14 Best Phone Tracker Apps in 2025
Find the top free and paid apps to track phones, led by Hoverwatch.
Discover NowCompare the Top 14 Phone Tracker Apps
| App | Compatibility | Price | Rating | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hoverwatch | Android, Windows, macOS | $24.95/mo | ★★★★★ | Stealth, GPS, Multi-device | No iOS, Paid only |
| mSpy | Android, iOS | $29.99/mo | ★★★★ | Call logs, Social media | Expensive, Root needed |
| FlexiSPY | Android, iOS | $68/mo | ★★★★ | Call recording, Remote cam | Costly, Complex setup |
| KidsGuard Pro | Android, iOS | $39.95/mo | ★★★★ | Wi-Fi tracking, Easy UI | Pricey, Limited free |
| WebWatcher | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS | $10.83/mo | ★★★★ | Keyword alerts, Cross-platform | No free trial, Basic GPS |
| Spyera | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS | $89/mo | ★★★★ | VoIP recording, Stealth mode | Expensive, Support issues |
| Spynger | Android, iOS | $49.99/mo | ★★★ | Social media tracking, Modern UI | Pricey, Limited transparency |
| iKeyMonitor | Android, iOS (jailbreak) | Free/$29.99/mo | ★★★ | Free plan, Keylogger | Jailbreak needed, Dated UI |
| Bark | Android, iOS | $14.99/mo | ★★★ | Content alerts, Easy setup | No call logs, Subscription only |
| Clevguard | Android, iOS, Windows | $8.32/mo | ★★★ | Affordable, Multi-device | Multiple apps, Sync delays |
| Qustodio | Android, iOS, Windows, macOS | $4.58/mo | ★★★ | Screen time control, Free plan | Limited tracking, Ads in free |
| XNSPY | Android, iOS | $7.49/mo | ★★★ | Call recording, Affordable | Root needed, Slow support |
| Spyzie | Android, iOS | $39.99/mo | ★★★ | Geofencing, Social media | Pricey, Buggy updates |
| uMobix | Android, iOS | $49.99/mo | ★★★ | Real-time tracking, Clean UI | Expensive, Limited iOS |
In-Depth Reviews of 14 Phone Tracker Apps
1. Hoverwatch – Best Overall Tracker
Hoverwatch shines as a top-tier phone tracker, blending stealth with powerful features. Designed for parents and employers, it tracks real-time GPS locations, call logs, texts, and social media activity across platforms like WhatsApp and Snapchat. Its invisible mode ensures discreet monitoring without detection, ideal for keeping tabs without raising suspicion. Installation is a breeze—no rooting required—and it supports up to five devices on one plan, making it versatile for families or small businesses. Hoverwatch also captures keystrokes, offering insight into typed messages or searches. While it lacks iOS support, its affordability and reliability make it a standout. Whether you’re safeguarding kids or monitoring work devices, Hoverwatch delivers consistent performance with a user-friendly dashboard. Its robust feature set and seamless operation earn it a well-deserved five-star rating.
- Real-Time GPS
- Stealth Mode
- Social Media Tracking
- Keylogger
- Reliable tracking
- Affordable plans
- Multi-device support
- No iOS support
- Paid plans only
Price: $24.95-$149.95/month
Rating: ★★★★★
2. mSpy
mSpy is a versatile tracker favored by parents for its comprehensive monitoring. It tracks GPS locations, call logs, texts, and social media apps like Instagram and Facebook, all accessible via an intuitive dashboard. Real-time geofencing alerts notify you when a device enters or leaves set zones, perfect for ensuring kids stay safe. mSpy works on both Android and iOS, though advanced features like call recording may require rooting or jailbreaking. The app’s stealth mode keeps it hidden, preserving privacy during monitoring. While it’s pricier than some competitors, its robust feature set justifies the cost for those needing detailed oversight. Regular updates ensure compatibility with new OS versions, and customer support is responsive. mSpy’s balance of functionality and ease of use earns it a solid four-star rating, though budget-conscious users might hesitate.
- GPS Tracking
- Geofencing
- Social Media Monitoring
- Call Logs
- Comprehensive logs
- Cross-platform
- Responsive support
- Expensive
- Rooting for extras
Price: $29.99/month
Rating: ★★★★
3. FlexiSPY
FlexiSPY pushes boundaries with advanced features like call recording and remote camera access, catering to users needing deep monitoring. It tracks GPS, texts, emails, and apps on Android and iOS devices, delivering data to a sleek dashboard. Its ambient recording captures surroundings, offering unique insights for security-conscious users. However, setup can be tricky, often requiring rooting or jailbreaking for full functionality, which may deter novices. FlexiSPY’s premium price reflects its robust capabilities, but it’s overkill for basic tracking needs. The app operates in stealth mode, ensuring discretion, and its support team is helpful for troubleshooting. Ideal for tech-savvy parents or employers, FlexiSPY earns four stars for its power, though its cost and complexity keep it from a perfect score.
- Call Recording
- Remote Camera
- GPS Tracking
- Ambient Recording
- Advanced features
- Stealth mode
- Cross-platform
- High cost
- Complex setup
Price: $68/month
Rating: ★★★★
4. KidsGuard Pro
KidsGuard Pro is tailored for parental control, offering real-time GPS tracking, geofencing, and social media monitoring. It logs calls, texts, and app activity on Android and iOS, with a standout feature: Wi-Fi-based location tracking for precise indoor positioning. The app’s dashboard is clean, making it easy to navigate, and stealth mode keeps monitoring discreet. No rooting is needed for most features, which is a plus for non-techy parents. However, its subscription cost feels steep for what’s offered, and free trials are limited. KidsGuard Pro also captures screenshots remotely, giving parents a peek into device usage. It’s reliable for keeping kids safe online and offline, earning four stars for its balance of features and usability, though cheaper alternatives exist.
- GPS Tracking
- Wi-Fi Tracking
- Geofencing
- Screenshots
- Easy to use
- Wi-Fi tracking
- No rooting
- Pricey
- Limited trial
Price: $39.95/month
Rating: ★★★★
5. WebWatcher
WebWatcher excels in monitoring across multiple platforms, supporting Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. It tracks GPS locations, texts, calls, and social media activity, with a unique keyword alert system that flags concerning messages or searches—perfect for parents worried about online risks. The dashboard is intuitive, delivering data in real-time without needing to root devices. WebWatcher’s strength lies in its cross-device compatibility, making it ideal for families with mixed tech. It also captures screenshots for deeper insights into app usage. However, there’s no free trial, and its GPS tracking isn’t as precise as top competitors. Priced affordably for annual plans, it’s a solid choice for comprehensive oversight. WebWatcher earns four stars for its versatility and proactive alerts, though it falls short of perfection due to minor accuracy issues and lack of a test period.
- Keyword Alerts
- GPS Tracking
- Screenshots
- Social Media Monitoring
- Keyword alerts
- Cross-platform
- Affordable yearly
- No free trial
- Basic GPS
Price: $10.83/month
Rating: ★★★★
6. Spyera
Spyera is a premium tracker offering advanced features like VoIP call recording and ambient listening, ideal for users needing in-depth surveillance. Compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS, it tracks GPS, texts, emails, and social media with a polished dashboard. Its stealth mode ensures complete discretion, perfect for parents or employers. Spyera’s standout is recording calls on apps like WhatsApp or Skype, a rarity among competitors. Setup can be complex, often requiring jailbreaking for iOS, which may deter beginners. The high price tag reflects its capabilities but feels steep for casual users. Support is available but occasionally slow, impacting the experience. Spyera earns four stars for its robust toolkit, falling short of five due to cost and setup hurdles, yet it’s a top pick for serious monitoring needs.
- VoIP Recording
- Ambient Listening
- GPS Tracking
- Stealth Mode
- VoIP recording
- Stealth mode
- Multi-platform
- Expensive
- Support issues
Price: $89/month
Rating: ★★★★
7. Spynger
Spynger focuses on social media monitoring, tracking platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and WhatsApp on Android and iOS devices. Its modern interface is user-friendly, with real-time GPS and call logs displayed clearly. Spynger’s geofencing alerts keep parents informed when kids stray from safe zones. It operates discreetly, requiring no rooting for basic features, which is a plus for ease of use. However, its pricing is steep for the feature set, and the company’s transparency about data handling raises questions. Customer support is decent but not outstanding, and updates can be inconsistent. Spynger suits parents needing social media oversight, but it lacks the depth of higher-ranked apps. It earns three stars for its clean design and functionality, held back by cost and limited clarity on operations.
- Social Media Tracking
- GPS Tracking
- Geofencing
- Call Logs
- Modern UI
- Social media focus
- No rooting
- Pricey
- Limited transparency
Price: $49.99/month
Rating: ★★★
8. iKeyMonitor
iKeyMonitor offers a free plan, making it accessible for parents on a budget, with premium features at a reasonable cost. Available for Android and iOS (jailbreak required for full iOS functionality), it tracks GPS, keystrokes, texts, and app activity. Its keylogger is a highlight, capturing everything typed, from passwords to messages. The dashboard is functional but feels dated, and setup can be tricky, especially on iOS due to jailbreaking needs. iKeyMonitor’s free version covers basic tracking, but premium unlocks call recording and screenshots. Support is responsive, though documentation lacks polish. It’s a solid choice for cost-conscious users needing a keylogger, but its interface and iOS limitations hold it back. iKeyMonitor earns three stars for affordability, missing a higher score due to dated design and setup complexity.
- Keylogger
- GPS Tracking
- Call Recording
- Screenshots
- Free plan
- Strong keylogger
- Reasonable price
- Jailbreak needed
- Dated UI
Price: Free/$29.99/month
Rating: ★★★
9. Bark
Bark specializes in content monitoring, scanning texts, emails, and social media for signs of bullying, depression, or inappropriate activity on Android and iOS. Its AI-driven alerts notify parents of potential issues, making it a proactive tool for child safety. Setup is quick, with no rooting required, and the interface is clean and approachable. Bark’s focus on mental health sets it apart, but it lacks traditional tracking like call logs or detailed GPS, limiting its scope. The subscription-only model feels restrictive for basic needs. It integrates with school accounts, a bonus for educators. Bark is great for parents prioritizing online safety over location tracking, but its narrow feature set keeps it at three stars, as it doesn’t match the versatility of higher-ranked apps.
- Content Alerts
- Social Media Scanning
- AI Monitoring
- School Integration
- Content alerts
- Easy setup
- AI-driven
- No call logs
- Subscription only
Price: $14.99/month
Rating: ★★★
10. Clevguard
Clevguard offers affordable monitoring for Android, iOS, and Windows, with GPS tracking, call logs, texts, and social media oversight. Its multi-device support suits families or small businesses, and the dashboard is straightforward, though not as sleek as competitors. Clevguard’s suite includes separate apps for different tasks (e.g., KidsGuard for phones, MoniVisor for PCs), which can confuse users. It operates discreetly without rooting, but sync delays occasionally disrupt real-time tracking. Pricing is a strong point, making it accessible for budget-conscious parents. Clevguard’s versatility is appealing, but managing multiple apps and minor lag issues prevent a higher ranking. It earns three stars for its cost-effectiveness and broad compatibility, ideal for those needing basic tracking across devices without breaking the bank.
- GPS Tracking
- Multi-Device
- Social Media
- Call Logs
- Affordable
- Multi-device
- No rooting
- Multiple apps
- Sync delays
Price: $8.32/month
Rating: ★★★
11. Qustodio
Qustodio is a parental control app with a free plan, focusing on screen time management and basic GPS tracking across Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. It lets parents set device usage limits, block apps, and monitor web activity, with a simple dashboard that’s easy to navigate. The free version covers one device, while premium supports multiple, adding call and text monitoring. Qustodio’s strength is its budget-friendly pricing and educational focus, but its tracking features are limited compared to dedicated trackers, and the free plan includes ads. It’s reliable for managing kids’ digital habits but lacks precision in location services. Qustodio earns three stars for affordability and ease, falling short of higher ranks due to its basic tracking capabilities.
- Screen Time Control
- GPS Tracking
- App Blocking
- Web Monitoring
- Free plan
- Screen time tools
- Cross-platform
- Limited tracking
- Ads in free
Price: $4.58/month
Rating: ★★★
12. XNSPY
XNSPY provides cost-effective tracking for Android and iOS, with GPS, call recording, and social media monitoring. Its analytics dashboard tracks frequent locations and app usage, useful for parents or employers. Stealth mode keeps it discreet, and remote commands allow device locking. However, advanced features like call recording often require rooting, which complicates setup for non-tech users. Priced competitively, it’s attractive for budget trackers, but customer support can be slow, and the interface feels less polished than top apps. XNSPY’s affordability and core features make it functional, but it struggles with reliability and ease of use compared to leaders. It earns three stars for its value, missing higher ranks due to technical hurdles and support delays.
- GPS Tracking
- Call Recording
- Analytics
- Remote Lock
- Affordable
- Call recording
- Stealth mode
- Root needed
- Slow support
Price: $7.49/month
Rating: ★★★
13. Spyzie
Spyzie tracks Android and iOS devices, covering GPS, social media, calls, and texts with a beginner-friendly dashboard. Its geofencing alerts notify users when devices cross set boundaries, ideal for parental control. Stealth mode ensures discreet monitoring, and no rooting is needed for most features. However, Spyzie’s performance can be inconsistent, with occasional update bugs disrupting functionality. Its pricing feels high for the reliability offered, and support responses are often delayed. Spyzie suits users needing basic tracking with a simple interface, but it lacks the polish and stability of top competitors. It earns three stars for its decent feature set, held back by technical hiccups and cost, making it a middle-ground option for casual monitoring.
- GPS Tracking
- Geofencing
- Social Media
- Stealth Mode
- Intuitive UI
- Geofencing
- No rooting
- Buggy updates
- Pricey
Price: $39.99/month
Rating: ★★★
14. uMobix
uMobix delivers real-time tracking for Android and iOS, with GPS, call logs, texts, and social media monitoring. Its clean interface makes navigation easy, and it supports remote screenshots for instant device insights. Stealth mode keeps it hidden, ideal for discreet parental checks. However, iOS support is limited compared to Android, requiring complex setup for full features. The price is high for its offerings, and some users report sync issues with social media logs. uMobix’s strength is its responsive dashboard, but it doesn’t match the depth or reliability of top apps. It’s a decent choice for parents needing quick updates, earning three stars for its modern look and core tracking, but its cost and iOS constraints prevent a higher ranking.
- Real-Time Tracking
- Screenshots
- Social Media
- Stealth Mode
- Clean UI
- Real-time data
- Screenshot tool
- Limited iOS
- Expensive
Price: $49.99/month
Rating: ★★★
Common Questions About Phone Trackers
1. What is a phone tracker?
A phone tracker is a software or app designed to monitor a device’s activities, often used for safety or security purposes. It can track real-time GPS locations, log calls and text messages, monitor social media, or even record ambient sounds. Parents use them to protect kids from online threats, while businesses might track company phones. Apps like Hoverwatch offer stealth modes, running invisibly for discreet monitoring. Features vary—some emphasize location tracking, others focus on app usage or content alerts. Installation is typically required, though some cloud-based options use backups like iCloud. Legally, consent or device ownership is often necessary. Phone trackers provide valuable oversight when used responsibly, balancing convenience with privacy concerns.
2. Are phone trackers legal?
Phone trackers are legal when used with consent or on devices you own, such as a child’s phone or company property. Laws differ by country, so always verify local regulations. For minors, parental permission is usually enough, but tracking adults without their knowledge can breach privacy laws. Apps like Hoverwatch encourage ethical use, recommending users notify those being monitored. Unauthorized tracking, like stalking, is illegal and can lead to penalties. Transparency is key—informing users ensures compliance. Phone trackers are powerful tools for safety or management, but misuse can cross legal lines. Check your jurisdiction and use them responsibly to avoid trouble.
3. Which phone tracker is best?
Hoverwatch is the best phone tracker due to its seamless mix of stealth, versatility, and value. It offers real-time GPS tracking, call and text logging, and social media monitoring across Android, Windows, and macOS devices, all accessible via an intuitive dashboard. Its standout feature is invisible operation, making it perfect for parents or employers seeking discreet oversight. Supporting up to five devices on a single plan, Hoverwatch is budget-friendly for multi-device users. While it doesn’t support iOS, its strengths—like keystroke logging and reliability—outshine competitors. For those needing hidden, feature-rich tracking at a fair price, Hoverwatch is unmatched.
4. Do phone trackers work on both Android and iOS?
Many phone trackers support both Android and iOS, though functionality varies. Android trackers often provide robust features like call recording or keylogging without rooting, while iOS apps might require jailbreaking for similar access. Cloud-based options, like FamiGuard Pro, work on iOS via iCloud backups, offering basic monitoring without installation, but real-time data is limited. Apps like Hoverwatch focus on Android, skipping iOS entirely, while others, like mSpy, cater to both platforms. iOS restrictions can hinder advanced features unless jailbroken. For broad compatibility, check the app’s specs. If you need consistent tracking across Android and iOS, choose a versatile app, but expect some trade-offs on iOS.
5. Can I track a phone without installing software?
Yes, but options are limited. Cloud-based trackers, like those using iCloud for iOS, allow monitoring without software by accessing backups with credentials—covering locations, messages, and photos, though not in real time. Android typically requires installation, as cloud alternatives are scarce. Apps like Hoverwatch need setup on the device for full tracking, offering detailed, real-time insights. Web dashboards provide remote access post-installation, but initial physical access is key. Cloud methods suit basic, remote tracking, while installed apps excel for depth and immediacy. Your choice depends on goals—convenience favors cloud, while comprehensive monitoring leans toward software installation.
6. How much do phone trackers cost?
Phone tracker costs vary widely, from free to over $100 monthly, based on features. Free apps like Life360 provide basic location tracking, but premium features—call recording, social media monitoring—start at $20-$100/month. Affordable options like Qustodio cost under $10/month, while high-end tools like FlexiSPY or Spyera range from $50-$100 for advanced capabilities. Hoverwatch offers tiered pricing, with multi-device plans and discounts for longer terms, making it cost-effective. Free trials are uncommon, but limited free versions exist. Compare features to your needs—basic tracking is cheaper, while stealth or multi-platform tools cost more. Budget wisely to get the right balance.
7. Do I need to root or jailbreak the device?
Rooting (Android) or jailbreaking (iOS) isn’t always required but enhances some features. Basic functions like GPS or call logs work without it, but advanced tools—call recording, keylogging—often need root/jailbreak for full access. Apps like Hoverwatch provide solid monitoring without rooting, simplifying setup. Rooting or jailbreaking risks voiding warranties or introducing vulnerabilities, so consider the trade-offs. For stealth, it can improve invisibility, but most users manage fine without it. Check the app’s requirements—many offer decent functionality out of the box. If you’re comfortable with the risks, rooting/jailbreaking unlocks more, but it’s optional for core tracking.
8. Can phone trackers be detected?
Top trackers like Hoverwatch or FlexiSPY operate in stealth mode, hiding from app lists and minimizing resource use to avoid detection. However, sharp users might spot odd battery drain or data spikes. Anti-spyware apps can sometimes uncover trackers, especially if poorly installed. To stay hidden, pick apps with strong stealth features and limit syncing frequency to dodge alerts. Routine device scans or resets might expose them, though. For best results, follow setup instructions precisely and opt for trackers built for discretion. Legal use often requires disclosure anyway, so detection risks may not always matter. Stealth is achievable with the right tool.
9. What features should I look for in a phone tracker?
The best features depend on your purpose. For location, seek real-time GPS, geofencing, and history logs. Parents may prioritize social media tracking, app blocking, or keyword alerts. Businesses might want call logs, texts, or email monitoring. Stealth mode is vital for discreet use. A clear dashboard, reliable support, and updates for new OS versions ensure usability. Multi-device support helps families or teams. Budget users should look for affordable plans with essentials. Apps like Hoverwatch blend stealth, GPS, and messaging tools well. Match features to your goals—don’t overpay for extras you won’t use. Research ensures you get the right fit.
10. How do I install a phone tracker?
Installation depends on the app. For Android, enable “Unknown Sources,” download the app, and follow its wizard—physical access is needed initially. iOS may require jailbreaking or iCloud credentials for cloud tracking. Post-install, log into a web dashboard to manage settings and data. Hoverwatch, for example, provides step-by-step guides for quick setup. Test the app to confirm it works, and hide it if stealth matters. Cloud trackers skip installation but offer less depth. Updates keep it running smoothly. Most require one-time device access, so plan accordingly. It’s straightforward with the right instructions.