If you’re a PC-user, then you’re probably aware of the risk of your operating system contracting a malware virus but maybe you don’t want to put out the extra money. If you’re a Mac user, you may think you don’t need virus protection at all. Contrary to popular belief, Mac computers are just as susceptible to viruses as PCs. Whether you own a Mac or a PC, with recent mass cyber attacks like the WannaCry ransomware attacks, it’s just common sense to protect your valuable data with antivirus software, especially when many quality antivirus tools can be purchased at a low price or are free. Here are my picks of some of the best antivirus software options for both PC and Mac users.
Best for PCs
- McAfee Antivirus Plus: $59.99 MSRP, $19.99 through McAfee
This antivirus software is one of the most comprehensive on the market, with one subscription covering protection for every Windows, Android, macOS, and iOS device you own. It received four stars from PCMag.com and covers everything you could want out of an antivirus tool: on-demand malware scan, on-access malware scan, website rating, malicious URL blocking, phishing protection, behavior-based detection, and vulnerability scan.
- Bitdefender: $38.99
Bitdefender was rated as the best basic antivirus product for Windows by Tom’s Guide and is also a PCMag.com Editor’s Choice. At a yearly subscription of $38.99, it offers near-perfect malware detection, as well as bonus tools such as a built-in password manager and a secure browser.
- Kappersky: $59.99 MSRP, $49.99 through Kappersky
This is the most expensive option for PC users, but it comes with the most features and most reliable protection. According to PC Magazine, “The independent testing labs consistently award Kappersky Anti-Virus their highest ratings, plus it aces our own anti-phishing tests, adds plenty of bonus features, and it’s fast.”
Best for Macs
- Bitdefender for Mac: $39.99
Bitdefender offers a product for Macs as well. It has a 100% success rate from tests conducted in AV Test’s lab, and it scored lower than a 10 percent system impact, so you can let it run in the background without it affecting your computer’s speed and usability.
- Sophos Antivirus for Mac: Free
This antivirus software comes at the best price there is: free. The software has a 99.17% accuracy rate. The only downside is that it has a minor impact on performance, which you may or may not notice depending on your computer.
- ESET Antivirus for Mac: $39.99
ESET offers 100% threat detection and scores reasonably well in speed tests. Plus, it offers a 30-day free trial so you don’t have to commit to a paid subscription right away.