The best Android antivirus apps of 2025: Expert tested

Bitdefender Mobile Security is my top choice for the best Android antivirus app of 2025. 

Why we like it: During testing, I was impressed with the app's functionality, and I liked the initial scan prompt to check how clean my Android was from the start. However, if you're hoping to take advantage of the built-in mobile virtual private network (VPN), I think the 200MB daily limit is far too low. 

The app's interface is clean, and the menu is helpful for finding security features including app locking, anti-theft settings, reports, scanning, browser protection, and recommendations. You'll need to give the app permission to protect your device and run scans.

Who it's for: Customers like how user-friendly this app is and that it is not too resource-heavy for smartphone use. I think it's an excellent option you can trust to keep most users' devices safe. it should suit the majority of users. 

You can opt for Bitdefender's free antivirus option, but if you want more advanced scam prevention and the VPN, you'll need to subscribe. Yearly subscriptions cost $15. 

Who should look elsewhere: If VPN functionality and unlimited data is important to you, I would look elsewhere. You can also check out our standalone VPNs for Android guide. 

Bitdefender Mobile Security features: Web protection | Anti-theft | Advanced scam prevention | VPN | Paid subscriptions (14-day free trial) | Free option | Google Play: 4.7 stars, 448K reviews

Sophos Intercept is a decent option for a free Android antivirus app. 

Why we like it: The Sophos Intercept X user interface on Android is bland but clean and generally achieves high AV scores. Upon installation, the app will automatically scan your device's health, checking for potentially unwanted apps (PUPs), nuisanceware, and malware. 

You can also use the app for securely managing passwords including one-time passwords (OTP), QR code scanning, link checking, and web filtering.

However, I dislike the forced notification permissions right at the start of the installation process. While I understand the reason behind it, it's been implemented in a demanding fashion. This may put off some users who just want an app that quietly protects them in the background. 

Who it's for: Anyone who wants a solid, free Android antivirus solution. Customers report some issues with web filtering and app reputation scores, but they still appreciate the level of protection provided. While it's not perfect, it's still worth considering for a free app.

Who should look elsewhere: If you don't mind signing up for an Android antivirus subscription or you want VPN coverage, check out my other recommendations. 

Sophos Intercept X features: Threat scanning | App protection | Authenticator | Password vault | Privacy advisor | Free option | Google Play: 3.9 stars, 47.1K reviews

Avast Security and Virus Cleaner is another great choice suitable for blocking malicious web domains and sites.

Why we like it: The scans are comprehensive, and I like the app's attractive user interface. There's also a helpful junk remover, a Wi-Fi threat scanner, an optional VPN, and a password leak checker. I checked out a few known phishing websites, and the app detected these threats without issue. 

Who it's for: Many customers like the core features of this antivirus app, including its web blocker capabilities, but some complain of resource hogging. 

There are two paid plans to choose from, Ultimate and Premium. These cost around $6 per month and $5.80 per month, respectively. The difference is that the premium provides additional security features including phishing protection and customer support, whereas Avast's VPN and ID protections are only available with the Ultimate subscription.

Who should look elsewhere: Unfortunately, to use this app and receive the first level of protection for free, you must agree to view ads. In my opinion, they are obtrusive. If this annoys you as well, perhaps look elsewhere.

There is another caveat. In February, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission announced a refund process for Avast Antivirus customers concerning an alleged deceptive marketing practice surrounding the sale of user data. As part of the settlement, Avast was required to pay $16.5 million, which will be used to fund compensation claims.

Also: Best VPNs 2025

Avast Security & Virus Cleaner features: Web shield | Threat scanning | IP masking | Junk removal | VPN | Speed checker | Paid plans | Free version available, alongside paid trial | Google Play: 4.6 stars, 7.34M reviews

Malwarebytes Mobile Security has improved throughout the years, and it's still a great option if you prize quick checks and simplicity. 

Why we like it: It's great for running quick scans, a benefit I took advantage of for years on previous handsets. In addition, the newest version of the app has a Digital Footprint service. Once you've verified your ownership of an email address via a verification code, you will be given a snapshot of any linked credentials involved in data breaches or security incidents. 

When you install and launch the app, you are awarded a "protection score." Exploring the metrics behind your score includes whether or not you have recently conducted a full scan and your current settings. Don't worry about being a few points out, as you'll never receive the full 100 marks without a subscription.

Who it's for: I think this app is best suited for occasional use. Open the app, run a scan, perform a digital footprint check, and then close it. Many customers seem to agree. 

The free version of Malwarebytes is suitable for casual scans and use. If you'd rather opt for a paid model, you can subscribe to plans starting at $45 per year.

Who should look elsewhere: Some customers do not like the optional VPN functionality. While it is a good option for beginners or set-and-forget scans, if you want more technical control and security data, you might want to look elsewhere.

Malwarebytes Mobile Security features: Threat scanning | 24/7 protection | Suspicious text alerts | Phishing website protection | Digital footprint checker | Paid options (7-day free trial) | Free version available | Google Play: 4.6 stars, 523K reviews

Norton is a reputable antivirus provider known for its robust security practices and excellent protection. 

Why we like it: While you must purchase Norton360, security features include antivirus scanning, scam alerts, unsafe Wi-Fi hotspot defenses, app monitoring, and device health checks. 

This antivirus solution, which has achieved high AV scores, comes with a VPN from 360 Standard onwards at $40 per year. During my tests, it was a fair VPN with acceptable speeds and a reasonable server network. It doesn't reach the heights of some other VPN providers, such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN, but it works well enough. 

Who it's for: Norton constantly demonstrates excellent AV scores and has done so for years. If you want a high level of protection and a reasonable VPN bundle, this is the best option for you. 

Other options for protecting devices include Plus, Standard, Deluxe, and Select Plus plans, with subscriptions starting at $30 per year to protect one device. Basic protection starts at $20 for the first year with Norton's current promotion. 

Who should look elsewhere: Many customers applaud the security of Norton products, but they dislike the firm's approach to upselling and notifications. I also find this irritating, so if you want a "quiet" app, you might want to check out another option. 

Norton360 Virus Scanner & VPN features: Robust antivirus protection | Scam protection | Cloud backup | VPN | Paid plans | Google Play: 4.6 stars, 1.92M reviews