Plumbytes vs SpyHunter in 2026: Review, Cost and Keys
Plumbytes vs SpyHunter in 2026: the short answer
Much of the 2016 comparison below is out of date. SpyHunter is now sold as SpyHunter 5 for Windows, with real-time guards that block malware as well as a scanner and remover.[1] It is sold as a subscription with automatic renewal, which subscribers can switch off.[4]
For Plumbytes we found far less. Company profiles still describe Plumbytes Software as a maker of anti-malware, anti-adware, ad-blocking and VPN products.[5] We found no recent independent lab test of Plumbytes Anti-Malware as of 2026, so we cannot confirm how well its current version detects threats.
| Question | Plumbytes Anti-Malware | SpyHunter |
|---|---|---|
| Current product | Plumbytes Anti-Malware; no recent version data found | SpyHunter 5 for Windows[1] |
| Real-time protection | Not confirmed for the current version | Yes, real-time guards[1] |
| Pricing model | 34.99 Euro in 2016; no current price confirmed | Subscription; Basic plan from $4.95 a month, billed upfront[2] |
| Free use | Free version in 2016; no current status found | Free scanner; paid plan removes most malware[3][4] |
| Refunds | 60-day guarantee in 2016 | 30-day returns[2] |
Timeline: how the two products changed
| When | Event |
|---|---|
| 2016 | Our original comparison of Plumbytes 1.0.1.9 and SpyHunter 4.23.0002 |
| 2016 | Both licenses priced at 34.99 Euro excluding VAT |
| After 2016 | EnigmaSoft launches SpyHunter 5 with a free cookie scanner in the trial[3] |
| 2026 | SpyHunter 5 for Windows offers real-time guards[1] |
| 2026 | SpyHunter Basic advertised from $4.95 a month, billed upfront[2] |
What changed since 2016
SpyHunter moved from version 4 to SpyHunter 5. EnigmaSoft announced the new version with a trial that includes a cookie scanner and can remove cookies free of charge.[3] The paid plan gives subscribers malware detection and removal, plus access to the Spyware HelpDesk.[4]
The way you pay changed too. In 2016 we compared two one-off license prices. Today the official SpyHunter site lists plans billed upfront, with the Basic plan advertised from $4.95 a month and a 30-day return window.[2] Subscriptions renew automatically unless you cancel the auto-renewal in your account.[4]
Plumbytes has been much quieter. We found download listings and a company profile, but no current price list, version history or independent test.[5] If you still run Plumbytes, check that it receives updates. A security tool with an old database gives you little protection.
Risks around license keys and free versions (our analysis)
The most common searches about these tools are for a free license key. The points below are our own analysis of that demand.
- Cracked keys and keygens. Pages that offer a free Plumbytes or SpyHunter license key often push malware instead. A cracked security tool can be a trojan itself.
- Fake download sites. Download only from the developer's own site. Repacked installers can bundle adware.
- Unwanted renewals. Subscriptions renew on their own; set a reminder or turn off auto-renewal if you only need one year.[4]
- Scan results that push a purchase. A free scan that lists threats but asks you to pay before removal is normal for some tools, but check the findings with a second scanner.
How to choose and use an anti-malware tool in 6 steps
1. Check that it is updated. Look for a recent version and regular database updates. We found no recent update data for Plumbytes.
2. Use the official site. Download SpyHunter from the EnigmaSoft or SpyHunter site.[1][2] Avoid mirror sites for any security tool.
3. Never use cracked keys. A free license key from a forum is a common malware trap. If you already ran one, follow our virus removal guides.
4. Read the price terms. Check whether you pay upfront and whether the plan renews on its own.[2][4]
5. Note the refund window. SpyHunter lists 30-day returns.[2] Test the program within that time.
6. Get a second opinion. If a scanner reports many threats, confirm them with another tool before you pay. Our Plumbytes vs Malwarebytes comparison and Plumbytes review give more context.
What is still unknown
- Whether Plumbytes Anti-Malware still gets regular updates. We found no current changelog.
- The current price of a Plumbytes license. We found no official price list as of 2026.
- How both tools score in independent lab tests today. We found no recent results for either.
Our original 2016 report
The text below is our report as first published in 2016. We keep it unchanged for the record; the sections above bring it up to date.
Cybercrime nowadays is not a new concern. As the number of cyber attacks increases, PC users seek for computer protection tools. You might end up with a question – should I install Plumbytes Anti-Malware or SpyHunter? Naturally, computer users do not want to waste money buying several different programs just to test them and decide which one is better. Therefore, software reviews and comparisons can help you decide which program actually meets your expectations and can effectively remove computer threats. We have prepared this Plumbytes vs. SpyHunter comparison to help you decide which program to choose.
Latest versions: Plumbytes Anti-Malware 1.0.1.9; SpyHunter 4.23.0002.
Free versions: Plumbytes Anti-Malware Free; SpyHunter Free.
Paid options: Plumbytes Anti-Malware 2016; SpyHunter 4.23.0002.
Installation: Both these programs can be installed quickly and easily. You have to download the selected program from a trustworthy web source, then launch its installer, follow instructions and complete the installation by clicking "Finish" button.
System requirements: At the moment, both programs are compatible with Windows OS only. They are supported by 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7. Both versions work with Windows Vista, but Plumbytes works only with the 32-bit version with SP2, and speaking of Windows XP, SpyHunter is compatible with the 32-bit version with SP2 or later, while Plumbytes is compatible with the 32-bit version with SP3 version only. Plumbytes also requires 512 MB RAM space and 60 MB disk space, while SpyHunter needs 256 MB RAM space and 75MB disk space.
Scanners: The system scan can be started easily using both programs. The user just needs to run the scan with a single mouse click and sit back. However, it seems that Plumbytes has a more friendly user interface since it is not filled with various buttons and customizable options. SpyHunter can be customizable in a number of ways – the user can choose which computer areas to scan, configure DNS settings and adjust various other options. For an inexperienced computer user, all these settings might seem confusing. Plumbytes offers Smart Scan feature, so the user does not have to adjust any scan settings manually – the program scans the computer system and essential areas automatically. We have also noticed that Plumbytes scans the system faster than SpyHunter does. After checking the system, both programs provide scan results and determine their threat level. The user can quickly eliminate threats with a single mouse click. Both programs can be easily customized to install software updates automatically as soon as their developers release them. That helps to keep their database up-to-date and make these programs capable of removing newest spyware/malware examples.
Malware removal: When these programs finish the system scan, they both provide a list of detected infections and their threat levels. The user can deselect identified programs and files in case he/she does not want to remove them. SpyHunter provides a feature that allows the user to add particular detected threats to the Exceptions list if the user considers them safe.
It is also worth mentioning that both programs provide free technical support for their users. It means that the user can get in touch with professional IT experts and get help from them absolutely for free. This feature is a guarantee that the computer gets fixed in case the program fails to identify or remove it automatically.
Final notes: Considering the fact that Plumbytes Anti-Malware license key, just like SpyHunter's, cost the same amount of money – 34.99 Euro excluding VAT, the user has to pay attention to features of these programs and their main differences. Both programs are legitimate, reliable and safe to use, and both of them are powerful spyware and malware removal tools. However, if you want an easy-to-use program, which scans the computer system in a shorter time, you might want to opt for Plumbytes. Another advantage of this program is that it provides a 60-day money back guarantee, while SpyHunter asks to send the refund request within 30 days from the purchase date.
More comparisons on Plumbytes and other computer security programs can be found in Plumbytes review.
Related guides on 2-Spyware
Frequently asked questions
Is Plumbytes Anti-Malware any good in 2026?
We cannot confirm it. We found no recent independent lab test of Plumbytes Anti-Malware as of 2026, and no current changelog. Company profiles still describe Plumbytes Software as an anti-malware and ad-blocking vendor.{5} If you use it, make sure it still updates, and confirm its findings with a second scanner.
Is there a free Plumbytes Anti-Malware license key?
No legitimate free key exists in the sources we found. Sites that offer a free Plumbytes license key or a keygen are a common way to spread malware, so avoid them. In 2016 Plumbytes offered a free version alongside the paid one, but we found no current information on its status.
How much does SpyHunter cost?
The official SpyHunter site advertises SpyHunter Basic from $4.95 a month, billed upfront, with 30-day returns.{2} The plan is a subscription that renews automatically unless you cancel the auto-renewal.{4} Prices can change, so check the official site before you buy.
Is SpyHunter free?
Not fully. SpyHunter offers a free scanner, and EnigmaSoft said the SpyHunter 5 trial can remove cookies free of charge.{3} Detecting and removing malware in full is a feature for paid subscribers.{4} Searches for spyhunter kostenlos or spyhunter gratuito often lead to cracked copies, which can carry malware.
Which is better, Plumbytes or SpyHunter?
In 2026 SpyHunter is the easier one to judge, because it has a current product, SpyHunter 5, with real-time guards and published pricing.{1}{2} For Plumbytes we found no current version or test data. In 2016 we rated Plumbytes as simpler and faster to scan, as the original comparison below explains.
How do I cancel a SpyHunter subscription?
EnigmaSoft publishes a support page that explains how to cancel a SpyHunter 5 subscription or turn off auto-renewal.{4} Do it before the renewal date if you do not want another charge. Within the first 30 days, the official site also lists a return option.{2}
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