View all Security & Privacy Alternatives
Best Free Alternatives to Malwarebytes Premium Security
Stop paying $44.99/yr (Standard) / $79.99/yr (Plus). Discover professional-grade tools that won't break your budget.
Category: Security & PrivacyVerified for 2025
Top Recommended Replacements
Bitdefender Antivirus Free
FREEBest Overall Performance Alternative
Why we like it
Consistently achieves 100% detection rates in 2025 lab tests; extremely lightweight 'Auto-Pilot' mode; includes a limited VPN and secure banking tools even on lower tiers.
Keep in mind
The free version is Windows-only; the 'Total Security' suite can feel bloated with unnecessary optimization tools.
Microsoft Defender
FREEBest No-Cost Protection
Why we like it
Already installed on Windows 10/11; zero subscription fees; perfectly integrated with system updates; in 2025, its 'Cloud-delivered protection' rivals most paid alternatives for standard home users.
Keep in mind
Lacks the advanced 'remediation' (cleaning) power that Malwarebytes is famous for; no built-in VPN or identity theft monitoring.
Spybot - Search & Destroy
FREEBest for Advanced System 'Immunization'
Why we like it
The 2025 'Pro' version features a unique 'Immunization' tool that blocks tracking cookies at the system level; excellent for finding deep registry-based spyware that standard AVs might miss.
Keep in mind
The interface remains dated and 'clunky' for 2026 standards; scans can be significantly slower than Malwarebytes; manual updates are required for free users.
AdwCleaner
FREEBest for Removing 'Bloatware' & PUPs
Why we like it
A specialized, portable tool (also owned by Malwarebytes) that focuses strictly on Adware and Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs); requires no installation; 100% free.
Keep in mind
No real-time protection; does not scan for traditional viruses or ransomware; strictly a cleanup-after-infection tool.
TotalAV
FREEBest for User Experience
Why we like it
Extremely modern UI; includes 'Smart Scan' which finds duplicate files and junk alongside malware; very competitive first-year introductory pricing.
Keep in mind
Renewal prices jump significantly after the first year; constant 'upsell' notifications in the free version.
Avast One (Free)
FREEBest Robust Free Tier
Why we like it
Unlike most free tools, it includes real-time protection, a firewall, and a limited VPN for free; 2025 updates added 'Scam Protection' for emails and web results.
Keep in mind
Aggressive marketing for the 'Gold' version; some concerns regarding historical data privacy (though improved in 2024-2025).
Need more options?
Explore our full directory of Security & Privacy software alternatives.
Browse the Security & Privacy Hub