Best Mac antivirus 2026
Antivirus software for Mac compared on protection, performance impact, features and price. Editorial ranking scored out of 100 according to our methodology.
- Intego is designed specifically for macOS and achieved excellent results in independent tests (AV-TEST) in early 2026.
- Bitdefender offers multi-device protection recognised by the labs; Norton provides a complete suite (firewall, VPN, identity tools).
- Paid suites: in the region of ~€25 to 80/year depending on the plan and number of devices; free versions exist (e.g. Avast One, Bitdefender Antivirus Free).
- ⚠️ Prices and promotions change often — check the up-to-date offer and features with the provider before subscribing.
Long considered little exposed, macOS is today the target of specific threats, phishing campaigns and unwanted software. A dedicated antivirus complements Apple’s native protections, provided it doesn’t weigh on performance. Some players are designed specifically for macOS (Intego), others rely on multi-device coverage (Bitdefender, Norton). This comparison is an editorial ranking scored out of 100 using an identical grid, to help you choose based on your use and your level of requirement.
Our methodology
Each option is scored out of 100 against weighted criteria, using the same grid for all.
| Criterion | What we look at | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Threat detection and effectiveness according to tests | 30 |
| Performance | Impact on the Mac's speed and battery life | 20 |
| Features | VPN, firewall, parental controls, password manager | 20 |
| Ease of use | Interface, installation, macOS integration | 15 |
| Price | Value for money and number of devices covered | 15 |
The 2026 ranking
Intego
Bitdefender
Norton
Need help choosing?
Get a personalised comparison based on your profile.
Comparison table
| Vendor | Protection | Performance | VPN included | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intego | Excellent | Light | Depending on offer | 93 |
| Bitdefender | Excellent | Light | Limited / depending on offer | 91 |
| Norton | Very good | Fair | Unlimited (360 plans) | 88 |
Frequently asked questions
Is an antivirus really useful on a Mac?
macOS includes native protections, but a third-party antivirus adds layers of security against recent threats, phishing and cross-platform unwanted software. Our "Protection" criterion accounts for 30% of the score.
Does an antivirus slow down the Mac?
Modern solutions are optimised to limit their impact on performance, and independent tests measure this. We assess it in our "Performance" criterion.
Are there free Mac antivirus options?
Yes: some vendors offer a free plan (for example Avast One or Bitdefender Antivirus Free) with basic features. Paid suites add VPN, firewall, parental controls or identity tools.
How much does a Mac antivirus cost?
Paid suites most often sit in a range of around €25 to 80 per year depending on the plan and number of devices covered. First-year prices are often promotional: check the renewal price with the provider.
🗓️ Update history
- 05/08/2026 — Verification of players and facts, 2026 update.
- 20/07/2026 — Update of suites and features 2026.
- 14/04/2026 — Revision of scores and methodology.
✍️ Are you a listed company?
Claim your listing, correct information or report an updated offer. Processed within 5 business days.
Claim / correct my listing →