MacKeeper Review: Smart MacOS Defense With Performance Tools

MacKeeper at a Glance

MacKeeper is a macOS-exclusive utility developed to offer all-in-one device optimization and protection, combining antivirus defense with system performance tools and privacy features. Initially developed by ZeoBIT in 2010, the software was acquired by Kromtech Alliance in 2013 and later transitioned under the ownership of Clario Tech Limited, a digital security company based in London, in late 2019. Today, MacKeeper operates out of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, primarily serving individual Mac users seeking a comprehensive digital security and maintenance suite.

At its core, MacKeeper is a multipurpose toolkit for macOS systems, featuring 11 integrated modules covering antivirus protection, performance enhancement, cleanup utilities, and online privacy. Their antivirus software includes real-time malware protection, daily database updates, and detection of a wide range of threats.

MacKeeper’s antivirus tool protects against malware, spyware, Trojans, and other threats. The virus database updates daily, and threats are automatically blocked or quarantined with minimal user input. In addition to antivirus coverage, the application includes tools for system cleanup, performance optimization, ad blocking, VPN access, and identity protection. While they don't offer a free version, users can access a limited free trial to explore their features before subscribing.

MacKeeper’s reputation has seen a shift over the years. The brand was previously linked to aggressive advertising practices and a class-action lawsuit, primarily under their original ownership. However, since their acquisition by Clario Tech, the company has worked to rebuild trust through transparency and product improvements. Today, MacKeeper holds AppEsteem and ISO 27001 certifications and are notarized by Apple.

Additionally, in recent assessments done by AV-TEST, MacKeeper earned a perfect 6 out of 6 for protection, 5.5 out of 6 for performance, and 6 out of 6 for usability. While past controversies haven’t been forgotten, the company has made meaningful progress in reestablishing themselves as a credible option in the Mac security space.

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Key Features & Solutions Offered

• Real-time protection: MacKeeper continuously monitors your Mac in the background, scanning for viruses, spyware, Trojans, and other threats the moment they appear. This means you’re protected even if you don’t run a manual scan
• Full scans: Users can run deep scans of their entire system or check specific files and folders if something looks suspicious. These scans work with daily virus database updates to detect both well-known and emerging threats
• Background scans: MacKeeper silently scans your device daily, only alerting you if something needs attention. You can also schedule full scans weekly or monthly, giving you consistent protection without thinking about it
• Quarantine: If MacKeeper detects something dangerous, the software will alert you, allowing you to isolate the file so it cannot harm your system. Additionally, you will have the option to delete or review the threat details before taking action
• Find and fix tool: Instead of digging through separate tools, MacKeeper offers a unified scan that checks for malware, junk files, and performance issues simultaneously. You can resolve all problems in a single click

Additional services

• Adware detection: Adware often sneaks in with free downloads or shady browser extensions, leading to constant pop-ups and redirecting your web searches. MacKeeper scans your Mac for adware and potentially unwanted apps (PUAs) and blocks them in real time
• System cleanup: Over time, your Mac fills with leftover files like caches, logs, and unused language packs. These take up space but aren’t needed. MacKeeper finds and deletes them without touching anything personal data, helping you free up gigabytes of storage with minimal effort
• Duplicates finder: Duplicate files, photos, and downloads can clog up storage without you realizing it. This tool scans your Mac for exact and similar-looking copies, so you can remove the clutter while keeping the originals safe
• Smart uninstaller: Dragging an app to the trash doesn’t entirely remove it from your Mac. MacKeeper’s uninstaller gets rid of all leftover files, old plugins, widgets, and even apps you haven’t opened in months
• Memory cleaner: If your Mac slows down or shows the spinning wheel often, it may run out of available memory. MacKeeper shows you which apps are using the most RAM and lets you free up your Mac’s RAM instantly
• Login items manager: Too many apps are launching at startup, which can seriously delay your Mac’s boot time. This tool lets you review and remove unnecessary startup programs, making your Mac start faster and feel more responsive
• Update tracker: Outdated apps can crash or become security risks. MacKeeper checks for updates across all your installed apps and helps you update them in one place
• Ads blocker: MacKeeper’s browser extension blocks unwanted ads, trackers, and notification requests. Their Safari and Chrome extensions can help websites load faster while keeping your online habits private
• VPN: Their VPN encrypts your connection using military-grade AES-256 encryption. It hides your IP address, protects your data, and prevents websites or ISPs from tracking what you do online
• ID theft guard: MacKeeper constantly monitors the web and dark web for signs that your email, passwords, or personal information have been exposed in a data breach. If it finds anything, you’ll get an immediate alert so you can take action, like changing passwords or freezing accounts
• Technical support: They also offer 24/7 access to human tech experts. Whether it’s optimizing performance, fixing your Wi-Fi, transferring files to a new device, or solving app issues, you can get hands-on support via live chat at any time

What Plans & Pricing Options Do They Offer?

MacKeeper do not offer their antivirus as a standalone product. Instead, the antivirus engine is part of an all-in-one macOS utility suite. If you're looking solely for malware protection, it's important to know that you’ll still need to purchase the full MacKeeper software to access it.

MacKeeper offers a seven-day free trial, but access to features is limited. During the trial, you can use the Antivirus tool for up to one week, while the safe cleanup, memory cleaner, and adware cleaner are each available for a one-time use. This limited access allows users to explore the software's basic functionality before committing to a paid plan.

Paid subscription plans

All paid plans unlock the entire suite of MacKeeper’s features without restrictions. This includes continuous real-time antivirus protection, full system cleanups, adware blocking, VPN access, memory optimization, and ID theft protection. Pricing depends on the number of devices and the length of your subscription:

• 12-month plan for three Macs: $7.45 per month (billed annually at $89.40)
• 12-month plan for one Mac: $5.95 per month (billed annually at $71.40)
• Monthly plan for one Mac: $14.95 per month (billed monthly)

Additionally, they offer a 14-day money-back guarantee on all monthly subscriptions and a 30-day refund window for annual plans. However, once a license has been used for over six months, it is non-refundable.

Premium services add-on

For users seeking hands-on support and more advanced optimization, MacKeeper offers a Premium Services package. This includes everything in the standard subscription, personalized system tune-ups, device and software troubleshooting, cross-platform setup support, full data backup and migration, instant wi-fi and network diagnostics, and custom optimization scheduling.

• 12-month plan: $58.00 per month ($696 billed annually)
• 6-month plan: $68.00 per month ($408 billed every six months)

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The Benefits of MacKeeper

Comprehensive toolset for Mac

MacKeeper is built specifically for macOS and combines antivirus protection, cleanup tools, performance optimizers, and privacy features in one unified app. This makes it easier for Mac users to handle system maintenance and security without installing several separate programs.

Consistent real-time protection

The antivirus engine runs quietly in the background, monitoring for malware, spyware, Trojans, and other threats in real time. It updates its virus database daily, helping users stay protected from older and newly emerging risks without manually intervening.

One-click full scan

The Find & Fix feature scans your system across key areas—security, performance, and privacy—and offers one-click fixes. This is especially useful for users who don’t want to deal with each tool separately or manually review every result.

Built-in VPN and ad blocking

MacKeeper includes a VPN for secure, encrypted internet browsing and a browser extension that blocks pop-ups, ads, and online trackers. These tools help users browse more privately and with fewer interruptions, especially helpful on public Wi-Fi or ad-heavy websites.

Dark web breach alerts

The identity theft protection tool scans the web and dark web for data breaches tied to your email or other personal details. If something is found, it notifies you immediately so you can change passwords or freeze accounts before damage is done.

Designed for Mac users

The interface is streamlined and tailored for macOS, making it easy for Mac users to navigate. Features are clearly labeled, and basic protections like real-time scanning and scheduled scans are simple to turn on and configure.

Optional expert assistance

With an upgraded Premium Services plan, users can access live support to help with performance issues, network setup, or transferring data to new devices. This added help can be especially valuable for users who are uncomfortable solving technical problems independently.

Disadvantages

Antivirus not offered as a standalone

MacKeeper does not offer its antivirus as a standalone option. If you’re only looking for malware protection, you’ll still need to buy the full bundle of tools, which might feel unnecessary or overpriced if you don’t need the extra features.

Limited trial functionality

Although a seven-day free trial is available, many core features—like the VPN, data breach monitoring, and live chat support—are locked during that period. Users can’t fully evaluate the service before committing to a paid plan.

Premium support is an upsell

Advanced tech support and system optimization services are only available through a separate Premium Services subscription, which is significantly more expensive. This adds extra cost for users needing hands-on help but expecting full support in the base plan.

Lacks several common security features

Unlike many competing antivirus programs, MacKeeper does not include key security tools such as anti-phishing protection, a password manager, behavioral analysis, parental controls, quick scan options, or a built-in firewall. This may leave gaps in protection that more feature-complete antivirus suites typically cover.

Reputation concerns due to past controversies

MacKeeper was previously involved in a class-action lawsuit and criticized for aggressive marketing tactics. While the company is under new ownership and has worked to improve its reputation, some users may still be cautious based on its past.

What Is the Customer Experience Like?

Customer feedback for MacKeeper has been largely positive in recent years. On Trustpilot, MacKeeper holds a solid score of 4.4 out of 5, while their Premium Services maintain a strong 4.3 out of 5. On Capterra, users rate the software 4.6 out of 5, and 4.3 out of 5 on G2.

Overall, customer sentiment leans positive, but users do highlight some consistent drawbacks worth considering.

Positive reviews

Many customers praise MacKeeper for making it easy to manage Mac performance and security without needing technical skills. Users frequently highlight the Find & Fix tool as one of their favorite features, helping them scan for issues across security, privacy, and performance categories.

Reviewers also mention real improvements in speed after using the safe cleanup and memory cleaner tools, with many claiming their Macs felt noticeably faster and more responsive. The VPN service is another standout, providing reliable protection on public Wi-Fi, and users appreciate the range of servers available for better connection speeds.

Support services are another strong point, with customers describing MacKeeper’s agents as quick, knowledgeable, and effective. Long-term users also value the ongoing monitoring features, like data breach alerts and update notifications, which help maintain device performance and online security.

Negative reviews

Despite positive feedback, some users report that MacKeeper can be resource-heavy, leading to slower performance or occasional freezing, especially on older Macs. Upselling during live support chats is another common frustration, with customers feeling pressured to fully upgrade to Premium Services to resolve certain issues. Several users also express disappointment that basic features require account creation, viewing it as restrictive compared to other software.

Technical problems are also noted, including real-time protection disabling itself or needing a reinstall to fix. Some users also point out VPN inconsistencies, saying they manually switch servers to find a stable connection. Subscription management was another friction point, with some people feeling caught off guard by automatic renewals or confused when trying to upgrade or cancel.

While many recognize that MacKeeper has improved under new ownership, a few customers still mention their hesitation, citing the company's earlier history with aggressive marketing and complicated service structures.

Customer Service & Support Options

MacKeeper offers 24/7 live chat support through their website, allowing users to connect directly with a support agent anytime. If you do not purchase their premium services, this is the main method for getting real-time help. While there’s no phone number or dedicated MacKeeper email address, users can contact the parent company, Clario Tech, at hello@weareclario.com or submit a request via the contact form on their website.

For self-service assistance, MacKeeper offers help guides containing tutorials on topics ranging from installation to uninstallation. In addition, their blog offers tips on Mac performance, online safety, and digital hygiene for users who want to learn more about protecting their devices.

The Bottom Line

MacKeeper offers a broad set of tools built specifically for Mac users who want more than just basic antivirus protection. Their real-time malware protection, find and fix tool, and VPN access offer users a convenient way to keep their devices running securely and efficiently. New users can access a seven-day free trial to explore core features, while paid plans start at $5.95 monthly for one device.

At the same time, MacKeeper is not without its compromises. Some users have noted a higher system resource impact, particularly on older devices, and expressed frustrations with upselling practices tied to Premium Services. The absence of various features like anti-phishing tools, quick scan options, and a built-in firewall may also leave some users seeking a more comprehensive security package. While MacKeeper has made significant strides in recent years, prospective users should weigh their strengths and limitations based on their needs.

If you're still exploring the best antivirus options, check out our full list of reviews for more in-depth insights. You can also use our comparison tool to see how MacKeeper stacks up against other providers. For more advice on cybersecurity, device protection, and choosing the right software, visit our blog.

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