them are going to come with minimal features but will keep your device protected from viruses and malware.

The best antivirus for Mac works smoothly without impeding performance. A free product is a great way to supplement Apple’s natural protection if you're looking for a basic antivirus. If you’re looking for something with more features, functionality, and even bundled security, you’ll likely have to find a paid product.

Lightweight System Cleaner for macOS
Learn More
On CleanMyMac's website
Antivirus Software
CleanMyMac
  • Cleanup tools optimize space
  • Easy-to-use interface

FAQs

Is free antivirus enough for a Mac?

It’s a common misconception that Macs don’t get viruses or malware, and Apple recommends not using any antivirus at all. Apple Support pages list all of the ways Macs protect you against malware, but we think a little extra protection can’t hurt.

Yes, Apple is considered more secure than Windows, but that doesn’t mean it’s impenetrable. A free antivirus product might be enough for you if you want basic protection, but paid versions have upgraded features that enhance your overall security and internet experience.

Does Apple recommend antivirus for Macs?

No, Apple doesn’t recommend antivirus software for Macs. Antivirus and malware protection is built into your Mac and includes a three-layer approach to protection. Apple takes a prevent, block, and remediate approach to malware, which looks to remedy the problem at any stage. It claims to block malware, but if something does get through, Apple claims to identify, stop, and manage it. The built-in XProtect feature can immobilize malware and prompt users to delete it. However, we recommend routinely cleaning your Mac to optimize system performance and free up storage. 

Does Apple have a free antivirus?

Apple’s built-in virus and malware protection isn’t advertised as a free antivirus, but it is free and included with every macOS device you purchase. It takes a three-fold approach to malware by blocking, stopping, and remediating malware and antivirus. Apple’s proprietary protections first attempt to stop all viruses and malware. If something gets through, it’s then stopped and isolated by the system. Finally, your Mac will prompt you to delete the infection. This may include deleting a download or other application you may have downloaded without realizing it was infected by malware.

How do I check my Mac for malware?

If you aren’t convinced that Apple’s protections are working and you think you may have a virus or malware, it’s best to download an antivirus program that detects and remediates malware as well. Learn how to run a full scan on macOS.

Bottom line: The best free antivirus programs for Macs

Whether you want to supplement Mac’s built-in protections or you want additional features to keep you safe online, TotalAV, AVG, and Avast all have something for you.

TotalAV is great for bundling with its other Total Security products. AVG has top-rated protection scores, while Avast offers many features, even with its free service. Whatever you decide, make sure you’re keeping yourself protected online.

3 best free antivirus products for Mac 2025

Starting price Best for Learn more
Free or starts at $29.00/first yr Best for bundling Get TotalAV

Read TotalAV Review

Free or starts at $39.99/first yr Best for high protection scores Get AVG

Read AVG Review

Free or starts at $35.88/first yr Best for advanced features Get Avast

Read Avast Review


No Fuss, Real-Time Online and Mobile Protection
4.7
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On TotalAV's website
Antivirus Software
TotalAV
First year discount on paid plans
  • Real-time protection from viruses, malware, and online threats
  • Blocks tracking cookies and ads, proactively monitors for data breaches, and option to schedule smart scans
  • 100% compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS operating systems on up to 3 devices
Author Details
Mary is a seasoned cybersecurity writer with over seven years of experience. With a B.S. in Liberal Arts from Clarion University and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Point Park University, she educates audiences on scams, antivirus software, and more. Her passion lies in educating audiences on helpful ways to protect their data.