Best Avast alternatives for 2026
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Avast is one of the most well-known antivirus programs, but it isn’t the only option. If you’re looking for a stronger, faster, or more affordable solution, several excellent Avast alternatives can offer better protection and value.
In this guide, I’ve tested and reviewed the best Avast alternatives in 2026 to help you find antivirus software that enhances performance, strengthens malware defense, and includes powerful extra features like ransomware shields and privacy tools.
Every antivirus on this list has been thoroughly tested for real-world security, speed, and usability. Plus, each option comes with either a free version, a free trial, or a money-back guarantee, so you can try them risk-free before deciding.
Top 3 best Avast alternatives
- TotalAV – the best Avast alternative overall in 2026
- Norton – a reliable Avast Antivirus substitute
- Bitdefender – a secure replacement for Avast antivirus
Why look for an alternative to Avast?
Avast is a solid antivirus, but it isn’t flawless, and there are better solutions out there. Here are some reasons why it’s worth checking out the alternatives to Avast antivirus:
- Minimize security risks. In late 2019 and early 2020, it was found that Avast collected user data and resold it through a subsidiary, Jumpshot. Although Avast has since shut down Jumpshot, it’s fair to question Avast’s trustworthiness, security, and commitment to privacy. In any case, there are better antiviruses out there without data-sharing and privacy scandals.
- Get lower pricing. Many of Avast’s features are only available if you pay extra. For instance, AntiTrack and BreachGuard cost an additional $54.99/year and $43.99/year, respectively. Even certain customer support options, like live chat, are behind a paywall.
- Avoid regional price discrimination. Rather than a fixed price, Avast’s pricing varies according to your location. For instance, its prices are significantly higher in the UK. Considering that Avast’s plans aren’t exactly cheap to start with, it might not make financial sense for users in certain regions to spend that much on an antivirus.
Best Avast alternatives in 2026 – detailed list
Below, you can find my picks for the best alternatives to Avast. Together with our in-house research team, we thoroughly researched and reviewed 30 antivirus providers to compile a shortlist. Then, we tested each one’s cybersecurity capabilities and ranked them accordingly.
1. TotalAV – the best alternative to Avast
| Simultaneous connections: | Up to 8 devices |
| Free version: | ✅ Yes |
| Platforms: | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android |
| Best deal: | Get TotalAV, now 80% OFF |
TotalAV is the best Avast alternative. For starters, the antivirus offers exceptional protection from cyberthreats. Most importantly, the independent lab test results back up its claims to protect against various malware.
In the latest December 2025 evaluation by AV-TEST, TotalAV scored 100% in malware detection rates and blocked 100% of zero-day malware attacks. With such impeccable results, AV-TEST has awarded TotalAV the Top Product award for its excellent security measures.
As noted in our TotalAV review, unlike Avast, TotalAV’s wide-ranging features are already included in its packages. These include data breach monitoring, disk cleaning, and browser cleaning. Depending on your subscription, premium plans also provide a VPN, an ad blocker, and a robust password vault.
Plans start from $19.00/year for 3 devices, and you get a 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Norton – excellent alternative to Avast
| Simultaneous connections: | Up to 10 devices |
| Free version: | ❌ No |
| Platforms: | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android |
| Best deal: | Get up to 60% OFF Norton Antivirus |
A fierce Avast competitor, Norton antivirus has top-notch malware protection. Snagging a Top Product certificate, Norton scored 100% in both zero-day malware protection and malware detection in the most recent December tests by AV-TEST.
Our Norton review revealed that the popular antivirus doesn’t lack in the functionality department either. Besides basic protection, it has tons of additional features in its arsenal, including a VPN, a password manager, cloud backup, and dark web monitoring.
Plans start from $29.99/year for 1 device, and it comes with a 7-day free trial. Norton also provides a whopping 60-day money-back guarantee, which outshines TotalAV’s 30-day timeframe to get a refund.
3. Bitdefender – security-focused alternative to Avast antivirus
| Simultaneous connections: | Up to 5 devices with individual and 25 devices with family plans |
| Free version: | ✅ Yes |
| Platforms: | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS |
| Best deal: | Get Bitdefender for up to 78% OFF |
One of the most highly rated antiviruses, Bitdefender provides unparalleled malware protection. Acing virtually every independent lab test, Bitdefender is listed as Top Product by AV-TEST with a 100% score in both zero-day malware attack protection and malware detection rates in the most recent testing of December 2025. Plus, it also has an Advanced+ certificate from AV Comparatives.
As for features, Bitdefender’s plans are loaded. Some noteworthy ones include Advanced Threat Defense, multi-layered ransomware protection, a firewall, webcam protection, and a VPN.
Plans start from $12.99/year for 1 device, and a 30-day money-back guarantee allows you to test the product out.
Which Avast alternative should I pick?
Before you decide on an alternative to Avast, consider your needs and wants first. This can help you zero in on the best candidate from my list of Avast alternatives. However, if you still need some help to find that perfect replacement for Avast, here are some main factors to consider:
- Free version. Free versions aren’t ideal for the long term, but they have their purposes. They not only give you the freedom to trial an antivirus without the constraint of time but are also an incredibly helpful option if you’re unable to spend on an antivirus program. Basic protection is better than zero protection. TotalAV and Bitdefender both offer free plans.
- Simultaneous connections. To protect all your devices, look for an antivirus with generous simultaneous connections. Most antiviruses allow around 5 to 6 devices on one subscription. Others, like Norton, can cover up to 10 devices. If you require more devices, opt for Bitdefender’s family plans, which allow up to 25 devices.
- Additional features. Taking into account the crowded market, most antiviruses throw in additional features as perks or bundle up their services into all-in-one packages to attract more users. Look out for extra features like VPNs, password managers, breach monitoring, and more.
- Money-back guarantees. In case you change your mind, or if the antivirus just isn’t a perfect fit for you, a money-back guarantee is your lifeline. The industry standard is a 30-day grace period, but certain providers like Norton offer up to an impressive 60 days.
Do I really need an antivirus tool?
Yes, you should definitely get a reliable antivirus tool if you’re thinking of getting rid of Avast altogether.
Viruses and malware have become increasingly sophisticated and elusive in recent years. An accidental click or a careless download of an attachment could render your device incapacitated or make you a victim of ransomware. Plus, as online advertising gains traction, it’s not uncommon to be bombarded by intrusive ads and pop-ups.
Antivirus protects you and your devices against all of these cyberthreats, including viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, trackers, ads, and pop-ups.
Additionally, most modern antiviruses now include other cybersecurity must-haves for an overall safer online experience. For instance, a password manager securely stores and manages your credentials. Meanwhile, a VPN encrypts your online data to deter misuse and prying eyes.
All in all, a reliable antivirus tool is an absolutely worthwhile investment to protect yourself while online.
Conclusion
With security threats evolving rapidly, choosing the right antivirus is crucial. While Avast is a well-known provider, many strong alternatives are better trusted and offer better security, pricing, and additional features. Whether you are looking for enhanced privacy, lower costs, or more comprehensive cybersecurity tools, my list of top Avast alternatives has got you covered.
After thorough testing, I can conclude that TotalAV is the best Avast alternative in 2026. It offers high malware detection rates, real-time protection, and a feature-rich security suite. However, all other services on my list also provide solid protection, catering to different needs and budgets.
