The best Android spy app can unlock the many secrets hidden in our smartphones, which have become the core of our daily interactions. A recent report shows that people spend a little more than 4.5 hours* on their phones on average every day. Whether you’re a parent worried about online predators, a partner suspecting infidelity, or an employer ensuring company-issued devices are used appropriately, seeing what someone is doing on their Android phone can make a big difference.
Knowing what is happening on our loved ones’ mobile phones can be essential for peace of mind, especially in a world that thrives on digital secrecy. The best Android spy apps provide unmatched access to calls, messages, locations, and even deleted content. On that note, I’ve reviewed the top Android spy apps for their features, value, and shortcomings so you can find the best solution for you.
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mSpy – The Best Android Spy App Overall |
mSpy – The Best Android Spy App Overall
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Spynger – The Best Android Spy App to Catch a Cheating Partner |
Spynger – The Best Android Spy App to Catch a Cheating Partner
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uMobix – Best Android Spy App for Remote App Blocking & Keylogging |
uMobix – Best Android Spy App for Remote App Blocking & Keylogging
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Scannero – Best Android Spy App for Complete Remote Access & No Install |
Scannero – Best Android Spy App for Complete Remote Access & No Install
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SpyBubble Pro – Best Android Spy App for Recovering Deleted Content |
SpyBubble Pro – Best Android Spy App for Recovering Deleted Content
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Phonsee – Easiest Android Spy App for Beginners |
Phonsee – Easiest Android Spy App for Beginners
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KidsGuard Pro by ClevGuard – Best Android Spy App for Parental Control |
KidsGuard Pro by ClevGuard – Best Android Spy App for Parental Control
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- 1. mSpy - The Best Android Spy App Overall
- Features
- Who It's Best For
- 2. Spynger - The Best Android Spy App to Catch a Cheating Partner
- Features
- Who It's Best For
- 3. uMobix - Best Android Spy App for Remote App Blocking & Keylogging
- Features
- Who It's Best For
- 4. Scannero - Best Android Spy App for Complete Remote Access & No Install
- Features
- Who It's Best For
- 5. SpyBubble Pro - Best Android Spy App for Recovering Deleted Content
- Features
- Who It's Best For
- 6. Phonsee - Easiest Android Spy App for Beginners
- Features
- Who It's Best For
- 7. KidsGuardPro By ClevGuard - Best Android Spy App for Parental Control
- Features
- Who It's Best For
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- 1. mSpy - The Best Android Spy App Overall
- Features
- Who It's Best For
- 2. Spynger - The Best Android Spy App to Catch a Cheating Partner
- Features
- Who It's Best For
- 3. uMobix - Best Android Spy App for Remote App Blocking & Keylogging
- Features
- Who It's Best For
- 4. Scannero - Best Android Spy App for Complete Remote Access & No Install
- Features
- Who It's Best For
- 5. SpyBubble Pro - Best Android Spy App for Recovering Deleted Content
- Features
- Who It's Best For
- 6. Phonsee - Easiest Android Spy App for Beginners
- Features
- Who It's Best For
- 7. KidsGuardPro By ClevGuard - Best Android Spy App for Parental Control
- Features
- Who It's Best For
- Show Full Guide
The 7 Best Spy Apps for Android Ranked
- mSpy – The Best Android Spy App Overall
- Spynger – The Best Android Spy App to Catch a Cheating Partner
- uMobix – Best Android Spy App for Remote App Blocking & Keylogging
- Scannero – Best Android Spy App for Complete Remote Access & No Install
- SpyBubble Pro – Best Android Spy App for Recovering Deleted Content
- Phonsee – Easiest Android Spy App for Beginners
- KidsGuard Pro by ClevGuard – Best Android Spy App for Parental Control
The Best Spy Apps for Android Reviewed
I’ve thoroughly tested the best spy apps for Android, evaluating their features, price, discretion, and accuracy. Here’s what I found:
1. mSpy – The Best Android Spy App Overall
- Starting Price: $11.67/month (billed annually)
- Free Version: Demo
- Number of Devices: Up to 3 devices on the Family Kit
- Guarantee: 14-day refund policy
- Compatibility: Android OS 5 or higher
mSpy stands out as the best Android spy app overall because of its wealth of tracking features and user-friendly dashboard.
Features
During testing, I found the app’s geofencing tool especially impressive, as it allows you to set boundaries as small as 100 feet (30 meters) or as large as 2 miles (3.2 km) and get notified when these boundaries are crossed.
When I created a geofence on my target’s Android device, mSpy sent instant notifications when the boundary was crossed, and the location updates were nearly real-time. This makes it incredibly reliable for monitoring movements and ensuring your child or partner stays within a specific zone, such as their workplace, school, or the local park.
Another feature I found particularly effective is mSpy’s detailed location tracking. Instead of just providing GPS coordinates, it displays an interactive map view and list view with timestamps and duration spent at each location. This means you can see not just where someone is but how long they’ve been there.
mSpy also excels in social media monitoring, allowing you to see who your child or spouse texts, calls, follows, and interacts with on platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Facebook Messenger, and video dating sites like Bumble. It’s also one of the few spy apps with dedicated Snapchat tracking.
When I used the social networks feature, I discovered the app captured all social media activity on my target Android device, including timestamps, and displayed the information clearly in its intuitive dashboard.
Additionally, I found that mSpy lets you remotely activate the target device’s camera to view its surroundings or turn on the microphone to listen to conversations in real-time. For added value, mSpy’s Family Kit allows you to monitor up to three Android devices under one subscription—something apps like uMobix don’t offer.
Who It’s Best For
From robust location tracking and geofencing, easy access to all calls, texts, and social media messages, and even remote access to the other person’s mic and camera, mSpy has it all. If you’re looking for a complete package to monitor someone’s Android phone, mSpy is a great choice.
However, if you only need location tracking, Scannero might be the better option, and for an easier installation process, I’d recommend Phonsee.
Pros
- Intuitive interface
- Excellent social media monitoring and geofencing features
- Accurate location details of the target device
- Allows remote control of the device’s camera and microphone
Cons
- No free plan, although it has a free demo
- Starting price is relatively higher than competitors
2. Spynger – The Best Android Spy App to Catch a Cheating Partner
- Starting Price: $9.28/month
- Free Version: N/A
- Number of Devices: 1
- Guarantee: 30-day refund policy
- Compatibility: Android OS 4 or higher
As one of the best cheating spouse tracker apps, Spynger is designed specifically to give you the clarity you need when trust in your relationship or marriage is on the line. Its main feature that stood out for me is its real-time live monitoring.
Features
To put it simply, Spynger lets you remotely monitor a target device in real-time, providing a live feed of its activities. This includes tracking app usage, web browsing, and other interactions as they happen, giving you full visibility into everything your partner is doing as it happens. This means that you’ll have complete surveillance without needing physical access to the device.
Another feature that stood out for me during testing is its advanced social media monitoring, which covers platforms like Facebook Messenger, Instagram, and Tinder and is one of the best WhatsApp spy apps you can get. After activation, I was able to read all the messages and view the multimedia they sent and received on the above platforms.
Unlike Scannero, which has limited social media support, Spynger excels at providing detailed chat records, timestamps, and even access to deleted messages. This makes it an invaluable digital forensics tool in divorce cases, helping divorce lawyers gather evidence on a cheating partner.
Spynger also has an Android keylogger, which stores every word typed on your target’s device in real-time. What’s more, Spynger has a GPS location tracker that helps you determine your partner’s current location, track past whereabouts and current routes, and set geofences.
Spynger will even notify you if your target leaves or enters specific areas. If you suspect your partner is visiting unfamiliar locations without a clear-cut explanation, I recommend using this feature.
Who It’s Best For
While Spynger doesn’t allow multi-device monitoring on a single plan, its focus on providing detailed insights for one Android device makes it an excellent option for those concerned about infidelity. Best of all, it works entirely in stealth mode, so your partner will never suspect a thing.
Pros
- Advanced social media monitoring
- Real-time GPS tracking and location history
- Stealth mode operation
- Dedicated Android keylogger
Cons
- No free trial or demo
- Only one device per subscription
3. uMobix – Best Android Spy App for Remote App Blocking & Keylogging
- Starting Price: $12.49/month
- Free Version: Demo
- Number of Devices: 1
- Guarantee: 14-day refund policy
- Compatibility: Android OS 4 or higher
uMobix secured a spot on my list because of its app blocking and Android keylogging capabilities, making it ideal for parents, partners, or employers who need precise control over Android devices.
Features
During testing, I was impressed with how I was able to block specific apps remotely on my target’s device in just a few clicks.
For instance, you can instantly restrict your child’s access to distracting apps like TikTok or inappropriate apps like Tinder if you suspect your partner may be engaging in illicit activities. This feature gives you more hands-on control over app usage on the target device.
The keylogging feature in uMobix is another highly effective feature I discovered while testing the spy app. It logs every keystroke the other person makes, whether it’s their search queries or messages, giving you complete insight into their activity.
This means that you’ll see anything that’s deleted, too. You’ll be able to identify concerns early—like flagged keywords in chats—or verify if sensitive company information is being shared inappropriately.
Who It’s Best For
Although uMobix doesn’t support multiple devices on a single plan, its focus on delivering precise app control through remote blocking and comprehensive keylogging makes it a go-to solution. With its user-friendly interface and powerful tracking capabilities, it strikes a balance between functionality and ease of use, giving you actionable insights with minimal effort.
Pros
- Remote access and app control capabilities
- Intuitive interface
- Advanced keylogging feature
- Extensive social media tracking
Cons
- No free plan, but an interactive online demo
- Relatively pricey if you want to track multiple devices
4. Scannero – Best Android Spy App for Complete Remote Access & No Install
- Starting Price: $0.89/day
- Free Version: N/A
- Number of Devices: Unlimited
- Guarantee: 14-day refund policy
- Compatibility: All Android devices
Scannero’s unique feature is its ability to provide complete remote access to an Android device without requiring installation on the target device. As a web-based app, it’s an excellent choice for users who prioritize convenience.
Features
During testing, I found its web-based interface incredibly intuitive. All you need to do is input your target’s phone number, which will send a location-sharing link to the target device. The link must be clicked—either by the target or by you if you briefly have physical access to their phone—to facilitate the tracking process, at which point you’ll get their accurate and real-time location.
You can track your boyfriend’s or partner’s phone and movements throughout the day and even get detailed timestamps of where they’ve been. This gives you a complete picture of their travel patterns and helps you verify your partner’s location claims, whether they’re truly working late or heading somewhere else.
If you don’t have physical access to the target phone, it could be challenging to convince the owner to click the location-sharing link, especially if you’re trying to avoid raising any suspicion. Still, as a web-based application, Scannero eliminates the hassle of any installation process on the target device, unlike mSpy and uMobix.
Who It’s Best For
While Scannero’s no-install approach is a major plus, its web-based platform lacks some of the advanced features of spy app-based options like keylogging or app blocking. However, its ease of use and focus on remote access make it a top choice for users who want immediate, hassle-free location monitoring.
Pros
- No installation required
- Accurate GPS tracker
- User-friendly interface
- Affordable
Cons
- No advanced spying features like keylogging
- No free trial
5. SpyBubble Pro – Best Android Spy App for Recovering Deleted Content
- Starting Price: $12.49/month
- Free Version: Demo
- Number of Devices: 1
- Guarantee: 14-day refund policy
- Compatibility: Android OS 4 and higher
SpyBubble Pro stands out as the best Android spy app for retrieving hidden, modified, or deleted content. This includes call logs, messages, modified or hidden contacts, apps, and media files.
Features
During my testing, I was able to recover three-day-old deleted text messages from the target device. And not only did I recover them, but it also provided timestamps and contact details, offering a complete picture of what was said, when, and to whom.
In my experience, the recovery process was fast and didn’t require any complex configurations. SpyBubble Pro ensures no information is lost, even if the person you’re tracking attempts to erase evidence.
Who It’s Best For
Besides its primary focus on recovering deleted content, SpyBubble Pro also provides reliable real-time tracking and activity monitoring. Its keylogger feature also captures every keystroke, ensuring that no detail goes unnoticed.
Pros
- Access to deleted content on the target device
- Real-time tracking and activity monitoring
- Quick content recovery process
- Robust keylogger
Cons
- No geofencing
- Limited social media monitoring
6. Phonsee – Easiest Android Spy App for Beginners
- Starting Price: $8.85/month
- Free Version: Demo
- Number of Devices: 1
- Guarantee: 14-day refund policy
- Compatibility: Android OS 4 and higher
Phonsee is inarguably designed for first-time spy app users due to its user-friendly framework. From installation to navigation, everything about the app is streamlined for simplicity. The website’s pages are populated with clear instructions, which make it easy to test its core features firsthand with little or no assistance—unlike more complex apps like uMobix.
Features
Its intuitive dashboard particularly impressed me, which neatly organizes data like call logs, text messages, and social media activity. For example, I could quickly locate Instagram chats and check call history without digging through multiple menus.
Another notable feature is its invisible Android keylogger, which captures every keystroke on Android devices without physical access and in stealth mode. On two occasions, while testing the app, I was able to view sensitive details, such as search queries, as they were typed on the target device.
Who It’s Best For
While it doesn’t offer advanced functionalities like deleted content recovery or remote mic access, Phonsee provides the essential Android spying features you need in an accessible, beginner-friendly package, including GPS tracking, geofencing, and screen recording.
Pros
- Easy to use and set up
- Geofencing
- Android keylogger
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- No free trial, but free demo
- No advanced spying features like microphone access
7. KidsGuardPro By ClevGuard – Best Android Spy App for Parental Control
- Starting Price: $9.17/month (billed annually)
- Free Version: Demo
- Number of Devices: Up to 20 devices, depending on the plan
- Guarantee: 30-day refund policy
- Compatibility: Android 6.0 to 14 beta
KidsGuardPro from the leading monitoring app brand, ClevGuard, is a top-tier parental control app with a comprehensive suite of features to help parents protect their children online. Unlike apps like Spynger, which has a very specific use case to catch a cheating partner, ClevGuard focuses on parental control. In fact, ClevGuard offers four parental control apps in its KidsGuard range: KidsGuard, KidsGuard Pro, KidsGuard for WhatsApp, and KidsGuard for LINE.
Features
Each app offers plenty of useful device monitoring features, but you may need to pay for multiple apps if you have multiple spying needs. That said, the individual apps are all easy to use and include similar features. First on the features list for me is its real-time location tracking, which tells you exactly where your child is, providing details such as timestamps and time spent at specific locations.
Another feature that stood out for me is Clevguard’s geofencing capabilities, which allow you to set safe zones for your children. You can define boundaries with a maximum radius of 1 km (0.6 miles) to ensure your child stays within a safe zone, especially useful for busy parks or on school grounds. If you’re looking for one of the best family tracking apps, ClevGuard is a great choice.
I also discovered the app’s browser monitoring and app-blocking features are particularly useful for limiting your child’s exposure to inappropriate content. During testing, ClevGuard seamlessly flagged risky websites, allowing me to block them with just one click.
Who It’s Best For
While the app supports a broad range of Android devices, some Clevguard versions (like KidsGuard for WhatsApp) lack certain advanced features, such as access to deleted content. However, its intuitive interface and phone monitoring capabilities more than makeup for this limitation, making it an ideal choice for parents and guardians seeking a reliable Android monitoring solution.
Pros
- Comprehensive monitoring features
- Real-time location tracking and geofencing
- Easy installation and user-friendly interface
- Built-in keylogger
Cons
- No free trial
- Limited screen time management
The Best Android Spy Apps Compared
The table below helps you compare the best Android spy apps based on their features, pricing, and compatibility to find the perfect solution for your specific needs.
Provider | Starting Price | No. Of Devices | Free Version | Guarantee | Compatibility |
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mSpy | $11.67/month | Up to 3 on the Family Kit | Demo | 14-day refund policy | Android OS 5 or higher |
Spynger | 9.28/month | 1 | N/A | 30-day refund policy | Android OS 4 or higher |
uMobix | $12.49/month | 1 | Demo | 14-day refund policy | Android OS 4 or higher |
Scannero | $0.89/day | 1 | N/A | 14-day refund policy | All Android devices |
Spybubble Pro | $12.49/month | 1 | Demo | 14-day refund policy | Android OS 4 or higher |
Phonsee | $8.85/month | 1 | Demo | 14-day refund policy | Android OS 4 or higher |
ClevGuard | $9.17/month (billed annually) | Up to 20, depending on the plan | Demo | 30-day refund policy | Android 6.0 to 14 beta |
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Monitoring Software Reviewed6
Key Criteria450+
Research Hours3
In-house ExpertsWhy Do I Need An Android Spy App?
There are countless reasons to use an Android spy app, especially in a world where people of all ages spend hours on their phones daily. Here are the most common reasons:
Parental Control
Keeping your child safe online is more challenging than ever, considering the wealth of content currently available on the internet. With unrestricted access, children can stumble upon inappropriate content or fall prey to cyberbullying and online predators.
Android spy apps help parents monitor their children’s activities in real-time, including social media interactions, browsing history, and app usage. Most apps offer features like geofencing and GPS tracking, which allow you to set location boundaries and receive alerts if your child leaves designated areas.
These apps also allow you to block harmful websites and restrict screen time, ensuring your child has a healthy online experience. With such tools, you will have peace of mind knowing your child is safe both digitally and physically.
Employee Monitoring
Maintaining productivity and safeguarding sensitive information are top priorities for employers, especially on company-issued devices. Android spy apps allow business owners to track activities on company-issued devices to ensure employees are using them responsibly, strengthening your company’s security.
Spy app features like keylogging and app usage tracking provide insights into employee behavior, while GPS location monitoring ensures they are where they’re supposed to be during work hours. For example, if you’re running a logistics company, you can use these tools to ensure your drivers are adhering to delivery schedules.
Tracking a Cheating Partner
Suspecting infidelity can be emotionally draining, but Android spy apps can give you the clarity you need. These apps offer features like call log monitoring, message tracking, and social media monitoring to uncover hidden activities.
For example, SpyBubble Pro’s call log monitoring feature allows you to see who your partner is frequently in contact with, while its keylogger feature reveals typed messages—even those deleted. While this may be a sensitive subject, using these tools responsibly can help you gather the evidence you need to address trust issues in your relationship or move forward with certainty.
Safeguarding Against Elder Fraud
The FBI reports a disturbing rise in online scams targeting seniors, with fraudsters increasingly exploiting their digital vulnerability. Android spy apps offer a practical solution for protecting elderly relatives by allowing you to monitor their online interactions, emails, and incoming calls. This oversight helps you spot potential scams early and intervene before financial damage occurs.
GPS tracking is another essential feature for ensuring their safety, especially for seniors with memory challenges who may become disoriented or wander. An Android spy app with geofencing capabilities can alert you if they leave a safe zone, allowing you to respond quickly and ensure their well-being.
How Do Android Spy Apps Work?
Android spy apps work by discreetly accessing and logging activities on a target device to your dashboard, enabling you to monitor it remotely. Typically, this involves installing the app directly on the device you wish to monitor, granting it necessary permissions to track actions such as calls, messages, GPS locations, social media activity, and even keystrokes.
Once installed, the app runs invisibly in the background, gathering data and storing it securely on its server. Apps like Scannero, however, offer a different approach. It requires only a phone number and a location-sharing link, which you or the target must click (on the target’s device) to initiate tracking, eliminating the need for software installation.
The collected information is then made accessible through a user-friendly online dashboard or app interface, where you can view detailed logs, messages, and real-time updates. Depending on the app, you can also download this data for future reference or evidence.
Are Android Spy Apps Legal?
The answer to this question is complicated, but in most cases, it’s no—unless you are monitoring your minor child or have explicit consent from the person being tracked. Laws surrounding the use of spy apps vary significantly depending on your location, but unauthorized monitoring of someone’s device typically violates privacy laws and could result in legal consequences.
The spy apps we have reviewed are all legitimate and safe. However, it’s essential to research and understand the specific legal requirements in your country or region before using any monitoring software. While these apps offer powerful features, using them responsibly and within the boundaries of the law is key to avoiding potential legal issues.
Free Android Spy Apps Vs. Paid Apps – What’s The Difference?
Free Android spy apps might seem like a cost-effective solution, but they often come with serious risks and limitations. Many free spy apps are misleading, acting as fronts to steal your data or the data of the person you’re trying to monitor. These apps may also contain ransomware, which can put your device at risk of malicious attacks.
Even when legitimate, free spy apps typically provide basic and unhelpful data, such as vague activity logs without deeper insights or real-time monitoring, leaving you with little value. In contrast, paid Android spy apps offer robust, reliable features and enhanced security, ensuring your monitoring efforts are both effective and safe.
Many of these apps, such as SpyBubble Pro and uMobix, also include free demos or trial versions, allowing you to test their full capabilities before committing. These demos provide a realistic look at how the app tracks calls, messages, GPS locations, and more, helping you build confidence in its reliability. While free apps may be tempting, investing in a paid app ensures you get value without compromising your data or the integrity of your device.
How To Use An Android Spy App On Mobile & Desktop – A Step-by-Step Guide
To begin using an Android spy app on mobile or desktop, you first need to install it on the target device and activate the dashboard on your device to enable remote monitoring. Using the best Android spy app on my list, mSpy, as an example, I’ll guide you through the process of setting up an Android spy app on both mobile and desktop.
Sign Up for mSpy
Head to mSpy.com and click the “Try Now” option at the top-right side of the landing page. You’ll be directed to a page where you can create an account using your email or Google account. Then, select the type of device you want to monitor. Note that by signing up for mSpy, you are agreeing to their Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Pick a Plan
Next, pick a plan. mSpy offers three duration-based pricing plans: one month, three months, and 12 months. Compare the prices of each package, evaluate your needs and budget, and then select your preferred plan. In my opinion, the one-month plan is great for short-term use, while the 12-month plan is more cost-effective for long-term monitoring needs.
Disable Play Protect
For mSpy to work properly, you’ll need to disable Play Protect on the target Android device, which usually stops spyware like mSpy. To do this, go to the Google Play Store settings on the target phone and follow the prompts to turn it off.
Install mSpy
After choosing your plan, complete your purchase by entering your payment details. Then, install the app on the target Android device.
Start Using the Monitoring Features
Once you’ve installed mSpy on the target device, you can start monitoring it remotely from your dashboard. From social media, call, and SMS tracking to the keylogger feature, mSpy gives you access to almost everything that happens on the target device, ensuring that nothing is hidden from you.
Conclusion – What’s The Best Android Spy App Of 2025?
mSpy stands out as the best overall Android spy app of 2025 largely because of its numerous tracking features, ease of use, and reliable real-time updates. It offers everything from monitoring social media activity to GPS tracking, making it a versatile choice for various spying needs.
However, that doesn’t downplay the capabilities of the other Android spy apps I reviewed above. If you’re focused on parental control, ClevGuard is a fantastic option with its robust content filtering and multiple-device support. For location tracking without physical installation, Scannero is the go-to solution, requiring only a phone number to get started. With these options, you can find the perfect tool for your specific needs.
FAQs
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References
- Time Spent Using Smartphones (2024 Statistics) – Exploding Topics
- Elder Fraud, in Focus – FBI