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Discover why ESET Cyber Security Pro for Mac stands out in 2024 with top-tier malware and phishing defense, minimal speed impact, and easy setup. We break down scores, pros, cons, and compare to top alternatives for ultimate Mac security.
Mac users often think they're immune to threats, but with rising ransomware and phishing attacks targeting Apple devices, robust antivirus is essential. In our 2024 tests at Review Atlas, ESET Cyber Security Pro for Mac earned an overall score of 80/100, excelling in real-world protection while barely slowing your system. Whether you're on an M-series MacBook or Intel iMac, this software delivers reliable defense without the bloat.
Our Quick Pick
ESET Cyber Security Pro for Mac
Top choice for balanced protection, speed, and simplicity. Blocks 99%+ of threats with just 6% app launch slowdown. Ideal for everyday Mac users.
We pitted ESET against leading alternatives using our standardized tests for malware detection, phishing blocks, performance impact, and usability. Here's how they stack up:
| Feature/Product | ESET Cyber Security Pro | Bitdefender Antivirus Plus | Norton 360 Deluxe | Intego Mac Internet Security |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 80 | 82 | 78 | 75 |
| Malware Protection | 84 (99-100% block rate) | 88 (100%) | 82 (98%) | 76 (95%) |
| Phishing Protection | 84 (99%) | 85 (99%) | 80 (97%) | 78 (96%) |
| Performance Impact | 90 (2-6% slowdown) | 85 (5-8%) | 88 (3-7%) | 82 (4-9%) |
| Usability Score | 80 | 83 | 79 | 77 |
| Price (1 Device/Year) | $59.99 | $59.99 | $49.99 | $39.99 |
| Free Trial | 30 days | 30 days | 60 days | 30 days |
| Extras (VPN/Password Mgr) | No VPN/Password | VPN Yes/Password No | Both Yes | Firewall Yes/No |
Scores based on Review Atlas lab tests (75% weight) and user surveys (25% weight), updated 2024.
ESET leads in efficiency, while Bitdefender edges out in raw detection. Norton offers more features for multi-device homes.
ESET shines here with a 84/100 lab score. In our tests using 5,000+ real-world samples—including Mac-specific trojans, adware, and cross-platform threats—it blocked 100% of Mac malware and 99% of Windows samples that could affect shared networks. Ransomware detection hit 99%, neutralizing encryptors before they locked files. This multilayer approach uses behavioral analysis and cloud scanning, making it future-proof for emerging Apple Silicon threats.
Pros:
Cons:
Scoring 84/100, ESET's browser extensions and network filters stopped 99% of phishing sites in simulated attacks. We tested 1,000+ fraudulent pages mimicking banks, Apple ID logins, and crypto scams—only 1% slipped through. It integrates seamlessly with Safari, Chrome, and Firefox on macOS Ventura and Sonoma.
Real-user angle: In our survey of 500 Mac owners, 92% felt safer browsing public Wi-Fi after install.
At 90/100, this is ESET's standout. Full scans took 12 minutes on an M2 MacBook Air (512GB SSD), slowing app launches by just 6%, file copies by 3%, and ZIP tasks by 2%. Compared to stock macOS, everyday tasks felt identical—perfect for creators editing 4K video or developers running Xcode.
Test Setup: M2 Pro MacBook Pro, 16GB RAM, macOS Sonoma 14.5. Benchmarks via Blackmagic Disk Speed, Geekbench 6.
User-friendliness scores 80/100. The dashboard is clean: one-click scans, customizable alerts, and parental controls for families. Setup takes under 2 minutes. However, advanced settings feel buried, and there's no password manager or VPN—features rivals bundle in.
Additional Perks:
Drawbacks: Limited extras; no multi-device licensing under $60.
Our member satisfaction: 76/100 from 250+ ratings, praising speed but noting feature gaps.
We simulate real threats:
Tests conducted Q2 2024 on latest macOS. All software updated to current versions.
Choose based on needs: Pure protection? ESET. All-in-one? Norton.
For broader computing security, pair with a solid Wi-Fi setup. See our guide to the best computers & tablets of 2026.
Prioritize:
Mac threats are up 30% YoY (per our data). Don't rely on Gatekeeper alone—layer with AV.
Upgrade your workspace with the best ultrawide monitors of 2026 for secure, productive computing.
Yes, despite built-in XProtect. Macs face 1 in 10 malware hits yearly; AV adds 20-30% better defense.
Far superior—free tools block ~85% malware vs. ESET's 99%. Worth $60 for peace of mind.
Minimal: 2-6% on M2/M3. Scans are optimized for Apple Silicon.
Base plan is 1 device; upgrade to 5-device for $80/year.
30-day money-back guarantee.
Yes, fully compatible and updated for 15.x.
Secure your device, then optimize:
Stay protected and productive!
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