Norton 360 vs McAfee Security: Best Antivirus for Android in 2024?

If you're looking for robust mobile security, Norton 360 and McAfee Security are top contenders with over 50 million installs each. Norton 360 excels with AI-powered malware protection and a built-in VPN, ideal for users who want an all-in-one suite. McAfee shines with its Scam Detector and identity theft features, perfect for those focused on phishing and financial fraud prevention.

Norton360 Antivirus & Security Android app icon

Norton360 Antivirus & Security

Recommended
Rating
★ 4.57
Downloads
50,000,000+
Developer
NortonMobile
View on Play Store
McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN Android app icon

McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN

Rating
★ 4.72
Downloads
50,000,000+
Developer
McAfee LLC
View on Play Store

​​Norton 360 ensures robust mobile security with antivirus features, including AI-powered malware protection, virus scanner and cleaner, and VPN for privacy online. Built-in scam protection helps keep you safe while browsing, shopping, or texting. ✔ New: Scam Protection Pro…

Pros

  • AI-powered malware detection and real-time protection
  • Built-in VPN with no data limits for privacy
  • Scam Protection Pro covers email, web, calls, and SMS
  • Lightweight and doesn't drain battery
  • Includes Wi-Fi security and app advisor

Cons

  • Some advanced features require subscription
  • VPN may slow down connection on free tier
  • No dedicated identity theft monitoring

In today's digital world, knowing what's real and what's fake is more critical than ever. Introducing McAfee’s Scam Detector™ – your first line of defense against deceptive texts and emails. Protect your new devices. McAfee+ delivers comprehensive, award-winning cybersecuri…

Pros

  • Excellent Scam Detector for texts and emails
  • Comprehensive identity theft and financial fraud protection
  • Award-winning antivirus with low system impact
  • Includes Wi-Fi scanner and safe browsing
  • Parental controls and location tracking available

Cons

  • VPN is limited to 500MB/day on free version
  • Scam Detector may generate false positives
  • Interface can be cluttered with upsells

Final Verdict

Our pick: Norton360 Antivirus & Security

For most users, Norton 360 is the better choice due to its superior malware protection, reliable VPN, and comprehensive scam protection that covers email, web, calls, and SMS. McAfee's Scam Detector is excellent for identifying deceptive texts and emails, but Norton's overall security suite feels more complete and polished. However, if you prioritize identity theft protection and financial fraud alerts, McAfee+ offers stronger tools in that area. Ultimately, Norton 360 wins for overall balance of features, performance, and value.

Norton360 Antivirus & Security Android app icon

Norton360 Antivirus & Security Screenshots

Official app screenshots from the Google Play Store.

Norton360 Antivirus & Security Android app screenshot 1
Norton360 Antivirus & Security Android app screenshot 1
Norton360 Antivirus & Security Android app screenshot 2
Norton360 Antivirus & Security Android app screenshot 2
Norton360 Antivirus & Security Android app screenshot 3
Norton360 Antivirus & Security Android app screenshot 3
Norton360 Antivirus & Security Android app screenshot 4
Norton360 Antivirus & Security Android app screenshot 4
Norton360 Antivirus & Security Android app screenshot 5
Norton360 Antivirus & Security Android app screenshot 5
McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN Android app icon

McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN Screenshots

Official app screenshots from the Google Play Store.

McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN Android app screenshot 1
McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN Android app screenshot 1
McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN Android app screenshot 2
McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN Android app screenshot 2
McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN Android app screenshot 3
McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN Android app screenshot 3
McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN Android app screenshot 4
McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN Android app screenshot 4
McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN Android app screenshot 5
McAfee Security: Antivirus VPN Android app screenshot 5

Frequently Asked Questions

Which app has a higher rating?

McAfee Security has a slightly higher rating (4.72) compared to Norton 360 (4.57), based on over 50 million installs each.

Do these apps work offline?

Both apps require an internet connection for real-time scanning and updates. Offline, they can perform on-demand scans of stored files but will not protect against new threats.

Do Norton and McAfee show ads?

Both apps may show promotional banners for premium features in the free versions. However, paid subscriptions remove all ads.

What are the device requirements?

Both apps require Android 5.0 or higher. They are optimized for phones and tablets, with minimal impact on performance.

Which one should I choose for scam protection?

For comprehensive scam protection across email, web, calls, and SMS, Norton 360's Scam Protection Pro is more thorough. McAfee's Scam Detector is excellent for texts and emails but less broad.