Mac Antivirus Battle: Independent Tests Crown Avast Best Protection Against Rising Malware Threats

July 31, 2025

Software Experts has recently highlighted Avast Premium Security and Avast Ultimate as the premier malware protection solutions for Mac users in its latest independent review. This recognition arrives at a time when cybersecurity threats targeting Apple devices are on the rise, dispelling the myth that Macs are impervious to malware and other cyber threats.

Best Antivirus for Mac

  • Avast is well-regarded for its consumer cybersecurity offerings, providing comprehensive digital protection across various platforms through its antivirus, privacy, and performance tools.

While macOS comes equipped with several built-in security features, the increasing prevalence of online activity and the sophistication of cyber threats have prompted experts to recommend that Mac users consider third-party protection. Malware, phishing sites, scam emails, and insecure Wi-Fi networks continue to expose vulnerabilities, leading users to seek security software capable of real-time adaptation.

In its 2025 analysis, Software Experts evaluated product performance across four critical areas: malware protection, usability, real-world effectiveness, and feature set. Avast distinguished itself by delivering robust performance in each category, offering extensive coverage through both its standalone Premium Security product and its all-encompassing Ultimate suite.

Avast Premium Security for Mac provides essential defenses against viruses, spyware, ransomware, and phishing threats. Key features such as real-time malware detection, email scam filtering, and advanced ransomware protection were commended for their effectiveness against both traditional and emerging threats. Additionally, the software alerts users to insecure Wi-Fi networks and fraudulent websites, enhancing safety during online shopping, banking, and browsing.

Further emphasizing its commitment to comprehensive protection for Mac users, Avast has introduced Scam Guardian Pro, an AI-driven feature now included in Avast Premium Security. This innovative tool is designed to tackle increasingly sophisticated online scams and combines three essential components: Avast Assistant, which offers 24/7 natural language guidance on suspicious websites, messages, and links; Web Guard, which scans web content and code in real time to identify hidden threats; and Email Guard, which employs contextual AI to flag risky emails before they are opened.

Avast Ultimate broadens this offering into a multi-device solution. Beyond core antivirus protections, it includes a VPN for encrypted browsing, a device performance optimizer, and an anti-tracking tool aimed at reducing online profiling and targeted advertising. This bundle is compatible with Mac, Windows, Android, and iOS, catering to users who operate across different ecosystems.

In 2024, independent lab AV-Test awarded Avast the Best macOS Security Award for Consumer Users, affirming, “One of the best products for protecting macOS is definitely Avast Security.” The company also received commendations in 2023 from AV-Comparatives, earning the Top-Rated Product Award after achieving Advanced+ in six out of seven categories. AV-Comparatives praised Avast’s user-friendly interface and onboarding process, making it accessible for both experts and novices, while also awarding Gold in its Real-World Protection and Malware Protection tests.

This recognition from Software Experts aligns with a broader industry consensus. As cyber threats continue to evolve, products that seamlessly integrate protection, privacy, and performance have become increasingly vital. Avast’s consistent performance across third-party evaluations and its adaptability across platforms underscore its relevance for users who demand more than basic antivirus solutions.

Ransomware remains a particularly pressing concern. Avast’s Ransomware Shield, featured in both Premium Security and Ultimate, automatically prevents unauthorized applications from modifying, deleting, or encrypting personal files. For users managing sensitive documents or creative projects on their Macs, this level of protection can be crucial in preventing data loss or extortion incidents.

Both Avast Premium Security and Avast Ultimate are offered as single-device or multi-device subscriptions. The single-device plan is ideal for individuals using only one Mac, while the multi-device subscription provides broader coverage for users operating across multiple platforms.

The review also highlighted Avast’s Stay Safe Virus Guarantee, which ensures that active subscribers have access to virus removal support. Should Avast fail to eliminate malware, the service offers a refund, subject to certain conditions. This guarantee bolsters consumer confidence, especially as cyber threats become increasingly elusive.

As device usage surges globally and cyberattacks grow in both volume and complexity, cybersecurity software must deliver timely and scalable protection. The rise of hybrid work models, unsecured home networks, and increased personal device usage further emphasizes the need for reliable tools across all platforms, including macOS.

While Mac users have historically relied on native protections, the shifting landscape of online threats underscores the importance of supplementary software. Phishing attempts, browser hijackers, and targeted ad tracking represent just a fraction of the risks users face in 2025.

Software Experts’ review underscores the significance of tested, multi-layered protection in safeguarding against digital compromise. In its assessment, Avast emerged as a standout for its combination of a powerful antivirus engine, privacy tools, and device optimization—all without sacrificing performance.

The full review, complete with technical evaluations and comparative data, is accessible at Software Experts.

About Avast
Avast stands as a leader in digital security and privacy, forming part of Gen™ (NASDAQ: GEN), a global entity dedicated to empowering Digital Freedom through a family of trusted consumer brands. Avast safeguards hundreds of millions of users against online threats across Mobile, PC, and Mac platforms, consistently earning top rankings and certifications from VB100, AV-Comparatives, AV-Test, SE Labs, and others. Avast is also a member of the Coalition Against Stalkerware, No More Ransom, and the Internet Watch Foundation. For more information, visit Avast.com.

About Software Experts:
Software Experts specializes in providing news and reviews of consumer products and services. As an affiliate, Software Experts may earn commissions from sales generated through provided links.

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Mac Antivirus Battle: Independent Tests Crown Avast Best Protection Against Rising Malware Threats