Quick Overview
- 1#1: Bitdefender Mobile Security - Delivers top-rated malware detection, web protection, anti-theft, and unlimited VPN for Android and iOS.
- 2#2: Norton 360 for Mobile - Provides comprehensive antivirus, VPN, dark web monitoring, and app privacy advisor for mobile devices.
- 3#3: Avast Mobile Security - Offers free real-time antivirus scanning, Wi-Fi security checks, and photo vault for Android and iOS.
- 4#4: Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus - Features high detection rates for malware, app lock, anti-theft, and privacy protection tools.
- 5#5: Malwarebytes Mobile Security - Protects against malware, adware, and privacy threats with real-time scanning and VPN.
- 6#6: McAfee Mobile Security - Includes virus scanner, media vault, Wi-Fi guard, and theft protection for mobile users.
- 7#7: Trend Micro Mobile Security - Scans for viruses, phishing, spyware, and risky apps with data theft protection.
- 8#8: ESET Mobile Security - Lightweight antivirus with anti-phishing, payment protection, and network security features.
- 9#9: Avira Mobile Security - Free antivirus scanner with VPN, identity protection, and app privacy reports.
- 10#10: Sophos Intercept X for Mobile - Enterprise-grade malware and exploit protection with anti-theft and web filtering.
We selected and ranked these tools based on high malware detection rates, comprehensive feature sets (including anti-theft, VPN, and privacy safeguards), intuitive design, and competitive value, ensuring a reliable experience for varied mobile users.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines top mobile antivirus software, featuring Bitdefender Mobile Security, Norton 360 for Mobile, Avast Mobile Security, Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus, Malwarebytes Mobile Security, and more. Readers will discover details on protection capabilities, key features, and overall value to determine the best fit for their mobile security needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bitdefender Mobile Security Delivers top-rated malware detection, web protection, anti-theft, and unlimited VPN for Android and iOS. | specialized | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | Norton 360 for Mobile Provides comprehensive antivirus, VPN, dark web monitoring, and app privacy advisor for mobile devices. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Avast Mobile Security Offers free real-time antivirus scanning, Wi-Fi security checks, and photo vault for Android and iOS. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 4 | Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus Features high detection rates for malware, app lock, anti-theft, and privacy protection tools. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 5 | Malwarebytes Mobile Security Protects against malware, adware, and privacy threats with real-time scanning and VPN. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | McAfee Mobile Security Includes virus scanner, media vault, Wi-Fi guard, and theft protection for mobile users. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 7 | Trend Micro Mobile Security Scans for viruses, phishing, spyware, and risky apps with data theft protection. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | ESET Mobile Security Lightweight antivirus with anti-phishing, payment protection, and network security features. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | Avira Mobile Security Free antivirus scanner with VPN, identity protection, and app privacy reports. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 10 | Sophos Intercept X for Mobile Enterprise-grade malware and exploit protection with anti-theft and web filtering. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
Delivers top-rated malware detection, web protection, anti-theft, and unlimited VPN for Android and iOS.
Provides comprehensive antivirus, VPN, dark web monitoring, and app privacy advisor for mobile devices.
Offers free real-time antivirus scanning, Wi-Fi security checks, and photo vault for Android and iOS.
Features high detection rates for malware, app lock, anti-theft, and privacy protection tools.
Protects against malware, adware, and privacy threats with real-time scanning and VPN.
Includes virus scanner, media vault, Wi-Fi guard, and theft protection for mobile users.
Scans for viruses, phishing, spyware, and risky apps with data theft protection.
Lightweight antivirus with anti-phishing, payment protection, and network security features.
Free antivirus scanner with VPN, identity protection, and app privacy reports.
Enterprise-grade malware and exploit protection with anti-theft and web filtering.
Bitdefender Mobile Security
specializedDelivers top-rated malware detection, web protection, anti-theft, and unlimited VPN for Android and iOS.
Scam Alert, which uses AI to detect and block phishing scams in real-time via calls, SMS, and apps
Bitdefender Mobile Security is a top-rated antivirus app for Android devices, delivering industry-leading malware detection with near-perfect scores in independent lab tests like AV-Test and AV-Comparatives. It provides real-time protection, web filtering to block phishing and malicious sites, anti-theft features for locating and wiping lost devices, and Scam Alert for identifying fraudulent calls and SMS. Additional tools include a VPN with daily data allowance, app lock, and privacy advisor to optimize permissions and reduce data exposure.
Pros
- Exceptional malware detection rates (100% in recent AV-Test evaluations)
- Minimal battery and performance impact due to lightweight engine
- Comprehensive extras like Scam Alert, VPN, and anti-theft
Cons
- VPN limited to 200MB/day on mobile plan
- Full features require premium subscription (free version basic)
- Limited functionality on iOS compared to Android
Best For
Android users seeking maximum protection with negligible device slowdown.
Pricing
Premium annual subscription starts at $14.99 (first year), renews at $29.99; included in Bitdefender Total Security bundles for multi-device coverage.
Norton 360 for Mobile
specializedProvides comprehensive antivirus, VPN, dark web monitoring, and app privacy advisor for mobile devices.
Norton Genie AI-powered scam protection that analyzes calls, texts, and websites in real-time
Norton 360 for Mobile is a robust security suite for Android and iOS devices, providing real-time antivirus scanning, malware removal, and protection against phishing and unsafe apps. It includes additional features like a secure VPN, Wi-Fi security checks, dark web monitoring, and an AI-powered scam advisor (Genie) for detecting fraudulent calls and texts. The app also offers device optimization, app privacy insights, and anti-theft tools, making it a comprehensive shield for mobile users.
Pros
- Exceptional malware detection with near-perfect lab scores
- Unlimited VPN and dark web monitoring included
- Intuitive interface with quick scans and one-tap security checks
Cons
- Full features require a paid subscription
- Slight battery drain during intensive scans
- Some advanced tools feel more desktop-oriented
Best For
Users wanting premium all-in-one mobile security with VPN, identity protection, and AI scam detection.
Pricing
Included in Norton 360 plans starting at $49.99/year for up to 10 devices (mobile + others); free limited version available.
Avast Mobile Security
specializedOffers free real-time antivirus scanning, Wi-Fi security checks, and photo vault for Android and iOS.
App Insights: Detailed breakdown of app permissions, data usage, and potential privacy risks.
Avast Mobile Security is a robust antivirus app for Android and iOS devices, offering real-time malware scanning, phishing protection, and web shielding to safeguard against viruses, spyware, and online threats. It includes additional utilities like Wi-Fi security scans, app permission insights, junk cleaning, and a photo vault for privacy. While the free version provides core protection with ads, premium subscriptions unlock features such as unlimited VPN and advanced anti-theft tools.
Pros
- High malware detection rates in independent lab tests
- Extensive toolkit including Wi-Fi scanner and app insights
- Strong free version with essential protections
Cons
- Intrusive ads in the free edition
- Some features like full VPN require premium upgrade
- Can impact battery life on lower-end devices
Best For
Android users wanting a free, feature-packed antivirus with easy upgrades to premium for enhanced privacy and VPN access.
Pricing
Free with ads; Premium Protection at $1.99/month or $19.99/year (billed annually, prices vary by region).
Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus
specializedFeatures high detection rates for malware, app lock, anti-theft, and privacy protection tools.
Advanced anti-theft suite with remote lock, wipe, and location tracking
Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus is a robust security app for Android devices that provides real-time malware scanning, phishing protection, and web filtering to safeguard against threats. It includes additional tools like app locking, anti-theft features for locating or wiping lost devices, and a limited VPN for secure browsing. The app is available in free and premium versions, with premium unlocking advanced capabilities like unlimited VPN usage.
Pros
- Excellent malware detection rates in independent tests
- Comprehensive security extras like anti-theft and app lock
- Minimal impact on device performance
Cons
- Intrusive ads in the free version
- Some advanced features require premium subscription
- Past privacy concerns due to company origins
Best For
Android users wanting strong malware protection combined with anti-theft and privacy tools.
Pricing
Free version with ads; Premium at $14.99/year or $29.99 for 2 years.
Malwarebytes Mobile Security
specializedProtects against malware, adware, and privacy threats with real-time scanning and VPN.
Behavior-based ransomware protection that blocks threats before they encrypt files
Malwarebytes Mobile Security is a lightweight antivirus solution primarily for Android devices, offering real-time protection against malware, ransomware, adware, and phishing threats. It includes manual and scheduled scans, a privacy audit tool to review app permissions, web protection, and call/text blocking. While the iOS version is limited to VPN and privacy features due to platform restrictions, the Android app excels in threat detection with minimal impact on device performance.
Pros
- Excellent malware and ransomware detection rates in independent lab tests
- Intuitive, ad-free interface that's easy to navigate
- Privacy Manager provides detailed app permission audits
Cons
- Limited functionality on iOS (no full antivirus scanning)
- Web protection and VPN require premium subscription
- Lacks advanced extras like parental controls or identity monitoring
Best For
Android users who want reliable, no-frills malware protection with strong privacy tools without heavy resource usage.
Pricing
Free version with basic scanning; Premium: $39.99/year per device or $1.67/month (annual billing), with family plans available.
McAfee Mobile Security
specializedIncludes virus scanner, media vault, Wi-Fi guard, and theft protection for mobile users.
Media Vault for automatically securing and hiding sensitive photos/videos with PIN protection
McAfee Mobile Security is a robust antivirus app for Android and iOS that provides real-time malware scanning, web protection against phishing, and Wi-Fi security checks. It includes anti-theft features like remote tracking, lock, and wipe, along with a media vault for securing photos and videos. The app also offers app privacy audits to identify risky permissions and data access by installed apps.
Pros
- Excellent malware detection rates from independent labs
- Strong anti-theft tools with GPS tracking and remote wipe
- User-friendly interface with quick scans and clear reports
Cons
- Subscription required for full features, with aggressive upsells
- Can cause minor battery drain during scans
- Limited free version functionality
Best For
Users seeking comprehensive mobile protection with anti-theft features who value integration with McAfee's ecosystem.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $29.99/first year per device, renews at $39.99/year; often bundled in McAfee Total Protection plans.
Trend Micro Mobile Security
specializedScans for viruses, phishing, spyware, and risky apps with data theft protection.
App Privacy Scanner that analyzes and rates app permissions for data privacy risks
Trend Micro Mobile Security is a robust antivirus app for Android and iOS devices that provides real-time malware scanning, web protection against phishing, and scam detection. It includes anti-theft features like remote lock and wipe, along with a privacy manager to audit app permissions and data usage. The app also offers dark web monitoring and system optimization tools for comprehensive mobile protection.
Pros
- Strong malware detection with high lab scores
- Intuitive interface with quick scans
- Useful privacy and anti-theft tools
Cons
- Full features require paid subscription
- Can impact battery life during scans
- Limited customization options
Best For
Android users who want integrated privacy scanning and anti-theft alongside antivirus protection.
Pricing
Free basic version; Premium at $39.99/year for 1 device, with family plans up to $69.99/year for 5 devices.
ESET Mobile Security
specializedLightweight antivirus with anti-phishing, payment protection, and network security features.
Ultra-low system resource usage for seamless background protection
ESET Mobile Security is a lightweight antivirus solution for Android devices that delivers real-time malware scanning, phishing protection, and app auditing to safeguard against threats. It includes additional tools like network inspector, anti-theft features, and payment protection for comprehensive mobile security. Renowned for its minimal impact on battery life and performance, it's designed for users who prioritize efficiency alongside strong protection.
Pros
- Exceptional malware detection rates from independent labs
- Very low battery and CPU usage
- Handy extras like anti-theft and payment guard
Cons
- Some features require accessibility permissions
- Premium subscription needed for full functionality
- No effective iOS version due to platform limits
Best For
Android users who want reliable protection without compromising device speed or battery life.
Pricing
Free basic version; Premium: $14.99/year per device or bundled in multi-device plans.
Avira Mobile Security
specializedFree antivirus scanner with VPN, identity protection, and app privacy reports.
Built-in Phantom VPN with 1GB free monthly data for secure browsing
Avira Mobile Security is a robust antivirus app primarily for Android devices, offering real-time malware scanning, phishing protection, and app locking to safeguard against threats. It includes additional tools like a limited VPN, network scanner, and identity protection for enhanced privacy. While the free version covers core antivirus needs effectively, premium upgrades unlock unlimited VPN data and ad-free experience.
Pros
- Strong independent lab test scores for malware detection
- User-friendly interface with quick scans
- Generous free tier including VPN (1GB/month) and privacy tools
Cons
- Ads and upsell prompts in free version
- VPN data capped at 1GB/month without premium
- Some advanced features locked behind subscription
Best For
Budget-conscious Android users seeking reliable free antivirus with bonus privacy features.
Pricing
Free version available; Premium Protection starts at ~$20/year for ad-free use and unlimited VPN.
Sophos Intercept X for Mobile
specializedEnterprise-grade malware and exploit protection with anti-theft and web filtering.
Deep Learning preemptive protection that stops zero-day attacks before signatures exist
Sophos Intercept X for Mobile is an advanced endpoint security solution designed to protect Android and iOS devices from malware, ransomware, phishing, and zero-day exploits using AI-driven deep learning and behavioral analysis. It offers real-time scanning, web filtering, app vetting, and Wi-Fi security assessments to safeguard against sophisticated threats. While enterprise-focused, it provides robust protection for individual users seeking comprehensive mobile defense.
Pros
- Excellent AI-based malware and zero-day threat detection
- Strong ransomware and exploit prevention
- Seamless integration with Sophos ecosystem for enterprises
Cons
- Subscription model limits free features
- Higher battery and resource usage on older devices
- iOS functionality restricted by platform limitations
Best For
Business professionals and advanced users requiring enterprise-grade mobile threat protection.
Pricing
Free trial available; premium subscription starts at $29.99/year per device, with enterprise licensing options.
Conclusion
In the competitive field of mobile security, the reviewed tools offer distinct strengths, collectively addressing modern threats. Leading the pack, Bitdefender Mobile Security excels with top-tier malware detection, web protection, anti-theft features, and unlimited VPN across both iOS and Android. Close behind, Norton 360 for Mobile impresses with comprehensive antivirus, VPN, dark web monitoring, and app privacy tools, while Avast Mobile Security stands out with free real-time scanning, Wi-Fi checks, and a photo vault, meeting varied user needs. Each solution ensures robust defense, adapting to evolving digital risks.
Secure your device with Bitdefender Mobile Security—the top-rated choice—or explore Norton 360 for Mobile or Avast Mobile Security to find the perfect fit for your unique safety requirements.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
