Quick Overview
- 1#1: TLOxp - Provides access to billions of records for skip tracing, background checks, criminal records, and asset searches tailored for investigators.
- 2#2: LexisNexis Accurint - Delivers comprehensive public records, identity verification, and investigative data aggregation for law enforcement and private investigators.
- 3#3: Tracers - Offers fast, affordable people searches with extensive public records including relatives, associates, and contact information.
- 4#4: IRBPro - Specialized skip tracing platform with high-accuracy identity resolution and data from multiple proprietary sources.
- 5#5: Maltego - Performs link analysis and OSINT data visualization to uncover relationships and patterns in investigations.
- 6#6: Cellebrite - Extracts and analyzes data from mobile devices for digital forensics and evidence collection.
- 7#7: Magnet AXIOM - All-in-one digital forensics software for processing computers, mobiles, and cloud data in investigations.
- 8#8: CaseFleet - Streamlines case management with timelines, evidence organization, and collaboration for investigators.
- 9#9: SkipSmasher - Locates hard-to-find individuals using advanced skip tracing algorithms and multi-source data.
- 10#10: PInow - Cloud-based case management system designed specifically for private investigators to track cases and expenses.
Tools were ranked by evaluating core features, data accuracy, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring a balanced assessment that reflects both technical excellence and practical value for investigative professionals.
Comparison Table
For private investigators aiming to enhance investigation efficiency, this comparison table examines top software tools like TLOxp, LexisNexis Accurint, Tracers, IRBPro, Maltego, and more. It details core features, real-world uses, and key advantages to guide users in selecting the best fit for their case requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TLOxp Provides access to billions of records for skip tracing, background checks, criminal records, and asset searches tailored for investigators. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 2 | LexisNexis Accurint Delivers comprehensive public records, identity verification, and investigative data aggregation for law enforcement and private investigators. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 3 | Tracers Offers fast, affordable people searches with extensive public records including relatives, associates, and contact information. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | IRBPro Specialized skip tracing platform with high-accuracy identity resolution and data from multiple proprietary sources. | specialized | 1.5/10 | 0.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 0.5/10 |
| 5 | Maltego Performs link analysis and OSINT data visualization to uncover relationships and patterns in investigations. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Cellebrite Extracts and analyzes data from mobile devices for digital forensics and evidence collection. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | Magnet AXIOM All-in-one digital forensics software for processing computers, mobiles, and cloud data in investigations. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | CaseFleet Streamlines case management with timelines, evidence organization, and collaboration for investigators. | enterprise | 7.1/10 | 7.3/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 |
| 9 | SkipSmasher Locates hard-to-find individuals using advanced skip tracing algorithms and multi-source data. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 10 | PInow Cloud-based case management system designed specifically for private investigators to track cases and expenses. | enterprise | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.5/10 |
Provides access to billions of records for skip tracing, background checks, criminal records, and asset searches tailored for investigators.
Delivers comprehensive public records, identity verification, and investigative data aggregation for law enforcement and private investigators.
Offers fast, affordable people searches with extensive public records including relatives, associates, and contact information.
Specialized skip tracing platform with high-accuracy identity resolution and data from multiple proprietary sources.
Performs link analysis and OSINT data visualization to uncover relationships and patterns in investigations.
Extracts and analyzes data from mobile devices for digital forensics and evidence collection.
All-in-one digital forensics software for processing computers, mobiles, and cloud data in investigations.
Streamlines case management with timelines, evidence organization, and collaboration for investigators.
Locates hard-to-find individuals using advanced skip tracing algorithms and multi-source data.
Cloud-based case management system designed specifically for private investigators to track cases and expenses.
TLOxp
specializedProvides access to billions of records for skip tracing, background checks, criminal records, and asset searches tailored for investigators.
Proprietary QuickHits technology that instantly links disparate data points for superior skip tracing accuracy
TLOxp is a premier investigative platform from TransUnion, offering private investigators access to over 2 billion records across public sources, credit headers, and proprietary databases for skip tracing, people searches, asset locates, and background checks. It enables rapid cross-referencing of names, addresses, phone numbers, relatives, criminal records, and more to support casework efficiently. Renowned in the PI community for its depth and speed, it's a go-to tool for professionals handling complex investigations.
Pros
- Vast database with billions of records from 2,000+ sources for unmatched skip tracing
- Real-time results with advanced linking and cross-referencing tools
- Robust compliance features including audit trails and FCRA adherence
Cons
- High cost for full access and subscriptions
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Data accuracy dependent on source quality, occasional false positives
Best For
Private investigators and skip tracers requiring comprehensive, real-time access to hard-to-find personal and asset data for high-stakes cases.
Pricing
Subscription-based with tiered plans starting at ~$200/month for basic access, scaling to enterprise levels with per-search options; custom quotes required.
LexisNexis Accurint
enterpriseDelivers comprehensive public records, identity verification, and investigative data aggregation for law enforcement and private investigators.
Multi-jurisdictional link analysis that reveals hidden connections across people, assets, and criminal records in real-time
LexisNexis Accurint is a comprehensive investigative platform designed for private investigators, law enforcement, and risk professionals, providing access to billions of records across public, proprietary, and alternative data sources. It excels in people searches, asset location, criminal records, vehicle tracking, and link analysis to uncover hidden relationships and support skip tracing or background investigations. With advanced tools like batch processing and geospatial mapping, it streamlines complex investigations while ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations.
Pros
- Extensive database aggregation from over 10,000 sources for unparalleled coverage
- Advanced analytics including link analysis and risk scoring for deeper insights
- Robust compliance tools and high data accuracy with frequent updates
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface requiring training
- High subscription costs prohibitive for solo investigators
- Limited free trial and pricing opacity without sales contact
Best For
Established private investigation firms or agencies handling high-volume, complex cases that demand comprehensive data intelligence.
Pricing
Subscription-based, typically $300-$1,000+ per month depending on user tier and volume, with custom enterprise pricing available upon request.
Tracers
specializedOffers fast, affordable people searches with extensive public records including relatives, associates, and contact information.
Tracers Universe, a proprietary database aggregating 4.5+ billion records from 3,000+ sources for unparalleled skip tracing accuracy
Tracers is a powerful web-based platform tailored for private investigators, providing instant access to over 4.5 billion public records for skip tracing, background investigations, and asset searches. It aggregates data from thousands of sources, delivering comprehensive reports on individuals' relatives, associates, properties, vehicles, phone numbers, emails, and criminal histories. The tool excels in real-time nationwide searches, helping PIs locate hard-to-find subjects efficiently.
Pros
- Massive database with billions of records for unmatched coverage
- Lightning-fast search results and detailed, printable reports
- Built-in compliance tools and FCRA-certified searches
Cons
- Subscription pricing can be steep for solo investigators
- Occasional data gaps in rural or international areas
- Learning curve for advanced filtering options
Best For
Private investigators and skip tracers handling high-volume domestic cases who require rapid, reliable public records access.
Pricing
Monthly subscriptions start at $95 for basic access, scaling to $295+ for unlimited searches; pay-per-search options available from $0.50/report.
IRBPro
specializedSpecialized skip tracing platform with high-accuracy identity resolution and data from multiple proprietary sources.
End-to-end electronic IRB submission and review workflow automation
IRBPro is a cloud-based platform designed specifically for Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) to manage research ethics protocols, electronic submissions, reviewer workflows, and compliance reporting in academic and clinical research settings. It provides tools for document management, meeting scheduling, and regulatory tracking to streamline human subjects research oversight. However, it offers no capabilities relevant to private investigators, such as case management, surveillance logging, background checks, or client billing.
Pros
- Secure cloud-based document storage
- Automated workflows for compliance processes
- User-friendly interface for its intended research purpose
Cons
- Zero features for private investigation tasks like case tracking or surveillance
- Irrelevant to PI needs such as database searches or report generation
- High cost with no value for non-research users
Best For
Research institutions and universities managing IRB ethics reviews, not private investigators.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, often starting at $5,000+ annually based on user count and features; contact for quote.
Maltego
specializedPerforms link analysis and OSINT data visualization to uncover relationships and patterns in investigations.
The Transform Hub, enabling automated data enrichment from 100+ public/private sources directly onto interactive graphs
Maltego is a leading open-source intelligence (OSINT) and link analysis platform that visualizes relationships between entities like people, domains, IPs, and organizations through interactive graphs. It uses customizable 'transforms' to automatically gather and enrich data from public sources, making it ideal for mapping complex networks in investigations. Private investigators leverage it for background checks, fraud detection, cyber threat hunting, and competitive intelligence by revealing hidden connections that traditional searches miss.
Pros
- Powerful graph-based visualization for uncovering hidden relationships
- Extensive library of free and paid transforms for OSINT data collection
- Free Community Edition available for basic use
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and transform setup
- Full functionality requires paid commercial licenses
- Resource-heavy on lower-end hardware during large investigations
Best For
Private investigators focused on OSINT, digital forensics, and network analysis who need to visualize intricate entity relationships.
Pricing
Free Community Edition; commercial plans start at ~$600/year for Maltego One (basic transforms), up to $3,000+/year for full enterprise access with unlimited transforms.
Cellebrite
specializedExtracts and analyzes data from mobile devices for digital forensics and evidence collection.
Universal support for extracting data from locked/encrypted devices across virtually all mobile platforms using proprietary bypass technology
Cellebrite is a premier digital intelligence platform specializing in mobile forensics, with its flagship UFED (Universal Forensic Extraction Device) enabling comprehensive data extraction from over 30,000 device models worldwide. It supports advanced techniques like physical, logical, and file system extractions, even from locked or encrypted devices, alongside cloud acquisition via UFED Cloud. The suite includes Pathfinder for AI-powered analytics, decoding, and visualization, ideal for uncovering hidden evidence in investigations.
Pros
- Extensive device compatibility and advanced extraction methods including bypass for locked devices
- Powerful analytics with AI-driven insights and decoding of proprietary apps
- Robust chain-of-custody and reporting tools for evidentiary integrity
Cons
- Prohibitively expensive for individual PIs with custom enterprise pricing
- Steep learning curve requiring formal training and certification
- Hardware dependencies and potential legal restrictions for non-LE users
Best For
Professional private investigators focused on high-stakes digital forensics cases involving mobile and cloud data extraction.
Pricing
Enterprise-level custom pricing; annual subscriptions typically $10,000–$50,000+ depending on modules, with additional hardware and training costs.
Magnet AXIOM
specializedAll-in-one digital forensics software for processing computers, mobiles, and cloud data in investigations.
Unified case management that processes and analyzes evidence from all sources into a single interactive timeline view
Magnet AXIOM is a powerful digital forensics suite from Magnet Forensics that enables investigators to acquire, process, analyze, and report on evidence from computers, mobile devices, cloud sources, and more. It supports over 1,000 file formats and artifacts, offering advanced timeline reconstruction, keyword searching, and AI-driven categorization to streamline investigations. Primarily designed for law enforcement and corporate forensics, it provides private investigators with professional-grade tools for digital evidence handling.
Pros
- Exceptional artifact parsing and support for vast data sources including mobiles, PCs, and cloud
- Integrated timeline and Magnet.AI for efficient evidence correlation and automation
- Robust reporting and collaboration features for case sharing
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring forensics training
- High cost prohibitive for solo or small PI firms
- Resource-heavy, demanding powerful hardware
Best For
Experienced private investigators or firms specializing in complex cyber and digital evidence cases.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing starting at $5,000+ annually per user/seat; volume discounts and quotes required via sales.
CaseFleet
enterpriseStreamlines case management with timelines, evidence organization, and collaboration for investigators.
Interactive timeline visualization that automatically generates chronologies from evidence uploads
CaseFleet is a cloud-based case management platform primarily designed for litigators and legal teams, enabling users to organize documents, build interactive timelines, and collaborate on cases. It excels at extracting key dates from uploaded files like PDFs and emails to create visual chronologies, making it useful for structuring investigative narratives. For private investigators, it provides solid evidence organization and search capabilities but lacks specialized tools for surveillance logging, background checks, or PI-specific reporting. Overall, it's adaptable for PIs handling complex cases with heavy documentation needs.
Pros
- Powerful interactive timeline builder that auto-extracts dates from documents
- Robust document management with tagging and full-text search
- Strong collaboration features for teams sharing case details
Cons
- Lacks PI-specific tools like surveillance time tracking or database integrations
- Pricing is geared toward law firms, less ideal for solo investigators
- Limited customization for non-legal investigative workflows
Best For
Private investigators working on litigation-support cases who need advanced chronology tools and document organization.
Pricing
Solo plan at $59/user/month; Team at $99/user/month; Enterprise custom pricing with annual discounts available.
SkipSmasher
specializedLocates hard-to-find individuals using advanced skip tracing algorithms and multi-source data.
Bulk skip tracing processor that handles up to 10,000 records at once with automated de-duping
SkipSmasher is a web-based skip tracing tool tailored for private investigators, process servers, and debt collectors, enabling users to locate individuals using names, phones, or addresses. It aggregates data from public records, utilities, and other sources to deliver current contact information, relatives, and associates. The platform supports single searches and bulk processing, making it suitable for high-volume investigations.
Pros
- Cost-effective per-search pricing
- Fast results with bulk upload support
- User-friendly interface for quick lookups
Cons
- Limited depth in data sources compared to premium tools
- No native mobile app or advanced analytics
- Hit rates can vary for obscure subjects
Best For
Solo private investigators or small agencies seeking affordable, straightforward skip tracing for routine cases.
Pricing
Credit-based: $0.19-$0.49 per search depending on type and volume; subscriptions from $49/month for 250 credits.
PInow
enterpriseCloud-based case management system designed specifically for private investigators to track cases and expenses.
Instant multi-jurisdictional criminal record searches compiled from over 300 million records in seconds
PInow (pinow.com) is an online database service tailored for private investigators, offering instant access to public records including criminal histories, background checks, people searches, and property records. It aggregates data from nationwide sources to generate quick, downloadable reports for skip tracing, pre-employment screening, and asset searches. While not a full case management suite, it excels in rapid data retrieval for preliminary investigations.
Pros
- Lightning-fast report generation under 60 seconds
- Broad coverage of U.S. public records and databases
- Simple, intuitive web interface with no steep learning curve
Cons
- Pay-per-report pricing escalates costs for heavy users
- No built-in case management, billing, or CRM tools
- Data accuracy varies due to reliance on public records
Best For
Solo private investigators or small firms needing quick, on-demand background checks and skip tracing without full software suites.
Pricing
Pay-per-search/credit model: $0.95-$2.95 for basic searches, $19.95-$39.95 for comprehensive criminal/background reports; no subscriptions.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools highlight specialized solutions that elevate investigative work, with TLOxp leading as the top choice due to its access to billions of records—including skip tracing, criminal, and asset data—tailored for investigators. LexisNexis Accurint shines with comprehensive public records and identity verification, while Tracers offers fast, affordable people searches, making them strong alternatives based on specific needs. Together, these tools illustrate how technology strengthens efficiency and insight in investigations.
Take the next step in enhancing your work—explore TLOxp to leverage its robust record capabilities and streamline your case management.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison