Side by side
Avast Free Antivirus vs PC Matic
Both stand on antivirus software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneMac+1
Choose Avast Free Antivirus if you want free malware protection with additional web, email, ransomware, and network safeguards on a supported platform. Look elsewhere if you need coverage for more than one device under this free plan.
Visit Avast Free Antivirus
Free plan AndroidAPIiPhone+4
PC Matic combines endpoint protection with Windows maintenance and additional consumer plan features. Review the operating-system minimums and the included VPN or identity features when selecting a plan.
Visit PC MaticThe facts
| Avast Free Antivirus | PC Matic | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | No |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Mac, Windows | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | PC Matic Privacy: $30 a year |
| Plans published | 2 | 7 |
| Maker | Not published | PC Matic |
| Website | avast.com | pcmatic.com |
| On antivirus software | #7 of 120 | #11 of 120 |
Avast Free Antivirus: what it does well
- Detects, blocks, and removes viruses, adware, spyware, and Trojans.
- Real-time malware protection and PC scanning.
- Web Guard helps block scam sites, phishing links, and malicious downloads.
- Includes shields for files, suspicious app behavior, email, and ransomware.
- Network Inspector and Firewall address Wi-Fi and network threats.
What to know first
- The free plan covers one device.
- Reactivation may be prompted after 12 months.
- Automatic updates require internet access.
- Windows requires version 7 or later; macOS requires 10.14 or later.
PC Matic: what it does well
- Default-deny allowlisting blocks unknown applications
- Windows scans can update software and drivers
- Family identity plan lists protection up to $1M
- US-based home technical support available seven days
What to know first
- Antivirus plan costs $60 a year
- Supported operating systems have minimum versions
- Free VPN on Antivirus plan limited to 300 MB daily
Alternatives to Avast Free Antivirus Alternatives to PC Matic The whole list