An Android spy can be helpful in many ways. It can enable you to monitor your kids’ online activities, collect evidence on your cheating partner, or ensure employee productivity in your company.
These apps enable you to track call logs, read text messages, monitor social media activity, and pinpoint someone’s location. However, there are many spy app providers, and choosing the right one can be overwhelming.
We’ve tested dozens of applications and compiled the most reliable ones to make it easier for you. Read on to find the best spy apps for Android devices.
Disclaimer: This article is intended solely for informational purposes. We have tested all the listed apps to ensure they work as described. However, we strongly advise users to follow local laws when using monitoring apps. We strictly condemn the unauthorized use of these apps to breach someone’s privacy or consent. If someone pursues such a path, it may also result in legal consequences. Always obtain proper consent before monitoring.
Best Android spy apps – Quick list
- mSpy: A budget-friendly Android spy app with excellent advanced features.
- Eyezy: It’s a monitoring app that employs artificial intelligence to improve tracking abilities.
- SpyBubble Pro: A spy app for Android that lets you see everything on the target device, even deleted messages.
- Spynger: An application with all essential tracking features, such as a GPS location tracker and keylogger.
- uMobix: A decent app with real-time audio and video streaming.
- Scannero: Another simple-to-use yet reliable spy app that tracks a device’s location by its phone number.
- Phonsee: A feature-filled tracker app with remarkable GPS tracking features.
- Geofinder: An Android monitoring app that tracks another device with just its phone number.
- xMobi: An easy-to-use spy app for Android devices with an effective keylogger feature.
- SpyX: A popular spy app with all the essential monitoring features available today.
How to use a spy app on Android
Most spy apps on this list are easy to install, even for non-technical users.
Here is the general installation process for all apps:
- Visit the app’s official website.
- Choose a pricing plan that best suits you.
- Install the app on the target device.
- Open the dashboard and start monitoring.
What is an Android spying and monitoring app?
Android spy apps can track another person’s device, including chats, calls, browser history, live location, social media activity, etc.
Some will even allow you to access the microphone and camera, block apps, and turn off the target device. They work discretely in the background without affecting the target device’s performance.
Spy apps are a great way to guarantee your children’s safety online and offline. Moreover, these apps will help you gather evidence if you’re suspicious that your spouse is cheating on you. Employers can also use these apps to monitor their employees and work devices.
How do spy apps for Android work?
You need to install an Android spy app on a target device to collect information. It will then send the collected data to a remote server, from where you can access it.
This information can include call logs, text messages, emails, GPS location, and social media activity. Some will even enable you to hijack and listen to phone calls in real time.
These Android spy apps operate discretely in the background. All the data from the target device syncs directly to your phone, giving you real-time updates on the spy app dashboard.
Why is a spy app necessary?
Here are some of the reasons why you may need to use a spy app for Android:
- Track phone calls and texts.
- Access social media activities.
- Record text input with a keylogger.
- Completely control the target device.
- Locate the target devices with the GPS feature.
The best spy app for Android devices should track conversations on social and messaging apps. While compatibility may vary, the spy apps on this list offer monitoring for WhatsApp, Instagram, Messenger, TikTok, and Snapchat.
Best spy apps for Android devices today – Detailed list
Here are our top-rated spy apps for Android after thorough research and testing:
1. mSpy
$11.66 monthly
Impressive screen recorder and keylogger
Support only one device per subscription
| Devices tracked | Free version | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Demo | 14-day refund policy |
mSpy is our top recommended Android spy app because of its impressive range of advanced features and reasonable price.
One of the standout features is the remote microphone and remote camera, which gives you real-time updates on what the target person is doing. This is a great feature if you suspect your child is being bullied or your partner is secretive.
mSpy gives you access to call records (with time stamps) and messages (sent or received) on messaging and social media apps. This includes Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Tinder, Snapchat, and Google Chat.
Moreover, it offers a photo and video viewer tool to access the target device’s photo gallery. The tool has date and time stamps to enable you to establish a timeline of suspicious activity.
This app provides an excellent screen recorder and keylogger, so you can view everything the target person sees and types on their Android device.
As a parent, you’ll appreciate the Website and App Blocker feature that allows you to block inappropriate apps and websites. You can even set keyword alerts. For example, you can configure an alert to notify you when your children make inappropriate web searches like ‘Pornhub.’
During our testing, we were impressed with the real-time GPS tracking, which enabled us to see where the target person was going and their route history.
The geofencing tool also allows you to configure location boundaries and be notified if the target person moves outside those boundaries.
Most importantly, mSpy operates in stealth mode, which means everything you monitor on the target device is hidden.
mSpy has a straightforward pricing structure that is tiered based on the subscription duration. It includes:
- 1 month: $48.99/month
- 3 months: $28/month
- 12 months: $11.67/month
Longer subscriptions have bigger discounts. Also, mSpy doesn’t offer a free trial, but you can test the app’s functionalities with the free demo. After testing the demo, we found it helpful, providing a clear glimpse into the app’s potential and features.
2. Eyezy
$9.99 monthly
AI-integrated keyword tracking
Some reports of glitches
| Devices tracked | Free version | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Demo | 14-day refund policy |
Eyezy is a standout spy app that strikes a great balance between price and sophisticated monitoring features.
During our testing, we discovered that Eyezy employs artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the tracking functionality.
The app will identify suspicious patterns and give you detailed insights into activities such as call logs, location tracking, text messages, and app usage.
As a protective parent, you’ll appreciate features like the Magic Alert that notifies you if your child searches for explicit keywords, like porn. Also, the phone analyzer tool will show you the browser history so you can see everything they’ve searched for.
Moreover, the app’s real-time location tracking feature will let you see your child’s whereabouts and movements.
Here is an overview of Eyezy pricing structure:
- 1 month: $38.39/month
- 3 months: $22.39/month
- 12 months: $7.99/month
All these subscription plans offer similar features. While there isn’t a free version, you can try the free demo to see how it works.
3. SpyBubble Pro
$12.74/month
Provides access to deleted data
Poor location tracking feature
| Devices tracked | Free version | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | No | 14-day refund policy |
It’s difficult to catch a cheating partner if they delete incriminating DMs. Thankfully, Spybubble Pro has a unique feature that enables you to monitor hidden, deleted, or altered content. This includes accessing deleted calls and messages, altered contact names, and hidden contents and apps.
SpyBubble Pro’s keylogger tool lets you see everything they type on their phones, including passwords, chat conversations, online search queries, and other sensitive information.
This app will also be handy for parents. It enables you to block websites that you consider inappropriate remotely.
Moreover, its real-time location tracker will let you see where your child or partner is to ensure their safety.
During testing, we found SpyBubble Pro extremely easy to install and configure as you don’t need to root the target Android device.
Similar to other spy apps on this list, SpyBubble Pro offers a duration-based subscription structure that includes:
- 1 month: $49.99/month
- 3 months: $29.99/month
- 12 months: $12.49/month
Unfortunately, SpyBubble Pro doesn’t have a demo like its competitors on this list. Also, you can request a refund before the 14 days elapse if your reasons adhere to the refund policy.
4. Spynger
| Devices tracked | Free version | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | No | 30-day refund policy |
Spynger is a reliable Android spy app to track your loved one’s activities, monitor your child’s safety and ensure workplace productivity.
The hidden screen recorder operates discretely and lets you see what your partner is up to on their Android devices. Fortunately, it even enables you to take screenshots of their live page remotely.
This app has an effective keylogger that lets you capture and record every word your partner types on their Android device. This includes the content of the messages they send through messaging apps, emails, and social media platforms.
Its GPS location tracker will enable you to pinpoint your partner’s exact location, view their past location, and track current routes. You can even set geofences to receive notifications whenever they leave the specific boundaries.
We tested the app and website blocker feature and found it highly effective. It will enable you to restrict inappropriate apps and websites you don’t want your child to access, like pornographic sites.
Here is the breakdown of Spynger’s pricing scheme:
- 1 month: $44.56/month
- 3 months: $25.99/month
- 12 months: $9.28/month
Unfortunately, Spynger has no free trial or demo, so you cannot test it before committing to a subscription. Nonetheless, the long-term plan is affordable, and you’ll get a 30-day money-back guarantee.
5. uMobix
$12.49/month
Gives accurate location details
Slightly more expensive than its competitors
| Devices tracked | Free version | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Demo | 14-day refund policy |
uMobix is a robust Android monitoring app featuring a user-friendly interface with well-organized sections for easy navigation.
As a concerned parent, you’ll love the ability to access and control your child’s device remotely. This will enable you to restrict the phone’s functionality and block inappropriate apps and websites. Also, it allows you to access a camera and microphone to monitor the environment around them.
Moreover, this app will help you track your partner if you are suspicious about their honesty. For example, you can use the GPS location feature to know their whereabouts.
uMobix also tracks multiple messaging and social media platforms, including Skype, Messenger, and WhatsApp. Moreover, it will even alert you when the target person opens an app so you can monitor them.
This app has effective keyloggers that monitor and record all keyboard activity in notepads, browsers, and messaging apps.
Thankfully, uMobix updates its dashboard periodically to keep you up-to-date with the target person’s activities.
The provider’s pricing scheme is as follows:
- 1 month: $49.99/month
- 3 months: $29.99/month
- 12 months (+ 12 extra months for free): $12.49/month
While uMobix doesn’t offer a free trial, you can use the demo to test its functionality. Also, you can take advantage of the 14-day refund policy.
6. Scannero
$0.89/day
Doesn’t require physical access to the target device
Lacks advanced monitoring features
| Devices tracked | Free version | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | No | 14-day refund policy |
Scannero is a handy spy tool for Android devices because of its simplicity and intuitiveness.
One of its distinctive features is the phone number tracker, which allows you to track your child, spouse, friend, or employee with just their phone number. All you need to do is send a text message with a URL, and once the target person clicks the URL, you can see their exact location.
Moreover, it has an effective reverse phone number lookup feature that enables you to identify the person calling or texting you from unknown numbers.
When testing this app, we particularly liked its ability to check several databases for personal data and to alert users if their email address or phone number is leaked online.
You can use the one-day trial to test its features, such as reverse number lookup, geofencing, and location tracking by URL.
The monthly plan is the only long-term subscription option available, unlike its rivals on this list. Scannero will upgrade you to this plan automatically after the 1 day testing period.
7. Phonsee
$8.85/month
Support social media monitoring
Lacks call recording features
| Devices tracked | Free version | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Demo | 14-day refund policy |
Phonsee is another all-round Android Spy app with all the advanced features you need to monitor your child or partner’s device.
First, this app allows you to track all interactions on social media, dating, and messaging apps, including WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Tinder, and more.
Second, it blocks suspicious websites and apps, making it ideal for parents who want to protect their children from malicious online content.
Moreover, Phonsee employs an advanced GPS tracking feature that allows you to track the whereabouts of your child, spouse, or employee. It works in stealth mode, and the target person won’t even know you’re monitoring them.
The geofencing feature lets you set specific location boundaries and get notified if the target person leaves them. This is a great feature for parents who want to ensure their children are in safe environments.
Besides tracking, Phonsee allows you to view call history, read text messages, and access the media gallery on the target’s device. You can also take screenshots and record keystrokes of everything they type on their devices, including login details and browser search queries.
Even the best software malfunctions. Phonsee’s 24/7 customer support will help you solve any issue you may face on the app around the clock.
It offers a great value for money with the following pricing structure:
- 1 month: $42.51/month
- 3 months: $24.79/month
- 12 months: $8.85/month
While Phonsee offers a demo version, it is unreliable as it only displays a series of screenshots. Nonetheless, you can take advantage of the 14-day refund policy, but your refund request should adhere to the provider’s terms of use.
8. Geofinder
$1 for one-day trial
Affordable subscription plans
Expensive yet limited features
| Devices tracked | Free version | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1 trial period for 48hours | 14-day refund policy |
Geofinder is another user-friendly spy app on this list. It is ideal for tracking someone’s location and internet activity without downloading an app on the target device.
This app only requires you to input the target’s phone number and country code and tap the ‘Find’ button. It will then send a location request to the target person, who can accept or reject it. Yes, this is the only caveat.
While many Android spy apps on this list allow you to monitor the target discretely, Geofinder takes a more transparent approach. This can save you a lot of legal issues.
Thankfully, it allows you to create a custom message to increase the chances of the target person accepting your location-sharing request. You can also send unlimited location requests every month.
While its rivals provide various subscription plans, Geofinder offers a single, fixed subscription rate.
- 1 month: $49.99
Thankfully, Geofinder has a $1-day trial, enabling you to test it before subscribing.
9. xMobi
$49.99/month
Fantastic keylogger for Android
Lacks remote tracking features
| Devices tracked | Free version | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | No | 14-day refund policy |
xMobi is an easy-to-use spy application for Android. While it provides basic features, like call log access, it lacks the advanced features that its competitors provide. For example, the GPS tracking doesn’t show the current live location, which is disappointing.
The app’s intuitive interface makes it ideal for beginners. Accessing the essential features is easy, as everything is well organized on the main dashboard.
Its keylogger feature doesn’t require any root access to function. This feature lets you see everything your child types on their phone, including the queries they search on browsers.
Furthermore, the app syncs with your device periodically, so you won’t miss anything.
xMobi offers flexible and straightforward pricing options that include:
- 1 month: $49.99/month
- 3 months: $29.99/month
- 12 months: $12.49/month
The provider has a 14-day refund policy with all subscription plans. You’ll get a full refund as long as you don’t violate the refund policy.
10. SpyX
$11.66 per month
Works completely undetectably
Doesn’t support remote sound recording
| Devices tracked | Free version | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Demo | 14-day refund policy |
SpyX is a robust and user-friendly monitoring app designed specifically for parents, employers, and anyone wanting to discreetly track smartphone activity.
This app creates a cloud-based solution that enables you to monitor a mobile device without physically accessing it.
Thankfully, SpyX operates in stealth mode, ensuring the target person is unaware of the monitoring. It allows you to track everything from text messages, call logs, and emails to social media activities.
More importantly, SpyX doesn’t require rooting or jailbreaking the target device, making it easier and safer to use.
SpyX has a simple pricing structure that varies on the subscription length. It includes:
- 1 month: $49.98/month
- 3 months: $28.32/month
- 12 months: $11.66/month
Clearly, longer subscription plans offer better discounts. SpyX also offers a free demo, but it lacks many functionalities.
Can I track an Android device without installing a spy app?
Most Android spy apps require physical access to the target phone to install. However, after installation, the app allows you to monitor the device remotely without physical access.
While some iPhone spy apps support remote installations, they may require you to complete two-factor authentication on the target phone.
Fortunately, a few options allow you to track the target device without physically accessing it. For example, Scannero doesn’t need installation and only requires a phone number. However, it mainly focuses on GPS tracking and lacks other essential features.
What devices are Android spy apps compatible with?
Most spy app providers focus on Android and iOS devices, enabling you to monitor Android phones, Android tablets, iPhones, and iPads.
However, some spy apps can track Windows and macOS devices, so you can monitor activities across devices.
Can I use a free Android spy app?
If you get a product or service for free, the provider is probably exploiting or collecting something from you. This is the same case with free Android spy apps, as most are known to steal and sell user data. Others could even install malware on your device or the target device.
Moreover, free spying apps are unreliable and lack advanced tracking features like GPS location, keylogging, or social media monitoring. Some might not even provide basic functionalities such as call or text monitoring.
Paid Android spy apps are better in many ways. First, they implement sufficient security measures to protect your data and the information you collect from the target device. Additionally, paid options offer many tracking options, compatibility with multiple devices, and remote control capabilities.
Are Android Spy apps undetectable?
Almost all the spy apps on this list are undetectable, which means they operate in the background discreetly without a visible trace, even an app icon. The target person won’t even know you’re monitoring them.
Moreover, some spy apps, like Scannero and Geofinder, don’t require installing an app on the target device.
This is another reason why we discourage using free Android spy apps. Besides the security risks and lack of advanced monitoring features, a free spy app will likely be detected, revealing your intentions of monitoring the target device.
Are Android Spy Apps Safe?
Many malicious apps harvest and sell your data to advertisers, so it’s crucial to use a spy app from trusted providers like the ones on this list.
These apps have had a good reputation for several years. However, some spy apps may require you to disable certain default Android security features to install them, exposing your device to threats. So, as an extra security measure, you should install a reliable VPN or antivirus software.
Are Spy Apps for Android Legal?
The legal status of spy apps depends on how you use them. Essentially, you need informed consent from the target person before installing a spy app on their device.
After getting permission and letting the person know you are spying on their device, you can legally monitor their call logs, messages, and other data.
On the other hand, you can use spy apps to monitor your children’s devices, provided they are underage and you own the device.
Moreover, you can legally install spy apps on company-owned devices. However, you must notify your employees that the company devices are being monitored. This should solely be done to safeguard company assets and ensure proper use of company-owned devices. In other words, it is illegal to spy on people’s devices without their explicit permission.
Why You Can Trust Our Android Spy App Reviews
You might wonder if the apps on this list are trustworthy. That’s perfectly okay, as it’s wise to question what you can and cannot trust online, but let’s ease your concerns.
At PrivacySavvy, we’ve tested hundreds of software programs, including spy apps, and learned much over time. As a result, we know what we’re doing.
We also consult other trusted online reviews to see what they say about the software we evaluate. Furthermore, we explore online forums like Reddit, where regular users of spy apps share their experiences to take their opinions into account.
FAQs
Many signs can show your device is tapped with a hidden spy app. For example, your device might start to take longer to load apps and perform sluggishly. Also, the battery might begin to drain faster or overheat constantly.
Due to the vast number of spy apps available, determining the best one can be challenging. However, we tested many of them and compiled the best ten in this article. mSpy is our top recommendation because of its advanced monitoring features and affordable subscription plans.
Most of the apps on this list work discretely in the background. So, the target person won’t know the spy app is installed on their device unless they’re purposely looking for it.
Factory resetting your device will remove all apps and data, so it’s a good way to get rid of spyware.
The cost of spy apps will vary depending on your needs and the features they offer. Some are free, but others can cost up to $70 a month. However, the apps on this list provide robust features at affordable prices.
