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COMPARISON · Updated April 2026 · AV-TEST Certified

Avast vs AVG: What's the Difference?

Explore the differences between Avast and AVG in our detailed comparison. Find out which antivirus solution suits your needs best.

Trusted by 240,000+ readers · No paid rankings · Independent tests only

Introduction

In the world of antivirus software, Avast and AVG are two names that frequently come up in discussions. Both offer solid protection against malware, but how do they stack up against each other? This comparison will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of Avast One and AVG AntiVirus, providing you with the information needed to make an informed decision.

Top Picks

ProductPrice/yrDetectionPerformance Impact
Avast One$35.8899.4%Medium
AVG AntiVirus$27.9999.4%Medium
Norton 360$39.9999.9%Low

Both Avast One and AVG AntiVirus boast a competitive detection rate of around 99.4%, making them effective choices for users seeking malware protection. While they both perform admirably, they do share some limitations, particularly in terms of system performance impact.

What to Look For

Detection Rates

When comparing antivirus solutions, detection rates are a key factor. Avast and AVG both consistently score around 99.4% in independent tests conducted by AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives. While this is a strong showing, it’s worth noting that competitors like Norton 360 and Bitdefender Total Security achieve detection rates of 99.9%, potentially offering an edge for users who prioritize maximum security.

Performance Impact

Another critical consideration is the performance impact of these antivirus programs. Both Avast One and AVG AntiVirus are rated as having medium performance impacts. This means they may slow down your system, particularly during scans or updates. Users with older hardware might want to consider lighter alternatives, such as ESET NOD32 Antivirus, which is known for its very low impact on system performance.

Pricing and Features

Price plays a significant role in determining which antivirus software to choose. AVG AntiVirus is the more affordable option at $27.99 per year, while Avast One is priced at $35.88 per year. Both solutions offer a user-friendly interface, making them accessible to users of all tech levels. However, users looking for more advanced features may find both offerings somewhat lacking compared to premium competitors.

FAQ Summary

In summary, when evaluating Avast vs AVG, it’s essential to consider factors such as detection rates, performance impact, pricing, and features. Both antivirus solutions provide robust protection, but they may not be the best fit for every user.

For those seeking the best value for money, AVG AntiVirus stands out as the cheaper option, while Avast One offers a slightly more comprehensive set of features.

Ultimately, your choice should depend on your specific needs, budget, and the performance of your device. If you’re looking for additional options, be sure to explore other competitors in the antivirus market.

For a more comprehensive analysis, see our full comparison ->

Frequently asked questions

How do Avast and AVG compare in terms of detection rates?

Both Avast One and AVG AntiVirus have detection rates consistently around 99.4%. While they are quite effective at identifying malware, other competitors like Norton 360 and Bitdefender Total Security slightly outperform them with detection rates of 99.9%. Pricing is also competitive, with Avast One at $35.88/yr and AVG AntiVirus at $27.99/yr.

Which antivirus offers better value for money?

When considering value, AVG AntiVirus is priced at $27.99/yr, making it the cheaper choice between the two. Avast One is slightly more expensive at $35.88/yr but offers a robust feature set. Depending on your budget and needs, AVG could be the better value, especially for users looking for basic protection.

Are there any trade-offs with either Avast or AVG?

Yes, there are trade-offs to consider. While both Avast and AVG provide solid malware protection, their performance impacts are rated as medium, which might lead to a noticeable slowdown on older machines. If you require a more lightweight solution, consider alternatives like ESET NOD32 Antivirus, which has a very low impact on system performance.