F-Secure is a Finnish security company with over 35 years of experience. The Total suite offers strong malware protection, a VPN, password manager, and identity protection in one package. The detection rate is outstanding with minimal system impact. The interface is clean and simple – ideal for families and less tech-savvy users. F-Secure is headquartered in Finland, a country with strict privacy legislation (EU GDPR). The feature set is somewhat leaner than Bitdefender or Norton.
F-Secure vs Avast
F-Secure and Avast compared side by side: protection, performance, pricing, and features. Which antivirus suits you better?
Avast Premium Security is one of the most recognisable antivirus brands and offers solid protection for up to 10 devices. The suite includes web protection, VPN, and anti-tracking features. Platform coverage is broad – from Windows and Mac to mobile devices. Avast has faced past criticism over data privacy practices, which have since been addressed. Pricing is fair but not always the cheapest.
F-Secure and Avast are evenly matched.
Both products are evenly matched – the decision depends on your personal requirements.
Our verdict
F-Secure and Avast come out tied at 8.7 out of 10 in our rating. The decision should not hinge on overall score but on your concrete needs.
On price, F-Secure currently sits at CHF 60 in year one, Avast at CHF 38. Watch the renewal price closely: both are transparently listed in the table above and matter more long-term than the introductory price.
Strength profiles: F-Secure scores highest on protection, Avast on protection. If you care most about one of those dimensions, the choice is clear. For all-round needs, either product is a safe pick.
Feature-by-feature comparison
| Criterion | F-Secure | Avast |
|---|---|---|
| Real-time protection | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in VPN | Yes | Yes |
| Password manager | No | No |
| Anti-tracking / anti-phishing | No | Yes |
| Parental controls | Yes | No |
| Identity protection | Yes | No |
| Low system impact | No | No |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone / iPad | Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone / iPad |
| Number of devices (standard licence) | 5 | 10 |
| System impact in daily use | Very low | Moderate |