Avast, a renowned antivirus software developer, offers Avast One, a comprehensive cybersecurity package that extends beyond basic malware scans for macOS. From antivirus and ransomware protection to malware blocking, Avast One provides both free and paid subscription options to safeguard your Mac. We put Avast One for Mac to the test to determine its effectiveness and whether it ranks among the top antivirus solutions for Apple devices.
Specs
| Feature | Avast One |
|---|---|
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Devices | 5 (Individual), 30 (Family) |
| Support | Chat, Email |
| Price (Annual) | Starting from $36 (Silver), up to $300 (Platinum) |
| Free Version | Yes (Avast One Essential) |
Pricing and Subscription Tiers
Avast One has a free plan and several paid subscription options.Avast One offers a robust free tier, known as Avast One Essential, providing excellent antivirus protection for Mac users without any cost. This free version includes a malware scanner and browser protection to prevent malicious downloads, as well as a VPN with a 5GB monthly data limit. This makes it a strong contender among free Mac antivirus solutions.
For enhanced features and capabilities, Avast One offers several paid subscription tiers. Avast One Silver, starting at $36 annually, allows you to choose between enhanced protection, privacy, or performance features. Renewal costs increase significantly to $80 per year thereafter. Avast One Gold, priced at $60 annually ($130 for renewal), provides all three feature packs.
Family plans are also available. Avast One Silver Family covers 30 devices for $84 annually ($180 for renewal), while Avast One Gold Family offers the same device coverage for $114 annually ($280 for renewal).
The premium tier, Avast One Platinum, costs $120 annually ($300 for renewal). It adds identity protection, dark web monitoring, and $2 million in identity theft insurance.
Design and User Experience
Avast OneInstalling Avast One on macOS is straightforward. After downloading and double-clicking the installer, following the on-screen prompts and granting necessary permissions completes the installation process.
The free version, Avast One Essential, guides users through enabling system permissions, making setup quick and easy. A system scan checks for malware and browser vulnerabilities. While the free version offers a VPN, it’s limited to 5GB of monthly data.
Avast OneThe Explore tab displays all available features, with some locked behind paid subscriptions. The Account tab provides subscription details, preferences, help documentation, community forum access, support options, and a convenient uninstall feature.
Performance and Features
Avast One performed well in AV-TestAvast for Mac maintains a strong track record in malware protection according to AV-Test, an independent security research lab. Its performance has been consistently excellent over several years.
Avast One Essential every test in WicarFurther testing with Wicar’s malware test website confirmed the effectiveness of Avast One Essential’s web blocker. It successfully identified and blocked all browser exploits and malware downloads, even with the VPN disabled.
Avast One GoldUpgrading to Avast One Gold unlocks all features, including a disk cleaner, an uncapped VPN with server selection, and live chat support.
Customer Support
AvastAvast One Gold subscribers receive priority support via live chat. While initial interactions with the chatbot can be cumbersome, connecting with a live agent provides more effective assistance. Response times can vary, but overall support quality is satisfactory.
Privacy and Security
Avast’s privacy policy states that the free version may display targeted ads, though none were observed during testing. The end-user license agreement permits promotional offers for higher-tier subscriptions. While Avast has faced past privacy concerns, its current browser extensions are well-rated.
Conclusion
Avast One provides a compelling free antivirus solution for Mac users with Avast One Essential. The paid tiers offer enhanced features and capabilities for those seeking more comprehensive protection. While the renewal costs are higher, the robust protection and features make Avast One a worthwhile consideration for Mac security. If you’re looking for paid protection, Norton 360, also owned by Gen Digital, offers competitive pricing and features. For more options, explore our guide to the best antivirus software.
