The 7 Best McAfee Competitors and Alternatives (How To Choose)

Is McAfee Worth It Anymore?

McAfee has been one of the most recognizable names in antivirus protection for decades, and many new devices still come with McAfee antivirus software pre-installed. However, despite still holding a significant share of the antivirus market [*], McAfee's reputation has taken a hit.

Unhappy customers have reported performance issues, annoying popups, and inadequate support and communication from McAfee [*]. 

But maybe one of the bigger complaints is that McAfee’s antivirus software simply isn’t as relevant as it once was. 

Today, hackers are less reliant on malware and viruses, and are more likely to target you with phishing scams, identity theft, or data leaks. 

To keep up with the times, McAfee recently launched McAfee+ and McAfee Total Protection, which combine identity and credit monitoring, device security, and insurance — similar to Aura and LifeLock — but at a higher price, and with more limited functionality. 

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Key takeaways

• While McAfee is mostly known for its antivirus software, the company recently moved into identity and “all in one” protection with McAfee+.
• Many customers complain about excessive pop-up warnings from McAfee and hard upsell tactics when trying to get help from customer support representatives [*].
• McAfee is still rated as a top Windows antivirus product by independent testers, such as the AV-TEST institute [*].

What To Look For in an Alternative to McAfee

• Modern antivirus protection. The best antivirus software provides real-time malware detection, as well as removal of the latest threats and all types of malware — including trojans, adware, spyware, and rootkits. 
• Device compatibility (with no performance issues). The software should run seamlessly on all major device types and operating systems, with minimal impact on performance. Also, consider how many devices you need to protect compared to how many devices the software can cover.
• Trustworthy companies with 24/7 support. Look for software backed by a company with a history of ethical practices and a reputation for reliable, high-quality, and accessible support. 
• Bundled with additional safety features. Choose an antivirus program that comes with useful extras like a virtual private network (VPN), parental controls, and identity and credit monitoring.

The 7 Best McAfee Alternatives of 2024

Whether you’re looking for a McAfee alternative to protect your Mac, Windows, or mobile device from viruses, or want full protection against identity theft and hacking, it’s important to know the available options. 

1. Aura Antivirus Ultimate

Why we picked it: Aura may have only hit the market in 2017, but it has quickly built a large following and received accolades from TechRadar, USNews.com, Forbes, and more. 

Aura offers several plans, including comprehensive identity theft protection packages and digital security plans for individuals and families. 

Aura's powerful antivirus software provides protection from malware, phishing and scam sites, and unwanted trackers and ads for up to 10 devices — including MacOS 10.15 and Windows 10 devices or newer. Real-time threat detection is only available on Windows devices. 

Aura also comes with a military-grade virtual private network (VPN), a secure password manager, and an encrypted digital vault to store your most sensitive personal information. You can also add an optional AI-powered scam call and text blocker to your plan. 

Best plan & average cost: Aura Antivirus Ultimate plan for $5/month.

Aura's Ultimate plan features digital security for up to 10 devices, plus premium identity monitoring, bank fraud protection, and up to $1 million in identity theft insurance. 

Our verdict: For a fraction of the cost of many competitors, Aura gives users access to all-in-one protection that includes robust digital security and identity and credit monitoring.

2. Norton 360 with LifeLock Select

Why we picked it: LifeLock has been providing identity theft protection since 2005. But it wasn't until its acquisition by Symantec (the makers of Norton) in 2017 when LifeLock added digital security to its packages. 

Norton 360 with LifeLock plans include Norton's well-known antivirus software as well as identity and credit monitoring and optional parental controls. 

The Norton 360 with LifeLock Select plan includes malware protection for up to five PCs, Macs, tablets, or phones. You also get access to Norton’s Smart firewall, advanced detection and notifications, and anti-phishing and exploit protection features. Norton 360 is compatible with most devices, including many Windows 8, MacOS 10.10, and Android 8.0 or newer devices.

Best plan & average cost: Norton 360 with LifeLock Select for $59.99/year.

Norton 360 with LifeLock Select gives users antivirus protection on up to five devices with just enough extra features to make it worthwhile, including credit alerts and one-bureau credit monitoring. 

Buyer beware: LifeLock increases its prices after your first year as a customer. After your one-year anniversary, the cost of Norton 360 with LifeLock Select jumps to $159.99/year.

Our verdict: Norton 360 with LifeLock is among the industry's most recognizable antivirus software and identity theft protection providers and is loaded with features; but getting the most out of the service requires a serious investment. You also have to be okay with the company’s recent data security issues. 

📚 Related: Aura vs. LifeLock Comparison: How To Choose →

3. Bitdefender Ultimate Security

Why we picked it: Bitdefender has been a global cybersecurity leader since 2001, but it recently expanded its offerings to include identity theft protection, thanks to a partnership with IdentityForce. 

Along with its trusted device and network security, some Bitdefender plans now provide credit and financial account monitoring and identity theft insurance. 

Bitdefender secures up to 10 devices running Windows 7, MacOS 10.10, Android 5.0, and iOS 12 or later. The software uses real-time behavioral detection and cyber threat intelligence to protect its customers’ devices, data, and networks. Bitdefender also provides email and phishing protection, vulnerability assessments, and a speed and performance optimizer.

Best plan & average cost: Bitdefender Ultimate Security plan for $89.99/year.

The Ultimate Security plan provides enough antivirus coverage to protect most people — but is somewhat lacking when it comes to identity and financial account monitoring. 

Our verdict: Bitdefender offers one of the most effective antivirus programs, but the all-in-one protection plans lack some critical features. Beware that Bitdefender also raises prices after your first year, with renewal costs rising to $179.99/year for the Ultimate Security plan.

4. Avast One Gold

Why we picked it: Best known for its endpoint security software, Avast also offers online and identity theft protection with its Avast One line of products. Avast One also includes a VPN, online privacy, and device performance improvements. 

Avast's security features include real-time protection against viruses and malware, anti-scam and ransomware prevention, data protection features, and a network firewall. The security solution is compatible with all devices running Windows 7, MacOS 10.13, Android 8.0, or iOS 15.0 and later. 

Best plan & average cost: Avast One Gold for $83.88/year.

For purely digital security needs, Avast One Gold provides most of what you need, and that’s it. This plan includes digital security and device performance optimization for up to five devices — but no identity theft protection, credit monitoring, personal assistance, or identity theft insurance.

Our verdict: Avast One offers reliable antivirus protection and internet security, but it might leave you wanting for more financial fraud protection and prevention. 

📚 Related: Is Avast Safe? What To Know Before You Buy →

5. Webroot Premium

Why we picked it: Since its founding in 1997, Webroot has grown from creating privacy tools to antivirus software to complete cybersecurity packages. In 2022, Webroot and Allstate partnered to introduce Webroot Premium, an all-in-one device, privacy, and identity protection service [*].

In terms of digital security, Webroot Premium includes real-time scanning and protection against modern antivirus threats, phishing scams, and malicious websites. The package also includes a system optimizer with privacy tools and a password manager.

Webroot Premium runs on most devices with Windows 7, MacOS 12, Android 7.0, and iOS 13 or later.

Best plan & average cost: Webroot Premium for $64.99/year.

Webroot Premium is the company's only plan that includes any form of identity protection.

Our verdict: Webroot Premium bills itself as an all-in-one solution, but the limited identity and credit monitoring may not justify the price increase from the company’s stand-alone antivirus software offering.    

6. Trend Micro Premium Security Suite

Why we picked it: Trend Micro began as an antivirus provider in 1988 and gradually moved into network and endpoint protection. In more recent years, the company has set its sights on identity theft, incorporating identity monitoring and restoration services into its Premium Security Suite package. 

With this package, users also receive Trend Micro antivirus security, which includes advanced AI-powered malware detection and removal. Other security features include social media privacy protection, mobile device security, and Safe Browsing features. 

The Premium Security Suite works on devices with Microsoft Windows 10, MacOS 10, Android 5.0, and iOS 13 or later.

Best plan & average cost: Trend Micro Premium Security Suite for $54.95/year.

The Premium Security Suite package is the only plan from Trend Micros that offers both identity and antivirus protection.

Our verdict: Trend Micro's Premium Security Suite gives you an affordable all-in-one package, but its identity protection doesn't offer much beyond Dark Web monitoring (and also renews at nearly $100 more a year after your first year).

📚 Related: Do You Actually Need Antivirus Software? [Answered] →

7. IDShield Individual

Why we picked it: Owned by LegalShield, IDShield is an identity theft protection company that specializes in identity theft monitoring and resolution services. For individuals and families, IDShield offers one- or three-bureau credit monitoring, personal information tracking, and fraud recovery services that include help from licensed private investigators. 

When you sign up for IDShield, you also receive access to Trend Micro's antivirus security software, which includes malware protection, a VPN, and a password manager for 3-15 devices. 

The antivirus software features real-time scanning, Safe Browsing tools, and advanced AI learning. It's also compatible with devices running Windows 10, MacOS 10.14, iOS 13, and Android 5.0 or later.

Best plan & average cost: IDShield Individual with one-bureau credit monitoring for $14.95/month.

IDShield’s individual plans only provide digital security tools for three devices but make up for it with more robust identity monitoring, support, and insurance than some alternatives. However, if you want three-bureau credit monitoring, you’ll need to pay for an upgrade. 

Our verdict: IDShield provides some of the most comprehensive reputation protection and identity restoration services on the market. But, even with free antivirus from Trend Micro, IDShield's packages still cost more than plans from similar providers.

📚 Related: The 6 Best Aura Alternatives Right Now (Ranked and Rated) →

Why You Should Choose an Alternative to McAfee

For many years, McAfee was one of the largest and most respected security software companies in the world. Yet, while it still has its longstanding brand name and pre-installation agreements, McAfee's reputation has declined considerably in the antivirus landscape.

For example, McAfee has a 1.2-star rating on third-party review site Trustpilot and a 1.05-star rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). 

Here are some reasons why customers have turned their backs on McAfee:

• Performance issues. Many users report device slowdowns after installing McAfee. As one user put it, "McAfee is the virus, whatever you do don't get their products as you will suffer a constant barrage of warnings and your computer will slow down" [*]. 
• Device incompatibility. Customers have complained that McAfee is incompatible with many older devices, including those running MacOS 10.15, iOS 14, Android 8.0, and Windows 10 or earlier, in some cases [*].  
• Difficulties installing and canceling. Customers frequently report issues with installing McAfee on their devices, but even more find it difficult to cancel the service [*]. One frustrated user reported that it was "impossible to reach anyone at customer service online and [they] insist you call them to cancel — absolutely NO reason to require this other than to pressure you to renew" [*].
• High renewal fees. After the first-year promotional price expires, McAfee may increase your annual subscription price by up to 150% [*].‍
• Poor customer service. The most common complaint among McAfee's negative reviews refers to the company's inadequate customer support. One user described the customer service as "appalling," adding that they were "disconnected by three different agents who have all given conflicting advice, none of which has been useful" [*].

How To Cancel Your McAfee Subscription

The best way to end your McAfee subscription is to contact McAfee customer support directly. This is the only way to completely remove your account details from McAfee. It’s also the only way to request a refund for your membership.

Refunds are available within 30 days of your initial purchase or within 60 days of an automatic subscription renewal [* *]. 

If you purchased McAfee services through a mobile app, you can cancel your subscription on your mobile device. Do this by opening your “Settings” menu, clicking on your name at the top of the screen, and selecting “Subscriptions.” Requesting a refund for an app subscription goes through Apple, not McAfee.

McAfee isn’t your only option. Protect yourself with Aura for just $3/month.