In certain instances, we may earn revenue when a reader makes a purchase or completes a form through our pages or on a partner’s website. We adhere to a strict The best keylogger software will let you keep a close eye on whatever your child, partner, or employee is typing on their phone. This includes all text and social media messages, passwords, and websites they are searching. Even the notes they make on their device can be seen. This can be an effective way of finding out more about tight-lipped family members if you are concerned that they’re engaging with dangerous people or content through their device. It can also prevent employees compromising your business.
The best keylogger apps can do a whole lot more than that, too, such as show someone’s call records, access their photos, and track someone’s location via GPS. I’ve been testing and writing about keylogger and monitoring apps for a while now. Below is my current shortlist of the best keylogger software out there after I scored dozens of tools on things like security, ease of installation process, features sets, and price.
- Show Full Guide
The Best Keylogger Software Ranked
- mSpy — Best keylogger software overall with loads of extra features
- Spynger — Best keylogger software to catch a cheating partner
- uMobix — Best keylogger software for parents
- SpyBubble Pro — Best keylogger for discreetly monitoring employees
- Phonsee — Best keylogger software for beginners
- Eyezy — Best budget-friendly keylogger software
What is Keylogger Software?
Keylogger or keystroke monitoring software, is designed to record all keystrokes entered on the target device, be it a phone, tablet, or laptop. This means it lets you see things such as passwords, online searches, or things that were written then deleted. Anything that can be typed out should be visible if a keylogger is installed on the device.
Its uses extend beyond parental control; it can also discreetly oversee remote employees, ensuring they adhere to company policies and maintain productivity, which is increasingly important with the rise of remote work. Keyloggers can also help gamers optimize gameplay by analyzing typing patterns and strategies, allowing gamers to refine their skills and improve performance. I write more about the different use cases below.
If you’re an employer, typically, most remote monitoring or employee tracking software will come with a keylogger. For further recommendations, check out our complete guide to the best employee monitoring tools.
How Does Keylogger Software Work?
Keyloggers work by running in the background of the monitored phone, capturing every key pressed by the user, including passwords, messages, and other sensitive information. They work in different ways: some record the keystrokes and save them to a file, which is then sent to your dashboard for viewing. Some hardware keyloggers work by being physically attached to keyboards (that is not the case for any on this article’s list).
Most modern keyloggers do the former: they upload recorded data to a cloud service, allowing remote monitoring and access via an online dashboard and capturing extra details like social media interactions, screenshots, audio, camera footage, and call logs. They often come as part of the more comprehensive best spy apps, and so can provide a 360-degrees view of what the monitored person is doing.
Some keystroke logger tools are stealthy and designed to evade detection, making them effective tools for monitoring your child’s device or someone’s phone without being disruptive. That said, you will require physical access to the target device to install a keylogger in most cases. This shouldn’t be an issue if you are seeking the consent of the device owner, as is the law in most states and regions.
The Top Keylogger Software Reviewed
Some keylogger software masquerades as a legitimate product, but in reality monitors the user’s activity and steals data. To keep you safe, I’ve done the research to ensure that these providers keep your data secure. Here are my reviews of the top apps:
1. mSpy — Best Keylogger Software Overall With Loads of Extra Features
| Starting Price | $11.67/month (annually) |
|---|---|
| No. of Devices | 1 |
| Free Trial/Demo | Demo |
| Compatibility | iOS, Android |
| Money-back Guarantee | 14-day refund window |
Why We Picked It
mSpy is so much more than just a keylogger, which is why it’s at the top of this list for any type of user, whether that be a concerned parent or someone who suspects their partner might be cheating on them. It also features screen recording, remote access to another person’s camera and microphone, as well as app-blocking tools.
Features
mSpy gives you a simple breakdown of each keylogging record via its user-friendly dashboard. You can easily see what someone has recently typed and which app or browser they used. If you want to dig a bit deeper, mSpy filters and fields let you focus your search.
Screen recording lets you get more context for troubling text. You can get regular screenshots of someone’s activity beyond just what they’re typing, to see whether you’re overreacting or have justifiable concerns. mSpy helps you monitor a variety of popular apps, including WhatsApp.
mSpy’s GPS location tracker also ensures you know exactly where the person you are tracking is at any given time, and allows you to geofence a location. This means you can know if your partner leaves work, whether you kid moves from school grounds, or if your employee is no longer where they are supposed to be working.
Probably my favourite feature, though, is mSpy’s remote access to another person’s phone or camera, which means you can listen to what’s going on around them, as well as view whatever their phone’s camera can see. That functionality alone is likely to confirm once and for all whether your child is being bullied, or if your other half is meeting up with someone you don’t want them to.
If you’re worried about what your child, partner or employee is looking at online, mSpy’s robust blocking feature lets you remove their access to individual apps and websites, or even the entire internet.
Pricing Plans
mSpy doesn’t offer a free plan, but you get a live demo to try out its features and see how the dashboard works.
| Duration | mSpy Pricing |
|---|---|
| 1 Month | $48.99 |
| 3 Months | $28/month |
| 12 Months | $11.67/month |
mSpy offers significant discounts the longer you subscribe but the above prices are just for the first time you subscribe. After your plan renews, the price does increase somewhat, so it makes sense to buy the one-year plan if you’re looking to maximize your savings.
mSpy offers a 14-day refund policy, depending on your circumstances. Generally speaking, this is contingent on app fault and does not apply to user error or device incompatibility.
Who It’s Best For
mSpy ticks all the boxes, whether you’re looking to ensure your kid’s online safety, or you’re seeking the truth over what your partner is doing online. It’s also ideal for employers who want to monitor the use of company-owned devices, allowing you to block time-wasting or inappropriate websites.
Read our full mSpy review.
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Option to track up to three devices
- Robust app blocking feature
- Support for monitoring more than 12 social media and chat apps
- Possible to switch devices on the same plan
Cons
- Complex installation process for iOS
- Limited to one device per subscription
2. Spynger — Best Keylogger Software to Catch a Cheating Partner
| Starting Price | $9.28/month (annually) |
|---|---|
| No. of Devices | 1 |
| Free Trial/Demo | ❌ |
| Compatibility | iOS, Android |
| Money-back Guarantee | 30-day money-back guarantee |
Why We Picked It
Spynger understands that guilty partners may tamper with their devices if they realize you’re watching them. It has a range of features to complement its keylogging tool and is geared towards tracking spouses and partners.
Features
When dealing with a secretive partner, you may need to be on constant high alert. You might not be able to wait to read daily keylogging records. Spynger helps you immediately detect concerning behavior with its blacklisted word tool. Just input a list of terms related to the issue and receive a notification if your partner types any of them.
You don’t have to worry about losing track of their activity, either. Spynger includes support for over 16 popular social media apps, including Viber and Telegram. It can also monitor all the popular dating apps, including Tinder and Hinge. Many alternatives, like SpyBubble Pro, only cover the basics.
Suppose the user notices you monitoring them and tries to hide their illicit activities. You can read altered or deleted text, so it’s impossible for them to cover their tracks. There’s even the option to get notified about SIM card replacement.
Pricing Plans
You can find the same features in every Spynger plan. The price is based on the commitment you want to make.
| Duration | Spynger Subscription plan |
|---|---|
| 1 Month | $44.56/month |
| 3 Months | $25.99/month |
| 12 Months | $9.28/month |
Spynger prices are standard for a spy app for spouses. However, its comprehensive feature set makes it exceptionally good value for money. The prices above include a discount for new users who may be unsure how much they’ll end up using the software.
Who It’s Best for
If you have a spouse or family member that you suspect of shady activity, Spynger is ideal for you. You can tell if someone is hiding anything through its advanced keylogger, deleted message recovery, and replacement SIM alerts.
Read our full Spynger review.
Pros
- Access to unsent or deleted texts
- Monitoring across 16+ social apps
- SIM replacement alert
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- No demo available
- Limited call monitoring features
3. uMobix — Best Keylogging Software For Parents
| Starting Price | $12.49/month (annually) |
|---|---|
| No. of Devices | 1 |
| Free Trial/Demo | Demo |
| Compatibility | Android |
| Money-back Guarantee | 14-day refund window |
Why We Picked It
uMobix also stands out for its comprehensive range of monitoring features which provide full oversight on what your child — or someone else — is doing online. You can keylog activities across a variety of popular apps and get full oversight on what they are saying in messages and to who. But like mSpy, uMobix is much more than just a keylogger.
Features
Keylogging can tell you a lot about what a family member is doing. uMobix takes this a step further with its location tracking and time stamping tools. You can see not only what they’ve typed but where and when for the full picture. This means you have absolute proof about any illicit activities, from sneaking a takeaway just before dinner to meeting with someone they shouldn’t.
Like mSpy, you can monitor what people type across many social media and messaging apps. You can also get quick data insights, such as the most used app or most visited website. This feature can also be handy for employers who lend out company devices for work use only, so you can keep track of interactions during company time.
uMobix’s real-time access and keystroke notifications are especially useful for other vulnerable family members besides children, like a senior or a loved one with a developmental disability who is living independently. You’ll get an immediate alert and see what they’re typing so you can intervene before they put themselves in danger.
uMobix allows you to instantly shut down any inappropriate content, such as pornography or unregaled chatrooms, as well as access another phone’s photo gallery.
Pricing Plans
uMobix has straightforward plans, with the only difference being the duration of data storage you get. The annual plan gives you 180 days of data storage.
| Duration | uMobix Pricing |
|---|---|
| 1 Month | $49.99/month |
| 3 Months | $29.99/month |
| 12 Months | $12.49/month |
Who It’s Best for
Anyone worried about a family member but unsure about the issue should consider this solution. uMobix’s comprehensive monitoring tools and excellent keylogger mean it’s nearly impossible to miss or overlook concerning behavior.
Read our full uMobix review.
Pros
- Real-time data sync
- Possible to monitor text, images, and video
- Support for 15+ apps
- Generous data storage limits
Cons
- Keylogging is unavailable on iOS
- One device per subscription
4. SpyBubble Pro — Best Keylogger for Discretely Checking Employee Activities
| Starting Price | $12.49/month |
|---|---|
| No. of Devices | 1 |
| Free Trial/Demo | Demo |
| Compatibility | Android |
| Money-back Guarantee | 14-day refund window |
Why We Picked It
SpyBubble is different from most Android spy apps in that it mostly offers surveillance features, making it perfect for monitoring company devices so you know what they’re up to during paid time. The discrete features also mean you can easily check on employees without alerting them to your presence.
Features
I chose SpyBubble Pro because it is a great keylogger tool for monitoring employees who work from home or are on field sales trips. It logs all keystrokes, allowing you to review communications, such as emails and messages, to ensure that work-related activities are appropriate and productive. The user-friendly keylogging tool also records deleted text, so there’s no risk of users concealing illicit activities.
Additionally, SpyBubble provides insights into app usage and internet activity, which helps in assessing how employees are spending their time. Its real-time monitoring and detailed reporting features make it easy to oversee remote workers and ensure they adhere to company policies while working off-site.
As with most alternatives, you can use the app’s screen recorder to get more insights into their online activities. There’s also a photo tracker that gives you access to images and videos stored in the device’s gallery.
Unlike most competitors, SpyBubble only supports three social media apps. However, you can still see whatever they’ve typed into the app using the keylogger tool. You can also still access the essential email tracker, SMS tracker, and call tracker tools.
Pricing Plans
SpyBubble Pro has a similar pricing structure to uMobix. The features remain the same across all plans except the data storage. You also get a lower price the longer you commit.
| Duration | SpyBubble Pro Subscription plan |
|---|---|
| 1 Month | $49.99/month |
| 3 Months | $29.99/month |
| 12 Months | $12.49/month |
Who It’s Best For
Many employees would understandably be unhappy about their boss having control over their personal devices. That’s why it’s more appropriate to use an app like SpyBubble Pro, which simply surveys employee activity in the background. This app is great for company devices and helps you keep tabs on what your employees are doing while they’re on the clock.
As the app is discrete, they won’t have a constant, uncomfortable reminder that you might be watching them.
Read our full SpyBubble Pro review.
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Compatible with various devices
- Dedicated solution for monitoring adults
- Generous data storage limits
Cons
- Keylogging is unavailable on iOS
- Limited social media app coverage
5. Phonsee — Best Keylogger Software for Beginners
| Starting Price | $8.85/month (annually) |
|---|---|
| No. of Devices | 1 |
| Free Trial/Demo | Limited Demo |
| Compatibility | iOS, Android |
| Money-back Guarantee | 14-day refund window |
Why We Picked It
With its minimalistic design, Phonsee is one of the easiest monitoring apps you can use. This includes its keylogging feature and associated tools like its keyword tracker and screen recorder. Even the most technophobic person can easily install and set up the app.
Features
I chose Phonsee for this list because it’s known for its intuitive interface and straightforward four-step setup, making it perfect for anyone who has never used a spy app before. It features a user-friendly dashboard that simplifies navigation and monitoring, clear instructions for installation, and real-time keylogging that captures all typed text.
Additionally, Phonsee’s clear reporting and minimal configuration requirements make it accessible even to newcomers to keylogging software.
Although the keylogging feature is simple, Phonsee is still a robust app. You not only see what the other person types but also get the time and order in which it happens. This makes it easier to piece together the information and learn what their family member is doing.
As standard, Phonesee combines the keylogging feature with a screen recorder and app tracking. The intuitive displays make it easy to compare keylogging records against other data. You can be sure you’ve got the full picture before you confront the user about any wrongdoing.
Pricing Plans
There’s one main Phonsee plan with different monthly prices based on your commitment. Phonsee prices are competitive, and there’s usually an option for a discount on your first subscription. There’s no free trial, but you can check out the features using the demo.
| Duration | Phonsee Pricing |
|---|---|
| 1 Month | $42.51/month |
| 3 Months | $24.79/month |
| 12 Months | $8.85/month |
Who It’s Best for
Phonsee is ideal if you’re unfamiliar with installing spy or security software. The user-friendly design makes it simple to install the software without being noticed by the device user. Busy people may also appreciate how quick and easy it is to manage its simple tools.
Read our full Phonsee review.
Pros
- Remote setup process
- Support for 13+ apps
- Easy to use
- No jailbreaking required for iOS
- 24/7 Customer support
Cons
- No keyword alerts
6. Eyezy — The Best Keylogger for Budget-Conscious Users
| Starting Price | Starting from $7.99/month |
|---|---|
| No. of Devices | Up to 3 devices on Family Kit |
| Free Trial/Demo | Demo |
| Compatibility | iOS, Android |
| Money-back Guarantee | 14-day refund window |
Why We Picked It
Spy apps can get pricy when they require a high upfront cost and a separate subscription for each child. Eyezy solves this problem by offering individual and family plans. Not only that, its group plans are some of the most cost-effective I’ve seen.
Features
Keyword Alerts is by far the best feature of Eyezy. You can set triggers for specific words and phrases in particular features on the device. When the user types them in, you can choose whether you get a notification or just view the information on the intuitive user dashboard. That means you won’t have to trawl through hours’ worth of keylogging records to monitor activity.
Eyezy complements this feature with a screen recorder. If you want extra insight, you can look at the images to see whether the keyword was used innocently or not.
Like mSpy, you can block apps and websites if you see an immediate threat to the user. Eyezy also covers a modest range of apps, although not as many as some alternatives. Considering it offers the lowest monthly cost for a group plan, the app is still good value.
Pricing Plans
Eyezy lets you choose from two monthly plans. There are discounts for commitment and extra users, making Eyezy one of the most cost-effective on this list. As you can see, signing up for a year can more than halve your costs.
| Duration | Eyezy Subscription Plan |
|---|---|
| 1 Month | $38.39/month |
| 3 Months | $22.39/month |
| 12 Months | $7.99/month |
Who It’s Best For
If you’re just doing your due diligence but generally trust your family, you might find it hard to justify the cost of a spy app. Eyezy would work best for you as it has a low monthly cost. However, it still includes the essential keylogging tools to track device activity.
Read our full Eyezy review.
Pros
- Generous discounts at volume
- Robust keyword tool
- Option to track up to three devices
- Flexible price plans
Cons
- Extra charge for phone support
- Group plans only available with long-term subscriptions
The Best Keystroke Logging Software Compared
This comparison table will clarify the many keystroke logger options out there, whether you’re looking for an iPhone keylogger or a comprehensive cross-device package.
| Provider Name | Cheapest Plan | Compatibility | Free Version | Money-back Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| mSpy | $11.67/month | Android, iOS | Demo | 14-day refund policy |
| uMobix | $12.49/month | Android | Demo | 14-day refund policy |
| Spynger | $9.28/month | Android, iOS | Demo | 14-day refund policy |
| SpyBubble Pro | $10.62/month | Android | Demo | 30-day guarantee |
| Phonsee | $8.85/month | Android, iOS | Demo | 14-day refund policy |
| Eyezy | $7.99/month | Android, iOS | Demo | 14-day refund policy |
What is Keylogger Software Used For?
Keyloggers can be used for a variety of purposes. Here are a few examples:
Parental Control
Parents can use keylogging software to check their child’s phone or desktop device and add an additional layer of parental control. This will give you access to whatever they type, no matter where they’re typing it.
Going beyond text, many keyloggers also capture screenshot data, letting you know what they’re up to at any given moment. This is extremely handy when dealing with apps like WhatsApp and Snapchat, which come with time-deleted messages and pictures.
Keyloggers on the phone also give you detailed call logging information, often with user activity logs that tell you who your kids call the most. This is useful for monitoring inappropriate behavior, especially if you suspect cyberbullying. Some keyloggers also come with keyword alerts, which send you emails when a flagged word is typed or received.
Again, this is best suited to keeping a watchful eye on your kids from afar. Most keyloggers also monitor location data, so you can get constant updates on where your kids are from their phones. There are various ways this can work, from GPS tracking to SMS tracking and even Wi-Fi location tracking. Each key logger is different, but desktop-only keyloggers generally don’t come with this feature.
Monitoring Employees
Keyloggers can be used, with your employees’ consent, to monitor their performance and work behavior. They can give you valuable insights into their device activity, whether they are working from home or using company devices. A key logger will give you visibility into their emails, chat messages, and other text-based communications to ensure adherence to company policies and prevent inappropriate behavior.
They also capture login credentials and search queries, allowing you to monitor access to sensitive company systems and review their web browsing history for productivity and security. Some apps that include keyloggers can even take periodic screenshots, helping you assess how employees are utilizing their time and company resources, whether they are working remotely or on-site.
Catch a Cheater
If you’re trying to catch a cheating spouse, a keylogger tool can provide valuable insights by recording all keystrokes typed on their device. It can reveal text from instant messages, emails, and SMS, potentially uncovering incriminating conversations. The tool also tracks interactions on social media and dating apps, including private messages and posts that might indicate infidelity.
Additionally, it captures search queries and login information, helping you access hidden accounts or profiles and uncover suspicious online activities. Emails, notes, and drafts saved on the device may also contain evidence of secret interactions or plans, offering a comprehensive view of potentially deceptive behavior.
Keyloggers should only be used with the knowledge and consent of the person being monitored, and their use should be in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Gamers
As a gamer, a keylogger app can offer valuable insights to enhance your gaming experience by giving you detailed logs of your in-game commands and chat messages, helping you identify patterns and improve your strategies.
The app can also track how frequently you use certain key commands, allowing you to optimize your key bindings for better efficiency. Additionally, it provides a record of interactions with other players, which can help in reviewing and adjusting your communication during online gaming sessions. Overall, this data can be used to refine your gaming skills and streamline your performance.
Personal Device Security
Using a keylogger for personal device security can provide several crucial insights to help protect your device and data. It can reveal any unauthorized access attempts or changes made by someone who might have stolen your device. Additionally, many modern keyloggers offer geolocation tracking, allowing you to pinpoint the physical location of your stolen phone.
Keyloggers also capture screenshots and app usage data, helping you understand how the device is being used and what information might be accessed or compromised. Collectively, these features create a detailed record of activity that can help you track down your device and secure your personal information.
Software Developers
Software developers can use keyloggers to capture and record every keystroke entered by their software testers, providing insight into how they interact with the tool. This includes typed text, form entries, and commands, helping developers identify and fix any issues.
Keyloggers can also tell developers more about user behavior, including their patterns, input timing, and context-specific data, which can help them find bugs and improve user experience and security.
Free Keylogger Vs. Paid Keylogger Software – Are Free Keylogger Apps Safe?
There are many free keylogger tools out there, but some are less reputable than others. Some free keylogger tools are just a trial or a demo version of a full, paid product, which you can generally trust.
Most apps that claim to be free keylogger software actually steal user’s sensitive data. You want to be absolutely sure when you’re using software as powerful as a keystroke logger that it’s working for you and not against you.
Based on my research, each keylogger solution listed on this page is safe and secure. However, I generally don’t recommend free keylogger software or a keylogger app offering a free version as they could either be unsafe or, at best, very limited in their functionality.
For a small monthly price, you’re far better off ensuring the peace of mind that comes with installing keylogger software from a tested and reputable brand, and reap the benefits of all the other tools they have to offer. Keyloggers can only show you so much.
Conclusion — What is the Best Keylogger Software?
After extensively testing all of the apps on this page, I can say with full confidence that mSpy is the best keylogger software on the market. This is based on the fact it offers so much more than just keylogging.
I’ve said it before, but keylogging tools can only show you a certain amount. You can’t use keylogger software to pinpoint someone’s live location, or record their phone calls, for example.
Whether you’re a safety-conscious parent, feeling a lack of trust in your relationship, or have concerns your staff are wasting time and abusing your trust, you’re best opting for an app like mSpy to get the full picture and comprehensive proof.
