Best antivirus for Android in 2025
To introduce independent antivirus software reviews that are free from undue influence or bias, we conduct thorough in-house tests and analysis. Our final assessments are based on objective criteria and empirical evidence.
We frequently repeat our tests, evaluate new features, and perform reassessments to make sure our reviews are accurate and up to date.
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Android dominates the global mobile OS market with over 70% share, making it a prime target for cybercriminals. Cyberthreats like viruses, keyloggers, and phishing attempts can compromise your personal data and financial information. While Google Play Protect offers some protection, it's not sufficient on its own.
I spent countless hours testing the best antivirus software for Android. Along with hands-on evaluations, our recommendations are backed by independent lab test results. Two standout options, TotalAV and Norton, demonstrated exceptional security performance.
The other providers on this list also deliver reliable security and are worth considering. Additionally, if you'd like to try them before committing, most offer free trials and money-back guarantees.
5 antivirus apps for Android phone
- TotalAV Mobile Security – the best Android antivirus app overall
- Norton 360 Antivirus & Security – Android antivirus with a secure browsing feature
- Bitdefender Mobile Security – good antivirus for Android devices with real-time protection
- Surfshark Antivirus – top Android antivirus on a tight budget
- Avira Security Antivirus – versatile and lightweight Android antivirus
Our team of researchers thoroughly tests antivirus software following a well-established testing process. In unison, our experts combine in-house and independent testing lab findings with first-hand experience to help you make informed decisions about each product. Learn how we test antivirus software.
The best Android antivirus apps for 2025
The key aspects of a quality Android antivirus are robust malware defense, intuitive usability, and feature-rich performance. Below is my ranking of the top antivirus solutions evaluated for security, ease of use, and overall value.
1. TotalAV Mobile Security – best antivirus for Android in 2025
| Notable features: | Breach scan, Wi-Fi security checker, VPN |
| In-app ads: | No |
| Maximum devices covered: | 8 |
| Current deal: | Get TotalAV, now 80% OFF |
During our rigorous testing, TotalAV emerged as the best antivirus for Android, delivering desktop-grade performance that fully secures your browsing, banking, and streaming activities.
What I appreciated most about TotalAV is its intuitive design paired with exclusive features like Breach Scan and the Wi‑Fi security checker that work seamlessly to keep you protected.
Independent AV-Test results from November 2024 demonstrated excellent TotalAV performance — the tool delivers 99.9% real‑time protection and a 100% detection rate for new Android malware threats. Our in-house TotalAV tests further confirmed these findings, recording 100% ransomware detection and exceptional performance across multiple threat simulations.
Additionally, TotalAV has a built-inVPN with unlimited data. You can browse safely, avoid trackers, and even stream geo-blocked content without worrying your data will be leaked. Another bonus is the Device Optimization feature, which removes all kinds of junk on your device that slows it down.
TotalAV's premium plan starts at $19.00/year and covers up to 8 devices. There is also a free version with basic protection, and if you're still unsure, the 30-day money-back guarantee means that you can test it risk-free.
If you're looking for an antivirus that goes beyond just scanning, TotalAV is an excellent choice. With enhanced browser protection, a powerful VPN, and tools to optimize your phone’s performance, it has you covered.
2. Norton 360 Antivirus & Security – excellent Android antivirus for secure browsing
| Notable features: | App advisor, Wi-Fi security, Anti-theft, VPN |
| In-app ads: | No |
| Maximum devices covered: | 10 |
| Current deal: | Get up to 58% OFF Norton Antivirus |
Norton Mobile Security is a top-tier antivirus app for Android that excelled in our tests, detecting all 10 planted malware samples with ease. I was highly impressed by its performance and robust security features.
The app itself continuously updates its threat database, flagging suspicious websites and dangerous apps before they can cause harm. I also liked how Norton’s interface allows you to schedule scans and receive real-time alerts, keeping you in control of your security. Its Safe Web feature blocks malicious sites, and its intuitive design makes it easy to navigate.
In November 2024, AV-Test confirmed Norton’s perfect 100% protection against the latest Android malware and threats. We also have seen great results when reviewing Norton, full scans detected 10/10 malware and ransomware samples, while Safe Web blocked 9 out of 10 phishing sites with minimal system impact.
Additionally, the built-in Dark Web Monitoring, and a robust VPN adds an extra layer of privacy by safeguarding your online activity when you're on the go.
Norton Mobile Security starts at $29.99/year for one Android device. While there’s no fully featured free version, the 30-day money-back guarantee lets you try it risk-free.
Whether you're a frequent traveler or need everyday protection, Norton’s all-in-one security suite is a reliable choice, offering robust malware defense, secure VPN connectivity, and comprehensive identity protection to keep your digital life safe wherever you go.
3. Bitdefender Mobile Security – top Android antivirus for real-time protection
| Notable features: | App anomaly detection, scam alert, limited VPN |
| In-app ads: | No |
| Maximum devices covered: | 15 |
| Current deal: | Get Bitdefender for up to 78% OFF |
Bitdefender Mobile Security is one of the best antivirus apps for Android, offering top-tier protection with an easy-to-use app. If you are looking foran excellent real-time malware detection along with valuable additional features, this app is for you.
What stood out to me the most about Bitdefender was its Autopilot feature, which offers personalized security recommendations based on your device usage. According to independent AV-Test results from November 2024, Bitdefender achieved a perfect 100% real-time protection rate and a 100% detection rate for widespread malware. Our own in-house tests found that Bitdefender blocked 39/40 malware samples but struggled with a new Miner malware, where TotalAV and Norton performed slightly better.
Just like TotalAV and Norton, Bitdefender also includes a VPN, which is useful for securing your browsing on public Wi-Fi networks. However, the VPN is capped at 200MB which is quite limiting compared to some other providers on my list.
Other key Bitdefender features include Web Protection, App Lock, and an Anti-Theft system but unlike TotalAV, Bitdefender does not have a dedicated device cleanup feature, so if optimizing storage is a priority, you may need additional apps.
Bitdefender Mobile Security is affordably priced at $9.99/year . There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the service risk-free. While a free version is available, it only offers basic security features like network scanning and limited malware protection.
Overall, Bitdefender Mobile Security is a great choice for reliable malware protection, but for unlimited VPN data or device optimization, TotalAV or Norton may be better alternatives.
4. Surfshark Antivirus – the best Android antivirus bundle
| Notable features: | Unlimited VPN included, real-time malware protection, webcam protection |
| In-app ads: | No |
| Maximum devices covered: | 5 |
| Current deal: | Get Surfshark Antivirus - 85% OFF + 3 months FREE |
Surfshark Antivirus is a budget-friendly Android security solution that provides strong malware protection and additional privacy features. It offers real-time scanning and has earned the Top Product award from AV-TEST, blocking 100% of malware in independent lab tests.
What I appreciate the most is its full integration with Surfshark VPN, surpassing competitors like TotalAV or Norton. The package also includes a private search engine and ID monitoring for extra security. It also allows scheduled scans, drag-and-drop file scanning, and efficient device-wide scans without major performance impact. While its malware detection is strong, improvements in real-time protection would make it more competitive.
Surfshark Antivirus costs $36.32/year for 5 devices. Its subscription options come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
For users seeking an affordable antivirus with solid scanning capabilities and a premium VPN, Surfshark is a great choice. However, those prioritizing real-time protection should consider alternatives like TotalAV.
5. Avira Security Antivirus – a versatile and lightweight tool
| Notable features: | Virus scanner and cleaner, identity protection, privacy advisor, app lock |
| In-app ads: | No |
| Maximum devices covered: | 25 |
| Current deal: | Get 1 year of Avira at 58% OFF |
Avira Mobile Security is a reliable antivirus for Android, offering solid protection, privacy, and performance. Its minimalistic design makes it easy to navigate, and it's compatible with Android Marshmallow 6.0 and above.
What impressed me most was Avira’s Web Protection feature, which effectively blocks phishing and malicious websites. The app also comes with a VPN, network scanning, Identity Safeguard, system optimizer, call blocker, and mic/webcam protection.
Additionally, during an independent lab test in November 2024, Avira Antivirus for Android delivered near-perfect results, blocking 99.9% of real-time malware attacks and achieving a flawless 100% detection rate for widespread threats from the past four weeks.
Avira starts at $26.99/year for one device, with the Prime plan at $59.99/year, covering up to five devices. A 30-day money-back guarantee lets you test it risk-free.
Overall, if you’re looking for a straightforward, feature-rich security solution for Android, Avira Mobile Security is an excellent choice.
6. Malwarebytes – well-performing Android antivirus
| Notable features: | Real-time protection, privacy audit, ransomware detection, phishing URL scanning |
| In-app ads: | No |
| Maximum devices covered: | 20 |
| Current deal: | Get Malwarebytes, now 50% OFF |
Malwarebytes for Android is a decent antivirus option, though it falls short in comparison to the top-tier providers like TotalAV or Norton. While it offers solid malware detection and a user-friendly experience, it struggles to keep up with the best in real-time protection.
In terms of hands-on experience, the app itself was easy to install, and its interface is clean and straightforward, making it simple to navigate. Key features include on-demand scanning, real-time protection in the Premium version, and Safe Browsing to block malicious sites. However, unlike competitors such as Bitdefender or Norton, it lacks a dedicated Android browser extension for web protection.
In our own Malwarebytes testing, it blocked 5 out of 10 malicious URLs and failed to prevent malware downloads, a concerning result.
Pricing-wise, Malwarebytes offers a free version and a hefty 60-day money-back guarantee for its paid subscription, which starts at$44.99/year and extends coverage to 20 devices.
To sum up, while Malwarebytes provides a solid security option, its inconsistent
7. ESET Mobile Security Antivirus – excellent Android cybersecurity suite
| Notable features: | Antivirus, anti-theft, anti-phishing, app lock |
| In-app ads: | No |
| Maximum devices covered: | 25 |
| Current deal: | Get ESET, save up to 30% |
As far as Android antivirus apps go, ESET is undoubtedly one of the most advanced suites available on the market today. However, its real-time protection isn’t as robust as top competitors.
I found the app easy to install, but the interface seemed a little confusing, and it might take a minute to get the hang of it. That said, it provides unique features like anti-theft tracking, which lets you locate a lost device via GPS and check its last known IP address. The web filtering tool blocks phishing and malware-laden sites, while the payment protection feature secures banking apps.
During ESET testing, the antivirus performed well, catching nearly all malware threats, but AV-Test’s November 2024 results showed a 99.7% real-time protection rate – lower than industry leaders. Compared to Norton or Bitdefender, which had near-perfect scores, ESET falls behind in blocking the latest threats effectively.
ESET Mobile Security starts at $14.99/year for a single Android device, with a $34.99/year plan for multi-device protection. A free version is available but lacks real-time scanning, limiting its effectiveness.
Overall, ESET proves to be a good choice for users who need anti-theft features and secure browsing, but those prioritizing the strongest malware protection should consider alternatives like TotalAV or Bitdefender.
Why you need antivirus for Android?
For Android users, antivirus software provides an essential layer of security. The app scans files and monitors behavior to protect against various types of malware, phishing attempts, and other forms of online fraud. While Android devices include built-in protections, antivirus apps enhance overall security.
Yes, Android devices should be protected by reliable antivirus tools. Although less prone to malware attacks than Windows devices, Android is still vulnerable. Failure to protect your device appropriately could lead to security breaches and personal data theft.
Google Play Protect, Android’s built-in security tool, scans apps before downloading, but it doesn't catch all attacks. It lacks real-time protection against phishing and other threats, and it doesn’t secure other important assets like your webcam or provide tools such as VPNs and password managers.
Antivirus apps fill these gaps by stopping attacks that try to bypass the built-in defenses. They are especially important for phones that haven’t received the latest OS patches, since many manufacturers need extra time to roll out updates without causing problems.
Android antivirus apps compared
Here’s how our top antiviruses for Android compare to one another:
| Brand | Rating | Price per year | Free plan | App lock | ID theft guard | In-app ads | VPN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TotalAV |
| From $19.00 | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes, unlimited data |
| Norton | From $29.99 | No | No | Yes | No | Yes, upper-tier plans only | |
| Bitdefender | From $9.99 | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes, up to 200MB/day | |
| Surfshark antivirus | From $36.32 | No | No | Yes | No | Yes, unlimited data | |
| Avira Security Antivirus | From $26.99 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes, unlimited data | |
| Malwarebytes | From $44.99 | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | |
| ESET Mobile Security antivirus | From $34.99 | No | Yes | No | Yes | No |
How we tested and ranked antivirus apps
We take research and analysis seriously at Cybernews, and so our process of testing antiviruses is very thorough. We constantly test and review antivirus programs, stressing their performance. I reviewed a total of 26 antivirus apps to ensure our rankings reflect real-world performance and reliability. Here are the main steps we took to select the best Android antivirus apps:
- Threat detection and performance (30%). We evaluated the apps’ real-time scanning and web protection features during independent in-house tests. We also checked each tool’s impact on device performance.
- Security Features (20%). Beyond basic scanning, I assessed extra protective measures such as anti-phishing capabilities, real-time web protection, privacy safeguards, and additional tools that enhance overall device security.
- Independent lab test results (20%). To ensure my findings aligned with industry standards, I compared our results with the latest reports from independent testing labs. This step helped confirm the reliability of each antivirus solution.
- Pricing (20%). Value for money is a key consideration. I reviewed subscription models and overall cost-effectiveness, balancing pricing against the range and quality of features offered.
- Ease of use (10%). A user-friendly interface is essential. I evaluated each app for its design, setup simplicity, and navigational ease, ensuring that even non-technical users can benefit from robust security without hassle.
After thoroughly testing and analyzing Android antivirus apps, I presented the final list of the 7 best mobile security apps for Android users.
How to install an antivirus on an Android device
Installing an antivirus on your phone is fairly straightforward. It boils down to finding an app on the Google Play Store and clicking the install button. If that doesn’t help you much, here’s what the general process should look like:
- Open the Play Store app on your Android device
- Type the name of the best Android security app you prefer into the search bar. We recommend TotalAV, now 80% OFF
- Tap Install and wait for the setup to complete
- Run a scan and monitor any suspicious activities
If you’ve chosen a premium antivirus service, you’ll most likely have to log in to unlock premium features. Once you’re logged in, you can now scan for malware or take advantage of other features.
Are free Android antivirus apps worth it?
Yes, using a free Android antivirus is useful if it comes from a reliable service provider. For example, TotalAV – our top choice for the best Android security app – offers a great free version with a WebShield feature that blocks access to malicious websites. Plus, it guarantees excellent malware detection rates. Although it’s free, it’s still more powerful than Google Play Protect.
However, keep in mind that numerous so-called free security apps for Android are unreliable. Usually, they are designed to spread malware rather than remove it. So, make sure that you pick a trustworthy security tool, especially when it’s free. Here is a list of our best free antivirus apps for Android that passed our testing and met our performance standards.
It’s also worth mentioning that even though certain free mobile security apps are worth it, with a premium antivirus, you’ll be getting a lot more features. Often, only the paid version will protect you against ransomware and other serious threats.
Video review: best antivirus apps for Android
Feeling like you're more of a visual learner? Check out our YouTube video where we discuss the top antiviruses for Android.
Final verdict
Android antivirus apps have evolved into comprehensive security solutions, offering much more than just malware removal. Features like anti-theft tools, app locks, password managers, and even VPNs make them essential for safeguarding your device.
When selecting an antivirus, prioritize strong malware protection, ease of use, and useful extras like web protection and system cleanup for a safer browsing experience.
Based on our extensive tests and reviews, TotalAV stands out as the best antivirus for Android in 2025, thanks to its robust malware defense, versatile scanning options, and useful extras like App Lock and Anti-Theft tools. Additionally, Norton and Bitdefender are also highly recommended for their outstanding performance and user-friendly features, making them excellent alternatives for securing your Android device.
FAQ
Do I need an antivirus for the Samsung tablet?
Yes, you do. Android phones and tablets run the same OS. This means that tips relevant to phones are also relevant to tablets. In short, it’s not a bad idea to use an antivirus on a tablet as well.
Does Android have a built-in antivirus?
Yes, most Android devices come with Google Play Protect already built in. It uses various machine-learning algorithms to detect malicious code. However, this isn’t a foolproof solution. So, using a third-party antivirus, like our top-rated TotalAV, can provide you with better flexibility, features, and malware protection.
Which is the best paid antivirus for Android?
Our top recommendations are TotalAV Mobile Security and Norton 360 Deluxe, both offering excellent malware protection, real-time security, and essential features like web protection and anti-theft tools. These top-rated Android security apps provide comprehensive protection with high test scores from independent labs.
