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AdwCleaner VS Malwarebytes

Compare AdwCleaner VS Malwarebytes and see what are their differences

AdwCleaner logo AdwCleaner

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

Malwarebytes logo Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes protects you against malware, ransomware, and other advanced online threats that have made antivirus obsolete and ineffective. Free Anti-Malware & Malware .
  • AdwCleaner Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-17
  • Malwarebytes Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-22

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.

Malwarebytes features and specs

  • Effective Malware Detection
    Malwarebytes is known for its robust malware detection capabilities. It employs advanced algorithms and heuristics to identify and remove various types of malware, including viruses, trojans, worms, and ransomware.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The software has an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible for both technical and non-technical users.
  • Real-Time Protection
    Offers real-time protection against emerging threats by constantly monitoring your system for malicious activity.
  • Lightweight Performance
    Malwarebytes is designed to run efficiently in the background without significantly impacting system performance.
  • Frequent Updates
    The software receives regular updates to its malware definitions and features, ensuring it can tackle the latest threats.
  • Free Version Available
    Malwarebytes offers a free version that provides essential malware removal capabilities, making it accessible for individuals who may not want to invest in a paid antivirus solution.

Possible disadvantages of Malwarebytes

  • Limited Features in Free Version
    The free version lacks real-time protection and some advanced features, which are only available in the paid version.
  • Higher Cost
    The premium version can be relatively expensive compared to other antivirus solutions that offer similar levels of protection.
  • No Firewall
    Malwarebytes does not include a built-in firewall, which is a standard feature in many other comprehensive security suites.
  • Occasional False Positives
    There are reports of false positives, where legitimate software is incorrectly flagged as malicious, which could lead to unnecessary disruptions.
  • Resource Usage During Scans
    While lightweight during normal operation, the software can be resource-intensive during comprehensive system scans, potentially slowing down other activities on the computer.
  • No Email Protection
    Malwarebytes lacks integrated email protection features, which are critical for users who want comprehensive protection against phishing and email-based threats.

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 Malwarebytes

Overall verdict

  • Overall, Malwarebytes is regarded as a reliable and effective solution for enhancing your computer's security. Its strong reputation in the cybersecurity community and positive user reviews support its standing as a good choice for malware protection.

Why this product is good

  • Malwarebytes is generally considered a good anti-malware tool because it effectively detects and removes a wide range of malware, including viruses, ransomware, trojans, and worms. It offers real-time protection and has a user-friendly interface, making it accessible for both technical and non-technical users. Additionally, its frequent updates ensure that it can combat the latest threats, and its scanning process is often praised for being thorough yet not overly resource-intensive.

Recommended for

    Malwarebytes is recommended for individuals and businesses seeking additional malware protection. It's particularly suitable for users who already have an antivirus program in place but want extra security against advanced threats like spyware, adware, and rootkits. It is also beneficial for those who prefer an easy-to-use tool with comprehensive scanning capabilities.

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

Malwarebytes videos

Malwarebytes 4.1 Test vs Malware

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to AdwCleaner and Malwarebytes)
Security & Privacy
26 26%
74% 74
Cyber Security
26 26%
74% 74
Antivirus
29 29%
71% 71
Malware Protection
100 100%
0% 0

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 Malwarebytes

AdwCleaner Reviews

We have no reviews of AdwCleaner yet.
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Malwarebytes Reviews

10 Best FREE Anti Tracking Software In 2023 [TOP SELECTIVE]
Malwarebytes is also a renowned antivirus-based company that has successfully provided its users with adequate support against scammer pop-ups and ransomware attacks on the system. This tool offers various features, such as scheduled system scans, detailed analysis and forensic reports, and real-time ransomware protection.
13 best antivirus software platforms, per a cybersecurity expert
If you frequent the Internet often, you’ve likely heard of Malwarebytes Premium: an antivirus software for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Chrome, costing $40 per year for one device or $80 per year for up to five devices. It includes both antivirus protection and a browser guard, too.
Source: nypost.com
The best antivirus software 2022: Free antivirus and paid options tested
Malwarebytes Free, formerly called Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, is not antivirus software. Instead, it's a very useful malware-removal tool.
5 Best Free Antivirus For PC – Windows Defender Alternatives
Malwarebytes is antivirus software that can effectively detect viruses and other threats on your PC. This software is lightweight and the database of Malwarebytes is updated daily. This means it can detect recent threats and program malware. It has a free and premium version. The free version can scan your PC, but it does not offer real-time protection.
Source: techvaz.com
18 Best Avast Alternatives 2022 (Free Included)
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware is a great anti-malware tool that can be used as an alternative to Avast.

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Malwarebytes should be more popular than AdwCleaner. It has been mentiond 42 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

Malwarebytes mentions (42)

  • Was I hacked?
    You can also check for malware using malwarebytes.com for free. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Ready, set…
    Run malwarebytes.com on all your devices. It doesn't catch everything, but it's free and pretty solid. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Command prompt opens 5-10 mins after I turn on my pc
    Github is a legitimate website owned by microsoft, used for publishing the source code of open source programs. They do have a desktop client, however if you did not install it, it could be malware pretending to be it. Run a malwarebytes scan, and check Autoruns. Source: about 2 years ago
  • How can I check if I have been infected? Already opened file.
    Try run: - Sophos Scan and Clean https://www.sophos.com/it-it/free-tools/virus-removal-tool/free-download - Norton Power Eraser https://support.norton.com/sp/it/it/home/current/solutions/kb20100824120155EN - RogueKiller (click "other downloads" and 'Portable", after running go "Settings", "Scan Settings", and turn on "MalPE Module (BETA)", then u can run the full scan) https://www.adlice.com/roguekiller/ -... Source: about 2 years ago
  • Hacked Mac?
    It’ll be easier for you to check via MalwareBytes (the Apple recommended anti malware software) than via me through Reddit (lol), so I’d suggest you install it, can be downloaded here https://malwarebytes.com - run a scan after you’ve installed it. Source: about 2 years ago
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What are some alternatives?

When comparing AdwCleaner and Malwarebytes, you can also consider the following products

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.

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.

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

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

ESET NOD32 Antivirus - Best IT security solutions for your home and business devices. Try ESET antivirus and internet security solutions for Windows, Android, Mac or Linux OS.

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