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Top 10 Best Phishing Test Software of 2026

Compare top phishing test software to strengthen security. Find the best tools to simulate threats and train teams. Get started now.

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How We Ranked These Tools

01
Feature Verification

Core product claims cross-referenced against official documentation, changelogs, and independent technical reviews.

02
Multimedia Review Aggregation

Analyzed video reviews and hundreds of written evaluations to capture real-world user experiences with each tool.

03
Synthetic User Modeling

AI persona simulations modeled how different user types would experience each tool across common use cases and workflows.

04
Human Editorial Review

Final rankings reviewed and approved by our editorial team with authority to override AI-generated scores based on domain expertise.

Products cannot pay for placement. Rankings reflect verified quality, not marketing spend. Read our full methodology →

How Our Scores Work

Scores are calculated across three dimensions: Features (depth and breadth of capabilities verified against official documentation across 12 evaluation criteria), Ease of Use (aggregated sentiment from written and video user reviews, weighted by recency), and Value (pricing relative to feature set and market alternatives). Each dimension is scored 1–10. The Overall score is a weighted composite: Features 40%, Ease of Use 30%, Value 30%.

In an era where phishing remains a primary cyber threat, robust phishing test software is essential for identifying vulnerabilities and strengthening employee resilience. This curated list features diverse tools, from enterprise platforms to open-source solutions, ensuring organizations of all sizes find a fit tailored to their needs.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: KnowBe4 - Leading platform for phishing simulations, security awareness training, and automated campaigns to test employee resilience.
  2. 2#2: Proofpoint - Provides advanced phishing simulation and security awareness training integrated with threat intelligence.
  3. 3#3: Cofense - Offers realistic phishing simulations with reporter tools and community-driven threat simulations for training.
  4. 4#4: Mimecast - Delivers targeted phishing simulations and awareness training to improve email security behaviors.
  5. 5#5: GoPhish - Open-source phishing toolkit for creating and managing simulation campaigns with tracking and reporting.
  6. 6#6: Barracuda Sentinel - AI-driven phishing simulation platform with adaptive training and real-time analytics.
  7. 7#7: Hoxhunt - Gamified phishing simulation tool that engages users with adaptive, story-based training modules.
  8. 8#8: Keepnet Labs - Comprehensive phishing simulation platform with customizable templates and detailed reporting.
  9. 9#9: Hook Security - Phishing simulation service focused on behavioral training and micro-learning for quick awareness gains.
  10. 10#10: Microsoft Attack Simulator - Integrated phishing simulation tool within Microsoft Defender for automated attack training and reporting.

We evaluated tools based on simulation realism, actionable reporting, integration with training workflows, and overall usability, prioritizing those that deliver effective protection while simplifying administration.

Comparison Table

Phishing tests are vital for bolstering cybersecurity, but selecting the right software demands evaluating features, performance, and user-friendliness. This comparison table details tools like KnowBe4, Proofpoint, Cofense, Mimecast, GoPhish, and more, equipping readers to determine which aligns best with their organization's needs. Covering customization, real-time insights, and ease of deployment, it simplifies the process of choosing effective phishing test software.

1KnowBe4 logo9.7/10

Leading platform for phishing simulations, security awareness training, and automated campaigns to test employee resilience.

Features
9.9/10
Ease
9.4/10
Value
9.2/10
2Proofpoint logo9.2/10

Provides advanced phishing simulation and security awareness training integrated with threat intelligence.

Features
9.6/10
Ease
8.1/10
Value
8.4/10
3Cofense logo8.7/10

Offers realistic phishing simulations with reporter tools and community-driven threat simulations for training.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
8.0/10
Value
8.3/10
4Mimecast logo8.2/10

Delivers targeted phishing simulations and awareness training to improve email security behaviors.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
7.5/10
5GoPhish logo8.2/10

Open-source phishing toolkit for creating and managing simulation campaigns with tracking and reporting.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
7.0/10
Value
9.8/10

AI-driven phishing simulation platform with adaptive training and real-time analytics.

Features
8.2/10
Ease
7.9/10
Value
7.4/10
7Hoxhunt logo8.6/10

Gamified phishing simulation tool that engages users with adaptive, story-based training modules.

Features
8.4/10
Ease
9.2/10
Value
8.3/10

Comprehensive phishing simulation platform with customizable templates and detailed reporting.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
7.9/10
Value
7.8/10

Phishing simulation service focused on behavioral training and micro-learning for quick awareness gains.

Features
8.2/10
Ease
7.9/10
Value
7.4/10

Integrated phishing simulation tool within Microsoft Defender for automated attack training and reporting.

Features
7.5/10
Ease
8.0/10
Value
6.5/10
1
KnowBe4 logo

KnowBe4

enterprise

Leading platform for phishing simulations, security awareness training, and automated campaigns to test employee resilience.

Overall Rating9.7/10
Features
9.9/10
Ease of Use
9.4/10
Value
9.2/10
Standout Feature

The world's largest library of 7,000+ hyper-realistic, AI-powered phishing templates updated weekly to evade modern filters

KnowBe4 is the leading security awareness training and phishing simulation platform, designed to help organizations test employee susceptibility to phishing attacks through realistic simulations. It features an extensive library of over 7,000 customizable phishing templates, AI-generated attacks, and integrated training modules that automatically remediate failed tests. The platform includes robust analytics, risk scoring, and PhishER for rapid incident response, making it a comprehensive solution for reducing human-related security risks.

Pros

  • Vast library of 7,000+ weekly updated phishing templates with AI enhancements
  • Advanced reporting, risk scoring, and automated training remediation
  • Seamless integrations with email gateways, SIEM, and ticketing systems

Cons

  • Pricing can be high for small organizations without volume discounts
  • Steep initial setup for custom campaigns and integrations
  • Overwhelming options for users new to security awareness platforms

Best For

Mid-to-large enterprises seeking a comprehensive, scalable phishing simulation and training solution to minimize human error in cybersecurity.

Pricing

Custom annual subscription starting at ~$24-36 per user/year (minimum 100 users), with tiers like Platinum and Enterprise offering advanced features; free trial available.

Official docs verifiedFeature audit 2026Independent reviewAI-verified
Visit KnowBe4knowbe4.com
2
Proofpoint logo

Proofpoint

enterprise

Provides advanced phishing simulation and security awareness training integrated with threat intelligence.

Overall Rating9.2/10
Features
9.6/10
Ease of Use
8.1/10
Value
8.4/10
Standout Feature

AI-powered PhishAlarm Analyzer for real-time threat emulation and automated training delivery

Proofpoint is a comprehensive cybersecurity platform specializing in email security and threat protection, with robust phishing simulation capabilities through its Security Awareness Training service. It enables organizations to launch realistic phishing campaigns, track user responses, and deliver targeted training to improve resilience against attacks. The solution integrates seamlessly with Proofpoint's broader threat intelligence for advanced analytics and automated remediation.

Pros

  • Highly realistic and customizable phishing simulations with multi-stage campaigns
  • Advanced analytics, reporting, and risk scoring for precise employee assessment
  • Seamless integration with Proofpoint's email security and threat intelligence ecosystem

Cons

  • High cost suitable mainly for enterprises
  • Steep learning curve for setup and advanced configurations
  • Limited flexibility for small teams without full Proofpoint stack

Best For

Large enterprises seeking integrated phishing testing with enterprise-grade email security and compliance reporting.

Pricing

Quote-based enterprise pricing; awareness training typically $4-8 per user/month, bundled with full suite.

Official docs verifiedFeature audit 2026Independent reviewAI-verified
Visit Proofpointproofpoint.com
3
Cofense logo

Cofense

enterprise

Offers realistic phishing simulations with reporter tools and community-driven threat simulations for training.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
8.0/10
Value
8.3/10
Standout Feature

PhishMe Reporter: One-click email reporting that aggregates user-submitted phishing intel for real-time threat analysis.

Cofense provides a robust phishing simulation and employee awareness training platform, enabling organizations to test user susceptibility through realistic phishing campaigns. It tracks interactions, delivers automated training, and offers detailed analytics to measure program effectiveness. The solution integrates with email gateways and includes a reporter tool for crowdsourced threat intelligence from employees.

Pros

  • Highly realistic and customizable phishing templates
  • Advanced analytics and reporting for ROI measurement
  • PhishMe Reporter turns employees into threat sensors

Cons

  • Complex initial setup for non-technical admins
  • Pricing can be steep for small organizations
  • Limited free trial or self-service options

Best For

Mid-to-large enterprises seeking enterprise-grade phishing simulations with deep behavioral analytics and integration capabilities.

Pricing

Custom quote-based pricing, typically $15-25 per user/year for enterprises with volume discounts.

Official docs verifiedFeature audit 2026Independent reviewAI-verified
Visit Cofensecofense.com
4
Mimecast logo

Mimecast

enterprise

Delivers targeted phishing simulations and awareness training to improve email security behaviors.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
7.5/10
Standout Feature

AI-powered simulation engine that uses real threat data for hyper-realistic, adaptive phishing campaigns

Mimecast is a comprehensive email security platform that includes robust phishing simulation capabilities through its Awareness Training module, enabling organizations to launch targeted phishing tests and assess employee susceptibility. It integrates simulations with automated training, detailed reporting, and behavioral analytics to improve security awareness. While primarily an enterprise-grade email protection suite, its phishing testing tools leverage real-world threat intelligence for highly realistic campaigns.

Pros

  • Seamless integration with Mimecast's email security for authentic simulations
  • Advanced analytics and personalized training paths based on test results
  • Scalable for large enterprises with strong compliance reporting

Cons

  • High cost requires full Mimecast suite commitment
  • Setup and customization can be complex for smaller teams
  • Limited focus on non-email phishing vectors like SMS or voice

Best For

Mid-to-large enterprises seeking integrated email security and phishing awareness training.

Pricing

Enterprise subscription starting at ~$8-12 per user/month (billed annually), with custom quotes for full suite.

Official docs verifiedFeature audit 2026Independent reviewAI-verified
Visit Mimecastmimecast.com
5
GoPhish logo

GoPhish

specialized

Open-source phishing toolkit for creating and managing simulation campaigns with tracking and reporting.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
7.0/10
Value
9.8/10
Standout Feature

Fully customizable phishing server that hosts landing pages and tracks interactions in real-time without third-party dependencies.

GoPhish is an open-source phishing toolkit designed for security awareness training and red teaming operations. It allows users to create and launch phishing campaigns with customizable email templates, landing pages, and tracking mechanisms to monitor opens, clicks, and credential submissions. The web-based interface provides real-time dashboards for campaign management and detailed reporting on user interactions, making it suitable for simulating real-world phishing attacks.

Pros

  • Completely free and open-source with no licensing costs
  • Real-time tracking and customizable reporting dashboards
  • Highly modular for creating tailored phishing templates and pages

Cons

  • Requires self-hosting and technical setup knowledge (e.g., Docker or manual install)
  • No built-in email server; relies on external SMTP configuration
  • Limited native integrations with enterprise tools compared to commercial alternatives

Best For

Security teams and penetration testers seeking a cost-free, customizable solution for phishing simulations and awareness training.

Pricing

Free (open-source, self-hosted; no paid tiers).

Official docs verifiedFeature audit 2026Independent reviewAI-verified
Visit GoPhishgetgophish.com
6
Barracuda Sentinel logo

Barracuda Sentinel

enterprise

AI-driven phishing simulation platform with adaptive training and real-time analytics.

Overall Rating7.8/10
Features
8.2/10
Ease of Use
7.9/10
Value
7.4/10
Standout Feature

SentinelAthena AI for behavioral analysis that powers both real-time protection and adaptive phishing simulations

Barracuda Sentinel is an AI-powered email security platform designed to protect organizations from advanced phishing, BEC, and ransomware attacks through real-time detection and blocking. It features a built-in phishing simulation and awareness training module that deploys realistic phishing tests to assess and educate employees. The solution provides comprehensive reporting, analytics, and ongoing training paths to measure and improve security posture over time.

Pros

  • AI-driven threat detection with high accuracy
  • Unlimited phishing simulations from a large template library
  • Detailed analytics and automated training remediation

Cons

  • Pricing can be high for small businesses
  • More focused on email threats than multi-channel phishing
  • Setup requires integration with email systems

Best For

Mid-sized enterprises needing integrated email security and employee phishing awareness training.

Pricing

Per-user subscription starting at ~$5/user/month (annual billing), with volume discounts and custom enterprise quotes.

Official docs verifiedFeature audit 2026Independent reviewAI-verified
7
Hoxhunt logo

Hoxhunt

specialized

Gamified phishing simulation tool that engages users with adaptive, story-based training modules.

Overall Rating8.6/10
Features
8.4/10
Ease of Use
9.2/10
Value
8.3/10
Standout Feature

Daily 'Hoxhunt' challenges that deliver personalized, bite-sized phishing simulations via email or mobile for habitual learning.

Hoxhunt is a gamified phishing awareness and training platform that simulates realistic phishing attacks to test and educate employees on cybersecurity threats. It combines phishing simulations with daily micro-learning modules delivered via email or app, fostering habitual security behaviors through leaderboards and rewards. The platform emphasizes engagement over rote testing, aiming for high completion rates and long-term retention in phishing defense.

Pros

  • Highly engaging gamified interface boosts training completion rates up to 90%
  • Realistic, customizable phishing templates with multi-language support
  • Strong focus on behavioral change through daily micro-lessons and analytics

Cons

  • Limited advanced reporting depth compared to enterprise-focused competitors
  • Customization options can feel restrictive for very large-scale deployments
  • Pricing scales up quickly for premium features and add-ons

Best For

Small to mid-sized organizations seeking fun, high-engagement phishing training to build lasting employee awareness without complex setup.

Pricing

Starts at ~€3-5 per user/month for basic plans; custom enterprise pricing from €10+/user/month with volume discounts.

Official docs verifiedFeature audit 2026Independent reviewAI-verified
Visit Hoxhunthoxhunt.com
8
Keepnet Labs logo

Keepnet Labs

enterprise

Comprehensive phishing simulation platform with customizable templates and detailed reporting.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
7.9/10
Value
7.8/10
Standout Feature

AI-driven adaptive phishing attacks that personalize simulations based on user behavior for hyper-realistic testing

Keepnet Labs' Phishing Test Software delivers realistic phishing simulations across multiple channels including email, SMS, QR codes, and voice phishing to evaluate and enhance employee awareness. It features a large library of customizable templates, automated campaign management, and integrated security training with gamification elements for better engagement. Comprehensive reporting and analytics provide actionable insights into organizational phishing susceptibility and training effectiveness.

Pros

  • Extensive template library with multi-channel support (email, SMS, vishing)
  • Integrated training and gamification for immediate remediation
  • Detailed analytics and progress tracking dashboards

Cons

  • Pricing can be high for smaller organizations
  • Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
  • Limited free trial or demo options

Best For

Mid-sized enterprises seeking comprehensive, multi-vector phishing simulations combined with awareness training.

Pricing

Subscription-based, starting at approximately $5-10 per user/month (custom quotes required; scales with features and users).

Official docs verifiedFeature audit 2026Independent reviewAI-verified
Visit Keepnet Labskeepnetlabs.com
9
Hook Security logo

Hook Security

specialized

Phishing simulation service focused on behavioral training and micro-learning for quick awareness gains.

Overall Rating7.8/10
Features
8.2/10
Ease of Use
7.9/10
Value
7.4/10
Standout Feature

Hook Guarantee: Promises measurable improvement in phishing metrics or additional support at no extra cost

Hook Security is a phishing simulation and training platform designed to help organizations assess and improve employee resilience against phishing attacks. It offers a library of realistic email templates, automated campaign scheduling, and interactive training modules triggered by user interactions. The tool provides comprehensive reporting on metrics like click rates, reporting rates, and overall risk reduction, making it suitable for security awareness programs.

Pros

  • Extensive template library with regular updates
  • Detailed analytics and customizable reporting
  • Automated training remediation for failed simulations

Cons

  • Fewer integrations with enterprise tools compared to top competitors
  • Pricing scales quickly for larger teams
  • Limited advanced customization for templates

Best For

Mid-sized businesses seeking straightforward phishing simulations and training without complex setup.

Pricing

Starts at $2.50/user/month (billed annually) for basic plans; enterprise custom pricing available.

Official docs verifiedFeature audit 2026Independent reviewAI-verified
Visit Hook Securityhooksecurity.co
10
Microsoft Attack Simulator logo

Microsoft Attack Simulator

enterprise

Integrated phishing simulation tool within Microsoft Defender for automated attack training and reporting.

Overall Rating7.2/10
Features
7.5/10
Ease of Use
8.0/10
Value
6.5/10
Standout Feature

Powered by Microsoft's global threat intelligence for hyper-realistic phishing lures and payloads

Microsoft Attack Simulator, part of Microsoft Defender for Office 365, allows organizations to create and launch simulated phishing campaigns to test employee susceptibility to attacks. It offers pre-built templates for common phishing scenarios, tracks user interactions like clicks and credential submissions, and provides detailed analytics and automated training recommendations. The tool leverages Microsoft's threat intelligence for realistic simulations but is tightly integrated with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.

Pros

  • Seamless integration with Microsoft 365 and Defender suite
  • Realistic templates based on Microsoft threat intelligence
  • Comprehensive reporting and automated training follow-ups

Cons

  • Requires expensive Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Plan 2 license
  • Limited customization compared to dedicated third-party tools
  • Not available as a standalone product; Microsoft ecosystem only

Best For

Microsoft 365 organizations seeking integrated phishing simulation without additional vendors.

Pricing

Included in Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Plan 2 (~$5/user/month add-on to E3/E5 plans).

Official docs verifiedFeature audit 2026Independent reviewAI-verified

Conclusion

The reviewed phishing test software highlights solutions that prioritize resilience, adaptability, and actionable training; KnowBe4 leads as the top choice, excelling in comprehensive simulations and sustained awareness. Proofpoint stands out with advanced threat intelligence integration, while Cofense offers realistic, community-driven scenarios, each addressing unique organizational needs.

KnowBe4 logo
Our Top Pick
KnowBe4

Explore KnowBe4 today to enhance your team's ability to combat phishing threats effectively—your security program will benefit from its intuitive, impactful approach.