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Avast (part of Gen Digital) is a widely used consumer security brand, best known for its free antivirus. Its paid tiers layer extras — scam protection, a VPN, clean-up and anti-tracking tools — on top of core antivirus, across Windows, macOS, Android and iOS.
Below we look at what Avast sells in the UK, what's different from its US plans, and who it actually suits. Plan contents and prices change, so check the renewal price in pounds (GBP) on Avast's official UK site before you buy.
Strengths and limitations
Strengths
- A genuinely free starting point from an established vendor
- Paid tiers add scam blocking, a VPN and clean-up tools in one app
- Familiar, approachable interface
Limitations
- Upgrade prompts can be noticeable in the free and lower tiers
- First-term pricing rises at renewal
- Its parent company's past sale of browsing data is worth knowing about
Who it’s for
- People who want to start free with a recognised name
- Users who'll make use of the bundled scam blocking and VPN
Who should look elsewhere
- Users who want a minimal, prompt-free experience
- Anyone who already owns a preferred standalone VPN
What you get in the UK
In the UK, Avast sells Avast One with its free antivirus, Premium Security inside the Avast One app, and an Ultimate bundle that combines Premium Security, Premium VPN, Cleanup Premium and AntiTrack.
- The free version covers one Windows PC and one mobile device; paid plans cover up to ten devices across PC, Mac, Android and iPhone/iPad.
- Premium Security's UK page lists blocking scam SMS messages and scam calls, help identifying deepfake scams, and the Avast Assistant.
- Secure Identity, sold separately, offers identity restoration specialists, dark web and social media monitoring, and alerts on suspicious card or bank transactions.
What's different from the US plans
Avast's US identity product adds up to $1 million in coverage and credit threat alerts. The UK Secure Identity page describes restoration help and monitoring, without insurance wording in the plan details — and Avast notes dark web monitoring isn't available in all countries.
Is Avast worth it?
The free version is a reasonable baseline for one PC and one phone. Paying makes sense when you want protection on more devices and will use the extras — scam call and text blocking, the VPN or the clean-up tools.
It's worth knowing the history: in 2024 the US Federal Trade Commission finalised an order against Avast over browsing data sold through its former Jumpshot subsidiary. Avast has since closed Jumpshot, and our free-antivirus guide covers what that means for choosing a free product.
Before you buy: renewal and refund policy
Avast's UK policy describes a 30-day money-back guarantee, with pro-rated refunds for consumers in the UK after that period. Prices are in pounds, and plans renew automatically unless cancelled.
Avast alternatives
- Avast UK settlement email: is it real?
The Jumpshot offer, the deadline and what you give up by accepting.
- Avast vs Norton
Two Gen Digital brands — a free-first suite against a paid bundle.
- Avast vs Avira
Which free tier gives you more.
- Is free antivirus enough?
When free protection is fine — and when it isn't.
- McAfee review
Unlimited devices on higher tiers for bigger households.
Our verdict
Avast is a sensible pick for people who want a familiar brand, a free starting point and a broad paid suite in one app. If you want a minimal, upsell-free experience or won't use the extras, a leaner option may suit you better.
