Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

AdwCleaner VS Spybot - Search & Destroy

Compare AdwCleaner VS Spybot - Search & Destroy and see what are their differences

AdwCleaner logo AdwCleaner

AdwCleaner is a free removal tool for : Adware (ads softwares)

Spybot - Search & Destroy logo Spybot - Search & Destroy

Spybot Search & Destroy is an anti-malware, adware and antivirus program for safe removal of the threats from the PC and browser.
  • AdwCleaner Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-17
  • Spybot - Search & Destroy Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-04-03

AdwCleaner features and specs

  • Efficiency
    AdwCleaner is highly effective at detecting and removing adware, potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), browser toolbars, and other types of unwanted software.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The software features a simplistic and intuitive interface that makes it easy for users of all experience levels to navigate and use.
  • Lightweight
    AdwCleaner is a lightweight tool that does not require installation, meaning it can be run directly from the executable, consuming minimal system resources.
  • Free to Use
    The tool is available for free, making it accessible to users looking for a cost-effective way to clean up their systems from unwanted software.
  • Frequent Updates
    AdwCleaner is regularly updated to keep up with the latest threats, ensuring a higher success rate in detecting new adware and other PUPs.

Possible disadvantages of AdwCleaner

  • Limited Scope
    AdwCleaner primarily focuses on adware and PUPs, meaning it is not designed to replace more comprehensive antivirus or antimalware solutions.
  • Manual Removal
    Some detections require manual intervention to fully remove, which can be cumbersome for less technically savvy users.
  • Potential False Positives
    Occasionally, AdwCleaner may flag legitimate software as unwanted, which requires the user to carefully review the detections before removing any items.
  • Limited Customer Support
    As a free tool, AdwCleaner offers limited customer support options compared to paid security solutions, potentially leaving users without expert assistance.
  • Windows Compatibility Only
    AdwCleaner is currently only available for Windows operating systems, excluding users on macOS or Linux from utilizing this tool.

Spybot - Search & Destroy features and specs

  • Comprehensive Malware Detection
    Spybot - Search & Destroy offers robust malware detection capabilities, identifying and removing various forms of spyware and adware.
  • Immunization Feature
    The immunization feature blocks tracking cookies and malicious websites, adding an extra layer of protection to your system.
  • Advanced Tools
    Includes advanced tools such as a rootkit scanner and a secure file shredder, providing more comprehensive system protection.
  • Free Version
    Offers a free version with essential features, making it accessible for users who need basic spyware protection without cost.
  • Regular Updates
    Frequent updates ensure that the software can detect and deal with the latest spyware and malware threats effectively.

Possible disadvantages of Spybot - Search & Destroy

  • User Interface
    The user interface is somewhat outdated and can be less intuitive for new users compared to more modern anti-malware software.
  • System Performance
    The scanning process can be resource-intensive, potentially slowing down the computer during scans.
  • No Real-Time Protection in Free Version
    The free version lacks real-time protection, which means real-time detection and prevention of threats are unavailable unless you upgrade to a paid version.
  • Complexity of Advanced Features
    Some advanced features may be too complex for non-technical users to understand and use effectively, requiring a learning curve.
  • Customer Support
    Customer support for the free version is limited, which can be an issue if users need help troubleshooting problems.

Analysis of AdwCleaner

Overall verdict

  • Yes, AdwCleaner is considered a good tool for removing adware and unwanted programs.

Why this product is good

  • AdwCleaner, developed by Malwarebytes, is recognized for its effectiveness in detecting and removing adware, potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), and browser hijackers that can impact system performance and privacy. It is lightweight and easy to use, making it suitable for quick scans and cleanup of infected systems. It is also regularly updated to handle new threats.

Recommended for

  • Users who experience unwanted advertisements or browser redirects.
  • Individuals who have installed suspicious or unwanted applications.
  • System administrators seeking a quick tool for cleaning infected machines.
  • Those who want a secondary tool along with their main antivirus solution for additional layers of protection.

Analysis of Spybot - Search & Destroy

Overall verdict

  • Yes, Spybot - Search & Destroy is considered a good tool for enhancing security on individual systems, particularly for users looking to remove spyware and adware.

Why this product is good

  • Spybot - Search & Destroy is a well-regarded anti-spyware program known for its ability to effectively detect and remove various types of spyware, adware, and other malicious software. It offers features like immunization to prevent future infections, regular updates, and the ability to run scans to detect threats. The program has been around for many years, building a reputation for reliability and effectiveness.

Recommended for

  • Users who suspect their system is infected with spyware or adware.
  • Individuals looking for an additional layer of security alongside their existing antivirus software.
  • Privacy-conscious users who want to prevent unauthorized data collection.
  • Advanced users who appreciate the program's advanced tools and settings.

AdwCleaner videos

AdwCleaner Test & Review 2019 - Does It Match Up With Other Free Tools? Lets Find Out!

More videos:

  • Review - ADWcleaner review
  • Tutorial - AdwCleaner Tutorial & Review

Spybot - Search & Destroy videos

Spybot Search and Destroy 2.3 review (removal test)

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to AdwCleaner and Spybot - Search & Destroy)
Security & Privacy
49 49%
51% 51
Cyber Security
49 49%
51% 51
Antivirus
50 50%
50% 50
Malware Protection
46 46%
54% 54

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare AdwCleaner and Spybot - Search & Destroy

AdwCleaner Reviews

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Spybot - Search & Destroy Reviews

Best malware removal software 2021: free and paid anti-malware tools and services
SpyBot Search & Destroy is a veteran of the malware wars, dating back to the first adware in 2000, and while it doesn't scan for viruses – that's in the Home version – the free software does a decent job of finding and fixing adware, malware and spyware.

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, AdwCleaner should be more popular than Spybot - Search & Destroy. It has been mentiond 5 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

AdwCleaner mentions (5)

  • Help with opensubtitles removal
    From my online research, this program seem to be a PUP, try using Malwarebytes adwcleaner (https://malwarebytes.com/adwcleaner/). Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Search Engine Reroutes, nothing fixes it
    Disable all of your chrome extensions one by one to see if you can find the culprit. Run adwcleaner from Malwarebytes (https://malwarebytes.com/adwcleaner/) in the settings make sure the switch to reset the hosts file is enablee, then hitmanpro (https://www.sophos.com/en-us/free-tools/hitmanpro). Source: almost 2 years ago
  • I need some help.
    If there are none, try scanning for Malware using the ADWCleaner. Source: about 3 years ago
  • Malware/adware issue on macbook Google chrome
    Check for fishy add-ins first and uninstall them.Otherwise try Malwarebytes AdwCleaner (free). Source: about 3 years ago
  • Hi, hope you're all doing okay and still kicking. What is the best AntiVirus for a laptop?
    I only use Microsoft Defender , with good extension uBlock Origin and Poper Blocker. With adwcleaner from time to time . Source: over 3 years ago

Spybot - Search & Destroy mentions (1)

  • I'm getting massive ping spikes only on my desktop, but not on any other devices connected to the same network.
    The reason I am asking is once a friend asked which is a good anti-malware in between a conversation and I mentioned Spybot & continued with the conversation. My friend just opened spybot.com and downloaded the spybot application & that app showed that her machine was filled with malware. But despite cleaning, nothing happened. So, my friend called me & mentioned of the issue and asked me to help save the vital... Source: about 4 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing AdwCleaner and Spybot - Search & Destroy, you can also consider the following products

Malwarebytes - Malwarebytes protects you against malware, ransomware, and other advanced online threats that have made antivirus obsolete and ineffective. Free Anti-Malware & Malware .

Windows Security - Windows 10 security delivers built-in & ongoing protections you can trust: Windows Defender Antivirus, firewall, family settings, ransomware protection, real-time protection & more. Stay up to date & protected at no extra cost.

Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool - Thank you for downloading Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool.

HitmanPro - HitmanPro is an on-demand malware scanner and removal tool.

Kaspersky AntiVirus - Download the best FREE antivirus for Windows-based desktops, laptops, & tablets and get the core protection against viruses, spyware, phishing & dangerous websites.

ComboFix - Combofix is a free anti-malware program developed by sUBs for Windows computers