Finletix
Security · $9.99–$19.99/mo · ~$180/yr

Is McAfee worth it in 2026?

McAfee is often pre-installed and auto-renews at a steep markup over the intro rate. At roughly $180 a year, whether McAfee is worth it comes down to one question: do you actually use it?

Worth it if…
  • You use it most weeks.
  • It's your only service in this category.
  • The value clearly beats the $180/yr.
Cancel it if…
  • You can't recall the last time you used it.
  • You also pay for Norton 360 or LifeLock or Ring Protect.
  • It started as a free trial you forgot about.
Before you commit $180/yr

Bought direct from McAfee: annual subscribers get a full refund if they ask within 30 days of purchase, and a full refund of the most recent auto-renewal charge if they ask within 60 days of being charged. McAfee does not prorate, and the 30-day money-back guarantee does not apply to monthly subscribers. All requests go through Customer Service by phone or chat. After a refund you must uninstall the software and delete all program files. This policy excludes the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, British Columbia and Quebec.

How McAfee compares in Security

McAfee runs $9.99–$19.99/mo — 20% less than the average security subscription we track (~$19/mo across the security services we track). The most common overlap for security subscribers is paying for Norton 360, LifeLock, Ring Protect at the same time — worth checking your statement for before deciding.

First, check you're even still paying for it

Plenty of people debate whether McAfee is worth it while already paying for a duplicate or a plan they forgot to cancel. Scan a statement with Finletix and see every recurring charge in seconds — no bank login.

Scan freeHow to cancel McAfee

Is McAfee worth it? FAQ

How much is McAfee per year?
At $9.99–$19.99/mo, McAfee costs roughly $180 a year for a typical plan — more on higher tiers. That's 20% less than the average security subscription we track (~$224/yr).
Who is McAfee worth it for?
McAfee is worth it if you actively use it most weeks. If you can't remember the last time you did, that annual $180 is likely a leak.
Should I cancel McAfee?
If you're also still paying for Norton 360 or LifeLock or Ring Protect — common overlaps in the same Security category — you're likely paying twice for the same need. Check your statement first to confirm you're even still being charged for McAfee.
What if I sign up and McAfee isn't for me?
Bought direct from McAfee: annual subscribers get a full refund if they ask within 30 days of purchase, and a full refund of the most recent auto-renewal charge if they ask within 60 days of being charged. McAfee does not prorate, and the 30-day money-back guarantee does not apply to monthly subscribers. All requests go through Customer Service by phone or chat. After a refund you must uninstall the software and delete all program files. This policy excludes the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, British Columbia and Quebec.

Compare other subscriptions

Is Norton 360 worth it?
Security · $9.99–$24.99/mo
Is LifeLock worth it?
Security · $11.99–$34.99/mo
Is Ring Protect worth it?
Security · $4.99–$20/mo
Is Experian CreditWorks worth it?
Security · $24.99/mo

Prices are typical US ranges as of 2026 and may change. Finletix is not affiliated with McAfee.