Norton 360 vs McAfee Total Protection
Norton vs McAfee is a battle of security veterans. Both have protected computers for decades, both offer comprehensive suites, and both have evolved significantly. Modern versions are quite different from their 2000s reputations.
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Quick Answer
Norton 360 beats McAfee Total Protection for most users. It scores 9.3/10 vs 8.7/10 and excellent malware detection rates. Choose McAfee Total Protection if you need unlimited device protection on family plans.
Norton 360
WinnerComplete protection with identity theft monitoring
Starting from
$29.99/yr
McAfee Total Protection
Unlimited devices with identity protection
Starting from
$29.99/yr
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 9.3/10 | 8.7/10 |
| Starting Price | $29.99/yr | $29.99/yr |
| User Reviews | ||
| Protection | ||
| Malware Detection | 99.8% | 99.9% |
| Real-Time Protection | ||
| Ransomware Protection | ||
| Firewall | ||
| Extras | ||
| VPN Included | ||
| Password Manager | ||
| Parental Controls | ||
| Coverage | ||
| Devices | Up to 10 | Unlimited |
| Gaming Mode | ||
| Webcam Protection | ||
Pros & Cons Breakdown
Norton 360
- Excellent malware detection rates
- Identity theft protection included
- Unlimited VPN with no data caps
- Cloud backup storage included
- Dark web monitoring
- 100% virus protection promise
- Higher price point than competitors
- Can slow down older systems
- Auto-renewal at full price
McAfee Total Protection
- Unlimited device protection on family plans
- Identity monitoring included
- Secure VPN with no data limits
- Good malware detection rates
- File shredder for secure deletion
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Renewal prices nearly triple after first year
- Can be resource-intensive
- Browser extensions can be pushy
Key Difference
Norton scores higher on independent tests but costs more per device. McAfee offers unlimited devices on family plans but with slightly lower detection. Norton bundles more; McAfee covers more devices.
Which Should You Choose?
Norton 360
Choose Norton if you want top-tier detection rates, need identity theft protection, prefer more comprehensive security features, or prioritize protection quality over device count.
McAfee Total Protection
Choose McAfee if you have many devices to protect, want unlimited device coverage, prefer simpler pricing, or need solid protection without premium pricing.
Our Verdict
Norton wins on features and modern reputation with better detection scores and more comprehensive identity protection. McAfee wins on device count with unlimited devices on family plans. Protection quality favors Norton; device value favors McAfee.
Thinking of Switching?
Completely uninstall your current antivirus before installing the new one. Both have uninstaller tools for clean removal. Give the new software a few days to complete initial scans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Norton 360 better than McAfee Total Protection?
Norton 360 scores higher in our testing (9.3/10 vs 8.7/10). Norton 360 excels at excellent malware detection rates, while McAfee Total Protection is better for unlimited device protection on family plans.
Which is cheaper, Norton 360 or McAfee Total Protection?
McAfee Total Protection is more affordable at $29.99/mo vs $29.99/mo. McAfee Total Protection offers 0% savings.
Norton 360 vs McAfee Total Protection: which should I choose?
Choose Norton 360 if you prioritize excellent malware detection rates. Choose McAfee Total Protection if you need unlimited device protection on family plans. Both are solid antivirus software options.
What's the main difference between Norton 360 and McAfee Total Protection?
The main difference is Norton 360 offers complete protection with identity theft monitoring, while McAfee Total Protection focuses on unlimited devices with identity protection.