Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsSome links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Most Mac users do not need to buy antivirus simply because they own a Mac. macOS already combines Gatekeeper, notarization, XProtect, code signing, sandboxing and other system protections to prevent, detect and remediate malware. A third-party antivirus can add useful independent scanning, web protection, cross-platform detection or management tools, but it is an optional layer—not a replacement for Apple’s protections and not a guarantee against every attack.
The practical choice depends on what you do on the Mac, what data it holds and which threats you want another product to address. Macs can get malware; the more useful question is whether a particular product adds protection you need beyond what macOS already provides.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Does a Mac have built-in antivirus?
Yes. Apple calls its built-in antivirus technology XProtect, but macOS security is broader than a single antivirus scanner. Apple describes three malware-defense goals: prevent malware from launching or executing, block malware from running, and remediate malware that has executed. Gatekeeper and notarization help with the first two; XProtect detects and can respond to known malware, including malware that has run.
These protections work alongside controls that restrict what apps can do and protect the operating system and user data. Apple says the layers combine to support best-practice protection from viruses and malware. That is meaningful protection, not a promise that every malicious file, scam or attack will be stopped.
#1 Best Overall
- SPEED-OPTIMIZED, CROSS-PLATFORM PROTECTION: World-class antivirus security and cyber protection for Windows (Windows 7 with Service Pack 1, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, and Windows 11), Mac OS (Yosemite 10.10 or later), iOS (11.2 or later), and Android (5.0 or later). Organize and keep your digital life safe from hackers
- SAFE ONLINE BANKING: A unique, dedicated browser secures your online transactions; Our Total Security product also includes 200MB per day of our new and improved Bitdefender VPN
- ADVANCED THREAT DEFENSE: Real-Time Data Protection, Multi-Layer Malware and Ransomware Protection, Social Network Protection, Game/Movie/Work Modes, Microphone Monitor, Webcam Protection, Anti-Tracker, Phishing, Fraud, and Spam Protection, File Shredder, Parental Controls, and more
- ECO-FRIENDLY PACKAGING: Your product-specific code is printed on a card and shipped inside a protective cardboard sleeve. Simply open packaging and scratch off security ink on the card to reveal your activation code. No more bulky box or hard-to-recycle discs. PLEASE NOTE: Product packaging may vary from the images shown, however the product is the same.
What XProtect does
XProtect uses YARA signatures—rules for identifying known malicious content—that Apple updates automatically. Apple documents checks when an app is first launched, when an app changes in the file system, and when XProtect signatures are updated. When it recognizes known malware, XProtect can block execution, move an item to the Trash, alert the user and use remediation engines delivered through system data and security updates.
XProtect updates are checked daily by default. Notarization revocation information is checked more frequently. Those details matter when comparing XProtect with a commercial product that advertises continuous file monitoring: Apple’s documented XProtect checks happen at specific events. They should not be described as an assurance that every file is continuously scanned at every moment.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallWhat the other layers contribute
- Gatekeeper evaluates downloaded software and its code-signing information before it runs.
- Notarization is Apple’s automated scan for malicious content and code-signing issues in submitted software. It is not a manual review or an endorsement of everything an app does.
- Code signing helps establish that software comes from an identified developer and has not been altered in ways that invalidate its signature.
- Sandboxing and access controls limit what an app can access or change, including protected user folders and system resources.
- System Integrity Protection and mandatory access controls add restrictions on modifying protected parts of macOS.
- FileVault encrypts the Mac’s data, while the application firewall and Packet Filter address network connections.
These mechanisms have different jobs. FileVault, for example, protects data if a device or its storage is lost; it is not a malware scanner. A firewall controls network traffic, but does not establish that a user should trust a downloaded app. Security is the result of layers working together, not one feature doing everything.
What does Gatekeeper protect against?
Gatekeeper helps reduce the risk of running unsafe or untrusted downloaded software by evaluating its source and code-signing information. In combination with notarization, it can help prevent known malicious software from launching, including when Apple later revokes information associated with software identified as malicious.
Rank #2
- Absolute protection designed specifically for Mac with zero impact on speed
- NEW: Anti-tracker – keep browsing data private, view and manage which sites can collect your data.
- Blocks and removes annoying adware, malicious hijacker programs, unwanted toolbars, and other annoying browser add-ons
- Also includes: Online Shopping Protection, Time Machine Protection, Cross-Platform Malware Detection, Proactive Link Scanning, Anti-Phishing, Autopilot, Bitdefender VPN (200 MB/day), and much more
Notarization is useful evidence about software provenance, but it is not the same as App Review. Apple’s developer documentation explicitly distinguishes notarization from App Review: automated checks do not mean that Apple has reviewed an app’s features, business practices or every possible behavior. A notarized app can still be unwanted, deceptive or inappropriate for a particular user.
Nor does Gatekeeper remove the need to make careful decisions. A user may approve a security prompt, grant broad permissions, install a fake update or intentionally run software that they downloaded. Attackers also try to persuade people to trust a link, attachment or instruction. Gatekeeper addresses software launch and provenance; it cannot make every social-engineering decision for the user.
What can built-in macOS security miss?
Apple’s documentation describes protections focused on known malware, software provenance, execution controls and remediation. It does not promise that every phishing page, scam, malicious document, newly emerging threat or social-engineering attack will be blocked. An attacker may exploit a vulnerability before a detection rule exists, or persuade a person to take an action that gives the attacker access.
That distinction is important because “Mac antivirus” is often used to mean several different things. A product may scan files for malware, filter dangerous websites, flag suspicious apps, detect Windows malware in files that might be shared, or provide administration tools. Those capabilities are not interchangeable, and the product’s marketing label does not establish which ones are included or how well they work.
Rank #3
- Absolute protection designed specifically for Mac with zero impact on speed
- NEW: Anti-tracker – keep browsing data private, view and manage which sites can collect your data.
- Blocks and removes annoying adware, malicious hijacker programs, unwanted toolbars, and other annoying browser add-ons
- Also includes: Online Shopping Protection, Time Machine Protection, Cross-Platform Malware Detection, Proactive Link Scanning, Anti-Phishing, Autopilot, Bitdefender VPN (200 MB/day), and much more
- Known malware: XProtect can detect and block known threats, but recognition depends on Apple’s available signatures and checks.
- New or targeted threats: Neither an Apple protection nor a commercial scanner should be assumed to catch every new attack. Independent testing can provide evidence for particular products and versions, not a universal guarantee.
- Phishing and scams: A malicious message or convincing fake sign-in page can target the person rather than exploit macOS. Web protection may help, but no filter should be treated as a reason to trust an unexpected link.
- Permission abuse: A user can be manipulated into granting access. Review prompts carefully, especially when an app requests access that does not fit its purpose.
- Infected documents and cross-platform files: Mac defenses and third-party features differ. A file that is not a Mac threat may still create risk when passed to a Windows user.
So “XProtect is enough” is not a universal technical verdict. It may be enough for a particular person’s routine and risk tolerance, but it cannot mean that a Mac is immune or that a user can ignore suspicious behavior.
What can third-party Mac antivirus add?
A third-party suite may add an independent detection engine, continuous real-time file monitoring, web or phishing protection, detection of potentially unwanted programs, or detection of Windows malware to reduce the chance of passing infected files to other devices. Business or managed products may add centralized administration, policy controls or incident-response visibility. Some subscriptions bundle features such as a VPN or password manager.
These are possible additions, not a standard package. Exact features depend on the vendor, product edition, permissions, macOS release and subscription tier. Before installing anything, check whether the feature you want is actually included for Mac and whether it runs on your macOS version. A product that primarily adds a bundled service you will not use may not justify its cost or the extra background software.
Installing another security product also involves trade-offs. It may consume system resources, generate false alarms, ask for sensitive permissions, collect diagnostic or browsing data, or conflict with another security tool. Review its privacy policy and requested access, test whether it affects the workflows you rely on, and keep only the protection you can understand and maintain.
Rank #4
![Bitdefender Premium VPN | 10 Device | 1 Year [PC/Mac Online Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51PJO994uUL._SL160_.jpg)
- Unlimited encrypted traffic for up to 10 devices
- Online protection and anonymity
- Safe online media streaming and downloads
- NEW Ad Blocker and Anti-tracker. Blocks annoying ads, popups system wide and stops advertisers from collecting precious data about your online habits.
- NEW App Traffic Optimizer. Lets you prioritize traffic of up to 3 app for better desired results.
How do built-in security and antivirus compare?
Apple’s protections are part of macOS and focus on software trust, known malware and system-level safeguards. A third-party product is valuable only to the extent that it adds a useful, well-tested capability for the user’s specific risks.
| Security area | Built-in macOS protections | What a third-party product may add |
|---|---|---|
| Software launch and provenance | Gatekeeper evaluates downloaded software and code-signing information; notarization is an automated check for malicious content and code-signing issues. | May add additional app or file reputation checks; scope varies by product. |
| Known Mac malware | XProtect uses automatically updated YARA signatures and can block, alert, remove or remediate known malware. | An independent detection engine and different scanning behavior may add another layer. |
| When files are checked | Apple documents XProtect checks at first launch, after file changes and when signatures update. | Some products advertise continuous real-time file monitoring; verify the exact Mac product and settings. |
| Web and phishing protection | Apple’s cited malware documentation does not promise comprehensive protection against every phishing page or scam. | Some products offer web filtering or phishing protection; coverage and effectiveness vary. |
| Windows malware in shared files | The cited Apple malware protections are centered on malware affecting macOS. | Some products detect Windows malware to reduce cross-platform spread; verify that the Mac edition includes it. |
| Ransomware and unwanted apps | macOS has system controls, but Apple’s described XProtect functions do not amount to a promise to block every ransomware or unwanted-app scenario. | Some suites offer ransomware controls or potentially unwanted-program detection; check the specific feature set. |
| Management across devices | macOS includes system security settings and controls, but Apple’s cited consumer protections are not a third-party suite’s centralized dashboard. | Some business products provide central administration and visibility; availability depends on the product and plan. |
| Cost | Included with macOS; no separate antivirus subscription is required to use these native protections. | Pricing and renewal terms vary by product, edition, region and subscription; verify current terms before buying. |
Do I need antivirus on my Mac?
For a careful, low-risk user, Apple’s built-in protections may be sufficient. That is a risk-based judgment, not a guarantee of immunity. A paid product deserves closer consideration when the Mac handles sensitive data, faces targeted attacks, shares files frequently with Windows systems, or needs web filtering or centralized administration.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Built-in protections may be enough if
- You install apps from the App Store or well-known developer websites.
- You keep macOS and your browser current and leave Gatekeeper protections enabled.
- You use strong account security and avoid approving unexpected prompts or installing fake updates.
- You can recognize suspicious links and attachments and do not need extra web filtering or management features.
Consider an additional product if
- The Mac stores sensitive personal or business information, or the user faces a meaningful targeted threat.
- Several people or devices need a consistent security policy and someone needs central visibility.
- You frequently exchange files with Windows computers and want an added check for malware that could spread through shared files.
- You specifically want independent real-time scanning, web protection or another capability that Apple’s documented protections do not promise.
Do not buy a suite just because it advertises features without checking whether those features apply to its Mac edition. Also do not disable Apple’s protections on the assumption that a third-party scanner replaces them. The intended benefit is an additional layer, not a reason to remove existing ones.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How should you choose a Mac antivirus?
Start with the threat or capability you want to address, then look for evidence about the exact product and version. A broad feature list is not a substitute for testing, and a laboratory result is not proof that every release or user will get the same outcome.
Best Value
- SPEED-OPTIMIZED, CROSS-PLATFORM PROTECTION: World-class antivirus security and cyber protection for Windows, Mac OS, iOS, and Android. Organize and keep your digital life safe from hackers.
- ADVANCED THREAT DEFENSE: Your software is always up-to-date to defend against the latest attacks, and includes: complete real-time data protection, multi-layer malware, ransomware, cryptomining, phishing, fraud, and spam protection, and more.
- SUPERIOR PRIVACY PROTECTION: including a dedicated safe online banking browser, microphone monitor, webcam protection, anti-tracker, file shredder, parental controls, privacy firewall, anti-theft protection, social network protection, and more.
- TOP-TIER PERFORMANCE: Bitdefender technology provides near-zero impact on your computer’s hardware, including: Autopilot security advisor, auto-adaptive performance technology, game/movie/work modes, OneClick Optimizer, battery mode, and more
- Name the gap. Decide whether you need independent malware detection, real-time file checks, phishing protection, Windows-malware detection, ransomware controls or administration. If you cannot name a gap, the extra product may not add enough value.
- Check current independent tests. Confirm the product appears in recent Mac testing, and read what was tested: protection, performance impact, false alarms and the operating-system version all matter.
- Verify Mac-specific features. Confirm that each advertised protection applies to macOS, your version of macOS and the subscription tier you would buy. A feature available in a Windows edition may not be present on Mac.
- Review privacy and permissions. Understand what access the app requests and what data it collects. Security software may need broad system permissions to monitor files or traffic; grant only what you understand and trust.
- Check performance and false alarms. Look for test results and user reports relevant to the current version, and consider whether an alert could interrupt software or files you need.
- Compare the full renewal cost. Check device limits, renewal price, trial conversion and cancellation terms for your region. Do not assume a first-term offer is the recurring price.
- Keep the stack simple. Avoid piling on overlapping scanners and filters without a reason. Multiple security tools can create duplicate alerts, extra resource use or conflicts.
What do the latest Mac antivirus tests show?
Independent testing confirms that Mac antivirus remains an active category, but certification or inclusion in a test does not establish a single best choice for every reader. The available 2025 evaluations differ in scope and should be read as evidence about products under particular conditions.
| Evaluation | Scope and date | What it supports |
|---|---|---|
| AV-Comparatives | Nine Mac solutions certified; announcement dated June 13, 2025. | The named products were part of a 2025 certification program. Certification does not mean all products are equal or best for all threat models. |
| AV-TEST | Sixteen macOS protection products evaluated on macOS Sequoia 15.3 from January through March 2025. | The evaluation considered protection against Mac malware, system-performance impact and false alarms. |
| SE Labs | Home anti-malware evaluation conducted in April and May 2025. | Its framing includes built-in macOS security and asks whether third-party antivirus adds value against targeted attacks. |
AV-Comparatives named Avast Security Free for Mac, AVG AntiVirus Free for Mac, Avira Free Security for Mac, Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac, CrowdStrike Falcon Pro for Mac, Intego Mac Internet Security X9, Kaspersky Premium for Mac, Norton AntiVirus Plus for Mac and Trellix Endpoint Security (HX) in its June 2025 announcement. That list is useful when checking which products were included, but it is not a ranking and does not show that every product suits a home user. Choose using the full test results, your requirements and the edition you can actually obtain in your region.
What is the practical verdict?
macOS already provides substantial malware defense, so antivirus is optional for many careful Mac users. XProtect, Gatekeeper and notarization address different parts of the problem, backed by system protections such as sandboxing, access controls and FileVault. A third-party suite can be worthwhile when it demonstrably adds a capability the user needs—especially independent monitoring, web protection, cross-platform checks or centralized management—but it cannot eliminate risk or make unsafe choices safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does XProtect update?
Apple says XProtect updates are checked daily by default. Notarization revocation information is checked more frequently, so the update behavior is not identical for every built-in protection.
Does Apple notarization mean an app is safe?
No. Notarization is an automated scan for malicious content and code-signing issues, not App Review or a guarantee about an app’s quality, privacy practices or future behavior.
Can I use two antivirus apps on my Mac at the same time?
There is no universal compatibility rule for every product combination. Before running multiple real-time scanners, check both vendors’ guidance: overlapping monitoring can create duplicate alerts, additional resource use or conflicts.
Recommended Free Tools
Which Mac antivirus is best?
There is no single best choice for every Mac user. Compare current independent results for the exact product and version, then match its tested protections and privacy trade-offs to the threat or capability you actually need.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
