Avast vs Combo Cleaner

Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Prague, Czech Republic, Avast has grown into one of the most recognized names in cybersecurity. Known for offering a free antivirus product alongside robust premium plans, Avast provides multi-layered protection through features like Smart Scan, real-time malware detection, phishing protection, and a Secure Browser designed to safeguard sensitive activity online. More advanced services include Avast One Gold, which adds VPN access, identity protection, and ransomware defense. Their tools are compatible across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, offering flexible security for individual users and families alike. Avast’s services have earned high marks in independent malware tests, including results from SE Labs and AV-Comparatives, helping establish their credibility within the industry. Customer feedback is largely positive, with users praising Avast’s ease of use, effective free service, and performance-boosting utilities. However, concerns have been raised about frequent upselling and pop-up notifications, especially within the paid tiers. Despite this, Avast remains a popular option for users seeking both basic and enhanced digital protection.

Combo Cleaner is developed by RCS LT, a Lithuania-based company founded in 2007. What started as a local IT service provider has since shifted toward cross-platform cybersecurity tools, with their flagship product, Combo Cleaner, positioned as a mix of antivirus and system optimization. Available on macOS, Windows, Android, and iOS, their app aims to give users an all-in-one solution for essential threat protection and device maintenance. They offer real-time malware detection, disk cleanup, duplicate and large file scanners, privacy tools, and ransomware folder protection (on Windows). Their mobile apps focus more on photo cleanup, app management, and browsing safety. The platform is updated frequently, with hourly malware definition updates and an AI-powered security assistant to assist with scam detection and threat awareness. Users often note how easy their software is to install and navigate, though feedback around refund policies and the usefulness of the free version is mixed. While they’ve earned certifications like VB100 and OPSWAT Bronze, they haven't been evaluated by major independent antivirus labs. The simplicity of Combo Cleaner's tools appeals to many, but whether their performance matches their claims is a different matter. This review closely examines what they do—and what they leave out.