McAfee vs Avast
A detailed comparison to help you choose between McAfee and Avast.
McAfee Legacy antivirus brand with identity theft protection. | Avast Free antivirus with optional premium tier. Largest user base worldwide. | |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 3.9 (201 reviews) | 4.1 (475 reviews) |
| Pricing Model | paid | freemium |
| Starting Price | From $2.66/mo | From $0/mo |
| Best For | Best for users needing comprehensive antivirus and malware protection | Best for users needing comprehensive antivirus and malware protection |
| Free Tier | ||
| API Access | ||
| Team Features | ||
| Open Source | ||
| Tags | — | — |
McAfee
Pros
- + Supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2
- + AES-256 encryption claim for VPN traffic
- + Beginner-friendly, automation-focused design
- + Split tunneling available on Android
- + Refund window for auto-renewals: 60 days
Cons
- - Protocol selection may not be user-controllable
- - Server locations skewed toward Europe; no city selection
- - Privacy disclosures include IP and browsing-related data
- - Not positioned as a transparency-first VPN
Avast
Pros
- + Ransomware Shield prevents untrusted app folder changes
- + Real Site helps protect against DNS hijacking
- + VPN supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and Mimic
- + Kill switch and split tunneling are supported
- + Refund policy: 14 days monthly, 30 days annual
Cons
- - Jumpshot data-selling history hurts privacy trust
- - Smaller VPN network than top standalone providers
- - Potential connection-metadata logging concerns
- - Product bundles can be confusing to compare
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