5 Norton Antivirus Alternatives in 2025

Introduction

Thinking about ditching Norton Antivirus? You’re not alone.

While Norton is one of the most recognised names in cybersecurity, it’s not necessarily the best fit for everyone. Maybe you’ve noticed slow system performance, limited features in lower-tier plans, or you’re simply looking for better value and advanced protection.

Luckily, you’ve got options – and they’re good ones.

In this guide, you’ll discover 5 of the top Norton Antivirus alternatives that are crushing it in 2025. Whether you’re after lightning-fast scanning, top-tier malware protection, or smart extras like VPNs and password managers, we’ve done the heavy lifting to help you choose what’s best for you.

Here’s what you’ll get:

• Easy-to-read comparisons
• Expert insight into features and performance
• Pros and cons of each antivirus
• Direct links to try them out risk-free

Security is non-negotiable – and by the time you finish this guide, you’ll know exactly which antivirus tool deserves a spot on your device.

Let’s get into it!

Top 5 Norton Antivirus Alternatives

You don’t have to stick with Norton to stay secure. These 5 antivirus tools offer powerful protection, smart features, and often, better performance and pricing flexibility than Norton.

Here’s a closer look at each one 👇

1

Bitdefender Antivirus

Total Security

Bitdefender consistently ranks as one of the best antivirus solutions for both home and business users. It offers real-time protection, multi-layered ransomware defense, and a super light footprint on your system.

Key Features:

• Advanced threat defense with behavioral detection
• Built-in VPN with 200MB/day included
• Anti-tracker and microphone/webcam protection
• Parental controls and file shredder
• Supports Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight and fast
• Packed with premium features
• Easy-to-use interface
• Strong malware detection scores

Cons:

• VPN is limited unless you upgrade
• Some features may feel overwhelming for casual users

Pricing:

🎯 Best for: Users looking for a premium all-in-one security suite with excellent protection and performance.

2

McAfee

Total Protection

McAfee has made a huge comeback with its revamped Total Protection suite. It now includes identity theft protection, dark web monitoring, and a fast, user-friendly dashboard.

Key Features:

• Personal Data Cleanup to remove info from risky sites
• Unlimited VPN in select plans
• Identity monitoring + file encryption
• Password manager and secure cloud storage

Pros:

• All-in-one protection
• Great for families with multiple devices
• Excellent phishing protection

Cons:

• Can be heavy on older systems
• VPN access tied to auto-renewal

Pricing:

🎯 Best for: Families and individuals needing a wide range of features, including identity and privacy tools.

3

ESET

Smart Security Premium

ESET is perfect for users who want a powerful, customizable antivirus that doesn’t slow down their system. It’s especially popular with advanced users and small businesses.

Key Features:

• Award-winning NOD32 antivirus engine
• Banking and payment protection
• Network inspector for Wi-Fi security
• Anti-theft tools for laptops
• Minimal system resource usage

Pros:

• Very lightweight and fast
• Deep customization options
• Strong behavioral detection engine

Cons:

• The interface isn’t as modern as others
• Lacks some premium extras like VPN

Pricing:

🎯 Best for: Power users who value speed, low system impact, and precise control over security settings.

4

Intego

Mac Internet Security X9

If you’re on a Mac, Intego is hands-down one of the best antivirus tools tailored for macOS. Unlike others that try to be “one-size-fits-all,” Intego focuses solely on protecting Apple devices.

Key Features:

• Real-time malware protection built for macOS
• Intelligent firewall with customizable filters
• Anti-phishing and email scan tools
• Backup and parental control features

Pros:

• Optimized 100% for Mac
• Great firewall and backup tools
• Clean, native macOS interface

Cons:

• No Windows or mobile version
• Limited feature set compared to cross-platform solutions

Pricing:

🎯 Best for: Mac users who want a fully native antivirus tool designed specifically for Apple systems.

5

Avast

Premium Security

Avast brings a well-rounded set of security tools and stands out with real-time protection, email filtering, and a user-friendly interface that works across all platforms.

Key Features:

• AI-driven malware detection
• Ransomware and webcam protection
• Sandbox for testing suspicious apps
• Advanced firewall and phishing protection

Pros:

• Great free version
• Easy to set up and use
• Extra features like Sandbox mode and a secure browser

Cons:

• Occasional upsell popups
• Past privacy controversies

Pricing:

🎯 Best for: Users looking for strong free protection with the option to scale up to more advanced features.

How To Choose the Best Norton Antivirus Alternatives

Choosing the right antivirus isn’t just about name recognition. We looked under the hood to find tools that outperform Norton in key areas that actually matter to you.

Here’s what we focused on when selecting the top 5:

1. Security Features

Let’s face it, the main reason you install an antivirus is for protection.

We looked at:

• Real-time threat detection
• Ransomware and phishing protection
• Firewall and network security
• Webcam and microphone safeguards

Each tool in this list offers cutting-edge threat protection that matches or exceeds Norton’s capabilities.

2. System Performance

No one wants their antivirus to slow down everything.

We prioritized tools that are:

• Lightweight on system resources
• Quick to scan files and devices
• Optimized for both older and newer systems

Tools like ESET and Bitdefender especially shine in this area.

3. User Experience

Security shouldn’t feel complicated.

We rated each antivirus on:

• Ease of setup and use
• Modern, intuitive dashboard
• Helpful alerts and automation

These options are beginner-friendly but still give power users the control they crave.

4. Pricing & Value

It’s not just about being cheaper than Norton, it’s about getting more value for your money.

We looked for:

• Transparent pricing (no hidden fees!)
• Useful features included in base plans
• Fair device coverage for the price

Some tools even offer a free version or a 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free testing.

5. Customer Support

Even the best antivirus tool needs help sometimes.

We reviewed:

• Availability of live chat or phone support
• Online knowledge bases and forums
• Speed and quality of responses

Good support can be a lifesaver during a cyber emergency.

Why Consider Alternatives to Norton Antivirus?

Norton has long been a household name in antivirus software. But brand recognition doesn’t always mean best fit.

Here are the most common reasons why users like you are looking for alternatives in 2025:

1. Pricing Doesn’t Match the Value

Many users feel that Norton’s pricing is on the higher side compared to the features included.

• Basic plans lack tools like a VPN or advanced privacy protection
• Some essential features are locked behind premium tiers
• Renewal prices are often much higher than initial deals

⚠️ If you’re budget-conscious or need more for less, there are better-value options like Bitdefender or McAfee.

2. System Performance Issues

Some Norton users report their devices slowing down during scans or even while running in the background.

You might notice:

• High CPU usage
• Longer boot times
• Lag while multitasking

Lightweight options like ESET and Intego (especially on Mac) offer snappy protection without sacrificing performance.

3. Limited Features in Basic Plans

While Norton does offer a robust suite in higher-tier plans, its entry-level packages can feel limited.

Other antivirus brands include:

• VPN access
• Password managers
• Firewall customization
• Identity theft protection

And they often do this at no additional cost. 🚀

4. Overwhelming Interface or Ads

Some users find Norton’s dashboard a bit cluttered, especially with pop-ups promoting upgrades or add-ons.

If you’re after a cleaner experience, tools like Avast or Bitdefender offer a streamlined, distraction-free interface.

5. You Simply Want a Change

There’s nothing wrong with exploring. Maybe you want:

• A solution tailored for macOS (like Intego)
• Better mobile protection
• Or simply a more modern, user-friendly tool

Whatever your reason, the alternatives listed here are worthy upgrades that suit a wide range of users and budgets.

Comparison Table

Here’s how the top contenders stack up against each other in terms of core features, system performance, and value:

At-a-Glance Comparison

Conclusion

Choosing the right antivirus can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

If Norton isn’t cutting it for you anymore, you’ve now got five powerful alternatives, each with its own strengths:

• Bitdefender: Best all-around protection with premium features
• McAfee: Ideal for families and identity protection
• ESET: Perfect for power users and minimal system impact
• Intego: Designed specifically for Mac users
• Avast: Great free option with solid upgrade potential

No matter your budget or device type, you don’t have to compromise on security.

Take advantage of free trials or money-back guarantees, and find the antivirus that truly fits your digital life.

Ready to switch? Your security deserves better in 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best alternative to Norton Antivirus?

Bitdefender is widely considered the best Norton alternative due to its strong malware protection, lightweight design, and rich features.

2. Is Bitdefender better than Norton?

Yes. Bitdefender often outperforms Norton in independent lab tests for malware detection, speed, and additional features like VPN and file protection.

3. Which antivirus is best for Mac users?

Intego is specifically designed for macOS and offers native tools like a smart firewall and system cleaner, making it the top choice for Mac users.

4. Is there a free alternative to Norton?

Yes. Avast offers a free version with solid protection, though upgrading unlocks advanced tools like ransomware protection and a secure browser.

5. Does McAfee offer more than Norton?

McAfee includes identity theft monitoring, VPN access (with certain plans), and better support for unlimited devices in its premium plans.

6. What’s the lightest antivirus on system performance?

ESET is known for its minimal resource usage, making it ideal for older or slower PCs and laptops.

7. Do these alternatives work on mobile devices?

Yes. All listed options (except Intego) support Android and iOS with dedicated mobile apps for added protection.

8. Is it easy to uninstall Norton and switch?

Yes. Most alternatives offer uninstall guides and even automated tools to help you remove Norton cleanly before installing a new antivirus.

9. Can I use these antivirus tools on multiple devices?

Absolutely. Plans from Bitdefender, McAfee, Avast, and ESET allow you to secure multiple devices under one subscription.

10. Do I need a VPN with my antivirus?

A VPN isn’t mandatory, but it is highly recommended. Some options, like Bitdefender and McAfee, include one, adding privacy when browsing on public Wi-Fi.