Quick Overview
- 1#1: KnowBe4 - Provides comprehensive phishing simulation campaigns with realistic templates, AI-driven attacks, and integrated security awareness training.
- 2#2: GoPhish - Open-source phishing toolkit for creating, launching, and tracking phishing awareness campaigns with customizable templates and landing pages.
- 3#3: Proofpoint - Enterprise security awareness platform featuring advanced phishing simulations, behavioral analytics, and automated training remediation.
- 4#4: Cofense - Delivers targeted phishing simulations using real-world threat data, reporter integration, and adaptive training modules.
- 5#5: Mimecast - Offers phishing simulation testing within its awareness training suite, including email-based attacks and performance reporting.
- 6#6: Hoxhunt - Gamified phishing simulation platform that uses adaptive, story-driven attacks to test and train users on phishing recognition.
- 7#7: CanIPhish - AI-powered phishing simulator for creating hyper-realistic campaigns, SMS/voice phishing, and detailed analytics.
- 8#8: Infosec IQ - Phishing simulation tool with machine learning for personalized attacks, multi-channel delivery, and ongoing training.
- 9#9: PhishingBox - Cloud-based platform for rapid phishing test deployment with templates, scheduling, and reporting for awareness programs.
- 10#10: Keepnet Labs - Integrated phishing simulation and training platform with spear-phishing tests, Vishing, and risk scoring.
Tools were evaluated based on feature depth, performance, user experience, and value, ensuring a balanced assessment of both leading and specialized solutions.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores top phishing testing software, such as KnowBe4, GoPhish, Proofpoint, Cofense, Mimecast, and more, to guide users in identifying the right tool for their security needs. Readers will discover differences in features, ease of use, and integration capabilities, helping them evaluate options that align with their organization’s specific requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | KnowBe4 Provides comprehensive phishing simulation campaigns with realistic templates, AI-driven attacks, and integrated security awareness training. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | GoPhish Open-source phishing toolkit for creating, launching, and tracking phishing awareness campaigns with customizable templates and landing pages. | other | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 10/10 |
| 3 | Proofpoint Enterprise security awareness platform featuring advanced phishing simulations, behavioral analytics, and automated training remediation. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Cofense Delivers targeted phishing simulations using real-world threat data, reporter integration, and adaptive training modules. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Mimecast Offers phishing simulation testing within its awareness training suite, including email-based attacks and performance reporting. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Hoxhunt Gamified phishing simulation platform that uses adaptive, story-driven attacks to test and train users on phishing recognition. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | CanIPhish AI-powered phishing simulator for creating hyper-realistic campaigns, SMS/voice phishing, and detailed analytics. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Infosec IQ Phishing simulation tool with machine learning for personalized attacks, multi-channel delivery, and ongoing training. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | PhishingBox Cloud-based platform for rapid phishing test deployment with templates, scheduling, and reporting for awareness programs. | other | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Keepnet Labs Integrated phishing simulation and training platform with spear-phishing tests, Vishing, and risk scoring. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.8/10 |
Provides comprehensive phishing simulation campaigns with realistic templates, AI-driven attacks, and integrated security awareness training.
Open-source phishing toolkit for creating, launching, and tracking phishing awareness campaigns with customizable templates and landing pages.
Enterprise security awareness platform featuring advanced phishing simulations, behavioral analytics, and automated training remediation.
Delivers targeted phishing simulations using real-world threat data, reporter integration, and adaptive training modules.
Offers phishing simulation testing within its awareness training suite, including email-based attacks and performance reporting.
Gamified phishing simulation platform that uses adaptive, story-driven attacks to test and train users on phishing recognition.
AI-powered phishing simulator for creating hyper-realistic campaigns, SMS/voice phishing, and detailed analytics.
Phishing simulation tool with machine learning for personalized attacks, multi-channel delivery, and ongoing training.
Cloud-based platform for rapid phishing test deployment with templates, scheduling, and reporting for awareness programs.
Integrated phishing simulation and training platform with spear-phishing tests, Vishing, and risk scoring.
KnowBe4
enterpriseProvides comprehensive phishing simulation campaigns with realistic templates, AI-driven attacks, and integrated security awareness training.
AI-Driven Phishing (AIDA) for generating hyper-realistic, adaptive simulations tailored to specific industries and threats
KnowBe4 is a comprehensive security awareness training platform with robust phishing simulation capabilities, enabling organizations to launch realistic phishing campaigns using thousands of pre-built templates. It tracks employee responses, assigns risk scores, and automatically delivers targeted training to improve defenses against phishing attacks. The platform integrates testing, training, and reporting into a single dashboard for ongoing security awareness management.
Pros
- Vast library of over 10,000 customizable phishing templates including AI-generated ones
- Advanced analytics with user risk scoring and campaign performance tracking
- Seamless integration of phishing tests with automated remedial training
Cons
- Premium pricing may be steep for small businesses or startups
- Advanced customization and reporting require initial setup time
- Focused more on enterprise-scale deployments than simple point solutions
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing an all-in-one platform for phishing simulations, employee training, and compliance reporting.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at approximately $24-36 per user per year, with volume discounts and add-ons for premium features.
GoPhish
otherOpen-source phishing toolkit for creating, launching, and tracking phishing awareness campaigns with customizable templates and landing pages.
Real-time interactive dashboard that tracks and visualizes user interactions across phishing campaigns instantly
GoPhish is an open-source phishing toolkit designed for security professionals to simulate phishing attacks for awareness training and red team exercises. It allows users to build campaigns with customizable email templates, landing pages, and credential harvesting forms, while providing real-time tracking of opens, clicks, and submissions. The web-based interface simplifies campaign management, reporting, and analysis, making it a staple in phishing testing workflows.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no licensing costs
- Real-time dashboard for monitoring campaign metrics like opens, clicks, and submissions
- Highly customizable templates, emails, and landing pages
- Strong community support and extensive documentation
Cons
- Requires self-hosting and technical setup (e.g., Docker or manual install)
- Depends on external SMTP for email delivery, adding configuration complexity
- Steeper learning curve for beginners compared to fully managed SaaS tools
Best For
Security teams and red teamers seeking a powerful, customizable, self-hosted platform for phishing simulations and awareness training.
Pricing
Free (open-source, self-hosted); no paid tiers.
Proofpoint
enterpriseEnterprise security awareness platform featuring advanced phishing simulations, behavioral analytics, and automated training remediation.
AI-powered PhishAlarm Analyzer for real-time click simulation and inline threat emulation
Proofpoint is an enterprise-grade cybersecurity platform specializing in email security and threat protection, with robust phishing testing capabilities integrated into its Security Awareness Training solution. It enables organizations to launch realistic phishing simulation campaigns using AI-driven templates that mimic current attack vectors, track user interactions, and automatically deliver targeted training. The tool provides in-depth analytics, risk scoring, and behavioral insights to improve employee resilience against phishing threats.
Pros
- Highly realistic AI-generated phishing templates and campaigns
- Advanced analytics with risk scoring and ROI reporting
- Seamless integration with Proofpoint's email gateway and threat intel
Cons
- Enterprise pricing is high and quote-based
- Steep learning curve for setup and customization
- Overkill for small businesses without existing Proofpoint ecosystem
Best For
Large enterprises needing integrated phishing simulations with email security and compliance reporting.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $4-10 per user/month for awareness training module, with annual contracts and volume discounts.
Cofense
enterpriseDelivers targeted phishing simulations using real-world threat data, reporter integration, and adaptive training modules.
Phishing Intelligence platform leveraging data from millions of user-reported emails for proactive threat simulation
Cofense is a leading phishing simulation and awareness training platform that helps organizations test employee susceptibility to phishing attacks through realistic email campaigns and automated training. It features a vast library of templates based on real-world threats, employee reporting tools, and detailed analytics to measure program effectiveness. The solution integrates with existing security stacks to triage and analyze reported phishing attempts, enhancing overall threat detection.
Pros
- Extensive library of hyper-realistic phishing templates updated with current threats
- Robust reporting and analytics for campaign performance tracking
- Employee Reporter tool for real-time phishing submissions and triage
Cons
- High enterprise-level pricing not ideal for small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
- Limited self-service options compared to simpler competitors
Best For
Large enterprises with mature security teams needing intelligence-driven phishing simulations and training.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $15-25 per user/year with minimum commitments and volume discounts.
Mimecast
enterpriseOffers phishing simulation testing within its awareness training suite, including email-based attacks and performance reporting.
Adaptive simulations powered by real threat intelligence for hyper-realistic phishing tests
Mimecast is a comprehensive cybersecurity platform specializing in email security, with its Awareness Training module enabling organizations to conduct realistic phishing simulations to test employee vigilance. It allows admins to deploy customizable phishing campaigns, track user interactions like opens and clicks, and automatically deliver targeted training to those who fall for simulations. Integrated with Mimecast's broader threat protection suite, it provides detailed reporting and risk scoring to improve overall human cybersecurity posture.
Pros
- Seamless integration with full email security stack
- Highly customizable simulations and templates
- Robust analytics and automated training delivery
Cons
- Enterprise pricing can be steep for SMBs
- Initial setup requires IT expertise
- Primarily focused on email-based phishing
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing integrated email security with phishing testing and training.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription, typically $5-15 per user per month depending on features and scale.
Hoxhunt
specializedGamified phishing simulation platform that uses adaptive, story-driven attacks to test and train users on phishing recognition.
Story-driven microlearning simulations that deliver bite-sized, narrative-based training immediately after phishing interactions
Hoxhunt is a gamified phishing simulation and awareness training platform designed to help organizations test and train employees against phishing attacks through realistic email simulations. It delivers personalized, story-driven microlearning modules triggered by user interactions with phishing emails, fostering long-term behavioral change. The platform provides robust reporting and analytics to measure engagement, risk levels, and training effectiveness across the workforce.
Pros
- Highly engaging gamified simulations with storytelling that boost completion rates
- Adaptive, personalized training paths based on individual performance
- Comprehensive analytics and reporting for security teams
Cons
- Less emphasis on advanced customization for phishing templates compared to pure testing tools
- Pricing is enterprise-oriented and may be steep for small businesses
- Initial setup requires email system integration which can take time
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises looking for engaging, behavior-focused phishing training integrated with simulations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically €20-40 per user per year depending on scale and features.
CanIPhish
specializedAI-powered phishing simulator for creating hyper-realistic campaigns, SMS/voice phishing, and detailed analytics.
Seamless multi-channel phishing simulations, including unique QR code campaigns for testing physical security vectors.
CanIPhish is a user-friendly phishing simulation platform that enables organizations to create and launch realistic phishing campaigns via email, SMS, and QR codes to test employee awareness. It features drag-and-drop builders for emails and landing pages, real-time tracking of interactions like opens, clicks, and credential submissions, and automated reporting dashboards. The tool also includes training modules and integrates with various security tools for seamless awareness programs.
Pros
- Intuitive no-code drag-and-drop builders for quick campaign setup
- Multi-channel support including email, SMS, and QR code phishing
- Real-time analytics and customizable reporting for actionable insights
Cons
- Limited advanced customization options compared to enterprise competitors
- No on-premise or self-hosted deployment available
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams or high-volume usage
Best For
Mid-sized organizations and security teams seeking an easy-to-use, multi-channel phishing simulation tool without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Freemium with paid plans starting at €99/month (Professional) up to custom Enterprise pricing; free trial available.
Infosec IQ
enterprisePhishing simulation tool with machine learning for personalized attacks, multi-channel delivery, and ongoing training.
Adaptive training paths that automatically assign personalized modules based on individual phishing simulation performance
Infosec IQ is a security awareness training platform from Infosec Institute that excels in phishing simulation and testing, enabling organizations to deploy realistic phishing campaigns to assess employee susceptibility. It integrates phishing tests with automated training modules, providing detailed analytics on click rates, reporting rates, and overall program effectiveness. The tool supports customizable templates, multi-language options, and ongoing campaigns to foster long-term behavioral change.
Pros
- Extensive library of realistic phishing templates
- Seamless integration of simulations with targeted training
- Robust reporting and analytics dashboards
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and can be higher for smaller organizations
- Initial setup requires some configuration time
- Fewer native integrations than some dedicated phishing-only tools
Best For
Mid-sized enterprises needing an all-in-one platform for phishing testing combined with security awareness training.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $20-30 per user per year depending on user count, features, and contract length.
PhishingBox
otherCloud-based platform for rapid phishing test deployment with templates, scheduling, and reporting for awareness programs.
Massive library of 1,000+ realistic, regularly updated phishing templates
PhishingBox is a cloud-based phishing simulation platform that enables organizations to create, launch, and track phishing campaigns to test employee susceptibility to phishing attacks. It offers a large library of customizable email templates, landing pages, and integrated training modules to educate users post-simulation. The tool provides detailed reporting on metrics like open rates, click rates, and credential submissions, helping security teams measure and improve awareness over time.
Pros
- Extensive library of over 1,000 pre-built phishing templates
- Intuitive drag-and-drop campaign builder
- Robust analytics and automated reporting dashboards
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for larger organizations
- Limited third-party integrations
- Some advanced customization requires higher tiers
Best For
Mid-sized businesses and security teams needing an easy-to-use platform for regular phishing simulations and employee training.
Pricing
Starts at $1,995/year for up to 500 users (Starter plan); Pro at $5,995/year for up to 2,500 users; custom Enterprise pricing.
Keepnet Labs
enterpriseIntegrated phishing simulation and training platform with spear-phishing tests, Vishing, and risk scoring.
Hyper-realistic AI-driven phishing simulations with adaptive attack paths
Keepnet Labs offers a robust phishing simulation platform designed to test and train employees against phishing attacks through hyper-realistic email campaigns and customizable scenarios. It integrates security awareness training with detailed reporting, analytics, and adaptive learning paths to strengthen organizational defenses. The tool supports multi-language simulations and provides real-time dashboards for tracking progress and vulnerabilities.
Pros
- Extensive library of over 1,000 customizable phishing templates
- Real-time analytics and automated remediation training
- Multi-language support for global teams
Cons
- Enterprise-focused pricing lacks transparency for SMBs
- Fewer native integrations than top competitors
- Steeper learning curve for advanced campaign customization
Best For
Mid-sized enterprises seeking an integrated phishing simulation and awareness training platform with strong reporting capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing upon request; modular subscriptions typically range from $2-5 per user/month depending on features and scale.
Conclusion
The top tools in phishing testing software excel in different areas, with KnowBe4 leading as the best choice due to its comprehensive simulation campaigns and integrated training. GoPhish stands out as a flexible open-source option, and Proofpoint impresses with advanced enterprise analytics. All three offer powerful solutions, catering to diverse organizational needs.
Take the first step toward stronger security—explore KnowBe4 and equip your team to recognize and resist phishing threats.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison