Introduction
Avast has been one of the most popular antivirus solutions for years, offering free and premium security software for millions of users worldwide. However, with increasing cybersecurity threats and stiff competition from other antivirus providers, many people are wondering: Is Avast still a good antivirus in 2025?
In this review, we will analyze Avast’s features, malware protection, system performance, pricing, privacy concerns, and customer support to determine whether it’s still a top choice in 2025.
1. Security Features
Avast offers a range of security tools, but how do they compare to industry leaders? Here’s a breakdown:
Avast Free Antivirus (2025)
✅ Real-time Malware Protection – Detects and removes viruses, spyware, and ransomware.
✅ Wi-Fi Security Scanner – Identifies vulnerabilities in your home network.
✅ Phishing Protection – Blocks malicious websites and fake login pages.
✅ Smart Scan – Finds security gaps in software, passwords, and networks.
Avast Premium Security (2025)
✅ Advanced Ransomware Shield – Prevents unauthorized encryption of files.
✅ Webcam Protection – Blocks unauthorized webcam access.
✅ Sandbox Mode – Runs suspicious files in a safe, isolated environment.
✅ Firewall – Protects against unauthorized network access.
✅ Anti-Tracking & Data Breach Alerts – Notifies you of personal data leaks.
🔹 Verdict: Avast offers solid security features, but many advanced tools require a paid subscription.
2. Malware Detection & Protection
How effective is Avast in detecting malware compared to top competitors?
| Antivirus | AV-Test (2025) Protection Score | AV-Comparatives Malware Detection |
|---|---|---|
| Avast Free/Premium | 6/6 (Excellent) | 99.7% |
| Bitdefender | 6/6 (Excellent) | 99.9% |
| Norton 360 | 6/6 (Excellent) | 99.8% |
While Avast performs well, Bitdefender and Norton slightly outperform it in malware detection.
🔹 Verdict: Good, but not the absolute best in malware detection.
3. System Performance Impact
Avast is known for being lightweight, but does it slow down your device?
| Antivirus | CPU Usage (Idle) | CPU Usage (Full Scan) |
| Avast | 1-2% | 18-22% |
| Bitdefender | 1-2% | 15-20% |
| Norton 360 | 1-2% | 20-25% |
Avast performs better than Norton but is slightly heavier than Bitdefender during full scans.
🔹 Verdict: Decent performance, but not the lightest antivirus.
4. Pricing & Plans
Avast offers both free and paid versions. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Plan | Avast Free | Avast Premium Security | Avast Ultimate |
| Devices Covered | 1 | 1-10 | 1-10 |
| Price (Annual) | $0 | $49.99 | $79.99 |
| Ransomware Shield | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| VPN Included | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
🔹 Verdict: The free version is good for basic security, but premium plans are costly compared to alternatives like Bitdefender.
5. Privacy & Data Concerns
In recent years, Avast faced backlash for allegedly selling user browsing data through its Jumpshot subsidiary. Although Avast shut down Jumpshot in 2020, privacy-conscious users remain skeptical about trusting their data with the company.
🔹 Verdict: Privacy concerns still linger, making some users hesitant to trust Avast.
6. Customer Support
Avast offers community forums, a knowledge base, and paid premium support. However, free users have limited access to live customer support.
🔹 Verdict: Decent support, but better for paid users.
Final Verdict: Is Avast Still a Good Antivirus in 2025?
✅ Pros: ✔ Free version with strong malware protection
✔ Lightweight and easy to use
✔ Advanced security features in premium versions
❌ Cons: ✖ Privacy concerns from past data-sharing incidents
✖ Paid plans are expensive compared to competitors
✖ Malware detection is good but not the best
Best Alternative: If you want better privacy, higher malware detection, and better value for money, consider Bitdefender or Norton.
👉 Get Avast at the Best Price Here
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