In order to create a repeatable environment for the test where all conditions are the same except the antimalware installed, I used my MacBook Pro 13″ with macOS Catalina.įirst, I wiped out the disk and installed a fresh new OS. The best antimalware is supposed to have no ‘x’ in the table, and there was only one AV that accomplished the goal.

If AV failed to identify and disinfect the malware, I would put ‘x’ in the corresponding cell.

27 Adware and PUP (potentially unwanted programs)Įach column in the table has the name of the AV tested.

The list of actual active viruses and how tested AVs performed can be found in Appendix A. I Injected my Mac With 117 Malware Samples With a hacked software updates are not available and very soon the AV will be outdated and pretty much useless.Īnyway, here is a table with my top picks followed by the test description and results:īest Malware Detection Apps (Antiviruses) for Mac ANTIVIRUSĭetects 100% malware (including MacKeeper) I want a legally purchased, fully supported software with regular updates. It’s the only kind of app where I don’t want a hacked or free version. If I were a cop I wouldn’t want to have the second best vest. It’s like a cop wearing a bulletproof vest which only protects from certain types of bullets. Personally, I wouldn’t want to spend a single penny on a program that finds only 90% of threats, because even a single undetected virus can ruin my Mac. Why is it important to know which AV is the best? And finally, Norton is a reputable company, which was founded in 1982. It detects all malware on the Mac, it is available for all devices, including PCs and Androids. The best malware detection app for Mac is Norton 360. But now, armed with the real data, I can confidently recommend: I have to admit that the results surprised me a little. I was finally able to download more than 100 Mac-specific malware samples, and I spent two weeks testing 14 malware detection software. Not because I was lazy, but because I didn’t know where to find real viruses for a Mac.īut as we know, “Seek and you shall find.”

I went the same route initially when I wrote What to Look for In Antivirus Software post. However, almost none of the reviewers made an effort to inject their Macs with malware and test antiviruses on the real devices. They do a good job comparing various aspects of antimalware software, such as price, impact on the performance of the computer, ease of use, detection ratings according to respectable AV test labs. There are many antivirus and antimalware reviews for Macs on the Internet.

Best malware cleaner for mac