It wasn’t long ago that Macs were considered secure enough on their own. But as Apple devices have grown in popularity, macOS has become an increasingly attractive target for attackers. Today’s threats are less about traditional viruses and more about phishing, fake updates, malicious downloads, and scams designed to trick users into installing malware themselves. At the same time, AI tools are accelerating vulnerability discovery and exploit development, making rapid patching more important than ever.
Apple includes built-in protections such as XProtect and Gatekeeper, and macOS security is stronger than ever. However, these defenses mainly target known threats and can’t fully prevent social-engineering attacks or credential theft. Modern antivirus tools – with features like anti-phishing protection, malicious site blocking, behavior monitoring, and password and identity safeguards – therefore remain essential for Mac users. To see which ones actually defend against today’s threats, we’ve tested the leading antivirus apps for Mac and you can see our recommendations below.
We’ve tested the top Mac antivirus software using real-world scenarios, performance benchmarks, and independent lab results, alongside usability, performance and reliability checks. Use this guide to find the best antivirus for your needs. Below are our expert picks for 2026, including the best overall, best value, and best free options.
What’s new this month: On June 29, Apple released macOS Tahoe 26.5.2, delivering dozens of security fixes for vulnerabilities across the operating system. The update patches flaws in Safari and WebKit that could potentially leak sensitive information between websites, allow malicious web content to crash apps, or trigger memory corruption. Apple also said that several fixes originally planned for macOS 26.6 were brought forward into 26.5.2.
Apple told Reuters it is accelerating security releases because AI is reducing the time it takes attackers to identify and weaponize vulnerabilities, despite there being no evidence that the patched flaws were being actively exploited.
Security researchers also uncovered a new Mac malware campaign dubbed “Reaper” at the end of May. Distributed through convincing fake software installers, Reaper relies on social engineering to trick users into running malicious AppleScripts. Once installed, it can steal browser data and documents, search for cryptocurrency wallets, and collect financial information.
The best antivirus for Mac in 2026 is Intego ONE, thanks to its Mac-specific design, strong protection, and low performance impact. Norton 360 and Bitdefender are also top alternatives.
Scroll down for full reviews and testing results.
We test Mac antivirus software using real-world scenarios and independent lab data from AV-Test and AV-Comparatives.
Starting with a clean macOS system, we downloaded malware samples and visited malicious websites to measure protection against online and offline threats, including Windows-based malware.
We also assessed system performance, ease of use and macOS integration, along with features like ransomware protection, VPNs and firewalls.
Only products that deliver strong protection without slowing down your Mac make our top recommendations.
We compared independent lab results with our own real-world testing to identify the best Mac antivirus software for 2026.
| Antivirus | AV-Test Protection | AV-Comparatives Score | Our Malware Detection | Performance Impact (Our Tests) | Scan Speed | Overall Score | | Intego | 6 / 6 | Approved | 99% | Low | Fastest | 4.6 / 5 | | Norton 360 | 6 / 6 | Approved | 100% | Medium | Medium | 4.7 / 5 | | Avast One | 6 / 6 | Approved | 99% | Medium | Medium | 4.5 / 5 | | Moonlock | 5.5 / 6 | Not available | 100% | Low | Fast | 4.4 / 5 | | Surfshark | 6 / 6 | Approved | 100% | Low | Fast | 4.4 / 5 | | Avira Free | 5.5 / 6 | Approved | 97% | Low | Fast | 4.4 / 5 | | AVG Internet Security | 6 / 6 | Approved | 99% | Low | Medium | 4.5 / 5 | | Bitdefender | 6 / 6 | Approved | 100% | Low | Fast | 4.8 / 5 |
We’ve tested and reviewed the best Mac antivirus software below. Our summaries explain how each product performed, why it ranks where it does, and its key features – with links to our full, in-depth reviews.
Updated July 3, 2026.
Intego ONE is a powerful Mac-focused security suite with excellent malware detection, extremely fast scan speeds, and strong firewall controls. Specifically designed for macOS, it works seamlessly with Apple’s XProtect and Gatekeeper tools.
**Why we picked it as our top choice **
Intego ONE stands out for its outstanding malware detection, very fast scan speeds, and powerful firewall controls, making it one of the most reliable security tools specifically tailored for macOS. Intego delivers reliable, no-fuss security that integrates seamlessly with Apple’s ecosystem.
Key strengths include:
Intego delivers consistent, real-world protection with better usability for Mac users.
Key features
Who’s it for?
Intego ONE has a user-friendly interface, making it well suited to Mac users who want easy security management while prioritising powerful malware protection, strong performance, and advanced network control.
Intego is ideal if you:
Considerations & drawbacks
Verdict
If you want the most Mac-native antivirus experience, Intego is the best choice. It may not have the longest feature list, but it focuses on what matters most: effective protection, ease of use, and seamless macOS integration. Read our full
[
Intego ONE review ](https://www.macworld.com/article/3108120/intego-one-review.html)
Avast One is a comprehensive security suite for Mac that combines antivirus protection with phishing defense, a VPN, and privacy tools in a single application. It helps protect against malware, malicious websites, and email threats while keeping system impact low, making it a strong all-round security solution for everyday users.
Why we picked it
Avast One impressed with excellent malware detection, outstanding phishing protection, and a capable VPN that has little impact on Mac performance. Features such as Email Guard, Web Guard, and Real Site provide effective real-world protection against spam, phishing, and fraudulent websites.
Key strengths include:
Email Guard, Web Guard, and Real Site work particularly well together, providing some of the strongest real-world phishing and scam protection we’ve seen.
Key features
Who’s it for?
Best for Mac users who want a feature-rich security suite with particularly strong phishing protection.
Avast is ideal if you:
Considerations & drawbacks
Verdict
Avast One is one of the strongest all-round security suites for Mac, combining excellent malware protection, first-rate phishing defenses, and a capable VPN. Its confusing subscriptions, constant upselling, and underwhelming AI Assistant prevent it from being an easy recommendation, but its core protection is excellent.
Read our full
[
Avast One review ](https://www.macworld.com/article/3181839/avast-one-review-mac-security.html)
Norton 360 is one of the most comprehensive security suites available for Mac, combining antivirus protection with a wide range of additional features, including a VPN, password manager and AI-powered scam detection.
A well-known and trusted name in cybersecurity, Norton also offers its Virus Protection Promise, meaning you’ll get your money back if it can’t remove a virus from your device.
Why we picked it
Norton stands out for its all-in-one feature set and excellent lab performance, making it ideal for users who want complete protection across multiple devices.
Key strengths include:
The addition of Norton’s Genie Scam Assistant is particularly impressive, offering real-time help with suspicious emails and messages — a useful tool as phishing attacks become more sophisticated.
Key features
Who’s it for?
Best for users who want a full-featured security suite across multiple devices.
Norton is ideal if you:
Considerations & drawbacks
Bottom line
If you want a feature-rich, all-in-one security suite, Norton 360 is one of the best options available. While it’s not as Mac-focused as Intego, it offers excellent protection, powerful extras and strong cross-platform coverage, making it a great choice for households with multiple devices. Read our full
[
Norton 360 review ](https://www.macworld.com/article/668092/norton-360-review.html)
Moonlock is MacPaw’s dedicated antivirus and security app for Mac, combining malware protection with a VPN, system security checks and educational guidance. It aims to keep Macs protected from malware and online threats while helping users understand and improve their overall security without unnecessary complexity.
Why we picked it
Moonlock impressed with excellent malware detection, effective real-time Active Protection, a capable VPN and helpful educational resources. Rather than simply blocking threats, it also teaches users better security habits, making it particularly approachable for less technical Mac owners.
Key strengths include:
We particularly like how Moonlock’s Security Advisor focuses on helping users develop better security habits through clear, practical guidance.
Key features
Who’s it for?
Best for Mac users who want strong malware protection with straightforward security tools and guidance rather than an overwhelming all-in-one suite.
Moonlock is ideal if you:
Considerations & drawbacks
Bottom line
Moonlock delivers excellent malware protection backed by effective Active Protection, a capable VPN and useful security guidance. While its interface and menus need refinement, it’s a strong first standalone security suite from MacPaw and well worth considering for Mac users seeking straightforward protection.
Read our full
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MacPaw Moonlock review ](https://www.macworld.com/article/2965280/macpaw-moonlock-antivirus-review.html)
Surfshark One+ Antivirus is best suited to Mac users who want antivirus protection, a VPN, and privacy tools combined in one affordable package. It performs especially well for home users, remote workers, and small offices that prefer a simple all-in-one solution instead of managing several separate subscriptions. The software integrates smoothly with macOS and causes very little slowdown during everyday use.
**Why we picked it **
The best aspect of Surfshark One+ is the combination of strong malware protection and an excellent built-in VPN. During testing, the antivirus engine detected nearly all malware samples, while the VPN delivered stable connections and advanced privacy features normally found in standalone VPN services.
Key strengths include:
The biggest advantage of Surfshark One+ is its overall value. Users receive antivirus protection, VPN services, identity monitoring, and privacy features in one subscription, making it a convenient and cost-effective cybersecurity package.
Key features
Who’s it for?
Surfshark One+ is best for users who want strong Mac protection alongside privacy-focused tools and VPN functionality.
Surfshark One is ideal for:
Considerations & drawbacks
Verdict
Surfshark One+ Antivirus is a strong choice for Mac users who want reliable malware protection, a feature-rich VPN, and privacy tools in one affordable package. While weak browser phishing protection prevents it from being among the very best security suites, it still offers excellent overall value for everyday users.
Read our full
[
Surfshark One review ](https://www.macworld.com/article/2640694/surfshark-one-review-2.html)
Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac is a malware protection app that combines real-time antivirus scanning with tools such as ransomware protection, a browser extension and a basic VPN. It helps protect your Mac from malicious software while offering a straightforward, customizable interface that integrates well with macOS.
Why we picked it
Bitdefender impressed with its clean, customizable interface, straightforward scanning options and the ability to quickly scan external drives. The generous trial period and good macOS integration also make it easy to try and use, particularly alongside Apple’s built-in Gatekeeper protection.
Key strengths include:
One standout strength is how easy it is to scan external drives on demand, making it particularly useful for users who regularly connect USB drives or other removable storage.
Key features
Who’s it for
Bitdefender is best for Mac users who want an easy-to-use antivirus with a customizable interface and straightforward malware scanning.
Bitdefender is ideal if you:
Considerations & drawbacks
**Verdict **
Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac delivers a polished interface, useful core features and convenient scanning tools, especially for external drives. However, inconsistent malware blocking under certain conditions, occasional scan freezes and limited web protection prevent it from being among the strongest Mac antivirus solutions.
Read our full
[
Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac review ](https://www.macworld.com/article/234655/bitdefender-antivirus-for-mac-review.html)
AVG Internet Security for Mac is a reliable, feature-rich option that combines strong protection with a clean, easy-to-use interface. Best known for its free antivirus, AVG’s premium suite builds on that foundation with broader security tools and consistently strong lab performance.
In independent testing, AVG achieved top scores from AV-Test (Protection, Speed and Usability) and maximum ratings from AV-Comparatives across Mac malware, Windows malware and potentially unwanted applications – confirming its effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
Why we picked it
AVG stands out for its balanced mix of protection, usability and features, making it a strong choice for users who want dependable security without complexity.
Key strengths include:
While it doesn’t dramatically outperform rivals in any one area, AVG delivers consistently solid performance across the board. Key features
Best for cautious Mac users who want reliable, no-fuss protection with the option to try before they buy.
AVG is ideal if you:
Considerations & drawbacks
Verdict
AVG Internet Security for Mac is a well-rounded and trustworthy antivirus solution. It may not lead the pack in any single category, but its strong lab results, ease of use and solid protection make it a dependable choice for most Mac users.
Read our full
[
AVG Internet Security for Mac review ](https://www.macworld.com/article/2502567/avg-internet-security-for-mac-review.html)
Macworld reviews many more antivirus products than you see in our ranking above. Not appearing in our top six doesn’t mean a product isn’t going to do a good job of protecting your Mac, merely that it failed to stand out among the best of the competition. You’ll find some more top contenders below, with links to our full reviews for more details. We wouldn’t advise installing any Mac antivirus without first checking our antivirus software reviews.
(For PC antivirus, see our sister site PCWorld’s guide to the best Windows antivirus.) Why we recommend it: Avira Prime offers a sleek, modular approach to antivirus with solid customization, a zippy Quick Scan, and strong cleanup tools. While Full Scan times drag and phishing defense needs sharpening, features like unlimited VPN and Identity Assistant shine.
Who’s it for: Avira Prime seems best suited for privacy-focused users who want full control without overwhelming complexity.
Read our full Avira Prime review Why we recommend it: Malwarebytes for Mac is a user-friendly tool that delivers fast malware detection, external drive scanning, VPN and identity tools.
Who’s it for: It’s best for casual users seeking set-it-and-forget-it defence, not power users needing granular control or all-surface threat coverage.
Read our fullMalwarebytes Premium Security review Why we recommend it: McAfee Total Protection covers the bases with solid antivirus, real-time scanning, and a basic VPN feature, but stumbles with vague alerts, an outdated WebAdvisor protection system, and noticeable performance hits.
Who’s it for: It’s a decent all-in-one for casual users wanting broad protection, but power users or privacy hawks might want something leaner, faster, and easier to configure.
Read our full McAfee Total Protection review Free antivirus software can provide basic protection, but it often lacks advanced features such as ransomware protection, firewalls and real-time web security. Paid options offer more comprehensive, all-round protection.
Apple includes built-in security tools like XProtect and Gatekeeper, which block known malware and unverified apps. However, in our testing, it was still possible to install Mac malware or suspicious software if warnings were ignored, showing that Apple’s protections alone are not foolproof.
Free third-party antivirus tools offer an advantage in that they are updated more frequently and can protect against a wider range of threats, including adware, spyware, trojans and ransomware.
The core antivirus engine is often the same in both free and paid versions. The difference lies in the extra features included in premium suites, such as web and phishing protection, VPNs, identity monitoring, parental controls and customer support.
Ultimately, you get what you pay for. If security is a priority, a paid antivirus offers the most complete protection. However, if you’re on a tight budget, a free antivirus is still better than relying solely on Apple’s built-in security tools.
If you’re on a really tight budget, a free antivirus is still going to do a better job of protecting you than Apple’s security tools. For some low-priced AV options, check out the best Mac antivirus deals for the best prices. Here are the best free antivirus for Mac apps we have reviewed:
| Developer | Product Name | Malware Protection | Ransomware Protection | Adware Prevention | Anti Phishing Protection | Email Protection | Firewall | VPN | iOS Version | Parental Controls | Support | Trial/Free version |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intego | Intego ONE | Excellent, Mac focused | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Email/Phone | 30 day trial and free option |
| Surfshark | Surfshark One | Strong | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Chat/Email | 30-day money back guarantee |
| AVG | Internet Security for Mac | Good | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | 60 days | |
| Avast | Premium Security | Very good | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Email/Forum | 60 days |
| McAfee | Total Protection | Good | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Phone/Chat | 30 days/money-back guarantee |
| Trend Micro | Antivirus for Mac | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | 30 days | |
| Norton | Norton 360 | Very strong | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Phone/Chat | 30-day money-back |
| Avira | Avira Prime | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 30 days | |
| Bitdefender | Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Email/Chat | 30 days |
| MacPaw | Moonlock | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | 7 days | |
| Pocket Bits LLC | BitMedic Pro Antivirus | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Email/Support Form | 7 days |
| Sophos | Sophos Home Premium for Mac | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Chat/Email | 30 days |
| ESET | Eset Home Security | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Email/Phone | 30 days |
| Malwarebtyes | Malwarebytes Premium Security | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Email/Forum | 14 days |
Macworld has been testing Mac software since the launch of the Mac in 1984, giving us decades of experience and deep expertise in Apple’s ecosystem. We understand how Macs work – and how best to protect them.
While Apple includes built-in security tools to combat malware, today’s threat landscape means additional protection is often worthwhile. Our antivirus reviewers have decades of industry experience, including hands-on work supporting users and solving real-world IT and security issues. Our recommendations are based on a combination of independent lab data, structured testing and real-world usage – not just specifications or vendor claims. We regularly review and update our rankings to reflect the latest threats, software updates and performance improvements.
To identify the best antivirus software for Mac, we combine hands-on testing, real-world threat simulation and independent lab data. Our goal is to assess how effectively each product protects your Mac without compromising performance, usability or value.
Real-world testing environment: We begin with a clean installation of macOS, which is then cloned for each antivirus product. Each app is installed and tested in isolation to ensure results are not affected by other software — particularly important as antivirus tools can sometimes flag each other as threats.
We simulate real-world attack scenarios by:
This allows us to evaluate how well each product detects and blocks both online and offline threats, including Mac-specific malware, adware and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs). We also assess how effectively each tool detects and handles Windows-based malware, which can still pose a risk when sharing files.
**Independent lab validation: **To support our findings, we reference results from leading independent testing organisations:
These labs evaluate antivirus software against large sets of known malware and potentially unwanted applications, measuring detection rates, false positives and overall protection. Where lab data is unavailable, we carry out more extensive in-house testing using real malware samples.
Performance impact: Antivirus software should protect your Mac without slowing it down. We measure performance by assessing:
We prioritise solutions that deliver strong protection with minimal noticeable slowdown, since overly demanding software is more likely to be disabled by users.
Features, usability and user experience: We spend time using each product to evaluate how intuitive and practical it is in daily use. This includes:
We also assess additional features, including:
Importantly, we consider whether these features are genuinely useful or simply added complexity.
Value for money: We evaluate pricing and overall value, including:
Our focus is on products that offer a strong balance of protection, performance and features at a reasonable price.
| Scenario | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Low-risk user (App Store only, trusted devs, automatic updates on) | Apple’s built-in tools are sufficient. |
| High-risk user (downloads from various sites, torrents, handles sensitive data) | Paid antivirus is strongly recommended. |
| Business user (handles client data, shares files with Windows PCs) | Paid antivirus is recommended for an extra safety layer. |
| User wanting extra features (VPN, password manager, phishing protection) | Paid antivirus is worthwhile for the bundled features. |
Yes – while Macs are generally more secure than Windows PCs and include built-in protections like XProtect and sandboxing, which helps limit how far malware can spread, these measures are not enough to defend against modern threats such as phishing, adware and ransomware.
Adding a dedicated antivirus tool helps close those gaps, provides broader coverage against evolving threats and extra layer of security when browsing the web or down files.
For more detail, see our guide to whether Macs need antivirus, along with our Mac security tips and advice on how to remove a virus from a Mac. Do iPhones need antivirus software?
You may be considering a Mac Antivirus that also offers to protect your iPhone, but is that protection really necessary?
Apple’s iOS is designed with strong built-in security, including app sandboxing, strict App Store review processes and system-level protections that prevent traditional viruses from infecting your device. This makes it very difficult for malware to spread in the same way it can on other platforms. So, no – iPhones generally don’t need antivirus software.
However, iPhones are not completely risk-free. Threats like phishing attacks, malicious websites and data breaches can still affect users. Instead of installing an antivirus app the best advice is to keep iOS up to date, avoid clicking on suspicious links, use strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and don’t download anything unless you are sure it is safe.
Mac antivirus software protects your device using a combination of on-demand scans and real-time (always-on) protection.
On-demand scanning checks files when you run a manual or scheduled scan. This can take time, especially on systems with lots of data, and may temporarily use more system resources. For best results, scans are often scheduled to run at convenient times. See how to scan a Mac for malware
Real-time protection works continuously in the background. If malware arrives – for example via an email attachment or downloaded file – the antivirus can detect and block it immediately. Suspicious files are typically quarantined, meaning they are moved to a secure location where they can’t cause harm while you decide whether to delete or restore them.
The effectiveness of these two layers of protection is the most important factor when choosing antivirus software, but additional features can also make a difference.
Many Mac antivirus tools now include ransomware protection, which prevents unauthorised apps from accessing sensitive folders such as Documents or Photos. Only trusted apps are allowed access, and you can customise these permissions.
Web protection is another key feature, often delivered via browser extensions. This helps block malicious websites, phishing attempts and unsafe downloads, reducing the risk of accidentally exposing personal information.
Yes, a VPN can be a useful addition to Mac antivirus software. It encrypts your internet connection, helping protect your data – especially on public Wi-Fi. However, built-in VPNs are often limited, so a dedicated VPN service usually offers better performance and features.
Some Mac antivirus packages include a built-in VPN (virtual private network), although VPNs are also widely available as standalone products. For many users, VPNs are appealing because they can mask your location and allow access to region-restricted content, such as streaming services.
More importantly, a VPN improves security by encrypting your internet connection, which is particularly useful when using public Wi-Fi networks. This helps protect your data from interception and reduces the risk of cyberattacks.
While we generally recommend a dedicated Mac VPN service for the best performance and features, a VPN included with antivirus software can still be a useful extra. Just be aware that bundled VPNs often come with limitations, such as data caps or reduced functionality, and may prompt you to upgrade to a full subscription. Value means different things to different users. For some, it’s the best free option; for others, it’s a reasonably priced product with the most useful features. We define value as the best overall balance of protection, performance and features – and for protecting a single Mac, we believe Intego offers the best value.
That said, there are ways to save money on even the top antivirus products. Most Mac antivirus apps are sold as annual subscriptions, often with significant discounts for the first year. When that period ends, you can switch providers to take advantage of new introductory offers, or opt for longer-term plans (such as two- or three-year subscriptions) to reduce the overall cost.
Many antivirus suites also cover multiple devices, including Windows PCs and Android smartphones. If you have several devices in your household, a multi-device plan can offer excellent value.
For the latest offers, see our guide to the Best Mac Antivirus deals, which includes the most affordable options. Because many of us are waking up to the idea that malware is a threat to the Mac, malware writers have made it their business to play on that fear. There have been cases of malware writers disguising their viruses as antivirus apps – two notable examples are Mac Auto Fixer and MacDefender. It’s important to always read reviews on reputable sites such as Macworld before installing any software on your Mac or MacBook.
At the same time, don’t believe everything you read. MacKeeper is a great example of an antivirus program that has got a bad rap, but it’s worked hard to repair its reputation. It has gained Apple Notarization, which means the software has been checked by Apple for malicious components, and the company has garnering certification from various bodies to prove it isn’t a PUP (potentially unwanted program), including an AV-Test certificate. That said, we haven’t recommended it here, and that’s simply because we feel that there are better options available. If you have already installed MacKeeper and wish to try one of our alternative recommendations, we explain How to uninstall MacKeeper.
Using a Mac antivirus product, especially one that includes tools to improve your online privacy, may lull you into believing you’re completely safe from personal and private information leaking out and that you no longer need to keep your wits about you. That’s not quite the case. While there’s no reason to panic, you should still practice caution – and there are a few more issues you should consider when using Mac antivirus, too. First, an antivirus for Mac product may upload the complete text of files flagged to the cloud, where it can be analyzed by separate tools hosted there. This practice is normal and sensible: some malware can detect when a running process may examine it, and will then engage in subterfuge. Antivirus software makers also can access their massive databases to examine files with characteristics that trigger their algorithms – certain elements that match known malware. As a result, security researchers discover new viruses, worms, Trojans horses, and the like. However, helping the greater good means you’ll have to be comfortable with trusting a third-party with your file contents. Where appropriate, we noted privacy policy issues in individual reviews.
Second, this software may also rely partly or entirely on cloud-based checks of URLs, malware, and the like. Accordingly, an antivirus package might upload every URL you visit, metadata about files, signatures of files, information about your computer’s hardware, a list of running or installed applications, and more. Companies vary on their disclosure of such policies, and may not let you opt out of this kind of sharing. We note issues in each review as appropriate.
Third, antivirus software makers also get a sense of what behavior is happening on your computer that’s being monitored or blocked, and may use that information for their own purposes. In some cases, you can opt out of this information gathering.
Apple has never recommended a third-party virus cleaner, and has instead focused on the Xprotect and Gatekeeper functions found within macOS, which are regularly updated with operating system updates.
It’s actually very good, and there isn’t much that gets past it in the way of viruses and malware, given its Xprotect and Gatekeeper features – but these can be overridden, and questionable software can be installed and activated if the user knows what they’re doing.
Still, the protection is present, it’s updated well, and Apple keeps a good eye on things, but new viruses and malware are sent out from bad actors all the time, and this is where a good third-party application can come in handy.
We have tested Apple’s own solution against a range of malware samples. While it did a reasonable job overall, we found instances where questionable applications could be installed without any warning. A helpful analogy is to think of Apple’s built-in antivirus system, XProtect, as the lock on your Mac’s front door, while a paid antivirus solution acts more like an alarm system with security cameras. Third-party tools update their virus definitions – including not just viruses, but also adware, spyware, trojans, and ransomware – several times a day, often more frequently than Apple’s protections, providing real-time defense against new and emerging threats.
During our testing of Apple’s malware protections, recovery options were limited. In some cases, the only solution was to wipe the Mac and restore from a backup made before the risky behavior – hoping nothing had already spread. Apple does not offer dedicated malware removal support or guarantees if an infection occurs, nor does it protect against cross-platform threats across multiple devices. Paid antivirus software typically includes these services, along with additional features such as web and phishing protection, vulnerability patching tools, VPNs, password managers, parental controls, secure cloud backup, and dark web monitoring.
That said, macOS’s built-in security may be sufficient for low-risk users who install apps only from the App Store or trusted developers, keep automatic updates enabled, avoid pirated software, do not disable Gatekeeper, have limited exposure to risky email attachments, and do not handle sensitive client data.
Ultimately, investing in a reputable security suite for Mac adds an extra layer of protection – and for many users, it’s a case of being safe rather than sorry.
The Xprotect and Gatekeeper functions serve as free virus protection for macOS, but you can also get basic virus protection from many of the well-known antivirus providers, we have some recommendations above.
There are a lot of Mac antivirus programs to choose from. What you want is one that offers a familiar and easy-to-use interface that works well on a Mac – a key reason why we recommend Intego’s antivirus. You should also look for antivirus with a good detection rate – not just for Mac viruses, but also for PC viruses, unless you want to be passing viruses on to friends and clients running Windows. Low impact on system resources is also critical, especially if your Mac isn’t the most powerful model.
Consider the type and number of devices you want to protect – are you looking for an app to cover one Mac, or Mac, iPhone, iPad and even a PC? Your budget matters here, too: do you prefer a subscription model or a one-time payment?
Mac antivirus vendors typically offer different add-ons, and it is certainly a case of you get what you pay for: free products will have fewer bells and whistles, but the most comprehensive Mac security suites will include password managers, parental controls, cloud storage and more. The underlying antimalware engine will usually be the same for all security products from a particular company, so you can save money if you don’t need all those extra features.
For many users, Apple’s layered security – XProtect, Gatekeeper and Rapid Security Responses – is more than adequate. If you fit into the “low-risk” category described below, you can probably rely on macOS alone. Despite Apple’s strong foundation, there are clear gaps that third-party software fills.
You frequently install software from various internet sources. In our hands-on testing, we have found that it is still possible to install malware by ignoring or bypassing Gatekeeper warnings. Our testers were able to install trojans, fake apps, and software that requested access to the microphone, webcam, and keystrokes.
You want protection against phishing and malicious websites. Apple’s XProtect primarily focuses on known malware files. It does not offer the same level of real-time web and phishing protection that suites like Avast One or Bitdefender provide.
You need more frequent updates and broader threat coverage. Third-party tools update their virus definitions several times a day, often more frequently than Apple’s updates. They also cover a wider range of threats, including adware, spyware, trojans, and ransomware.
You want features like a firewall, VPN, password manager, or identity monitoring. Apple does not offer a dedicated, configurable firewall for macOS (it relies on the built-in one) and does not include a VPN, password manager, or dark web monitoring in its security suite. Paid suites bundle these features.
You share files with Windows users. An unprotected Mac can unknowingly harbor Windows viruses that won’t affect macOS but can be passed on to friends and colleagues. A good antivirus will detect and clean cross-platform threats.