Get lifetime access to 1,000-plus career-building courses for just $19.97
Get lifetime access to StackSkills Unlimited for just $19.97. You can learn coding, marketing, music, investing and more. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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How to import eBooks and PDFs from Messages to Apple Books
Apple has made it decidedly more difficult to import .EPUB and .PDF files from Messages to the Books app — but it's not impossible. Here's how to do it on iPad, iPhone, and Mac.Import PDFs and eBooks from Messages into Apple BooksIf you're an avid bookworm and you like reading on your iPhone, chances are you might be a fan of the Apple Books app. You can easily buy ebooks and sync them across multiple platforms, which is great if you're the type to start reading on one device and pick up on another later.Before you start, make sure you've got Apple Books downloaded to your device of choice. You can grab it from the App Store for free. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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∞ The Dalrymple Report: Shoveling snow with Siri, More on Apple’s Future AI
We all know Siri can be frustrating, but Dave has a story about shoveling snow and trying to use Siri at the same time that had me laughing. I probably should feel bad about it, but it was just too good. More news from Mark Gurman this week on Apple's plans to run their AI efforts using Google's Gemini. Follow this podcast Brought to you by: Copilot Money: For a limited-time, when you sign up at copilot.money (new users only, web only) you can get two months free with code DALRYMPLE. Start the new year with clarity. Your money, beautifully organized, now across every device. Show Notes: Apple reportedly replacing Siri interface with actual chatbot experience for iOS 27 Gurman on Apple’s AI Sebastiaan de With joins design team at Apple Apple introduces new AirTag with expanded range and improved findability Apple's 'Creator Studio' App Bundle Now Available for $12.99 Per Month Apple Updates Keynote, Numbers, and Pages Apps With New Free and Paid Features Should you update to the new Pages, Numbers, Keynote, and Freeform on Mac? Search Your Apple Account Purchase History on iPhone Apple turning to Intel for future iPhone chips, analyst reaffirms Shows and movies we're watching Prime Target, Apple TV Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere, Disney+

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Why we’re still waiting for new high-end M5 MacBook Pros — blame macOS
The wait for a MacBook Pro models with faster M5 Pro or M5 Max processors could stretch well into February and maybe beyond. Here's why. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Apple debuts its 2026 Chinese New Year short film Shot on iPhone 17 Pro
Apple has released a charming new "Shot on iPhone" film just in time for Chinese New Year, highlighting the cinematic capabilities of iPhone… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Technics EAH-AZ100 in-ear headphones: Superb sound with AirPods-like convenience
Music lovers with Apple kit have long been forced to choose between the sound quality available from the established audio players and the slickness of the AirPods approach to connectivity – but the Technics EAH-AZ100 in-ear headphones have mostly resolved this dilemma. They not only deliver the best sound quality I’ve ever experienced with in-ear headphones, but also an Apple-like Just Works experience when switching between devices … more…

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Deals: Apple Trail Loop up to 52% off, 24GB Mac mini $100 off, AirTag 2 cases, iPhone 16 Pro $620 off, more
Alongside the ongoing Amazon low on AirPods Pro 3 and deep deal on AirPods 4 with ANC, today’s 9to5Toys Lunch Break is kicking off a near unheard of 52% price drop on Apple’s latest Trail Loop in blue with the black finish. Those offers also join a new low on the latest black model Trail Loop as well as a chance to save $100 on the most affordable M4 Mac mini with 24GB of RAM again and this giant Elevation Lab AirTag 2 mount/case sale from $8. You’ll also find some notable deals on MacBook Air, up to $620 off iPhone 16 Pro, and even more waiting below.  more…

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Apple ‘runs on Anthropic,’ says Mark Gurman
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman is well known for having numerous sources inside of Apple, and in a new interview he shared some interesting comments about the company’s reliance on Anthropic. more…

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Apple shares heartwarming ‘Glad I Met You’ short film shot on iPhone 17 Pro
Apple has released its annual Shot on iPhone short film in celebration of Chinese New Year. This year’s film, “Glad I Met You,” tells a heartwarming story of finding family with a stray dog. more…

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2026 Mac mini with M5 & M5 Pro: Release date, specs, performance & price rumors
Macworld The Mac mini is a top-tier choice for a wide range of users, from home office workers to creative professionals, thanks to its excellent performance-to-price ratio and versatile, space-saving design. Following a significant redesign in late 2024, the Mac mini became smaller, faster, and more appealing than ever. If you’re thinking about buying a Mac mini, you’re probably wondering whether Apple is planning another update soon, what new features might be coming to the 2026 Mac mini, and whether the company is likely to stick with its low starting price of $599. Apple last updated the Mac mini in October 2024, introducing the M4 and M4 Pro chips alongside a dramatic redesign that shrank the enclosure to just 5 by 5 inches. The next major update, based on Apple’s M5 chip generation, isn’t expected until spring or summer 2026. Our recommendation is that unless you specifically need the additional power promised by the M5, now is a good time to buy — particularly with frequent discounts available from third-party retailers and the Apple Refurbished Store. That said, the M5 chip, which debuted in the MacBook Pro in October 2025, represents a notable shift in Apple silicon, with a stronger emphasis on graphics performance and on-device artificial intelligence. Read on to find out everything that could be coming in the 2026 Mac mini, including the performance gains that can be expected from the M5 Mac mini, whether there will be an M5 Pro Mac mini, and if Apple will update the other specs. 2026 Mac mini processor: Will the Mac mini have an M5 & M5 Pro? Expected to offer M5 and M5 Pro options. Apple has yet to establish a consistent upgrade cycle with the Apple Silicon Mac mini. Apple released M1 and M2 versions but skipped the M3 and went with the M4. So, Apple isn’t afraid to skip a chip cycle with the Mac mini. However, it looks like Apple isn’t going to skip the M5: In November 2025, Mark Gurman reported that Apple has the Mac mini on the 2026 release schedule with M5 and M5 Pro chips. Then, in December 2025, MacRumors reported that references to the M5 and M5 Pro Mac mini appeared in a set of leaked Apple files. The Apple M5 chip, which debuted in October 2025, represents a significant shift in Apple silicon by prioritizing graphics performance and on-device artificial intelligence. While it maintains the 3-nanometer architecture of its predecessor, it introduces a new GPU design that incorporates dedicated hardware for AI tasks. The new M5 chip may make its way into the Mac mini. Apple At a glance: Expected processor improvements Key performance highlights of the M5 chip, as seen in the M5 MacBook Pro, include: Graphics: In the MacBook Pro M5 the GPU delivers up to 45% faster performance than the M4 and is roughly 4x faster in peak compute tasks. AI Tasks: Due to the new accelerators, certain AI functions—such as image generation in apps like Draw Things – can be up to 3.5 times faster than on the M4. Storage Speed: The M5 architecture supports significantly faster SSD performance, with some tests of the M5 in the MacBook Pro showing read and write speeds nearly doubling compared to the previous generation. CPU Output: General processing sees a more iterative increase, with single-core and multi-core scores rising by approximately 14% to 22% over the M4 in our MacBook Pro tests. 2026 Mac mini specs: Will the new Mac mini have better specs? No changes are expected compared to M4 Mac mini. At a glance: Expected specs From 16GB RAM (M5); 24GB RAM (M5 Pro) Up to 2TB SSD (M5); 8TB SSD (M5 Pro) Thunderbolt 4 (M5); Thunderbolt 5 (M5 Pro) Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.3 In October 2024, Apple upgraded the base unified memory (RAM) for the Mac mini to 16GB, moving away from the long-standing 8GB entry point. We expect that this 16GB baseline will continue with the M5 models to support multitasking and modern AI workloads. As with the current M4 models, the new 2026 Mac mini models are likely to offer configurations up to 32GB of RAM for the standard chip and higher for the Pro versions (up to 64GB RAM). The SSD specs are also likely to remain at 256GB SSD to 2TB SSD for the M5 model, and up to 8TB for the M5 Pro. Simon Jary / Foundry The M4 Mac mini has Thunderbolt 4, while the M4 Pro Mac mini has Thunderbolt 5. The MacBook Pro with M5 chip also features Thunderbolt 4, so that’s what will be in the M5 Mac mini. While specifications on the M5 Pro have not been reported, it will likely have Thunderbolt 5. The current Mac mini has Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.3. This didn’t change with the M5 MacBook Pro, so it looks like Apple will not upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 with the M5 Mac mini. This also means that Apple might not use its N1 wireless networking chip, which made its debut with the iPhone 17. No reports have been made about changes to the inner workings of the Mac mini. New Mac mini: Design No design changes expected. The M4 Mac mini underwent a significant physical redesign in October 2024, shrinking to a 5-by-5-inch enclosure. This design will be in place for several years to come. The M5 update is anticipated to focus on internal performance enhancements with no changes to the physical chassis. No reports have been made on whether Apple will offer new colors – so no Space Gray Mac mini is likely. Expect the ports to remain the same on the new Mac mini.Foundry At a glance: Ports The port offerings are also expected to remain the same as the M4 Mac mini: 2 front USB-C ports (supporting USB 3 at 10Gbps) Front 3.5mm audio jack 3 rear Thunderbolt ports HDMI port gigabit ethernet port (10Gb ethernet option available) New Mac mini: Price No price changes rumored, but prices could go up due to tariffs and exchange rate changes. Here are the prices for the current standard base configurations of the 2024 Mac mini for reference: $599/£599/CA$799/AU$999 M4, 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD $799/£799/CA$1,099/AU$1,299 M4, 16GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD $999/£999/CA$1,399/AU$1,599 M4, 24GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD $1,399/£1,399/CA$1,999/AU$2,199 M4 Pro, 24GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD Pricing could go up because of the U.S. tariffs situation – the components are made overseas. The prices may also be adapted to reflect exchange rates changes around the world. 2026 Mac mini: Release date Spring or WWDC launch (expected) The Mac mini has had an erratic release history. Apple has been through periods of updating the Mac mini annually and then waited as long as four years. Switching from Intel to Apple Silicon didn’t create any consistency; the M1 Mac mini was around for three years before it got its M2 upgrade. The Mac mini skipped the M3 and got an M4 upgrade (and a redesign) in November 2024. Since laptops dominate Apple’s Mac sales, desktop Macs like the Mac mini don’t tend to see consistent annual upgrades. And with recent reports of Apple doing some redesigns for its higher-end chips, it is possible that we could see the Mac mini with the Pro chip see longer upgrade cycles in the future. The M5 is out, however, and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that the M5 and M5 Pro Mac mini are on Apple’s product schedule for 2026. When in 2026 remains a question, though with the M6 expected in the second half of 2026, expect the M5 and M5 Pro Mac mini to be released in the spring or, at the latest, at WWDC26 in June 2026.

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Apple’s ‘Sugar,’ starring Colin Farrell, returns for season two on June 19th
Apple TV unveiled a first look at the anticipated season two return of “Sugar,” the acclaimed neo-noir detective drama starring Colin Farrell… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Apple just completely changed how you buy a new Mac
Macworld For as long as Apple’s been selling Macs online, it has offered them in a very specific way. There’s the base model, then models with more RAM and storage, higher processor options, larger displays, etc. It requires a bit of study—some models have more storage but less RAM—but it made the pricing very clear. If you go to buy a new Mac from Apple.com today, you’ll notice that things have changed. Instead of a variety of pre-configured options, you’ll see a single product page with “Customizable specs” that let you build your machine from the ground up. For the MacBook Pro, for example, you’ll select from the following options: Display size Color Screen type Chip Processing power Unified memory SSD storage Power adapter Keyboard Pro apps Payment options AppleCare coverage The individual options haven’t changed—you still get 24GB of RAM standard with the M4 Pro and Max processors, for example—but the buying process puts more of an emphasis on building a machine within your budget rather than choosing from a variety of prebuilt configurations. It’s not clear how this will affect third-party sellers such as Amazon and Best Buy, but it’s likely Apple will continue to ship common configurations.  Apple is rumored to offer the ability to customize CPU and GPU cores with the upcoming launch of the M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro models, so this new system could pave the way for more build-to-order options. It could also be a way to “hide” smaller price increases as memory and other component costs rise throughout 2026.

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Analysts caught flat-footed as iPhone supply, not demand, capped growth
Apple's latest earnings blew away expectations, and the magnitude of the success took almost every analyst by surprise. Here's what they're saying now to catch up to the new reality made clear by the blockbuster announcement.The iPhone 17 lineup is exceedingly popularFor the quarter ended December 27, 2025, Apple reported $143.8 billion in revenue, up 16% year over year, with earnings per share of $2.84. iPhone revenue climbed 23% to $85.3 billion, and Apple told investors to expect March-quarter revenue growth of 13% to 16%, alongside gross margins between 48% and 49%.Analysts largely agreed on what was driving the results. Demand remains strong across regions and product tiers, but tight supplies of key components are now the main factor limiting how much Apple can grow in the near term. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Sorry Apple fans, Mac prices might be going up this year
Macworld These early days of AI development are filled with promises, potential, excitement, hallucinations, and abominations. These early days are also costing us a lot of money, too. Take RAM, for example. Prices have skyrocketed because demand has skyrocketed, thanks to AI infrastructure needs. So far, the Apple consumer hasn’t been affected, but that could change soon. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently posted an analysis of the RAM market and how Apple could handle the situation surrounding its most important product, the iPhone. The TLDR version: Kuo thinks Apple will do what it can to “at least keep the starting price flat” for the iPhone 18 release this fall. According to Kuo, Apple may be willing to take a hit to its margins in the short term to tempt buyers as Android manufacturers increase their prices. The lost revenue could be made up through its Services division, he suggested. A few quick thoughts on Apple/iPhone memory price hikes:1. The 1Q26 LPDDR price hikes mentioned in the news are pretty close to what I’ve heard. NAND flash increases, however, are a bit lower.2. iPhone memory pricing is now negotiated quarterly instead of every six months, so…— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) January 27, 2026 Apple’s Services have been posting record quarters for some time now, and its margins are probably quite favorable for Apple (and mostly unaffected by rising component costs). So Kuo’s idea makes sense, but–stepping outside of Kuo’s analysis now–can Services revenue really grow enough to offset the increased cost? It’s hard to tell what’s going to happen, not just with the RAM market, which Kuo expects to continue throughout 2026, but with anything in the supply chain. (Kuo reports that “other components could also run short as the AI server boom continues to squeeze the rest of the supply chain.” And I’m not even considering any possible tariffs.) Even without knowing Apple’s strategy, budgets, and internal numbers, it seems like hardware price increases must happen at some point, and the Mac seems like a product where Apple could raise prices. If Apple is adamant about keeping iPhone prices flat, Macs are a big enough market to help maintain Apple’s overall profitability, but small enough so that any negative response or a decrease in sales can be absorbed in the short run. Plus, it’s the only product where RAM is sold separately, so Apple has some flexibility with pricing. During Apple’s first quarter 2026 financial results call, Apple CEO Tim Cook was asked about the effect of the RAM situation on Apple. “We are currently constrained, and at this point it’s difficult to predict when supply and demand will balance,” he said. “At this time we’re seeing less flexibility in the supply chain than normal, partly because of our increased demand.” Cook also noted that while “memory had a minimal impact” on the first quarter that just finished, he does expect “it to be “a bit more of an impact” going forward, with wholesale pricing for memory “increasing significantly.” Cook didn’t comment specifically on how RAM and other supply chain issues will affect pricing, only to say Apple will “look at a range of options to deal with that.” Later this year, Apple reportedly will be releasing a revamped MacBook Pro with M6 chips, OLED touchscreen displays, and a thinner design. Higher prices for these laptops won’t fly under the radar, but they would certainly be camouflaged by the dramatic product changes. With the supply change issues now affecting production, it seems like ideal timing for a Mac price increase in the second half of this year. So if you’re planning on buying a Mac later this year, be prepared. Or buy one now. And if nothing happens, well, then, take that cash you saved and buy yourself some new AirTags.

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Apple TV’s hit detective series with Colin Farrell sets return date
Apple TV’s hit neo-noir detective series Sugar is back for season 2 this year, with Colin Farrell returning. Here’s the just announced release date. more…

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Apple Watches prove useful in screening for AFib, studies find
Recent research highlights the effectiveness of Apple Watch in screening for atrial fibrillation (AFib), a prevalent heart rhythm disorder… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Apple Creator Studio, ChatGPT health, and iPhone 18 rumors on the AppleInsider Podcast
As Apple reports record earnings, we're diving into the new Apple Creator Studio to see what's actually new in it, and what's different. Plus there are more iPhone 18 rumors, and more reasons to not give your health data to ChatGPT.Apple Creator Studio on an iPadEven Tim Cook interrupted his own earnings report to mention the launch of the new Apple Creator Studio. If you like or depend on these apps, this is an exciting release — and it may even help keep those earnings up in future.Especially since now it's here, the bundle is proving to be every bit as good as hoped. That includes the new Content Hub with its stock photography, and most definitely the new Pixelmator Pro for iPad. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Today in Apple history: Newton MessagePad 120 becomes Apple’s first great mobile device
On January 30, 1995, Apple Computer launched the Newton MessagePad 120. The PDA's advanced features laid the foundation for the iPhone. (via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)

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Tim Cook hints at ‘never been seen’ innovations coming this year
Apple celebrated its best quarter ever yesterday, but in the company earnings call, CEO Tim Cook teased that the company has even bigger things ahead with new innovations later this year. more…

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iPhone 18 split launch strategy is about more than marketing
A new report is late to the party, and backs up claims that go back six months that Apple will launch the iPhone 18 Pro in 2026 and the iPhone 18 in 2027. For the first time, however, the split is said to be necessary for manufacturing reasons.The iPhone Fold is still expected in September 2026, but non-premium models may wait until 2027 — image credit: AppleInsiderIt was as far back as May 2025 when the first rumors of a split iPhone launch first appeared. Just as with all subsequent reports, the new one from Nikkei Asia says that September 2026 will see Apple launching only:iPhone 18 Pro Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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President Trump nominates Kevin Warsh to head Federal Reserve
President Donald Trump announced Friday that he is nominating Kevin Warsh to serve as the next chair of the Federal Reserve, ending months… The post appeared first on MacDailyNews.

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Amid record revenue, Apple's Q1 2026 R&D spend reveals its AI ambitions
Apple's Q1 2026 results are in, with record-breaking iPhone sales, but a record R&D spend suggests the company is far from resting on its laurels.Apple CEO Tim Cook shared another record quarter for the companyThe fiscal quarter, which ended December 27, 2025, saw Apple post records aplenty. With revenue of $143.8 billion, the company saw a 16% increase over the previous year's results — a new record for the company. Of that figure, a whopping $42.1 billion was net profit.Comparing that to the previous year's revenue of $124.3 billion and a net quarterly profit of $36.3 billion, Apple's already healthy balance sheet just got a shot in the arm. With record total revenue and earnings per share ($2.84, up 19%), it's hard to imagine how Apple shareholders could have hoped for better results. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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‘Harmful’ Google ads masquerading as how-tos are tricking Mac users
Macworld Clario, the developers behind the MacKeeper utility, recently warned about a deceptive ad that appears on Google when users search for terms related to Mac storage. The ad takes users to a suspicious site with instructions that contain “harmful content for Mac users.” The ads, according to Clario, appear when searching for “Mac cleaner,” “Clear cache macos” and similar terms. The ads display a Google Docs URL (docs.google.com) or a Medium URL (profile-apple.medium.com), which may not seem suspicious to the user. However, the users are redirected to sites designed to look like Apple.com support pages but contain “suspicious instructions.” The instructions direct users to the Mac’s Terminal and to enter a command posted on the site. The command runs a script that installs software on the Mac without the user being aware of it. The software can then be used remotely to access the computer. While many Mac users know never run Terminal commands unless they’re absolutely certain what they will do, desperate users who need to quickly free up space or fix a slow machine could be susceptible to unscrupulous instructions. And once they start typing commands into Terminal, there’s no telling how much information a hacker can access. What’s more, Clario’s investigation found that the sources of these ads appear to be legitimate but have had their accounts hacked. The suspicious ads were reported to Google, though we still saw the malicious ads when searching for “How to clear storage space on macbook air,” so be careful out there. The malicious Google ads are still active as of this writing.Foundry How to protect yourself We all depend on search engines to find information we need, but they can’t be relied upon to weed out malicious sites and bad links. It’s up to the user to check the URLs of the sites in the results. Look at the URL listed, and before clicking on a link, hover the pointer over it and look at the URL that’s displayed in the lower left of the browser window. And when you do click the link, watch the URL in the box at the top of the window. If you get redirected, you may be able to see it happen. Also, check that the website you end up on is the same as the URL that was in the search engine. Never open links in emails or texts you receive from unknown and unexpected sources. If you get a message that looks like it is from an entity that you do business with, check the sender’s email address and inspect the URL carefully. If you see a link or button, you can Control-click it, select Copy Link Address, and then paste it into a text editor to see the actual URL to check it there. Macworld has several guides to help, including a guide on whether or not you need antivirus software, a list of Mac viruses, malware, and trojans, and a comparison of Mac security software.

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JP Morgan hikes Apple stock target to $325 after record-breaking earnings
Less than a week after its last rise, JP Morgan now says Apple's target price is $325, specifically because of the latest earnings and Apple's guidance for the next two quarters.The current iPhone 17On January 26, ahead of what was already expected to be a record-breaking quarter for Apple, JP Morgan raised its target from $305 to $315. Now following both higher than predicted earnings and, in particular, Apple's projections for the future, the investment firm has raised the target again.In a note to investors seen by AppleInsider, JP Morgan summarized the earnings report and said that this should calm fears about rising costs. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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iPhone 18 isn’t launching until next year, new report reaffirms
Apple is widely expected to bifurcate the launch of the iPhone 18 lineup. Sources including Ming-Chi Kuo, Bloomberg, and The Information  have reported that the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Fold will launch later this year, followed by the base model iPhone 18 next spring. A new report from Nikkei Asia today corroborates that timeline. more…

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Best antivirus for Mac 2026: Security apps tested vs Apple Xprotect & Gatekeeper
Macworld It wasn’t so long ago that many users believed Macs didn’t need security software. Not only was the platform thought to be inherently secure by design, but the vast majority of computer users were running Windows, so that was where the money was for malware writers. Several high-profile attacks and a surge in popularity later, and now even Apple acknowledges macOS is a target, building in security tools like XProtect and Gatekeeper for basic protection from known Mac malware. Trouble is, it’s really not the known threats that keep us awake at night, and the dangers are not limited to malware. The most dangerous digital security threats are the ones we don’t see coming – those are the ones that will be successful in stealing our data, our privacy, our identity, and our money. Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your Apple computer from digital threats. Use this guide to find the best Mac Antivirus software to suit your needs. We have thoroughly tested all Mac antivirus products for usability and functionality, and consulted independent lab data to determine which is the most reliable and trustworthy security product for your Mac. No-one is better placed to guide you on which antivirus to choose for your Mac than Macworld, the leading authority on Mac products and products built for Mac. See our top pick in Mac antivirus softwareView Intego Mac Internet Security X9 How we test Mac Antivirus To thoroughly test Mac antivirus software, we combine hands-on evaluation with data from independent security labs. We assess malware detection, usability, performance, and value for money. We start with a clean macOS installation and download known malicious software and visit malicious websites to evaluate protection against online and offline threats. We then assess performance impact and user experience. We also evaluate the usefulness and accessibility of the software’s tools, including VPNs, password managers, firewalls, and parental controls. Finally, we look at how well the software detects and deals with Windows viruses and other types of malware. Updated January 30, 2026: This article is regularly updated and we aim to assess each suite on a yearly basis or when new features are launched. Is Apple’s malware protection enough? We have tested Apple’s own solution against a raft of malware and although it did an OK job keeping us safe, we proved that there were times when a questionable application could be installed without warning. A good analogy is to think of Apple’s built-in antivirus system, XProtect, as the lock on your Mac’s front door, while a paid antivirus is its alarm system and security cameras. With virus – also adware, spyware, trojan, and ransomware – definitions updated several times a day (far more frequently than Apple’s offering), you get real-time protection from all new and emerging threats. In our tests of Apple’s malware-protections, our only option was to wipe our Mac and return to the back up we made before the reckless behavior – and hope we hadn’t passed anything on. Apple doesn’t offer customer support or virus removal guarantees when the worst happens, nor does it protect you from cross-platform threats across all your devices. With paid antivirus software you get all this, plus more: extra features might include web and phishing protection, software updaters to patch vulnerabilities, VPNs, password managers, parental controls, secure cloud storage and backup, and dark web monitoring. Investing in a decent security suite for Mac is a smart move, adding an extra layer of protection and being safe rather than sorry. Best antivirus for Mac at a glance Jump straight to a Mac antivirus product for more details: CategoryBest PickWhy It WinsBest overallIntego Mac Internet Security X9 | DownloadExcellent malware detection, strong ransomware protection, and tools built specifically for macOS.Best free optionAvira Free Security for Mac | DownloadOne of the most generous free packages, with solid malware protection and useful extras like a limited VPN.Best for familiesNorton 360 | DownloadMulti-device, cross-platform protection with parental controls on supported plans, ideal for households.Best for power usersNorton 360 | DownloadAdvanced features including a full VPN, cloud backup, dark-web monitoring, and identity protection.Best for privacySurfshark One | DownloadSurfshark One is integrated into a broader privacy suite with a comprehensive suite of identity protection and security tools. 1. Intego Mac Internet Security X9 – Best antivirus for Mac users Pros Built for Mac with simplicity in mind Easy to set up and customize Solid malware protection Cons Mac only Price When Reviewed: From $24.99 for first year, usually $49.99 a year (1 Mac) Using our link Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Intego $24.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Intego Mac Internet Security X9 is our top pick for Mac antivirus software. It is approved by independent testing labs AV-Test and AV-Comparatives, offering solid antivirus and firewall protection. In November SE Labs gave Intego Mac Internet Security a highly commendable 98% protection accuracy rating. As the only antivirus in this round-up to be built from the ground-up for Mac, it has a simplicity about it that Apple users will appreciate. We love how easy this no-fuss Mac antivirus is to set up and use, with deep customization options, and no pushy upsells. If you have just the one Mac you wish to protect, Intego is an extremely effective security product – and also the cheapest paid option here. Who’s it for? Intego is for Mac users who want simple, but effective security, and are looking to gain peace of mind without diving into system-level configuration gymnastics. Intego’s VirusBarrier is ideal for users who have a single Mac or MacBook to protect, while NetBarrier lets them quickly and easily set up profiles for home, work or public connections. Why we picked it Intego’s Mac Internet Security X9 is a strong choice for Mac antivirus software for several key reasons. Intego offers protection specifically for macOS, this means its robust feature set is tailored to the Mac. While some rivals offer more features those apps can feel like they are a cut-back PC app running on the Mac. Only Intego offers such an easy-to-use set of security utilities for Mac users. Further considerations The basic package includes the company’s VirusBarrier real-time antivirus and NetBarrier firewall, along with anti-phishing protection. If you need additional features, the Premium Bundle adds parental controls so you can monitor internet time and block inappropriate content, optimization utilities for reducing file clutter and improving system performance, organizational tools for putting your most frequently used files at your fingertips and neatly arranging your desktop and dock, plus backup. A VPN is also available as an add-on. Because Intego is a Mac-only security suite, it isn’t suitable for users who also want to protect their iPhone or iPad, Windows PC or Android device. Most alternative antivirus products offer cross-platform protection. If unbeatable malware protection is your only concern, there are better alternatives to Intego. In September 2024, AV-Test awarded Intego a rating of 5 (out of 6) for Protection, 6 for Speed, and 6 for Usability. Then, in June 2025, AV-Comparatives rated it 97.1% for Mac malware protection, 97% for protection from potentially unwanted applications, and 100% for Windows malware detection. All four of the alternative Mac antivirus programs listed below scored a 6 for Protection from AV-Test, plus 100% for Mac malware protection and the maximum possible 99% for protection from potentially unwanted programs from AV-Comparatives. Use our link to get the best deal on Intego Mac Internet Security X9 and Mac Premium Bundle. Read our full Intego Mac Internet Security X9 review 2. Norton 360 – Best all-round, multi-platform security suite Pros Virus Protection Promise Instant reassurance for scams Includes Norton’s VPN and Password Manager Cons Some features Windows only Price When Reviewed: Standard (3 devices): $39.99 for first year, usually $94.99 a year; Deluxe (5 devices): $29.99 for first year, usually $119.99 a year Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Norton Security (first year, 1 device) $39.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Norton is a name with which most readers will be familiar, which is important for a tool that’s going to be responsible for your digital security. Norton’s Virus Protection Promise means you’ll get your money back if it can’t remove a virus from your Mac. Including VPN, a password manager, Deepfake protection, and antivirus, antimalware, ransomware and hacking protection, it has a more complete feature set than many of the Mac antivirus offerings here – without the high price tag to match. Norton 360 appeals for its top marks across both AV-Comparatives and AV-Test’s June 2025 benchmarks, delivering on malware protection, performance, and usability. A new feature that moves Norton up our ranking here is AI-powered Genie Scam Protection. The Genie Scam Assistant is available around the clock to answer your security questions, and can provide instant reassurance for dodgy-looking emails and texts. Who’s it for? The standard Norton 360 package is well suited to security-minded individuals who need a solution to cover all angles, and would appreciate the peace of mind afforded by an AI scam assistant that is able to answer questions in real time. The Deluxe package is ideal for couples, covering up to five devices including Macs, iPhones and iPads, while the Advanced package is perfect for families, with up to 10 devices covered. Further considerations Norton 360 supports Mac, iOS, Windows and Android, but if you use only Mac then you may be better served by Intego. Here macOS feels like more of an afterthought, with some features (such as cloud backup) available to Windows users only. There’s a lot of functionality here, and a lot of customization options, but if you’re not comfortable going digging into the settings for them then you might find this overkill. Some technical knowledge is required to take full advantage of these features. Although Norton performed very well in independent testing, in our own tests it missed a few threats, such as OSX.Proton, and it struggled to scan Zip files. We also found that the browser extension and private browser still allowed us to travel to questionable websites from spam email links. Read our full Norton 360 review 3. Surfshark One – Best for privacy, and unlimited device protection Pros Supports unlimited devices Excellent malware protection Includes VPN, identity and privacy protection Cons Cheaper options available Price When Reviewed: Surfshark One, 24 months at $2.29 a month with 3 free months (Total for 27 months: $67.23); 12 months at $3.39 a month with 3 free months (Total for 15 months: $50.85); or $17.95/month. Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Surfshark $50.85 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket If you have multiple devices to protect, Surfshark One’s unlimited device protection for macOS, Android, and Windows is unbeaten. Not only does this antivirus product ace AV-Test’s malware protection benchmark, it has several extra features designed with privacy in mind, including the Surfshark VPN the company is arguably better known for. Additional features found within Surfshark One include: Alert, which alerts you if your email, credit card or personal data is leaked in a data breach; Search, which lets you browse the web ad-, tracker and threat-free; Alternative ID, which generates a new identity and proxy email for online registrations; and CleanWeb, for blocking pop-ups. Who’s it for? Many of the digital threats we face today target the person as well as the PC. Surfshark One is the Mac antivirus tool for anyone who is concerned with protecting their personal data and identity, as well as their Mac (or PC, or Android device). Further considerations While Surfshark One packs a lot of features, it is also the most expensive option in this round-up – especially if you plump for the one-month plan (not an option with all Mac antivirus vendors). All plans are billed monthly, with the cheapest tying you in for two years. If cost is a concern, Intego offers the cheapest entry point. Surfshark One has not been tested by AV-Comparatives but, as we noted, notched up the maximum possible score for protection in AV-Test’s benchmarks in June 2025. However, it did drop half a point on both speed and usability, where every other Mac antivirus product here scored the full six points. Read our full Surfshark One review 4. Avast Premium Security – Best for AI-powered Mac security Pros Scam Guardian fights AI-powered threats No impact on performance 60-day trial available Cons Slow manual scanning Price When Reviewed: From $49.08 for first year, usually $77.99 a year (1 Mac). Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Avast Software $49.08 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Like Norton 360, Avast is going big on AI in the latest edition of its Premium Security suite. The logic is there: if AI is enabling the most sophisticated digital threats, AI may also present the best solution for finding and thwarting them. Avast also boasts an on-demand scam assistant as part of its new Scam Guardian module, providing instant reassurance for your security concerns, and it can prevent you clicking on dodgy links in scam emails and on fraudulent websites. Premium Security from Avast covers Mac, iOS, Windows, and Android, with packages available for one or up to 10 devices. You get a clean interface that is easy to use, and robust malware protection (scoring top marks in AV-Test and AV-Comparatives benchmarks in June 2025), with flexible scan options, smart network tools, and strong defense against browser hacks and ransomware. Who’s it for? Avast is well suited to individual users or families who are active on the internet, with protection focused on helping you spot the latest scams and guarding you while you shop or bank online. Further considerations If you’re not ready to buy Avast Premium Security, the company offers a generous 60-day trial, as well as a free version of its real-time antivirus. We would strongly urge you to consider the Premium version for its new AI-powered Scam Guardian module, and protection beyond basic malware. Read our full Avast Premium Security review 5. AVG Internet Security for Mac – Best for trialing Mac antivirus Pros Easy to use Strong malware protection and removal 60-day trial available Cons Mac only Price When Reviewed: $3.89 a month for 1 Mac ($46.68 for the first year, then $77.99 a year), or $4.99 a month for 10 devices ($59.88 for the first year, then $99.99 a year). Best Prices Today: Retailer Price AVG $46.68 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket AVG is probably better known for its free antivirus than its premium security suite, but it impresses with its broad feature set, clean interface, and solid malware/phishing protection. If you’re not sure whether to take the plunge and purchase paid antivirus then it offers the easiest path to do so, first offering a 60-day trial and then a 30-day money back guarantee if you’re not satisfied. In June 2025, AVG Internet Security for Mac scored top marks with AV-Test for Protection, Speed, and Usability, and also scored the maximum possible with AV-Comparatives when pitted against Mac malware, Windows malware, and potentially unwanted applications. Who’s it for? AVG Internet Security for Mac is for – as the name implies – Mac users. It does not support Windows or Android, although versions for those platforms are available. Best suited for cautious Mac users who want layered protection without complexity, the free trial lets them check it out with no strings attached. Further considerations AVG is mostly well designed and easy to navigate. It is good at its basic job, letting you use the web with confidence. We would like to see clearer indication of when scans are running, and it didn’t manage to prevent a fake Adobe Flash Player from being installed in our tests, but it’s difficult to fault this otherwise very strong Mac antivirus, which also did a great job of removing malware that did get through. It doesn’t particularly stand out among the competition here, but nonetheless it offers Mac security you can trust. Read our full AVG Internet Security for Mac review Other Mac antivirus software we tested Macworld reviews many more antivirus products than you see in our ranking above. Not appearing in our top five doesn’t mean a product isn’t going to do a good job of protecting your Mac, merely that it failed to stand out among the best of the competition. You’ll find some more top contenders below, with links to our full reviews for more details. We wouldn’t advise installing any Mac antivirus without first checking our antivirus software reviews. (For PC antivirus, see our sister site PCWorld’s guide to the best Windows antivirus.) McAfee Total Protection We recommend: McAfee Total Protection Read our review Price When Reviewed: Single: $29.99 (1 device) for first year, usually $89.99; Essential: $39.99 (5 devices) for first year, usually $119.99 a year Best Prices Today: $29.99 at McAfee Total Protection (first year, 1 device) Why we recommend it: McAfee Total Protection 2025 covers the bases with solid antivirus, real-time scanning, and a basic VPN feature, but stumbles with vague alerts, an outdated WebAdvisor protection system, and noticeable performance hits. Who’s it for: It’s a decent all-in-one for casual users wanting broad protection, but power users or privacy hawks might want something leaner, faster, and easier to configure. Read our full McAfee Total Protection review Avira Prime We recommend: Avira Prime Read our review Price When Reviewed: From $59.99 for first year, then $109.99 a year. Best Prices Today: $59.99 at Avira – Prime (first year, 5 devices) Why we recommend it: Avira Prime offers a sleek, modular approach to antivirus with solid customization, a zippy Quick Scan, and strong cleanup tools. While Full Scan times drag and phishing defense needs sharpening, features like unlimited VPN and Identity Assistant shine. Who’s it for: Avira Prime seems best suited for privacy-focused users who want full control without overwhelming complexity. Read our full Avira Prime review Trend Micro Antivirus for Mac We recommend: Trend Micro Antivirus for Mac Read our review Price When Reviewed: $24.95 for first year, usually $39.95 a year (1 Mac) Best Prices Today: $24.95 at Trend Micro (first year, 1 device) Why we recommend it: Trend Micro Antivirus delivers strong malware defense, smart folder protection, and detailed logs for the everyday user who wants solid security without diving into sysadmin territory. Who’s it for: While setup can be clunky and its Web Protection feature needs polish, it’s a great fit for home users who want customization, automation, and visibility without too much fuss. Read our fullTrend Micro Antivirus review Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac We recommend: Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac Read our review Price When Reviewed: $24.99 per year for 1 device (usually $39.99), $29.99 per year for 3 devices (usually $59.99) Best Prices Today: $24.99 at Bitdefender (first year, 1 device) Why we recommend it: Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac delivers fast scans, solid real-time protection, and a clean install process. While it fumbles on some pre-existing threats and Safari phishing defense, it’s a reliable day-to-day application. Who’s it for: Bitdefender is arguably ideal for users wanting basic, no-fuss Mac protection with the option to scale up to Total Security for multi-platform coverage should they desire. Read our fullBitdefender Antivirus for Mac review MacPaw, Moonlock We recommend: MacPaw Moonlock Read our review Price When Reviewed: 1 Mac: $54 per year; $13.50 a month; $150 one time payment (licences for more Macs available) Best Prices Today: $45 at MacPaw (annual) Why we recommend it: MacPaw is best known for CleanMyMac, but now it’s brought out its own Mac antivirus app. What’s present in Moonlock, in terms of malware detection and removal makes it a viable option for Mac users who want good protection with minimal fuss. Its antivirus tools catch some threats that can be missed by other utilities, such as AdWind and CrossRat, but let too many others slip past. Who’s it for: Moonlock includes some great learning tools, making it well suited to users who feel a bit lost navigating the world of anti-malware. MacPaw really makes an effort to teach less-technical users why certain security settings matter. Read our fullMoonlock review BitMedic Pro Antivirus We recommend: BitMedic Pro Antivirus Read our review Price When Reviewed: $9.99 (single payment) Best Prices Today: $9.99 at Mac App Store (one off payment) Why we recommend it: BitMedic Pro Antivirus is a budget-friendly, feature-packed tool with decent adware and phishing detection, but it’s beginning to show its age, with stability issues, vague scan results, and no updates since 2020 hurting the experience. Who’s it for: The software seems best suited for bargain hunters who want basic, occasional scans as opposed to those relying on consistent, up-to-date protection. Read our fullBitMedic Pro Antivirus review Sophos Home Premium for Mac We recommend: Sophos Home Premium for Mac Read our review Price When Reviewed: $59.99 first year year, $99.99 for two years, and $139.99 for three years (10 devices) Best Prices Today: $44.99 at Sophos (first year, 10 device) Why we recommend it: Sophos Home Premium brings strong multi-device protection with a clean interface and solid web filtering. Still, its setup is clunky, external scans are awkward, and some malware slipped past, which raised some eyebrows. Who’s it for: It’s best suited for families or small offices needing centralized management and broad coverage, not power users demanding airtight, real-time threat elimination. Read our fullSophos Home Premium for Mac review Malwarebytes Premium Security We recommend: Malwarebytes Premium Security Read our review Price When Reviewed: Standard: $44.99 a year for one device; Plus (inc VPN): $59.99 a year; Total: $94.99 a year (usually $189.99) Best Prices Today: $44.99 at Malwarebytes (first year, 1 devices) Why we recommend it: Malwarebytes Premium Security for Mac is a user-friendly tool with strong malware detection, but lacks deeper customisation, external volume scanning, effective web protection, and Windows-specific features. Who’s it for: It’s best for casual users seeking set-it-and-forget-it defence with its built-in VPN feature, not power users needing granular control or all-surface threat coverage. Read our fullMalwarebytes Premium Security review Best Mac Antivirus: Specs Comparison DeveloperProduct NameMalware ProtectionRansomware ProtectionAdware PreventionAnti Phishing ProtectionEmail ProtectionFirewallVPNiOS VersionParental ControlsSupportTrial/Free versionIntegoInternet Security X9Excellent, Mac focusedYesYesYesYesYesNoNoYesEmail/Phone30 day trial and free optionSurfsharkSurfshark OneStrongYesYesYesYesNoYesYesNoChat/Email30-day money back guaranteeAVGInternet Security for MacGoodYesYesYesYesYesNoNoNoEmail60 daysAvastPremium SecurityVery goodYesYesYesYesYesNoYesYesEmail/Forum60 daysMcAfeeTotal ProtectionGoodYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesPhone/Chat30 days/money-back guaranteeTrend MicroAntivirus for MacYesYesYesYesYesYesNoYesYesEmail30 daysNortonNorton 360Very strongYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesPhone/Chat30-day money-backAviraAvira PrimeYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesNoEmail30 daysBitdefenderBitdefender Antivirus for MacYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesEmail/Chat30 daysMacPawMoonlockYesYesYesYesYesNoNoYesNoEmail7 daysPocket Bits LLCBitMedic Pro AntivirusYesYesYesYesYesYesNoYesNoEmail/Support Form7 daysSophosSophos Home Premium for MacYesYesYesYesYesYesNoYesYesChat/Email30 daysESETEset Home SecurityYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesEmail/Phone30 daysMalwarebtyesMalwarebytes Premium SecurityNoYesYesYesYesNoYesYesNoEmail/Forum14 days Can I use free Mac antivirus? Apple’s XProtect is a free antivirus built into macOS, while Gatekeeper blocks unverified apps. We’ve installed Mac malware on a Mac with only Apple’s protections in place and while Apple’s security layers offered some protection, malware and suspect applications could still be installed if warnings are ignored. An advantage of running a free Mac antivirus product from a third-party company rather than Apple’s antivirus is more frequent updates, making it better able to protect you from the latest threats, as well as other nasties including adware, spyware, trojans, and ransomware. The antivirus engine in free and paid antivirus programs is typically the same. The difference is in all the extra features afforded by the premium suite, including the availability of customer and/or AI-powered tech support when something goes wrong, cross-platform support for all your devices, web and phishing protection, privacy features such as a VPN and identity- or dark web monitoring, parental controls, and more. The old adage that you get what you pay for is true, and if you are genuinely concerned about Mac security then it is advisable to pay for the most complete protection you can get. If value for money is your most important criteria, you should check out the best Mac antivirus deals. But if you’re on a really tight budget, free antivirus is still going to do a better job of protecting you than Apple’s security tools. What’s the best free Mac antivirus? Here are the best free antivirus for Mac apps we have reviewed: Apple Gatekeeper & XProtect – Review | Built into macOS Avast Security for Mac – Review | Download Avira Free Antivirus for Mac – Review | Download AVG Antivirus for Mac – Review | Download Bitdefender Virus Scanner for Mac – Review | Download Intego VirusBarrier Scanner – Review | Download Malwarebytes Antivirus for Mac – Review | Download How we test Mac antivirus Each software package is evaluated by creating a clean installation of macOS, cloning it for each antivirus product, and then booting separately into each one to install a different package. This is to ensure that previous app installations don’t interfere with new ones – sometimes antivirus software treats other antivirus software as an infection. We consider the strength of protection against threats (online and offline), and how well it addresses the ever-expanding types of attacks. We spend time using the software. Ease of use and user interface is important because if the software is too complicated people will not use it, it should be easy to find the tools users need, and alerts should make sense and be relevant. Equally performance really matters because if an app slows down your Mac you are likely to turn that app off. We also look at the features on offer. The best antivirus suites go beyond the basics of real-time protection and deeper scans, adding features like password managers and firewalls, some incorporate a VPN. However, we do assess whether these extras are helpful, or just unnecessary additions. In addition to visiting malicious websites, downloading known malicious software, and even running said malware on our Mac, we also reference the most recent reports from two labs that regularly cover macOS malware: AV Comparatives and AV-TEST. These laboratories test antivirus software against sets of known malware as well as products that are grouped as potentially unwanted applications (like adware). The latter doesn’t damage or expose your computer or its files but may consume power and CPU cycles. Because the testing effectively looks at a combination of virus databases and behavior, they remain good gauges even after many months. When an antivirus for Mac software package lacks a rating from a known security research lab, we do more extensive testing with real malware. We also test Mac antivirus products from a usability and functionality perspective, and we evaluate pricing which, more often than not, comes in the form of an annual subscription with different tiers of features. We advise on the best options based on value for money. Finally, while we give props for a lot of different features and behaviors, we mark down products if they lack any or all of the following: A nearly perfect score on macOS malware detection Ransomware monitoring Native browser plug-in or system-level Web proxy A high score on Windows malware detection Why you can trust Macworld for antivirus advice Macworld has been testing Mac software since our conception during the launch of the Mac in 1984, and we know Macs better than anyone. When it comes to antivirus apps we recognise that, despite Apple’s built-in systems to combat the threat of malware, in the current climate there is value in adding an extra layer of protection. Our Mac antivirus software reviewers have worked in the industry for decades, and have experience working with clients and fixing their IT problems. How to choose the best Mac antivirus for your needs There are a lot of Mac antivirus programs to choose from. What you want is one that offers a familiar and easy-to-use interface that works well on a Mac – a key reason why we recommend Intego’s antivirus. You should also look for antivirus with a good detection rate – not just for Mac viruses, but also for PC viruses, unless you want to be passing viruses on to friends and clients running Windows. Low impact on system resources is also critical, especially if your Mac isn’t the most powerful model. Consider the type and number of devices you want to protect – are you looking for an app to cover one Mac, or Mac, iPhone, iPad and even a PC? Your budget matters here, too: do you prefer a subscription model or a one-time payment? Mac antivirus vendors typically offer different add-ons, and it is certainly a case of you get what you pay for: free products will have fewer bells and whistles, but the most comprehensive Mac security suites will include password managers, parental controls, cloud storage and more. The underlying antimalware engine will usually be the same for all security products from a particular company, so you can save money if you don’t need all those extra features. Best Mac Antivirus FAQ 1. Do I need antivirus for Mac? Plenty of Mac users will tell you that Apple computers are inherently secure and don’t require protection beyond the software already provided by Apple. We’d argue that they are wrong, or at very least overconfident. Macs are generally more secure than their Windows brethren because macOS is a Unix-based operating system, which means it is sandboxed. This is like having a series of fire doors: even if malware gains access to your Mac, it is unable to spread to other areas of the machine. But while they are more difficult to exploit than Windows PCs, it is not impossible. You can about this topic in our article do Macs need antivirus? More general advice can be found in our Mac security tips; and those who have been hit by a malware attack should see how to remove a virus from a Mac. 2. How does antivirus software protect your Mac? All Mac antivirus software packages find viruses using both on-demand- and always-on protection. The former examines individual files either during scheduled scans or when you decide to run one. This can take a long time, especially if you have a lot of files, and some antivirus products will hog your Mac’s processor power to prioritize the scan, so it’s worth selecting a convenient time. (See how to scan a Mac for malware). Always-on malware protection protects you when a scan is not currently active. If malware arrives – perhaps via an email or a downloaded file – your antivirus software should detect and quarantine it. Quarantining a file involves moving it to a safe folder, allowing you to decide what to do with it. You’ll typically receive a notification of the discovered malware, but some Mac antivirus products can be more informative than others in these notifications (something we keep in mind in our testing). The effectiveness of this on-demand and always-on virus protection is absolutely the most important thing when it comes to choosing Mac antivirus, but additional features may also affect your choice. Many Mac security suites now include ransomware protection. Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your files and demands a fee to decrypt them. An anti-ransomware feature will typically block any app from writing to a user’s home folders, such as Documents or Photos, unless that app has been whitelisted. Some apps, such as Microsoft Word, are pre-approved, and you can whitelist any that you trust. Web protection via browser plugins or extensions is also a common component and aims to stop you (or your children) from visiting infected websites or handing over personal information when you shouldn’t. 3. Should my Mac antivirus include a VPN? One of the add-ons you might find with Mac security products, although also commonly sold separately, is Mac VPN (virtual private network). For many users, these are of interest because they can mask your location and allow you to view things (like streaming series) that are otherwise off-limits in your location. But they also have a very real benefit for security, protecting your internet connection by encrypting it, which is especially useful when using public Wi-Fi networks. In this day and age we should all be using VPNs and, while we’d recommend buying a dedicated Mac VPN product, one built into your antivirus software is better than nothing – just be prepared to be nagged to upgrade to the full product. 4. What is the best value Mac antivirus? But value is perceived differently by all users: for some the best value Mac antivirus is the free one, and for others, it is the one that is affordable but includes the most useful add-ons. We prefer to consider value in terms of which is the best all-round offering, rather than the budget deal. We believe that, for protecting a single Mac, Intego offers the best value. That said, there are ways you can save money even on the more expensive products. Bear in mind that all antivirus for Mac apps are sold as yearly subscriptions, and often the first year has a hefty discount. When that first year is up, there’s nothing stopping you switching to another product and benefiting from that discount again. Alternatively, opt for a three- or even five-year subscription to save even more money – and why not: it’s not like viruses are going to disappear in the meantime and you won’t need it. Some of the best Mac antivirus products can also cater to your other devices – and not just iPads and iPhones, but also Windows and Android devices. If you have multiple devices in your household, this can present a huge saving. Take a look at our recommendations for the Best Mac Antivirus deals, which includes the cheapest options. 5. How to spot fake Mac antivirus software? Because many of us are waking up to the idea that malware is a threat to the Mac, malware writers have made it their business to play on that fear. There have been cases of malware writers disguising their viruses as antivirus apps – two notable examples are Mac Auto Fixer and MacDefender. It’s important to always read reviews on reputable sites such as Macworld before installing any software on your Mac or MacBook. At the same time, don’t believe everything you read. MacKeeper is a great example of an antivirus program that has got a bad rap, but it’s worked hard to repair its reputation. It has gained Apple Notarization, which means the software has been checked by Apple for malicious components, and the company has garnering certification from various bodies to prove it isn’t a PUP (potentially unwanted program), including an AV-Test certificate. That said, we haven’t recommended it here, and that’s simply because we feel that there are better options available. If you have already installed MacKeeper and wish to try one of our alternative recommendations, we explain How to uninstall MacKeeper. 6. What can’t Mac antivirus protect you from? Using a Mac antivirus product, especially one that includes tools to improve your online privacy, may lull you into believing you’re completely safe from personal and private information leaking out and that you no longer need to keep your wits about you. That’s not quite the case. While there’s no reason to panic, you should still practice caution – and there are a few more issues you should consider when using Mac antivirus, too. First, an antivirus for Mac product may upload the complete text of files flagged to the cloud, where it can be analyzed by separate tools hosted there. This practice is normal and sensible: some malware can detect when a running process may examine it, and will then engage in subterfuge. Antivirus software makers also can access their massive databases to examine files with characteristics that trigger their algorithms – certain elements that match known malware. As a result, security researchers discover new viruses, worms, Trojans horses, and the like. However, helping the greater good means you’ll have to be comfortable with trusting a third-party with your file contents. Where appropriate, we noted privacy policy issues in individual reviews. Second, this software may also rely partly or entirely on cloud-based checks of URLs, malware, and the like. Accordingly, an antivirus package might upload every URL you visit, metadata about files, signatures of files, information about your computer’s hardware, a list of running or installed applications, and more. Companies vary on their disclosure of such policies, and may not let you opt out of this kind of sharing. We note issues in each review as appropriate. Third, antivirus software makers also get a sense of what behavior is happening on your computer that’s being monitored or blocked, and may use that information for their own purposes. In some cases, you can opt out of this information gathering. 7. What virus cleaner does Apple recommend? Apple has never recommended a third-party virus cleaner, and has instead focused on the Xprotect and Gatekeeper functions found within macOS, which are regularly updated with operating system updates. 8. How good is Apple’s virus protection? It’s actually very good, and there isn’t much that gets past it in the way of viruses and malware, given its Xprotect and Gatekeeper features – but these can be overridden, and questionable software can be installed and activated if the user knows what they’re doing. Still, the protection is present, it’s updated well, and Apple keeps a good eye on things, but new viruses and malware are sent out from bad actors all the time, and this is where a good third-party application can come in handy. 9. Is there free virus protection for Mac? The Xprotect and Gatekeeper functions serve as free virus protection for macOS, but you can also get basic virus protection from many of the well-known antivirus providers.

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Best antivirus for Mac 2026: Security apps tested vs Apple Xprotect & Gatekeeper
Macworld It wasn’t so long ago that many users believed Macs didn’t need security software. Not only was the platform thought to be inherently secure by design, but the vast majority of computer users were running Windows, so that was where the money was for malware writers. Several high-profile attacks and a surge in popularity later, and now even Apple acknowledges macOS is a target, building in security tools like XProtect and Gatekeeper for basic protection from known Mac malware. Trouble is, it’s really not the known threats that keep us awake at night, and the dangers are not limited to malware. The most dangerous digital security threats are the ones we don’t see coming – those are the ones that will be successful in stealing our data, our privacy, our identity, and our money. Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your Apple computer from digital threats. Use this guide to find the best Mac Antivirus software to suit your needs. We have thoroughly tested all Mac antivirus products for usability and functionality, and consulted independent lab data to determine which is the most reliable and trustworthy security product for your Mac. No-one is better placed to guide you on which antivirus to choose for your Mac than Macworld, the leading authority on Mac products and products built for Mac. See our top pick in Mac antivirus softwareView Intego Mac Internet Security X9 How we test Mac Antivirus To thoroughly test Mac antivirus software, we combine hands-on evaluation with data from independent security labs. We assess malware detection, usability, performance, and value for money. We start with a clean macOS installation and download known malicious software and visit malicious websites to evaluate protection against online and offline threats. We then assess performance impact and user experience. We also evaluate the usefulness and accessibility of the software’s tools, including VPNs, password managers, firewalls, and parental controls. Finally, we look at how well the software detects and deals with Windows viruses and other types of malware. Updated January 30, 2026: This article is regularly updated and we aim to assess each suite on a yearly basis or when new features are launched. Is Apple’s malware protection enough? We have tested Apple’s own solution against a raft of malware and although it did an OK job keeping us safe, we proved that there were times when a questionable application could be installed without warning. A good analogy is to think of Apple’s built-in antivirus system, XProtect, as the lock on your Mac’s front door, while a paid antivirus is its alarm system and security cameras. With virus – also adware, spyware, trojan, and ransomware – definitions updated several times a day (far more frequently than Apple’s offering), you get real-time protection from all new and emerging threats. In our tests of Apple’s malware-protections, our only option was to wipe our Mac and return to the back up we made before the reckless behavior – and hope we hadn’t passed anything on. Apple doesn’t offer customer support or virus removal guarantees when the worst happens, nor does it protect you from cross-platform threats across all your devices. With paid antivirus software you get all this, plus more: extra features might include web and phishing protection, software updaters to patch vulnerabilities, VPNs, password managers, parental controls, secure cloud storage and backup, and dark web monitoring. Investing in a decent security suite for Mac is a smart move, adding an extra layer of protection and being safe rather than sorry. Best antivirus for Mac at a glance Jump straight to a Mac antivirus product for more details: CategoryBest PickWhy It WinsBest overallIntego Mac Internet Security X9 | DownloadExcellent malware detection, strong ransomware protection, and tools built specifically for macOS.Best free optionAvira Free Security for Mac | DownloadOne of the most generous free packages, with solid malware protection and useful extras like a limited VPN.Best for familiesNorton 360 | DownloadMulti-device, cross-platform protection with parental controls on supported plans, ideal for households.Best for power usersNorton 360 | DownloadAdvanced features including a full VPN, cloud backup, dark-web monitoring, and identity protection.Best for privacySurfshark One | DownloadSurfshark One is integrated into a broader privacy suite with a comprehensive suite of identity protection and security tools. 1. Intego Mac Internet Security X9 – Best antivirus for Mac users Pros Built for Mac with simplicity in mind Easy to set up and customize Solid malware protection Cons Mac only Price When Reviewed: From $24.99 for first year, usually $49.99 a year (1 Mac) Using our link Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Intego $24.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Intego Mac Internet Security X9 is our top pick for Mac antivirus software. It is approved by independent testing labs AV-Test and AV-Comparatives, offering solid antivirus and firewall protection. In November SE Labs gave Intego Mac Internet Security a highly commendable 98% protection accuracy rating. As the only antivirus in this round-up to be built from the ground-up for Mac, it has a simplicity about it that Apple users will appreciate. We love how easy this no-fuss Mac antivirus is to set up and use, with deep customization options, and no pushy upsells. If you have just the one Mac you wish to protect, Intego is an extremely effective security product – and also the cheapest paid option here. Who’s it for? Intego is for Mac users who want simple, but effective security, and are looking to gain peace of mind without diving into system-level configuration gymnastics. Intego’s VirusBarrier is ideal for users who have a single Mac or MacBook to protect, while NetBarrier lets them quickly and easily set up profiles for home, work or public connections. Why we picked it Intego’s Mac Internet Security X9 is a strong choice for Mac antivirus software for several key reasons. Intego offers protection specifically for macOS, this means its robust feature set is tailored to the Mac. While some rivals offer more features those apps can feel like they are a cut-back PC app running on the Mac. Only Intego offers such an easy-to-use set of security utilities for Mac users. Further considerations The basic package includes the company’s VirusBarrier real-time antivirus and NetBarrier firewall, along with anti-phishing protection. If you need additional features, the Premium Bundle adds parental controls so you can monitor internet time and block inappropriate content, optimization utilities for reducing file clutter and improving system performance, organizational tools for putting your most frequently used files at your fingertips and neatly arranging your desktop and dock, plus backup. A VPN is also available as an add-on. Because Intego is a Mac-only security suite, it isn’t suitable for users who also want to protect their iPhone or iPad, Windows PC or Android device. Most alternative antivirus products offer cross-platform protection. If unbeatable malware protection is your only concern, there are better alternatives to Intego. In September 2024, AV-Test awarded Intego a rating of 5 (out of 6) for Protection, 6 for Speed, and 6 for Usability. Then, in June 2025, AV-Comparatives rated it 97.1% for Mac malware protection, 97% for protection from potentially unwanted applications, and 100% for Windows malware detection. All four of the alternative Mac antivirus programs listed below scored a 6 for Protection from AV-Test, plus 100% for Mac malware protection and the maximum possible 99% for protection from potentially unwanted programs from AV-Comparatives. Use our link to get the best deal on Intego Mac Internet Security X9 and Mac Premium Bundle. Read our full Intego Mac Internet Security X9 review 2. Norton 360 – Best all-round, multi-platform security suite Pros Virus Protection Promise Instant reassurance for scams Includes Norton’s VPN and Password Manager Cons Some features Windows only Price When Reviewed: Standard (3 devices): $39.99 for first year, usually $94.99 a year; Deluxe (5 devices): $29.99 for first year, usually $119.99 a year Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Norton Security (first year, 1 device) $39.99 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Norton is a name with which most readers will be familiar, which is important for a tool that’s going to be responsible for your digital security. Norton’s Virus Protection Promise means you’ll get your money back if it can’t remove a virus from your Mac. Including VPN, a password manager, Deepfake protection, and antivirus, antimalware, ransomware and hacking protection, it has a more complete feature set than many of the Mac antivirus offerings here – without the high price tag to match. Norton 360 appeals for its top marks across both AV-Comparatives and AV-Test’s June 2025 benchmarks, delivering on malware protection, performance, and usability. A new feature that moves Norton up our ranking here is AI-powered Genie Scam Protection. The Genie Scam Assistant is available around the clock to answer your security questions, and can provide instant reassurance for dodgy-looking emails and texts. Who’s it for? The standard Norton 360 package is well suited to security-minded individuals who need a solution to cover all angles, and would appreciate the peace of mind afforded by an AI scam assistant that is able to answer questions in real time. The Deluxe package is ideal for couples, covering up to five devices including Macs, iPhones and iPads, while the Advanced package is perfect for families, with up to 10 devices covered. Further considerations Norton 360 supports Mac, iOS, Windows and Android, but if you use only Mac then you may be better served by Intego. Here macOS feels like more of an afterthought, with some features (such as cloud backup) available to Windows users only. There’s a lot of functionality here, and a lot of customization options, but if you’re not comfortable going digging into the settings for them then you might find this overkill. Some technical knowledge is required to take full advantage of these features. Although Norton performed very well in independent testing, in our own tests it missed a few threats, such as OSX.Proton, and it struggled to scan Zip files. We also found that the browser extension and private browser still allowed us to travel to questionable websites from spam email links. Read our full Norton 360 review 3. Surfshark One – Best for privacy, and unlimited device protection Pros Supports unlimited devices Excellent malware protection Includes VPN, identity and privacy protection Cons Cheaper options available Price When Reviewed: Surfshark One, 24 months at $2.29 a month with 3 free months (Total for 27 months: $67.23); 12 months at $3.39 a month with 3 free months (Total for 15 months: $50.85); or $17.95/month. Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Surfshark $50.85 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket If you have multiple devices to protect, Surfshark One’s unlimited device protection for macOS, Android, and Windows is unbeaten. Not only does this antivirus product ace AV-Test’s malware protection benchmark, it has several extra features designed with privacy in mind, including the Surfshark VPN the company is arguably better known for. Additional features found within Surfshark One include: Alert, which alerts you if your email, credit card or personal data is leaked in a data breach; Search, which lets you browse the web ad-, tracker and threat-free; Alternative ID, which generates a new identity and proxy email for online registrations; and CleanWeb, for blocking pop-ups. Who’s it for? Many of the digital threats we face today target the person as well as the PC. Surfshark One is the Mac antivirus tool for anyone who is concerned with protecting their personal data and identity, as well as their Mac (or PC, or Android device). Further considerations While Surfshark One packs a lot of features, it is also the most expensive option in this round-up – especially if you plump for the one-month plan (not an option with all Mac antivirus vendors). All plans are billed monthly, with the cheapest tying you in for two years. If cost is a concern, Intego offers the cheapest entry point. Surfshark One has not been tested by AV-Comparatives but, as we noted, notched up the maximum possible score for protection in AV-Test’s benchmarks in June 2025. However, it did drop half a point on both speed and usability, where every other Mac antivirus product here scored the full six points. Read our full Surfshark One review 4. Avast Premium Security – Best for AI-powered Mac security Pros Scam Guardian fights AI-powered threats No impact on performance 60-day trial available Cons Slow manual scanning Price When Reviewed: From $49.08 for first year, usually $77.99 a year (1 Mac). Best Prices Today: Retailer Price Avast Software $49.08 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket Like Norton 360, Avast is going big on AI in the latest edition of its Premium Security suite. The logic is there: if AI is enabling the most sophisticated digital threats, AI may also present the best solution for finding and thwarting them. Avast also boasts an on-demand scam assistant as part of its new Scam Guardian module, providing instant reassurance for your security concerns, and it can prevent you clicking on dodgy links in scam emails and on fraudulent websites. Premium Security from Avast covers Mac, iOS, Windows, and Android, with packages available for one or up to 10 devices. You get a clean interface that is easy to use, and robust malware protection (scoring top marks in AV-Test and AV-Comparatives benchmarks in June 2025), with flexible scan options, smart network tools, and strong defense against browser hacks and ransomware. Who’s it for? Avast is well suited to individual users or families who are active on the internet, with protection focused on helping you spot the latest scams and guarding you while you shop or bank online. Further considerations If you’re not ready to buy Avast Premium Security, the company offers a generous 60-day trial, as well as a free version of its real-time antivirus. We would strongly urge you to consider the Premium version for its new AI-powered Scam Guardian module, and protection beyond basic malware. Read our full Avast Premium Security review 5. AVG Internet Security for Mac – Best for trialing Mac antivirus Pros Easy to use Strong malware protection and removal 60-day trial available Cons Mac only Price When Reviewed: $3.89 a month for 1 Mac ($46.68 for the first year, then $77.99 a year), or $4.99 a month for 10 devices ($59.88 for the first year, then $99.99 a year). Best Prices Today: Retailer Price AVG $46.68 View Deal Price comparison from over 24,000 stores worldwide Product Price Price comparison from Backmarket AVG is probably better known for its free antivirus than its premium security suite, but it impresses with its broad feature set, clean interface, and solid malware/phishing protection. If you’re not sure whether to take the plunge and purchase paid antivirus then it offers the easiest path to do so, first offering a 60-day trial and then a 30-day money back guarantee if you’re not satisfied. In June 2025, AVG Internet Security for Mac scored top marks with AV-Test for Protection, Speed, and Usability, and also scored the maximum possible with AV-Comparatives when pitted against Mac malware, Windows malware, and potentially unwanted applications. Who’s it for? AVG Internet Security for Mac is for – as the name implies – Mac users. It does not support Windows or Android, although versions for those platforms are available. Best suited for cautious Mac users who want layered protection without complexity, the free trial lets them check it out with no strings attached. Further considerations AVG is mostly well designed and easy to navigate. It is good at its basic job, letting you use the web with confidence. We would like to see clearer indication of when scans are running, and it didn’t manage to prevent a fake Adobe Flash Player from being installed in our tests, but it’s difficult to fault this otherwise very strong Mac antivirus, which also did a great job of removing malware that did get through. It doesn’t particularly stand out among the competition here, but nonetheless it offers Mac security you can trust. Read our full AVG Internet Security for Mac review Other Mac antivirus software we tested Macworld reviews many more antivirus products than you see in our ranking above. Not appearing in our top five doesn’t mean a product isn’t going to do a good job of protecting your Mac, merely that it failed to stand out among the best of the competition. You’ll find some more top contenders below, with links to our full reviews for more details. We wouldn’t advise installing any Mac antivirus without first checking our antivirus software reviews. (For PC antivirus, see our sister site PCWorld’s guide to the best Windows antivirus.) McAfee Total Protection We recommend: McAfee Total Protection Read our review Price When Reviewed: Single: $29.99 (1 device) for first year, usually $89.99; Essential: $39.99 (5 devices) for first year, usually $119.99 a year Best Prices Today: $29.99 at McAfee Total Protection (first year, 1 device) Why we recommend it: McAfee Total Protection 2025 covers the bases with solid antivirus, real-time scanning, and a basic VPN feature, but stumbles with vague alerts, an outdated WebAdvisor protection system, and noticeable performance hits. Who’s it for: It’s a decent all-in-one for casual users wanting broad protection, but power users or privacy hawks might want something leaner, faster, and easier to configure. Read our full McAfee Total Protection review Avira Prime We recommend: Avira Prime Read our review Price When Reviewed: From $59.99 for first year, then $109.99 a year. Best Prices Today: $59.99 at Avira – Prime (first year, 5 devices) Why we recommend it: Avira Prime offers a sleek, modular approach to antivirus with solid customization, a zippy Quick Scan, and strong cleanup tools. While Full Scan times drag and phishing defense needs sharpening, features like unlimited VPN and Identity Assistant shine. Who’s it for: Avira Prime seems best suited for privacy-focused users who want full control without overwhelming complexity. Read our full Avira Prime review Trend Micro Antivirus for Mac We recommend: Trend Micro Antivirus for Mac Read our review Price When Reviewed: $24.95 for first year, usually $39.95 a year (1 Mac) Best Prices Today: $24.95 at Trend Micro (first year, 1 device) Why we recommend it: Trend Micro Antivirus delivers strong malware defense, smart folder protection, and detailed logs for the everyday user who wants solid security without diving into sysadmin territory. Who’s it for: While setup can be clunky and its Web Protection feature needs polish, it’s a great fit for home users who want customization, automation, and visibility without too much fuss. Read our fullTrend Micro Antivirus review Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac We recommend: Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac Read our review Price When Reviewed: $24.99 per year for 1 device (usually $39.99), $29.99 per year for 3 devices (usually $59.99) Best Prices Today: $24.99 at Bitdefender (first year, 1 device) Why we recommend it: Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac delivers fast scans, solid real-time protection, and a clean install process. While it fumbles on some pre-existing threats and Safari phishing defense, it’s a reliable day-to-day application. Who’s it for: Bitdefender is arguably ideal for users wanting basic, no-fuss Mac protection with the option to scale up to Total Security for multi-platform coverage should they desire. Read our fullBitdefender Antivirus for Mac review MacPaw, Moonlock We recommend: MacPaw Moonlock Read our review Price When Reviewed: 1 Mac: $54 per year; $13.50 a month; $150 one time payment (licences for more Macs available) Best Prices Today: $45 at MacPaw (annual) Why we recommend it: MacPaw is best known for CleanMyMac, but now it’s brought out its own Mac antivirus app. What’s present in Moonlock, in terms of malware detection and removal makes it a viable option for Mac users who want good protection with minimal fuss. Its antivirus tools catch some threats that can be missed by other utilities, such as AdWind and CrossRat, but let too many others slip past. Who’s it for: Moonlock includes some great learning tools, making it well suited to users who feel a bit lost navigating the world of anti-malware. MacPaw really makes an effort to teach less-technical users why certain security settings matter. Read our fullMoonlock review BitMedic Pro Antivirus We recommend: BitMedic Pro Antivirus Read our review Price When Reviewed: $9.99 (single payment) Best Prices Today: $9.99 at Mac App Store (one off payment) Why we recommend it: BitMedic Pro Antivirus is a budget-friendly, feature-packed tool with decent adware and phishing detection, but it’s beginning to show its age, with stability issues, vague scan results, and no updates since 2020 hurting the experience. Who’s it for: The software seems best suited for bargain hunters who want basic, occasional scans as opposed to those relying on consistent, up-to-date protection. Read our fullBitMedic Pro Antivirus review Sophos Home Premium for Mac We recommend: Sophos Home Premium for Mac Read our review Price When Reviewed: $59.99 first year year, $99.99 for two years, and $139.99 for three years (10 devices) Best Prices Today: $44.99 at Sophos (first year, 10 device) Why we recommend it: Sophos Home Premium brings strong multi-device protection with a clean interface and solid web filtering. Still, its setup is clunky, external scans are awkward, and some malware slipped past, which raised some eyebrows. Who’s it for: It’s best suited for families or small offices needing centralized management and broad coverage, not power users demanding airtight, real-time threat elimination. Read our fullSophos Home Premium for Mac review Malwarebytes Premium Security We recommend: Malwarebytes Premium Security Read our review Price When Reviewed: Standard: $44.99 a year for one device; Plus (inc VPN): $59.99 a year; Total: $94.99 a year (usually $189.99) Best Prices Today: $44.99 at Malwarebytes (first year, 1 devices) Why we recommend it: Malwarebytes Premium Security for Mac is a user-friendly tool with strong malware detection, but lacks deeper customisation, external volume scanning, effective web protection, and Windows-specific features. Who’s it for: It’s best for casual users seeking set-it-and-forget-it defence with its built-in VPN feature, not power users needing granular control or all-surface threat coverage. Read our fullMalwarebytes Premium Security review Best Mac Antivirus: Specs Comparison DeveloperProduct NameMalware ProtectionRansomware ProtectionAdware PreventionAnti Phishing ProtectionEmail ProtectionFirewallVPNiOS VersionParental ControlsSupportTrial/Free versionIntegoInternet Security X9Excellent, Mac focusedYesYesYesYesYesNoNoYesEmail/Phone30 day trial and free optionSurfsharkSurfshark OneStrongYesYesYesYesNoYesYesNoChat/Email30-day money back guaranteeAVGInternet Security for MacGoodYesYesYesYesYesNoNoNoEmail60 daysAvastPremium SecurityVery goodYesYesYesYesYesNoYesYesEmail/Forum60 daysMcAfeeTotal ProtectionGoodYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesPhone/Chat30 days/money-back guaranteeTrend MicroAntivirus for MacYesYesYesYesYesYesNoYesYesEmail30 daysNortonNorton 360Very strongYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesPhone/Chat30-day money-backAviraAvira PrimeYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesNoEmail30 daysBitdefenderBitdefender Antivirus for MacYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesEmail/Chat30 daysMacPawMoonlockYesYesYesYesYesNoNoYesNoEmail7 daysPocket Bits LLCBitMedic Pro AntivirusYesYesYesYesYesYesNoYesNoEmail/Support Form7 daysSophosSophos Home Premium for MacYesYesYesYesYesYesNoYesYesChat/Email30 daysESETEset Home SecurityYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesEmail/Phone30 daysMalwarebtyesMalwarebytes Premium SecurityNoYesYesYesYesNoYesYesNoEmail/Forum14 days Can I use free Mac antivirus? Apple’s XProtect is a free antivirus built into macOS, while Gatekeeper blocks unverified apps. We’ve installed Mac malware on a Mac with only Apple’s protections in place and while Apple’s security layers offered some protection, malware and suspect applications could still be installed if warnings are ignored. An advantage of running a free Mac antivirus product from a third-party company rather than Apple’s antivirus is more frequent updates, making it better able to protect you from the latest threats, as well as other nasties including adware, spyware, trojans, and ransomware. The antivirus engine in free and paid antivirus programs is typically the same. The difference is in all the extra features afforded by the premium suite, including the availability of customer and/or AI-powered tech support when something goes wrong, cross-platform support for all your devices, web and phishing protection, privacy features such as a VPN and identity- or dark web monitoring, parental controls, and more. The old adage that you get what you pay for is true, and if you are genuinely concerned about Mac security then it is advisable to pay for the most complete protection you can get. If value for money is your most important criteria, you should check out the best Mac antivirus deals. But if you’re on a really tight budget, free antivirus is still going to do a better job of protecting you than Apple’s security tools. What’s the best free Mac antivirus? Here are the best free antivirus for Mac apps we have reviewed: Apple Gatekeeper & XProtect – Review | Built into macOS Avast Security for Mac – Review | Download Avira Free Antivirus for Mac – Review | Download AVG Antivirus for Mac – Review | Download Bitdefender Virus Scanner for Mac – Review | Download Intego VirusBarrier Scanner – Review | Download Malwarebytes Antivirus for Mac – Review | Download How we test Mac antivirus Each software package is evaluated by creating a clean installation of macOS, cloning it for each antivirus product, and then booting separately into each one to install a different package. This is to ensure that previous app installations don’t interfere with new ones – sometimes antivirus software treats other antivirus software as an infection. We consider the strength of protection against threats (online and offline), and how well it addresses the ever-expanding types of attacks. We spend time using the software. Ease of use and user interface is important because if the software is too complicated people will not use it, it should be easy to find the tools users need, and alerts should make sense and be relevant. Equally performance really matters because if an app slows down your Mac you are likely to turn that app off. We also look at the features on offer. The best antivirus suites go beyond the basics of real-time protection and deeper scans, adding features like password managers and firewalls, some incorporate a VPN. However, we do assess whether these extras are helpful, or just unnecessary additions. In addition to visiting malicious websites, downloading known malicious software, and even running said malware on our Mac, we also reference the most recent reports from two labs that regularly cover macOS malware: AV Comparatives and AV-TEST. These laboratories test antivirus software against sets of known malware as well as products that are grouped as potentially unwanted applications (like adware). The latter doesn’t damage or expose your computer or its files but may consume power and CPU cycles. Because the testing effectively looks at a combination of virus databases and behavior, they remain good gauges even after many months. When an antivirus for Mac software package lacks a rating from a known security research lab, we do more extensive testing with real malware. We also test Mac antivirus products from a usability and functionality perspective, and we evaluate pricing which, more often than not, comes in the form of an annual subscription with different tiers of features. We advise on the best options based on value for money. Finally, while we give props for a lot of different features and behaviors, we mark down products if they lack any or all of the following: A nearly perfect score on macOS malware detection Ransomware monitoring Native browser plug-in or system-level Web proxy A high score on Windows malware detection Why you can trust Macworld for antivirus advice Macworld has been testing Mac software since our conception during the launch of the Mac in 1984, and we know Macs better than anyone. When it comes to antivirus apps we recognise that, despite Apple’s built-in systems to combat the threat of malware, in the current climate there is value in adding an extra layer of protection. Our Mac antivirus software reviewers have worked in the industry for decades, and have experience working with clients and fixing their IT problems. How to choose the best Mac antivirus for your needs There are a lot of Mac antivirus programs to choose from. What you want is one that offers a familiar and easy-to-use interface that works well on a Mac – a key reason why we recommend Intego’s antivirus. You should also look for antivirus with a good detection rate – not just for Mac viruses, but also for PC viruses, unless you want to be passing viruses on to friends and clients running Windows. Low impact on system resources is also critical, especially if your Mac isn’t the most powerful model. Consider the type and number of devices you want to protect – are you looking for an app to cover one Mac, or Mac, iPhone, iPad and even a PC? Your budget matters here, too: do you prefer a subscription model or a one-time payment? Mac antivirus vendors typically offer different add-ons, and it is certainly a case of you get what you pay for: free products will have fewer bells and whistles, but the most comprehensive Mac security suites will include password managers, parental controls, cloud storage and more. The underlying antimalware engine will usually be the same for all security products from a particular company, so you can save money if you don’t need all those extra features. Best Mac Antivirus FAQ 1. Do I need antivirus for Mac? Plenty of Mac users will tell you that Apple computers are inherently secure and don’t require protection beyond the software already provided by Apple. We’d argue that they are wrong, or at very least overconfident. Macs are generally more secure than their Windows brethren because macOS is a Unix-based operating system, which means it is sandboxed. This is like having a series of fire doors: even if malware gains access to your Mac, it is unable to spread to other areas of the machine. But while they are more difficult to exploit than Windows PCs, it is not impossible. You can about this topic in our article do Macs need antivirus? More general advice can be found in our Mac security tips; and those who have been hit by a malware attack should see how to remove a virus from a Mac. 2. How does antivirus software protect your Mac? All Mac antivirus software packages find viruses using both on-demand- and always-on protection. The former examines individual files either during scheduled scans or when you decide to run one. This can take a long time, especially if you have a lot of files, and some antivirus products will hog your Mac’s processor power to prioritize the scan, so it’s worth selecting a convenient time. (See how to scan a Mac for malware). Always-on malware protection protects you when a scan is not currently active. If malware arrives – perhaps via an email or a downloaded file – your antivirus software should detect and quarantine it. Quarantining a file involves moving it to a safe folder, allowing you to decide what to do with it. You’ll typically receive a notification of the discovered malware, but some Mac antivirus products can be more informative than others in these notifications (something we keep in mind in our testing). The effectiveness of this on-demand and always-on virus protection is absolutely the most important thing when it comes to choosing Mac antivirus, but additional features may also affect your choice. Many Mac security suites now include ransomware protection. Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your files and demands a fee to decrypt them. An anti-ransomware feature will typically block any app from writing to a user’s home folders, such as Documents or Photos, unless that app has been whitelisted. Some apps, such as Microsoft Word, are pre-approved, and you can whitelist any that you trust. Web protection via browser plugins or extensions is also a common component and aims to stop you (or your children) from visiting infected websites or handing over personal information when you shouldn’t. 3. Should my Mac antivirus include a VPN? One of the add-ons you might find with Mac security products, although also commonly sold separately, is Mac VPN (virtual private network). For many users, these are of interest because they can mask your location and allow you to view things (like streaming series) that are otherwise off-limits in your location. But they also have a very real benefit for security, protecting your internet connection by encrypting it, which is especially useful when using public Wi-Fi networks. In this day and age we should all be using VPNs and, while we’d recommend buying a dedicated Mac VPN product, one built into your antivirus software is better than nothing – just be prepared to be nagged to upgrade to the full product. 4. What is the best value Mac antivirus? But value is perceived differently by all users: for some the best value Mac antivirus is the free one, and for others, it is the one that is affordable but includes the most useful add-ons. We prefer to consider value in terms of which is the best all-round offering, rather than the budget deal. We believe that, for protecting a single Mac, Intego offers the best value. That said, there are ways you can save money even on the more expensive products. Bear in mind that all antivirus for Mac apps are sold as yearly subscriptions, and often the first year has a hefty discount. When that first year is up, there’s nothing stopping you switching to another product and benefiting from that discount again. Alternatively, opt for a three- or even five-year subscription to save even more money – and why not: it’s not like viruses are going to disappear in the meantime and you won’t need it. Some of the best Mac antivirus products can also cater to your other devices – and not just iPads and iPhones, but also Windows and Android devices. If you have multiple devices in your household, this can present a huge saving. Take a look at our recommendations for the Best Mac Antivirus deals, which includes the cheapest options. 5. How to spot fake Mac antivirus software? Because many of us are waking up to the idea that malware is a threat to the Mac, malware writers have made it their business to play on that fear. There have been cases of malware writers disguising their viruses as antivirus apps – two notable examples are Mac Auto Fixer and MacDefender. It’s important to always read reviews on reputable sites such as Macworld before installing any software on your Mac or MacBook. At the same time, don’t believe everything you read. MacKeeper is a great example of an antivirus program that has got a bad rap, but it’s worked hard to repair its reputation. It has gained Apple Notarization, which means the software has been checked by Apple for malicious components, and the company has garnering certification from various bodies to prove it isn’t a PUP (potentially unwanted program), including an AV-Test certificate. That said, we haven’t recommended it here, and that’s simply because we feel that there are better options available. If you have already installed MacKeeper and wish to try one of our alternative recommendations, we explain How to uninstall MacKeeper. 6. What can’t Mac antivirus protect you from? Using a Mac antivirus product, especially one that includes tools to improve your online privacy, may lull you into believing you’re completely safe from personal and private information leaking out and that you no longer need to keep your wits about you. That’s not quite the case. While there’s no reason to panic, you should still practice caution – and there are a few more issues you should consider when using Mac antivirus, too. First, an antivirus for Mac product may upload the complete text of files flagged to the cloud, where it can be analyzed by separate tools hosted there. This practice is normal and sensible: some malware can detect when a running process may examine it, and will then engage in subterfuge. Antivirus software makers also can access their massive databases to examine files with characteristics that trigger their algorithms – certain elements that match known malware. As a result, security researchers discover new viruses, worms, Trojans horses, and the like. However, helping the greater good means you’ll have to be comfortable with trusting a third-party with your file contents. Where appropriate, we noted privacy policy issues in individual reviews. Second, this software may also rely partly or entirely on cloud-based checks of URLs, malware, and the like. Accordingly, an antivirus package might upload every URL you visit, metadata about files, signatures of files, information about your computer’s hardware, a list of running or installed applications, and more. Companies vary on their disclosure of such policies, and may not let you opt out of this kind of sharing. We note issues in each review as appropriate. Third, antivirus software makers also get a sense of what behavior is happening on your computer that’s being monitored or blocked, and may use that information for their own purposes. In some cases, you can opt out of this information gathering. 7. What virus cleaner does Apple recommend? Apple has never recommended a third-party virus cleaner, and has instead focused on the Xprotect and Gatekeeper functions found within macOS, which are regularly updated with operating system updates. 8. How good is Apple’s virus protection? It’s actually very good, and there isn’t much that gets past it in the way of viruses and malware, given its Xprotect and Gatekeeper features – but these can be overridden, and questionable software can be installed and activated if the user knows what they’re doing. Still, the protection is present, it’s updated well, and Apple keeps a good eye on things, but new viruses and malware are sent out from bad actors all the time, and this is where a good third-party application can come in handy. 9. Is there free virus protection for Mac? The Xprotect and Gatekeeper functions serve as free virus protection for macOS, but you can also get basic virus protection from many of the well-known antivirus providers.

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The person who could be Apple CEO: Who is John Ternus?
All things considered, John Ternus is the center of speculation as being the best and most likely choice for control of the company. Who is he, and how did he get here?John TernusApple, like many other massive companies with giant workforces and a decades-long history, have to plan for the future direction of the company. Part of that preparation involves determining who will take control as CEO after the current leader departs, and what to do to prepare for that inevitability.For Apple and its aging leadership, Apple has to find its replacement for Tim Cook. Even though Cook probably won't be retiring in 2026, the sheer size and number of moving parts at Apple means it has to prepare now, so there's enough of a runway for the heir to the position to get ready, as well as the company itself, from 2027 onward. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Tim Cook boasts about US manufacturing, yet it's still nothing new
Apple commitment to US manufacturing has always been notable, even if the company has kept it pretty quiet before 2025. Tim Cook's attempt at making it look new and fresh during earnings is performative, and unnecessary.Take a close look at what Apple says it is doing with US Investment — image credit: Michigan State UniversityBack in February 2025, Apple announced that it would be investing $500 billion into the US economy, with projects such as building AI servers in Houston. It's no criticism to say that Apple announced this in order to appease Trump who was then pressing it to build the iPhone in America.The iPhone will never be made in the US — and later Trump seemed to be quite okay about that. But if Apple needed to show it was investing in the US, it was more than capable of that — because Apple has long been investing in the country already. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

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Apple discontinues iPhone Upgrade Program in the UK
Apple has discontinued the iPhone Upgraded Program in the UK, according to changes made to its website. The company says it is starting a “new chapter for upgrades” and that “the iPhone Upgrade Program is coming to an end.” Apple also appears to be winding down its partnership with Barclays, which was the bank behind the iPhone Upgrade Program in the UK. more…

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