Your Android device connects you with people, allows you to purchase goods and services, and even makes it possible to handle work-related tasks. Unfortunately, it is vulnerable to cyber threats that may threaten your virtual privacy and security. This is exactly why you should consider implementing the best antivirus for Android available.
Although Google Play Protect is meant to safeguard you against potentially harmful apps, Google’s built-in malicious app scanner isn’t powerful enough to protect you from all cyber threats. It certainly cannot protect your device as well as a robust antivirus tool can.
Twenty-five popular antivirus tools for were tested to check how they perform in terms of security and malware protection. After reviewing the findings, here are the 5 best antiviruses for Android in 2024.
TotalAV Mobile Security – Best Antivirus for Android in 2024
TotalAV Mobile Security is the best security app for Android that offers incredible performance, reliable anti-malware protection, and a budget-friendly price. In fact, this antivirus is one of the cheapest solutions on this list, with pricing starting at just $19.00/year. TotalAV supports Android 5.0 (Lollipop) and later versions and has a very solid 4.3/5 rating on Google Play.
This application comes with essential features such as real-time protection, malicious website blocking, anonymous browsing, and memory optimization. It goes beyond what Google Play Protect offers – basic app scanning and malicious app removal.
When it was tested, the Android app showcased excellent malware detection results. Independent lab tests confirm these findings. For example, the TotalAV certification report by AV-Test showed near-perfect protection against both recent (99.8% detection) and widespread (99.9% detection) malware.
TotalAV’s malware database is updated daily, ensuring top-level security. All TotalAV plans support Android protection, including the base plan TotalAV Pro ($19.00/year). There’s also a free version of the antivirus app; however, the main features you get are the anti-malware scanner and anti-phishing protection.
Pros
- Excellent malware protection
- VPN included
- Tune-up features
- Really easy to use
- Real-time protection
Cons
- No web filters
Bitdefender Mobile Security – Top Android Antivirus for Real-Time Protection
Bitdefender Mobile Security is one of the best antivirus apps for Android devices overall. It offers an excellent app with features like anti-theft and a VPN, ensuring reliable real-time malware protection. The Bitdefender app is very easy to use and navigate and is available for Android Lollipop 5.0 and higher versions, with a 4.6/5 rating on Google Play Store.
Bitdefender comes with a Cloud Scanner, a VPN (200MB/day), and an App Lock. When it was tested, Bitdefender caught 90% of malware samples, and according to AV-Test, the app was able to detect 100% of the latest and widespread Android infections.
Pros
- Anti-theft tools
- Web filters
- Built-in VPN
- 100% malware protection
- Free version
Cons
- Limited VPN functionality
Norton 360 Antivirus & Security – Excellent Android Antivirus for Secure Browsing
Norton 360 Antivirus & Security is another top-class antivirus app. Its standout feature is Web Protection, which flags all unsafe or malicious websites and prevents them from loading. The Norton Mobile Security is compatible with all versions above Android Oreo 8.0 and has a 4.6/5 rating on Google Play.
When it was tested, Norton 360’s Web Protection feature proved effective. The App Advisor scans your Google Play downloads and warns you about potentially dangerous apps.
Pros
- Web Protection
- In-depth malware scans
- Network security
- Parental controls
- Web filters
Cons
- No free version
Surfshark Antivirus – The Best Android Antivirus Bundle
Surfshark Antivirus is a great security solution with numerous useful features to fight malware and protect your personal data online. The Surfshark antivirus app is available for Android Lollipop 5.0 and higher, with a 4.3/5 rating on Google Play.
One of the best features of the Surfshark antivirus bundle is the Surfshark VPN that encrypts your traffic and provides a more private and secure online experience. It also includes a private search engine and ID data monitoring.
Pros
- Real-time protection
- VPN included
- Private search engine
- Data leak checker
- 100% malware detection rate
Cons
- No free version
- No anti-theft tools
NordVPN Threat Protection Lite – Great Android Antivirus with Top-Class VPN
NordVPN Threat Protection Lite is a feature designed to add an extra layer of security to your device. It’s part of the #1 VPN on the market – NordVPN – compatible with Android Nougat 7.0 or later versions, with a 4.5/5 rating on Google Play.
When it was tested, the app showed solid malware detection rates and successfully blocked access to various infected websites.
Pros
- Powerful ad blocker
- Top-class VPN included
- Solid protection from trackers
- Simple to use all-in-one package
Cons
- No real-time virus protection
- No device scans
Do Android Phones Need Antivirus?
Yes, Android devices should be protected by reliable antivirus tools. While you can prevent some cyber threats by taking appropriate security measures yourself – for example, avoid suspicious apps, use strong passwords, or install updates on time – only a reliable antivirus tool can offer comprehensive protection.
Are Free Android Antivirus Apps Worth It?
Yes, using a free antivirus is useful if it comes from a reliable service provider. For example, TotalAV offers a great free version with a WebShield feature that blocks access to malicious websites. However, be cautious as many so-called free security apps for Android are unreliable. Often, only the paid version will protect you against ransomware and other serious threats.
When choosing the best antivirus app for your device, make sure that the provider offers excellent malware protection rates. Also, consider the user interface and how easy it is to install and use the app itself. Additional features such as system cleanup, phishing protection, and web protection will make browsing on your phone much safer.
By implementing the right antivirus app, you can ensure your device stays secure and your personal information remains private.
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