Performance comparison of antivirus software is an essential component of any security strategy for computers. There are a variety of online resources that can compare the performance of antivirus software, but the best method involves testing real malware samples across a variety of operating systems. These tests employ an amalgamation of virus database and behavior analysis to provide an accurate assessment of the degree to which a software can detect new threats.

The AV-Comparatives lab is an independent testing organization that reviews anti-virus software, Internet security suites, and other cybersecurity products based on their security, performance and usability. They provide PDF downloads of their findings as well as an interactive chart on their site to provide an overview.

The AV-Comparatives tests have demonstrated that some of the best free antivirus software programs perform extremely well. For instance, the company’s Avast Free Antivirus for Mac was rated 100% for Mac Malware protection and 99 percent for Windows PUA Protection in their June 2023 tests. Its performance is comparable to some paid-for antivirus software, and the program is easy to use.

If you’re a serious PC gamer that requires a comprehensive cybersecurity package, the best choice is likely to be AVG’s paid antivirus for Mac. The program’s heuristics engine content is designed to scan only crucial areas of the system, where malware is most likely to hide. This can reduce the time it takes to scan and also impacts the system. However, this approach tends to overlook the latest viruses and malware variants So it’s crucial to keep abreast of the latest detection methods.