Norton and McAfee are two of the world’s most trusted antivirus brands. Norton generally scores higher in independent lab tests, while McAfee offers better value for multi-device families. This head-to-head comparison covers protection, price, performance, and features to help you decide which is best for your needs in 2025.
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Norton vs McAfee: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Norton | McAfee | |—|—|—| | AV-TEST Score | 98–100% | 96–100% | | Price (1 device/yr) | ~£29.99 | ~£19.99 | | Devices covered | 1–5+ | 1–unlimited | | VPN included | Yes (unlimited) | Yes (paid plans) | | Password manager | Yes | Yes | | Firewall | Yes | Yes | | Parental controls | Yes | Yes | | UK free trial | 30 days | 30 days |
Protection: Which is Stronger?
Both Norton and McAfee are excellent antivirus products with near-perfect malware detection rates in independent tests. In AV-TEST evaluations, Norton typically scores 18/18 while McAfee consistently scores 17.5–18/18. The difference is marginal for most home users.
Norton uses its SONAR technology for behavioural analysis, which catches zero-day threats before signature databases are updated. McAfee uses Real Protect, a machine-learning engine that performs similarly. Both products offer real-time scanning, web protection, firewall, and ransomware protection.
Price and Value
McAfee offers significantly better value when protecting multiple devices. McAfee Total Protection covers up to 5 devices for around £29.99/year, while McAfee LiveSafe covers unlimited devices. Norton 360 Deluxe covers 5 devices at £34.99/year. For single-device protection, prices are comparable.
Performance Impact
McAfee has improved significantly in recent years and now has a lighter performance footprint than older versions. In AV-TEST performance benchmarks, both Norton and McAfee receive close scores. Norton has a slight edge for background scan performance, while McAfee is better at avoiding slowdowns during browser use.
Features Comparison
Norton Exclusive Features
- Dark web monitoring (LifeLock plans)
- Cloud backup (PC only)
- Parental controls (Family plans)
- SafeCam (webcam protection)
McAfee Exclusive Features
- McAfee Safe Family (parental controls, dedicated app)
- Multi-device management dashboard
- McAfee Shredder (secure file deletion)
- Better value unlimited-device plans
Features Both Have
- Password manager
- VPN (Virtual Private Network)
- Firewall
- Phishing protection
- Identity monitoring
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Norton if: you want the highest independent lab scores, need cloud PC backup, or use primarily one or two devices.
Choose McAfee if: you have a family with multiple devices, want unlimited-device coverage, or want strong value at a lower price point. Call +44-800-066-8910 for personalised advice.
Where to Buy McAfee in the UK
You can purchase McAfee directly from McAfee.com or at UK retailers including Currys, Argos, and Amazon. Activate using your product key at mcafee.com/activate. Our team at +44-800-066-8910 can help you choose the right McAfee plan and assist with activation.
