The reviewer notes Avast's new, friendlier brand look, saying 'The whole impression is less that of a fortress against malware and more like a partner to keep you, your devices, and your data safe and happy.' Along with AVG AntiVirus Free, Microsoft Defender, and several others, Avast earned a perfect 18 points.' A product can earn up to six points in each area, for a maximum of 18. Noting the continued high performance of Avast's antivirus engine in independent testing bodies, 'Testing experts at AV-Test Institute rate each antivirus in three areas: protection against malware attack, low performance impact, and minimal false positives. The review continues on to highlight the VPN: 'The suite includes a VPN whose bandwidth limit is more generous than many, along with a collection of privacy and performance components.' In the review, PCMag states: 'The new Avast One Essential incorporates all the powerful virus-fighting technology that's made Avast famous, and adds many components drawn from the feature-rich Avast One suite'.
