When you buy a Mac, you might think you’re safe from viruses.
That used to be mostly true, but not anymore. More and more hackers are making viruses just for Macs.
The best Mac antivirus software can save you from a lot of trouble – things like stolen passwords or a slow, broken computer.
But there are a lot of options out there, and some are honestly a waste of money. I’ve checked out the best ones for you.
Here’s what you should know before you pick one.
10 Best Mac Antivirus Software Tools
Now let’s dive into each one.
1. Surfshark One
Surfshark One isn’t just antivirus – it’s a bundle that protects you in several ways.
You get antivirus protection, a VPN (which hides your internet activity), a private search engine, and alerts if your personal info leaks online.
It’s great for people who want one app to do everything.
The virus scanner itself is fast and doesn’t slow down your Mac, which is important if you hate lag. It’s a newer product, but Surfshark has a good name in the security world.
Key Features
- Antivirus + VPN combo
- Real-time virus and malware protection
- Identity theft alerts
- Private browsing tools
2. NordVPN Antivirus
NordVPN is famous for its VPN, but their antivirus tool is also worth a look. It’s built right into their app, so you don’t have to install anything extra.
The antivirus scanner is lightweight and catches malware without making your Mac slow.
If you already want a VPN, this is a smart two-for-one deal.
Nord has over 14 million users worldwide, which tells you a lot about their trust level. The only catch? No free version.
Key Features
- Lightweight antivirus engine
- VPN included
- Dark Web monitoring
- No free plan, but offers money-back guarantee
3. BitDefender
BitDefender is like a bodyguard who’s been training for years. It’s powerful, reliable, and stops almost everything bad from getting into your Mac.
They have real-time protection that watches your computer all the time without draining your battery.
BitDefender even protects you when you shop online, stopping fake websites that try to steal your card info.
In tests by AV-Comparatives, it scored 99.9% malware detection. It’s a little techy, but the extra tools are worth learning.
Key Features
- Real-time malware protection
- VPN included (limited)
- Anti-phishing features
- Ransomware protection
4. MacKeeper
MacKeeper has a pretty good reputation that they have built over the last several years.
It’s made just for Macs, and it also helps clean up junk files, block ads, and update your apps.
The antivirus part is strong and catches viruses before they spread. Plus, it keeps your Mac running faster by getting rid of stuff you don’t need.
It’s a smart pick if you want antivirus plus a Mac cleaning tool in one.
Key Features
- Antivirus plus Mac optimization
- Ad blocking
- Identity protection
- Automatic updates for apps
5. Malwarebytes
Malwarebytes is the “quick and easy” choice. It’s super simple to install and can scan your Mac in under 2 minutes.
It’s especially good at finding adware – those annoying pop-ups and toolbars.
The free version is decent if you just want quick cleanups, but the paid version gives real-time protection.
Over 60,000 businesses trust Malwarebytes, which says a lot. It’s best for people who want something they can set and forget.
Key Features
- Fast scans (under 2 minutes)
- Good free version
- Best at adware removal
- Real-time protection on paid plan
6. Norton
Norton has been around forever, and there’s a reason: it works.
Their Mac antivirus is strong against malware, phishing, and even ransomware.
You also get extras like a VPN, password manager, and 10GB of cloud storage to back up your important stuff. It’s more expensive than some others, but it’s loaded with features.
Norton is great if you have a family and want to protect multiple devices too.
Key Features
- VPN, cloud storage, and password manager
- Full Mac malware protection
- Identity theft protection
- Family plans available
7. McAfee
McAfee gives you protection for all your gadgets – not just your Mac.
You get antivirus, a VPN, and identity theft coverage in one plan. It’s easy to set up and has a nice dashboard where you can see your Mac’s health.
McAfee is used by millions and is trusted by lots of companies too. If you’ve got phones, tablets, and Macs to protect, this is a strong choice.
Key Features
- Multi-device protection
- Real-time virus and malware guard
- VPN included
- Identity theft monitoring
8. Total Defense
If you’re looking to save a few bucks, Total Defense could work for you.
It’s not as famous as Norton or McAfee, but it does a solid job stopping malware and keeping your Mac safe online. The dashboard is simple and easy to use.
You even get backup tools to save your files automatically.
It’s good for basic protection without a lot of bells and whistles.
Key Features
- Web and malware protection
- Simple to use
- Backup tools included
- Affordable plans
9. Trend Micro Antivirus
Trend Micro has been around for decades and is a great pick for beginners.
Their Mac antivirus is simple and focuses heavily on stopping email scams and ransomware.
It’s also good at blocking dangerous websites before you visit them.
The free trial is generous if you want to try it first. If you get lots of weird emails, this is a smart choice.
Key Features
- Stops email scams
- Good ransomware protection
- Free trial available
- Easy for beginners
10. ClamXAV
ClamXAV is the “no-nonsense” antivirus. It doesn’t have VPNs, identity theft protection, or other extras. It’s just a solid virus scanner that catches malware before it hurts your Mac.
It’s great for people who don’t want a lot of complicated menus.
If you’re looking for something simple that gets the job done without trying to upsell you, ClamXAV is it.
Key Features
- Simple virus scanning
- No extra features
- Low system impact
- Good for older Macs
Best Mac Antivirus Software: Comparison Table
| Antivirus | Best For | Price Range (Yearly) | Free Version | Extra Features |
| Surfshark One | All-in-one protection | $65–$75 | No | VPN, ID theft protection |
| NordVPN Antivirus | Privacy lovers | $60–$70 | No | VPN included, lightweight |
| BitDefender | Advanced users | $30–$40 | Yes | Real-time protection, VPN |
| MacKeeper | Mac optimization + antivirus | $60–$70 | No | Cleaner, ad blocker |
| Malwarebytes | Easy to use | $40–$50 | Yes | Fast scans, adware removal |
| Norton | Full family protection | $90–$110 | No | Cloud backup, VPN |
| McAfee | Multi-device families | $85–$100 | No | ID theft protection, VPN |
| Total Defense | Budget users | $30–$40 | No | Web security, backup tools |
| Trend Micro | Beginners | $40–$50 | Yes | Email scams, ransomware guard |
| ClamXAV | Simple antivirus only | $30–$40 | No | No frills, basic virus scanner |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Macs Really Need Antivirus Software?
Yes, they do. Even though Macs have built-in security, they’re not bulletproof.
Malware attacks on Macs have grown by over 400% in the last few years. One bad download or phishing link can mess up your Mac or steal your info.
Good antivirus software adds a safety net without slowing your computer down.
What’s the Best Antivirus if I Want Extra Tools Like a VPN?
Surfshark One and NordVPN Antivirus are your best bets.
Both include a VPN along with antivirus protection. Surfshark One even throws in identity theft alerts and private search tools.
NordVPN’s antivirus is lighter and simpler, good if you mainly care about privacy and speed.
Which Antivirus Is Best for Beginners?
If you want something simple and easy, go with Malwarebytes or Trend Micro Antivirus.
Malwarebytes is great for fast scans and quick cleanups without a lot of setup.
Trend Micro is strong at blocking dangerous emails and websites, and it has a beginner-friendly design. Both let you set it and forget it.
Is There a Good Free Antivirus for Mac?
BitDefender and Malwarebytes both offer solid free options.
BitDefender’s free version gives you basic real-time protection, while Malwarebytes’ free version is great for scanning and removing junk like adware.
But if you want full-time protection that works automatically, it’s better to pay for a premium plan.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best Mac antivirus software based on what you really need.
If you want all-in-one protection, Surfshark One and NordVPN Antivirus are smart picks. If you just want something basic and easy, Malwarebytes or ClamXAV are perfect.
Norton and McAfee are better if you have a whole family to protect.
Personally, I like antivirus programs that come with extras like a VPN because it feels like you’re getting more for your money.
Just make sure whatever you pick fits how you actually use your Mac – no need to overpay for features you won’t use.