Quick Overview
- 1#1: Malwarebytes - Detects and eliminates spyware, adware, ransomware, and other malware threats with real-time protection.
- 2#2: Emsisoft Anti-Malware - Uses dual-scanner technology to remove spyware, trojans, and behavioral threats effectively.
- 3#3: SuperAntiSpyware - Specializes in scanning and removing spyware, adware, dialers, and keyloggers from systems.
- 4#4: Spybot Search & Destroy - Identifies and removes spyware while offering immunization to block known threats proactively.
- 5#5: HitmanPro - Cloud-based scanner that finds and removes spyware and rootkits as a second-opinion tool.
- 6#6: Zemana AntiMalware - Portable scanner that targets zero-day spyware, trojans, and browser hijackers quickly.
- 7#7: GridinSoft Anti-Malware - Fast full-system scan removes spyware, adware, and persistent threats with minimal system impact.
- 8#8: IObit Malware Fighter - Dual-core anti-malware engine detects and cleans spyware, ransomware, and browser threats.
- 9#9: SpyHunter - Advanced spyware removal tool with custom malware definitions and system optimization.
- 10#10: AdwCleaner - Lightweight tool focused on removing adware, spyware, and potentially unwanted programs.
We evaluated tools based on threat detection capabilities, scan efficiency, user-friendliness, and value, prioritizing those that balance advanced features (like dual scanning) with accessibility for all users.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores top spyware remover software like Malwarebytes, Emsisoft Anti-Malware, SuperAntiSpyware, Spybot Search & Destroy, HitmanPro, and more, helping readers understand key features and suitability to find their ideal tool.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Malwarebytes Detects and eliminates spyware, adware, ransomware, and other malware threats with real-time protection. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Emsisoft Anti-Malware Uses dual-scanner technology to remove spyware, trojans, and behavioral threats effectively. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | SuperAntiSpyware Specializes in scanning and removing spyware, adware, dialers, and keyloggers from systems. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Spybot Search & Destroy Identifies and removes spyware while offering immunization to block known threats proactively. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.9/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 5 | HitmanPro Cloud-based scanner that finds and removes spyware and rootkits as a second-opinion tool. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Zemana AntiMalware Portable scanner that targets zero-day spyware, trojans, and browser hijackers quickly. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | GridinSoft Anti-Malware Fast full-system scan removes spyware, adware, and persistent threats with minimal system impact. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 8 | IObit Malware Fighter Dual-core anti-malware engine detects and cleans spyware, ransomware, and browser threats. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 9 | SpyHunter Advanced spyware removal tool with custom malware definitions and system optimization. | specialized | 6.7/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.3/10 | 5.4/10 |
| 10 | AdwCleaner Lightweight tool focused on removing adware, spyware, and potentially unwanted programs. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 10/10 |
Detects and eliminates spyware, adware, ransomware, and other malware threats with real-time protection.
Uses dual-scanner technology to remove spyware, trojans, and behavioral threats effectively.
Specializes in scanning and removing spyware, adware, dialers, and keyloggers from systems.
Identifies and removes spyware while offering immunization to block known threats proactively.
Cloud-based scanner that finds and removes spyware and rootkits as a second-opinion tool.
Portable scanner that targets zero-day spyware, trojans, and browser hijackers quickly.
Fast full-system scan removes spyware, adware, and persistent threats with minimal system impact.
Dual-core anti-malware engine detects and cleans spyware, ransomware, and browser threats.
Advanced spyware removal tool with custom malware definitions and system optimization.
Lightweight tool focused on removing adware, spyware, and potentially unwanted programs.
Malwarebytes
specializedDetects and eliminates spyware, adware, ransomware, and other malware threats with real-time protection.
Proprietary remediation engine that traces and eliminates spyware rootkits and hidden payloads missed by standard scanners
Malwarebytes is a top-tier anti-malware tool renowned for its exceptional detection and removal of spyware, adware, trojans, and other malicious threats that often evade traditional antivirus software. It provides a free on-demand scanner for manual cleanups and a premium version with real-time protection, browser guard, and exploit prevention. Ideal for both novice and advanced users, it excels at remediating stubborn infections through its advanced heuristics and behavioral analysis.
Pros
- Outstanding spyware detection and removal rates, often outperforming competitors
- Lightning-fast scans with minimal system impact
- Intuitive interface suitable for all skill levels
Cons
- Real-time protection and advanced features locked behind premium subscription
- Free version lacks automated scanning and ongoing protection
- Full scans can be resource-intensive on older hardware
Best For
Users needing a reliable, powerful tool for thorough spyware cleanup on infected Windows or Mac systems.
Pricing
Free version for on-demand scans; Premium starts at $44.99 first year ($39.99 renewal) for 1 device, with family plans up to $79.99/year.
Emsisoft Anti-Malware
specializedUses dual-scanner technology to remove spyware, trojans, and behavioral threats effectively.
Behavior Blocker, which monitors and blocks suspicious application behaviors in real-time to stop spyware and zero-day threats before they can infect.
Emsisoft Anti-Malware is a lightweight yet powerful security tool specializing in malware detection and removal, with a strong emphasis on spyware, trojans, and ransomware using a dual-engine scanner combining its proprietary technology with Bitdefender. It provides real-time behavior-based protection via its innovative Behavior Blocker, which prevents unknown threats from executing. The software excels in thorough scans and cleanup, making it highly effective for spyware removal while maintaining low system resource usage.
Pros
- Exceptional spyware and malware detection rates with low false positives
- Lightweight performance with minimal impact on system speed
- Advanced Behavior Blocker for proactive zero-day threat protection
Cons
- No perpetual license option, subscription-based only
- Lacks some extras like VPN or password manager found in full suites
- Primarily optimized for Windows, limited cross-platform support
Best For
Tech-savvy users and small businesses needing efficient, no-nonsense spyware removal and real-time malware protection without heavy resource usage.
Pricing
Home edition starts at $29.99 for the first year (renews at $59.99/year); business plans from $19.50/user/year; 30-day free trial available.
SuperAntiSpyware
specializedSpecializes in scanning and removing spyware, adware, dialers, and keyloggers from systems.
Proprietary multi-layered scanning engine optimized for tough-to-detect spyware and trojans
SuperAntiSpyware is a specialized anti-spyware tool focused on detecting and removing spyware, adware, trojans, worms, and other potentially unwanted programs from Windows PCs. It offers scan modes including quick, complete, and custom scans, with the ability to quarantine threats for safe removal. The free version provides on-demand scanning, while the Pro edition adds real-time protection, automatic updates, and scheduled scans for ongoing defense.
Pros
- Excellent detection rates for spyware and adware
- Lightweight with fast scan times
- Free version sufficient for occasional use
Cons
- Dated and clunky user interface
- Limited scope beyond spyware (not a full antivirus)
- No mobile app or cross-platform support
Best For
Users needing a targeted spyware remover to supplement their main antivirus software.
Pricing
Free edition available; Pro version $29.99/year for 1 PC (discounts for multi-year/multi-PC).
Spybot Search & Destroy
specializedIdentifies and removes spyware while offering immunization to block known threats proactively.
Immunization technology that blocks spyware sites and registry entries before infection
Spybot Search & Destroy is a veteran anti-spyware tool from Safer-Networking.org that specializes in detecting, removing, and preventing spyware, adware, and tracking cookies. It features comprehensive scanning modes, a unique immunization system to block known threats proactively, and additional tools like rootkit detection and secure file deletion. Primarily free for personal use, it offers optional paid upgrades for real-time protection and advanced features, making it a niche choice for targeted spyware defense.
Pros
- Powerful immunization prevents spyware proactively
- Strong detection for legacy and privacy threats
- Free version is fully functional for basic needs
Cons
- Dated, clunky user interface
- Slower scan times compared to modern tools
- Limited real-time protection without paid upgrade
Best For
Budget-conscious users needing specialized spyware removal and prevention without full antivirus overhead.
Pricing
Free for core features; Spybot +AV Professional subscription from €24.95/year for real-time protection and extras.
HitmanPro
specializedCloud-based scanner that finds and removes spyware and rootkits as a second-opinion tool.
Cloud-assisted multi-engine detection combining Sophos, Bitdefender, and others for superior spyware identification
HitmanPro is a lightweight, on-demand malware scanner developed by Sophos, specializing in detecting and removing spyware, adware, trojans, and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) that often slip past primary antivirus solutions. It leverages cloud-based scanning with multiple antivirus engines and behavioral analysis for high detection rates without requiring installation. Ideal as a second-opinion tool, it performs quick scans and offers automated removal with minimal user intervention.
Pros
- Exceptional detection of spyware and PUPs using cloud-based multi-engine scanning
- Very fast scan times, often under 5 minutes
- Portable version available with no installation required
Cons
- Lacks real-time protection; on-demand only
- Subscription required after 30-day trial
- Limited customization options for advanced users
Best For
Users seeking a reliable second-opinion scanner to complement their existing antivirus for thorough spyware cleanup.
Pricing
Free 30-day trial; $24.95/year for 1 PC, $39.95/year for 3 PCs, with volume discounts available.
Zemana AntiMalware
specializedPortable scanner that targets zero-day spyware, trojans, and browser hijackers quickly.
Cloud-based multi-engine scanning for superior zero-day spyware detection
Zemana AntiMalware is a lightweight, on-demand scanner specializing in detecting and removing spyware, trojans, ransomware, adware, and other malware threats. It uses cloud-based multi-engine scanning powered by engines from leading antivirus vendors for fast, accurate detection with minimal system impact. The free version provides robust scan capabilities, while the premium edition adds real-time protection and browser cleanup tools.
Pros
- Extremely fast cloud-based scans with low system resource usage
- High detection rates for spyware and zero-day threats with few false positives
- Simple, intuitive interface suitable for all users
Cons
- Free version lacks real-time protection
- Not a complete antivirus replacement, best as a secondary tool
- Limited advanced customization options
Best For
Users seeking a quick, reliable secondary scanner for spyware removal alongside their primary antivirus.
Pricing
Free version available; Premium subscription at $29.99/year for 1 PC or $49.99/year for 3 PCs.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware
specializedFast full-system scan removes spyware, adware, and persistent threats with minimal system impact.
Ultra-fast scanning engine that detects over 500,000 threat signatures in record time without compromising accuracy
GridinSoft Anti-Malware is a robust security solution focused on detecting and eliminating spyware, trojans, adware, ransomware, and other malware threats from Windows systems. It excels in performing quick, thorough scans that identify even hidden infections, with tools for both standard and deep cleaning modes. While the free version allows scanning and basic removal, premium features unlock real-time protection and automatic updates for ongoing defense.
Pros
- Lightning-fast scan times, often completing full system checks in minutes
- High detection rates for spyware and persistent threats that evade other tools
- Intuitive interface suitable for non-technical users
Cons
- Full removal and real-time protection locked behind paid subscription
- Can generate occasional false positives on legitimate files
- Resource-intensive during scans on lower-end hardware
Best For
Users dealing with stubborn spyware infections who need a quick, reliable cleanup tool without advanced configuration.
Pricing
Free scan and limited removal; premium plans start at $39.95/year for 1 PC, up to $119.95/year for 10 PCs.
IObit Malware Fighter
specializedDual-core anti-malware engine detects and cleans spyware, ransomware, and browser threats.
Dual-core engine combining IObit and BitDefender technologies for enhanced threat detection accuracy
IObit Malware Fighter is an anti-malware tool specializing in detecting and removing spyware, trojans, ransomware, and other malicious threats using a dual-engine approach. It provides quick, full, and custom scan modes, real-time protection in the PRO version, and extras like browser guard and privacy tools. While effective as a secondary scanner, it pairs best with a primary antivirus for comprehensive security.
Pros
- Dual-engine scanning (IObit + BitDefender) improves spyware detection rates
- Clean, intuitive interface suitable for beginners
- Free version offers robust basic scanning and removal
Cons
- Frequent PRO version upsells can be intrusive
- Higher CPU and memory usage during scans
- Limited effectiveness as a standalone primary security solution
Best For
Budget-conscious users seeking a free or low-cost secondary scanner to supplement their main antivirus against spyware.
Pricing
Free version available; PRO at $19.95/year for 1 PC, $49.95/year for 3 PCs, with multi-year discounts.
SpyHunter
specializedAdvanced spyware removal tool with custom malware definitions and system optimization.
SpyHunter HelpDesk: Submit scan logs for custom, expert-analyzed removal instructions
SpyHunter is an anti-malware tool from Enigma Software Group focused on detecting and removing spyware, adware, trojans, and other potentially unwanted programs on Windows systems. It provides on-demand scans, real-time protection, and tools for quarantine and removal, along with system optimization features. The software emphasizes custom malware fixes through its HelpDesk support service for stubborn infections.
Pros
- Strong detection for spyware and PUPs
- User-friendly interface with guided scans
- HelpDesk for personalized removal support
Cons
- Subscription auto-renews without easy opt-out
- Aggressive upsell prompts during scans
- Limited free version; full features require payment
Best For
Windows users struggling with persistent spyware infections needing expert-assisted removal.
Pricing
$42.99/year for 1 PC; $79.99/year for 3 PCs; 15-day money-back guarantee.
AdwCleaner
specializedLightweight tool focused on removing adware, spyware, and potentially unwanted programs.
Automatic system restore point creation before any cleaning to allow easy rollback if issues arise
AdwCleaner, developed by Malwarebytes, is a free, portable utility specialized in detecting and removing adware, potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), browser hijackers, and toolbars. It performs quick scans and provides thorough cleaning with minimal user intervention, often creating a system restore point beforehand for safety. While not a full antivirus solution, it excels in targeted cleanup for spyware and adware infections.
Pros
- Completely free with no premium upsell
- Extremely fast scans and cleaning process
- Portable—no installation required
Cons
- No real-time protection or scheduled scans
- Limited to adware/PUPs, not broad malware
- Basic interface lacks advanced customization
Best For
Users needing quick, occasional cleanup of browser hijackers and adware without a full security suite.
Pricing
Free to download and use indefinitely.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools showcase robust performance in combating spyware, with Malwarebytes leading as the top choice for its broad detection and real-time protection across various threats. Emsisoft Anti-Malware stands out with dual-scanner technology for effective removal of tough threats, while SuperAntiSpyware excels in targeting specific issues like keyloggers and dialers, making it a strong pick for specialized needs. Each tool proves invaluable, but Malwarebytes consistently rises above as the most reliable option.
Take control of your digital safety—begin with Malwarebytes to secure your system, block spyware, and ensure uninterrupted performance.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison