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AVG vs PC Matic

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Pros
  • AVG TuneUp for performance optimization
  • VPN and AntiTrack
  • Folder access restrictions
  • Automatic Wi-Fi vulnerability detection
  • Cloud-based phishing protection
  • Covers up to 10 devices on a single subscription
Pros
  • Generous cloud coverage
  • Identity monitoring included in all plans
  • Includes automated PC optimization tools
  • Supports unlimited devices with top-tier plans
Cons
  • Invasive behavior
  • Scareware-style prompts
Cons
  • No free version or trial available
  • Full support requires an extra paid subscription
  • May block safe programs due to allowlist model
  • Entry-level plan lacks privacy tools like VPN and backup
Summary

AVG is known for delivering practical, user-friendly cybersecurity tools designed to protect both individuals and small businesses. Now part of Gen Digital, they offer antivirus and privacy solutions that work across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices. AVG’s product lineup includes core features like real-time threat detection, phishing and fake website blocking, ransomware protection, and email security. Upgrading to higher-tier plans unlocks additional tools such as AVG Secure VPN, AVG AntiTrack, and AVG TuneUp, as well as Wi-Fi network scanning and mobile protection. Features like folder access restrictions also help safeguard sensitive files from unauthorized access. Customer reviews are largely positive, with average ratings of 4.3 on Trustpilot and 4.2 on G2. Users often highlight effective malware detection and ease of use, although some mention occasional slowdowns during scans and frequent prompts to upgrade. AVG offers a free antivirus option, along with two premium plans that support up to 10 devices.

Summary

PC Matic is a U.S. cybersecurity company founded in 1999 and headquartered in Sioux City, Iowa. They began as a diagnostic software provider and have since evolved into an antivirus company offering protection across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices. Their standout feature is application allowlisting, a prevention-based approach that blocks unknown programs by default, setting them apart from other providers. They offer several tiered plans that scale by features and device limits, with options like VPN access, cloud backup, and identity monitoring. While standard support is limited, users can add 24/7 access through a separate subscription.
They’ve earned solid marks from AV-TEST for protection and performance, but aren’t broadly evaluated by other major testing labs. Customer feedback varies, with some users appreciating their simple setup and lightweight design, while others report issues with false positives or difficulty accessing support without add-ons. This review explores their strengths, limitations, and overall value to help you determine whether their model fits your needs. Whether you’re interested in a more proactive defense or just weighing your antivirus options, read on to see where they stand.

Quick Stats
  • Security Rating : Good
  • VPN : Available
  • Price : Starting at $46.68 per year
  • Customer Experience : Good
  • Firewall : Available
  • Free Trial : 30-day free trial
  • Trustpilot Score : 4.3 out of 5
Quick Stats
  • Security Rating : Fair
  • VPN : Available
  • Price : Starts at $50 per year
  • Customer Experience : Fair
  • Firewall : Available
  • Free Trial : Unavailable
  • Trustpilot Score : 2.2 out of 5
Selling Points
  • Automatic Wi-Fi vulnerability detection
  • VPN and AntiTrack
  • AVG TuneUp for performance optimization
Selling Points
  • Application allowlisting security model
  • SuperShield default-deny engine
  • Anti-cryptojacking protection included
General Features & Perks
  • Adware Removal
  • Anti-Phishing
  • Anti-Spam
  • Anti-Theft
  • Anti-Tracking
  • Behavior Analysis
  • Cloud Scanning
  • Undisclosed
    Dark Web Scanning
  • Dedicated Ransomware Protection
  • E-mail Scan
  • File Encryption
  • Free Version
  • ID Protection
  • Intrusion Detection System (IDS)
  • Malware Removal
  • Mobile App
  • On Demand Scan
  • Real-Time Protection
  • Spyware Removal
  • Vulnerability Scanner
  • Webcam Protection
General Features & Perks
  • Undisclosed
    Adware Removal
  • Anti-Phishing
  • Undisclosed
    Anti-Spam
  • Undisclosed
    Anti-Theft
  • Anti-Tracking
  • Behavior Analysis
  • Cloud Scanning
  • Dark Web Scanning
  • Dedicated Ransomware Protection
  • Undisclosed
    E-mail Scan
  • Undisclosed
    File Encryption
  • Free Version
  • ID Protection
  • Intrusion Detection System (IDS)
  • Malware Removal
  • Mobile App
  • On Demand Scan
  • Real-Time Protection
  • Spyware Removal
  • Vulnerability Scanner
  • Webcam Protection
System Optimization & Performance
  • Boot Time Scans
  • Browser Cleaner
  • Disk Cleaner
  • Junk Files Removal
  • Software/Driver Updater
System Optimization & Performance
  • Undisclosed
    Boot Time Scans
  • Browser Cleaner
  • Disk Cleaner
  • Junk Files Removal
  • Software/Driver Updater
Additional Perks
  • Cloud Storage Backup
  • Live Updates
  • Parental Control
  • Password Manager
  • Rescue Mode
  • USB Rescue Toolkit
  • USB Vaccination
Additional Perks
  • Cloud Storage Backup
  • Live Updates
  • Undisclosed
    Parental Control
  • Password Manager
  • Undisclosed
    Rescue Mode
  • USB Rescue Toolkit
  • USB Vaccination
Device Compatibility
  • Android
  • Browser Plugins
  • ChromeOS
  • Fire OS
  • iOS
  • Linux
  • macOS
  • Windows
Device Compatibility
  • Android
  • Undisclosed
    Browser Plugins
  • ChromeOS
  • Fire OS
  • iOS
  • Linux
  • macOS
  • Windows
Customer Support
  • Community Forum
  • Email
  • FAQs
  • Help Guides
  • Live Chat
  • Phone
  • Social Media
  • Ticket
Customer Support
  • Community Forum
  • Undisclosed
    Email
  • FAQs
  • Help Guides
  • Live Chat
  • Phone
  • Social Media
  • Ticket