Comparing McAfee vs. Avast antivirus is like asking someone whether they prefer Windows or Linux. Nowadays, it’s becoming tough to protect data and computers without using the best antivirus software. Selecting software that can guarantee round-the-clock protection from hackers and malware attacks is becoming even more difficult. McAfee and Avast software are two top-rated programs that many people worldwide use. Between McAfee vs. Avast, who is the better defender against harmful external threats? Keep reading to find out which antivirus is right for you: McAfee vs. Avast antivirus.
Even though it may seem like a controversial topic, we will try to tackle it. We will compare the features of the two antivirus programs: security, performance, pricing, system impact, user interface, and many more.
McAfee vs. Avast Antivirus: Overview
Regarding features, it’s hard to declare a winner when you compare McAfee vs. Avast. Of course, the first thing to consider when choosing an antivirus program is your device. McAfee supports Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
On the other hand, Avast also supports all these systems.
In terms of functionality, both the antivirus products offer virus scan, a file shredder, a firewall, and many features to increase your device’s performance. But McAfee also offers a password manager and parental control, both of which are quite useful. On the other hand, Avast gives you a sandbox for virtual file testing and a webcam shield, eliminating the need to cover the laptop camera with stickers.
McAfee vs. Avast Antivirus: Highlights
McAfee
McAfee provides full-featured protection
It is one of the most intuitive and easy-to-use antivirus products
Reliability is well above average but not great
Price: Above average
The money-back guarantee for 30 days
Avast
It is compatible with all modern platforms
Different levels of protection from malware
Detects phishing sites effectively
A robust security plug-in for browsers that automatically detects suspicious websites
New passive mode for using multiple security products in parallel
McAfee vs. Avast Antivirus: Protection
McAfee is the main range of protection against cyber-attacks that protects your computer, endpoint, and network from all security threats. McAfee includes many cyber security solutions, from basic safety to advanced malware protection. Also, Avast offers a diverse range of antivirus suites and packages with advanced security and additional utilities for better protection and security against all kinds of malicious programs, Trojans, viruses, etc. McAfee and Avast are both neck and neck regarding malware protection.
McAfee vs. Avast Antivirus: System Impact
McAfee products are created to minimize system impact while scanning for viruses. They’re one of the best products to prevent infections and impact system performance, thereby consuming as few resources as possible.
On the other hand, Avast sheds little light on the consumption of system resources, affecting system performance. McAfee is also better than Avast in memory management, contributing mainly to the overall system’s performance. McAfee is a clear winner based on resource usage.
McAfee vs. Avast Antivirus: User Interface
McAfee has made tremendous interface upgrades in recent years to make it simpler, brighter, and more attractive. It sports a mix of white, light blue, white, and gray with a home window that lets you surf different pages. Its quick links are also effective, and it notifies you about the health of your device using green and red color codes.
Avast includes a modern look with dark color schemes that reflect a highly effortless design. Its simple and horizontal menu makes navigating from one menu to another easy. Users can access the three-tab menu on the homepage with just a few clicks, along with other relevant features.
McAfee vs. Avast Antivirus: Prices
While McAfee and Avast antivirus offers freemium models that provide all the basic features for a limited time, you will have to pay more to use premium features with advanced malware protection, social media protection, system optimizer, etc. McAfee’s basic plan costs $40 per year for a single system, while for up to 10 devices, McAfee’s Plus costs $60 per year. While Avast’s basic plan costs roughly the same as McAfee, the premium plans are somewhat higher. Therefore, McAfee’s security products are slightly cheaper than Avast’s.
McAfee vs. Avast Antivirus: Conclusion
While McAfee and Avast antivirus works seamlessly for home users, McAfee is a much-preferred choice for enterprise-level security, offering advanced protection against all malicious threats. McAfee is a subsidiary of the Intel Security Division; its focus is more on enterprises. On the other hand, Avast is geared towards home users. Regardless of what each of them claims or how good they’re in safety and security, they’ve their fair share of performance problems and drawbacks, which depend on many factors.