Alternatives to Spybot - Search & Destroy

A long-running Windows anti-spyware and anti-malware scanner sold in several editions. The listings below can replace it for an important use case. Each note says what changes if you switch.

Replacements

Listings that take over the same core job as Spybot - Search & Destroy.

  • SUPERAntiSpyware

    Windows scanner that detects and removes spyware, adware and other malware.

    FreemiumProprietaryWindows

    SUPERAntiSpyware offers free on-demand scanning for spyware and adware on Windows, with real-time protection only in its paid edition.

  • Malwarebytes

    An anti-malware scanner with real-time protection, VPN and scam detection for computers and phones.

    FreemiumProprietaryWindowsmacOSAndroidiOS

    Malwarebytes adds macOS, Android and iOS coverage plus a VPN and scam detection, with most protection features behind a paid plan.

  • AdwCleaner

    Free on-demand Windows scanner that removes adware, PUPs and browser hijackers.

    FreeProprietaryWindows

    AdwCleaner is a free, install-free Windows cleaner for adware, PUPs and browser hijackers, but gives no real-time protection.

  • HitmanPro

    A Windows malware scanner and removal tool meant as a second opinion alongside existing antivirus.

    PaidProprietaryWindows

    HitmanPro is a paid Windows second-opinion scanner that uses cloud-assisted detection and needs an internet connection to scan.

  • Emsisoft Anti-Malware

    A Windows anti-malware program with a dual-engine scanner, real-time file protection and web protection.

    PaidProprietaryWindows

    Emsisoft Anti-Malware is paid Windows software with a dual-engine scanner, real-time File Guard and access to human removal experts.

Similar software

Related functionality, not a direct replacement.