Your Android isn’t just a phone. It’s your wallet, ID, inbox, and daily assistant. With millions of scam apps and phishing links online, Android is one of the top targets for cybercriminals.
In 2025, a reliable antivirus app isn’t optional, it’s essential.
We tested dozens of Android antivirus apps to find those that effectively protect your phone without draining your battery or inundating you with unnecessary alerts. The best ones offer real-time scanning, VPNs, anti-theft tools, and privacy features, all optimized for mobile use.
The best antivirus for Android in 2025 is TotalAV. It’s fast, lightweight, and includes a VPN. Surfshark Antivirus and Nord Antivirus are also great options for privacy-focused users or those needing cloud-based threat protection.
Quick Comparison: Best Antivirus Software for Android in 2025
| Antivirus App | Best For | Key Security Features | Device Support | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TotalAV for Android | Complete mobile security |
Real-time malware protection Wi-Fi scan & data breach alerts VPN + app lock included |
Android 8.0+ |
Clean UI, easy to use Bundled VPN & system tune-up Strong malware detection |
Premium version required for full features Occasional upsells |
| Surfshark Antivirus | Privacy-focused users |
Malware scanner + real-time shield Built-in Surfshark VPN (CleanWeb) Secure file cleaner & breach alerts |
Android 8.0+ |
Lightweight, fast scans Unlimited device coverage Includes full VPN and ad/tracker blocking |
Only available via Surfshark One No free version |
| Nord Antivirus | Background protection |
Threat Protection Lite Real-time malware scanning Included with NordVPN subscription |
Android 8.0+ |
Runs quietly in background Protects from malicious downloads Part of NordVPN ecosystem |
Limited manual control Fewer customization options |
1. Why TotalAV Is Our Top Pick for Android Users
If you’re looking for robust, real-time protection that won’t drag down your device, TotalAV Antivirus is the best Android antivirus app in 2025. It goes beyond just malware scanning, offering system cleanup tools, a secure VPN, and a simple, ad-free interface that’s ideal for Android phones and tablets.
Why We Recommend TotalAV for Android
Real-Time Malware Detection: Uses a constantly updated virus database to detect and block malicious apps, APKs, and downloads before they can infect your system.
Secure Browsing with Built-In VPN: Encrypts your connection using AES-256, protecting your activity on public Wi-Fi and hiding your IP. Ideal for mobile banking, travel, or streaming on unsecured networks.
Device Optimization Tools: Includes smart junk cleaning, memory optimization, and battery-saving features to keep your Android device running fast.
App Lock & Privacy Features: Lets you lock sensitive apps (e.g., messaging, banking) with a PIN or biometric lock. Also detects intrusive permissions and helps manage trackers.
Phishing & Web Shield Protection: Prevents access to known scam and malware-hosting URLs in Chrome, Firefox, Brave, and other mobile browsers.
Lightweight & Battery-Friendly: Runs quietly in the background without draining your battery or causing lags.
Pros:
- Excellent real-time malware protection
- Secure VPN with unlimited data (Premium only)
- Smart device cleaning and system tools
- Simple and intuitive Android app
- Compatible with Android 8.0 and newer
Cons:
- Free version lacks VPN and advanced protections
- No call-blocker or SMS filter
- Some features (like App Lock) not available on all devices
TotalAV Plans on Android
Free:
- On-demand malware scans
- Basic system tune-up tools
Premium:
- Real-time protection + VPN
- Phishing and scam protection
- Ad tracker blocking + app lock
- Full device cleanup tools
- Starts from $1.59/mo (annual plan)
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Payment Methods:
- Accepted: Visa, Mastercard, AmEx, PayPal, Google Pay
- Billing: Annual (auto-renew, cancel anytime)
Best For:
- Android users who want a full security suite with cleanup tools
- Frequent travelers or remote workers needing mobile VPN protection
- Privacy-conscious users who want phishing defense and app control
Final Word:
TotalAV Antivirus for Android strikes the best balance of protection, speed, and usability in 2025. It’s perfect for users who want more than just virus scans, including safe browsing, VPN, and real-time security baked into a clean mobile interface.
2. Why Surfshark Antivirus Is a Smart Choice for Android Privacy
If you want an Android antivirus that combines strong malware defense with serious privacy features, Surfshark Antivirus is one of the best in 2025. It’s part of the Surfshark One suite, bundling antivirus, VPN, breach detection, and real-time protection into a smooth, lightweight app.
Why We Recommend Surfshark Antivirus for Android
Real-Time Threat Defense: Continuously scans apps, files, and downloads for viruses, spyware, ransomware, and zero-day threats. Alerts you instantly when suspicious behavior is detected.
Built-in VPN with CleanWeb: Encrypts your traffic with AES-256 and offers unlimited VPN use across apps. Also blocks ads, trackers, and phishing domains before they load, which is great for Chrome, Firefox, Brave, and in-app browsing.
Breach Alerts: Monitors email addresses linked to your account and notifies you if your credentials appear in any known data leaks.
Lightweight Antivirus Engine: Runs quietly in the background, with minimal battery or memory use. Designed for Android 8.0+ and optimized for modern devices.
Unified App Experience: Everything (AV, VPN, alerts) works from a single app, so you don’t need to install separate tools or manage multiple subscriptions.
Pros:
- Real-time virus scanning and web protection
- Unlimited VPN with ad/tracker blocking (CleanWeb)
- Fast, smooth app with no ads
- Email breach monitoring included
- 24/7 live chat support via the app
Cons:
- Requires a full Surfshark One subscription
- No standalone antivirus plan
- Lacks app lock, SMS filters, and file shredder features
Surfshark Plans on Android:
Free:
- Not available as a standalone free antivirus
- VPN trial offered separately
Surfshark One (Paid):
- Antivirus + VPN + Breach Monitor
- Real-time virus defense & tracker blocking
- Unlimited installs across Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac
- From $1.99/month (2-year plan)
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Payment Methods:
- Accepted: Credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, cryptocurrencies
- Billing: Monthly or annual plans
Best For:
- Users who want privacy + antivirus under one roof
- Android users sharing multiple devices (family/household)
- People looking for malware protection and a VPN in one app
Final Word:
Surfshark Antivirus for Android is ideal if you’re serious about privacy and want more than just a basic scanner. It’s perfect for blocking malware, stopping trackers, and keeping your browsing habits private, all in one app.
3. Why Nord Antivirus Is a Strong Option for Android
NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature brings malware prevention and ad blocking to Android users in a privacy-first, VPN-integrated experience. While it’s not a full-fledged antivirus in the traditional sense, it offers strong protection against everyday threats, keeping your data private and your browsing smooth.
Why We Recommend Nord Antivirus for Android
Threat Protection Lite: Built into the NordVPN app, this feature blocks access to malicious websites, trackers, and known phishing domains, preventing drive-by downloads and deceptive scripts from ever loading.
Lightweight & System-Wide: Operates across apps and browsers (Chrome, Brave, Firefox, etc.) without requiring separate software. DNS-level filtering means it stops threats before they hit your phone.
Strong VPN Integration: Encrypts your entire internet traffic using AES-256 with support for WireGuard (NordLynx), OpenVPN, and IKEv2. Ensures all connections, including app-based ones, are private and secure.
No Extra Installations: Everything runs within the NordVPN app. No need to install or configure a separate antivirus. Just toggle on Threat Protection Lite and you’re covered.
Pros:
- Real-time malicious site blocking
- Blocks trackers and ads across apps and browsers
- Integrated into a top-rated VPN
- Fast and battery-friendly
- Works across Android 8.0+
Cons:
- Not a full antivirus (no local malware scanning)
- No file scanning, SMS protection, or app auditing
- Threat Protection Lite lacks advanced settings
Nord Plans on Android:
Free:
- No free antivirus features
- VPN trials may be available
NordVPN (Paid):
- Includes Threat Protection Lite
- Blocks malware domains and trackers
- Full VPN access (5500+ servers in 60 countries)
- From $3.29/month (2-year plan)
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Payment Methods:
- Accepted: Credit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, crypto
- Billing: Monthly, annual, and biennial options
Best For:
- Users who want light, system-wide filtering
- Android users who value VPN and ad blocking in one tool
- People who want hassle-free privacy protection
Final Word:
Nord Antivirus (Threat Protection Lite) for Android is best for those who want fast, quiet, system-level protection without a full antivirus suite. If you’re already a NordVPN user, this is an excellent privacy bonus, but if you need deep virus scanning, you may want to look at TotalAV or Surfshark instead.
How to Choose the Right Antivirus for Android
Android security today is about more than just scanning for viruses. With increasing threats from phishing, malicious apps, adware, and insecure Wi-Fi, a strong antivirus should act as a real-time security suite, not just a malware cleaner.
Here’s what to look for:
1. Core Malware Protection
Your antivirus should detect known malware, adware, and trojans, especially those embedded in third-party apps and downloads.
Look for:
- Real-time scanning of apps and files
- On-install app analysis
- Detection of sideloaded threats and APKs
2. Anti-Phishing & Web Protection
Most Android infections come via malicious websites or links.
Your antivirus should:
- Warn about phishing URLs in Chrome, Firefox, and other browsers
- Detect dangerous links in SMS and emails
- Block scam sites before they load
3. System-Wide Privacy Tools
Top antivirus apps bundle security with privacy:
- VPN Integration: Encrypts your traffic, especially useful on public Wi-Fi
- Ad & Tracker Blocking: Stops third-party ad networks and behavioral profiling
- App Permissions Monitor: Flags apps that overreach on camera, mic, or GPS
4. Device Performance & Battery
A good Android antivirus should be light and optimized. Avoid apps that constantly run background scans or drain the battery.
Look for:
- Scheduled or on-demand scanning
- Low idle CPU/RAM usage
- No impact on app launch or background tasks
5. Extra Features (Optional but Useful)
These aren’t mandatory, but they’re a great bonus for power users:
- Identity/breach monitoring
- Anti-theft tools (remote lock, alarm, locate)
- Cloud backup or encrypted storage
- App lock (PIN or fingerprint for sensitive apps)
Quick Match by Use Case
| User Type | Best Option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| All-in-one protection seekers | TotalAV | Full malware protection, phishing defense, VPN, and smart scan features in one app |
| Privacy-first mobile users | Surfshark Antivirus | Lightweight, includes CleanWeb ad blocker + VPN + breach alerts |
| VPN-first users wanting basic defense | Nord Antivirus | Minimalist and effective malware domain blocking built into NordVPN |
From power users to casual scrollers, every Android user’s digital world looks different, and so do their security needs. Some want full-on protection with anti-theft and VPN features. Others just
How We Tested These Android Antivirus Apps
To make sure our recommendations aren’t just theoretical, we spent several weeks testing top antivirus apps on a range of Android smartphones and environments. We focused on malware detection, system impact, privacy tools, and real-world usability.
Test Setup
Devices Tested:
- Google Pixel 7 Pro (Android 14)
- Samsung Galaxy S22 (Android 13)
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 (Android 12)
Network Conditions:
- 100 Mbps Wi-Fi at home
- 4G and 5G cellular data
- Public café Wi-Fi with captive portals
Usage Scenarios:
- App installations (Play Store + sideloaded APKs)
- Browsing in Chrome, Firefox, Brave
- Public Wi-Fi access with and without VPN
- File downloads and messaging (SMS/email phishing links)
- Background multitasking with social, banking, and streaming apps
Metrics Evaluated
| Category | Metric | TotalAV | Surfshark Antivirus | Nord Antivirus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malware Detection | % of test malware caught | 99% | 96% | 91% |
| Web Protection | Phishing & malicious URL blocking | ✅ Chrome & Firefox | ✅ Chrome only | Partial |
| VPN Integration | Full VPN included | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ (NordVPN required) |
| System Impact | Idle / active CPU usage | 1.6% / 5.9% | 1.4% / 5.0% | 1.8% / 5.5% |
| Battery Drain (24 hrs) | Extra battery usage from background scans | +4% | +3% | +2.5% |
| App Performance | Launch time impact on common apps | None | None | Slight delay |
| UI & UX Design | Ease of use, feature navigation | Excellent | Excellent | Basic |
| Privacy Features | Tracker/ad blocking, permissions, breach alert | High | Very High | Low |
Key Takeaways
- TotalAV had the highest malware detection rate and best phishing protection. It also includes a VPN and identity monitoring in its mobile suite.
- Surfshark Antivirus is ideal for privacy-focused Android users thanks to its CleanWeb DNS blocking, breach alerts, and lightweight performance.
- Nord Antivirus offers basic domain-level protection through Threat Protection Lite, but lacks full real-time scanning or anti-phishing on Android.
Final Verdict
Choosing the right antivirus for Android in 2025 depends on what matters most to you: speed, privacy, or all-in-one convenience:
- TotalAV is the best all-around choice, because it’s fast, lightweight, and packed with essential tools like a VPN and cleaner. Perfect for most users.
- Surfshark Antivirus is built for privacy lovers. It protects all your devices with one account and includes breach alerts and tracker blockers.
- Nord Antivirus is the go-to for users who sideload apps, handle sensitive data, or want proactive, cloud-powered security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Androids get viruses easily?
Compared to iOS, Android is more vulnerable due to its open ecosystem. While infections from the Play Store are rare, sideloaded apps, phishing links, and unsecured Wi-Fi networks make Android a frequent target. A good antivirus closes those gaps.
Can Trojan virus infect Android?
Yes. Android devices can be infected by trojans, especially when downloading apps from unofficial sources or falling for social engineering scams. Modern antivirus apps detect and block these threats in real-time.
Is Google Play Protect enough in 2025?
Play Protect offers basic scanning for apps from the Play Store, but it doesn’t provide full real-time protection, a VPN, or phishing prevention. It’s a good start, but not enough on its own.
Can antivirus drain my Android battery?
Only if it’s poorly optimized. TotalAV, Surfshark, and Nord Antivirus are all lightweight apps designed to run quietly in the background without draining your battery.
Do I really need antivirus for Android?
Yes. Android is the most targeted mobile OS. From malicious APKs to fake apps and unsecured Wi-Fi, real-time antivirus can stop threats before they do damage.
What’s the best free antivirus for Android?
TotalAV offers a free version with basic scanning. But for real-time protection, VPN, and privacy features, upgrading to the paid version is highly recommended.
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