WhatsApp boasts over 2 billion users worldwide who share plenty of conversations and media every second. However, the app is becoming increasingly vulnerable to malware, phishing, and scams. As a result, supervising the app’s activity has become more important than ever.
For parents, particularly, child WhatsApp monitoring apps help them protect their children from online threats like cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and predatory behavior.
The monitoring industry includes dozens of apps that help view WhatsApp activity. Here, we bring you an overview of the most suitable WhatsApp text monitoring apps that we tested over a month.
| Apps | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| XNSPY | 9.8/10 |
Basic: $4.99/month Premium: $7.49/month |
| Eyezy | 9.2/10 |
Basic 1-Month $39.99 Premium 12-Month $119.99 |
| Hoverwatch | 8.6/10 |
Personal 12 Months: $99.95 Business 12 months: $499.95 |
| FlexiSpy | 8.0/10 |
Lite 1 month: $49.95 Extreme 12 Months: $419 |
| ClevGuard | 7.6/10 |
1 Month: $9.99 12 Months: $49.99/month |
| SpyX | 7.3/10 |
1 Month: $49.99 3 Months $28.32/month |
To give you the most accurate and trustworthy rankings of the best WhatsApp monitoring apps, our team followed a structured and hands-on evaluation process. Each app was purchased and activated with a full subscription, then tested thoroughly over a month to observe performance, consistency, and real-world usability. We examined how each solution performs across different devices and scenarios, from installation and daily use to data handling.
Our scoring system is based on the following weighted criteria:
The largest portion of our evaluation focused on how comprehensive the WhatsApp monitoring features are. We assigned 35% of the total score to this category and analyzed whether the app can track messages, shared media, deleted chats, etc., as well as advanced capabilities like keyword alerts or keystroke logging.
An app’s ability to consistently capture WhatsApp data without missing logs, syncing delays, or crashes accounted for 30% of the total score. During the tests, we closely monitored how accurately conversations and media were recorded over time and how stable the software remained.
We dedicated 15% of the ranking to user experience. This included simplicity of the installation process, intuitiveness of the dashboard, and ease in accessing and interpreting monitored WhatsApp data.
Compatibility contributed 10% to the final score. We evaluated how well each app performs during the tests across different Android and iOS versions our team had on different devices.
The remaining 10% of the score reflected the overall value for money. We compared subscription pricing against features offered and the level of performance delivered for the cost.
Let us walk you through our hands-on experience with the 6 best applications for monitoring and tracking WhatsApp.
During the tests, we found XNSPY to be one of the most comprehensive applications for viewing the WhatsApp activity of a target device. The app seamlessly tracks WhatsApp messages, media, calls, and contact details. All the interactions and chats are discreetly recorded and uploaded to its servers. Parents can view their child’s data and information remotely by logging in to XNSPY’s dashboard.
WhatsApp supervision is one of the dozen features that the tool offers. XNSPY is one of the few apps for WhatsApp monitoring that offers access to over 11 other instant messaging (IM) apps, too. In addition, the app offers location tracking, call and message monitoring, call and surround recording, and remote access to the phone.
We liked the fact that the installation process takes only 5-10 minutes on the target smartphone. Moreover, XNSPY supports an intuitive dashboard that makes it easy for parents to use different features and view the collected data. All the features are clearly defined, and those related to WhatsApp are included in the Messenger section.
The WhatsApp Messages Logs page gives parents access to their kids’ complete chats sent and received from the target phone. We got to view the messages as entire chats or single messages as they are received or sent.
If users want to view messages in the chat view, clicking on the contact name opens the conversation thread. This is where we saw all the exchanged messages, media, links, or other documents. Every incoming and outgoing message is displayed with a date and time stamp.
We felt that one of the added advantages of XNSPY is that it logs and displays even those messages that were sent but subsequently deleted from the target phone.
In the Photos and Videos tab on the dashboard, XNSPY saves all media sent and received. Both the WhatsApp images and videos are noticeable within the logs due to the app’s icon. However, if parents only want to see multimedia saved via WhatsApp, they can apply a built-in filter to separate them from the rest of the gallery, too. Overall, we appreciated that the media files could be viewed or played within the dashboard and then downloaded for later.
What we liked the most during the testing phase was that XNSPY also provides screen recording to diversify the WhatsApp activity logging features. This tool captures your teen’s WhatsApp activity and ensures nothing is left out. The recordings show insightful details like who the child interacts with, the information they write, and the content they share or see. It also saves all ‘View Once’ photos in the recordings, which normally cannot be viewed at all.
The XNSPY keylogger tool lets parents check their child’s keyboard strokes. While we were conducting the tests, we noticed that it records each keystroke entry made while typing a message on WhatsApp in real-time. We also appreciated how XNSPY displays each keystroke with an application badge indicating its source. Parents can even filter the keystrokes from WhatsApp using the drop-down menu within the keylogging section.
We noticed that XNSPY ensures its users get a holistic monitoring experience, particularly when parents are busy and have to keep up with their kids’ WhatsApp activities. The app offers a dynamic watchlist alert feature. Using it, parents can mark risky and inappropriate words that the kid may use on WhatsApp for alerts. While testing, our experts found that the moment those words are used, an instant notification via email is triggered in real-time.
XNSPY is compatible with almost all Android and iOS devices. Furthermore, the software offers a device compatibility page where parents can enter their child’s device name to verify compatibility.
| Plan | Price |
|---|---|
| Basic | $4.99/month |
| Premium | $7.49/month |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
- Complete access to incoming and outgoing messages, even those that are deleted - Keylogger that logs each typing |
- No separate tab to view all the saved WhatsApp contacts |
|
- Input Screen recording provides unlimited real-time visual capture of WhatsApp activity. - The keyword alert tool works seamlessly and sends quick notifications - The interactive dashboard makes it easy to view WhatsApp data |
- |
If you want an app that offers extensive features and doesn’t cost you too much, XNSPY can be a good option for you. The reason we chose XNSPY is its value-for-money offer. Moreover, the real-time data syncing capability of this app made it more worthwhile. As it also offers features beyond WhatsApp monitoring, it can be a complete solution for you.
Eyezy is a reputable app that allows parents to view WhatsApp activity on a monitored device. We liked the user-friendly app dashboard that gives direct and easy access to the child’s WhatsApp messages, calls, and media.
WhatsApp tracking is present in the Social Spotlight tab on the dashboard. Although that is not the only domain this app can monitor. During testing, we found that you can also view call logs, access multimedia, check internet history, and log GPS locations.
Eyezy operates in stealth mode and provides real-time updates. The application boasts an intuitive dashboard, which makes its myriad features easy to use.
The message section shows all the chats saved with the contact name. Clicking on the chat took us to view the message thread between the user and that specific contact. Besides the incoming and outgoing messages, Eyezy also gave us access to the photos that were sent and received.
The contact section displays all the saved WhatsApp contacts on the target cell phone. The list shows the names, and clicking on them reveals the contact's number.
The calls section let us check all the incoming and outgoing WhatsApp calls. In addition to the caller's name and number, we could view the call duration and the date and time of the call too.
Eyezy periodically takes screenshots of WhatsApp activity and uploads them to its remote servers. However, upon viewing them, we found the screenshot frequency to not be very consistent, and the lack of a WhatsApp filter reduced navigability for us.
Eyezy employs a robust keylogger tool to track keystrokes pressed during WhatsApp activity. The information is uploaded to the Keylogger section of the dashboard. That is where we received keystrokes from various apps alongwith dates, though without an option to filter logs.
| Plan | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 Month | $47.99 |
| 3 Month | $27.99/month |
When it comes to iOS, we found Eyezy to be compatible with iOS 7 onwards. However, for Android, the application works well if the target device is running on Android version 4 and onwards.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
- Effectively tracks WhatsApp messages |
- No option to filter shared WhatsApp images in the photo gallery |
|
- Screenshots show WhatsApp activity in real-time - WhatsApp activity page is divided into messages, contacts, and calls, which makes it easy to view each information separately |
- Lacks tool to filter WhatsApp keystrokes from keystrokes of other apps - No WhatsApp call recording feature |
If you are looking for a user-friendly solution that offers comprehensive WhatsApp monitoring, Eyezy can be the right solution. You may face occasional delays every now and then, but for the most part, you will get comprehensive oversight of the child’s WhatsApp chats.
We found Hoverwatch to be a dynamic app that parents can use to track WhatsApp usage seamlessly. Although it may not be as popular as other tools to monitor WhatsApp, it provides cost-effective features.
With Hoverwatch, parents can also see SMS, locations, internet activity, contacts, calendars, and social media. It has an easy installation process and works discreetly to capture children’s phone activity and app data. In our opinion, one of the biggest advantages of Hoverwatch is that it allows you to monitor up to five devices or tablets with a single account.
Hoverwatch WhatsApp activity overview lets parents track conversations remotely. The tool also captures all WhatsApp calls, including contact information, and uploads them to the dashboard.
We particularly liked that Hoverwatch also takes periodic screenshots to capture WhatsApp activity. So, even if a child deletes the messages after sending them, concerned parents can view them via screenshots.
Hoverwatch works on all Android, Mac, and Windows devices.
| Plan | Price |
|---|---|
| Personal | $99.95/ 12 months |
| Professional | $199.95/ 12 months |
| Business | $499.95/ 12 months |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
- Option to use one account to see WhatsApp on 5 devices - Use WhatsApp to locate the device |
- The Keylogger tool is missing - No keyword alert feature - The screenshot feature has limited functionality |
When it comes to Hoverwatch’s monitoring capabilities, the feature set is pretty decent. The only reason we have placed it at number three is its price point. So, if you are someone who is not too concerned about the budget, opting for Hovewatch can prove to be a good option, especially if you want to monitor a Windows device.
FlexiSPY is one of the most recognized apps to track kids' WhatsApp activity in the industry. It was a few of the pioneering apps that introduced remote controls to mobile devices. Today, the app is still going strong after many years of service, and that is the very reason we have added it to our list.
Due to its diverse toolset, FlexiSPY makes it easy to see WhatsApp activity. The software offers many other tracking features, some prominent ones being call and VoIP recording, remote camera picture and video, locations, internet browsing history, and app screenshots.
The application operates in stealth mode and promptly uploads the tracked data to its remote servers.
We were able to see messages from both private and group chats, which are stored according to contact or group name. Each message is saved with the relevant date and time too. FlexiSPY gives parents access to the photos, videos, emojis, and audio clips shared on their child’s WhatsApp account.
The standout feature of FlexiSPY, as per our experti is the VoIP call recording as it is one of the few apps that offer this unique functionality for recording WhatsApp voice calls. Users can listen to the recordings remotely and download them through the dashboard. The call logs are saved according to contact name, call duration, and date and time stamp.
The keylogging feature records anything a child types on WhatsApp. This gives parents insight into what their child says and does online. Another thing that we liked was that the keylogger also showed the number of keystrokes according to date and time.
With FlexiSPY, we could even define and implement alerts for particular words. From the Alerts tab on the dashboard, we set a keyword and got a notification upon using it on WhatsApp. However, we felt like a separate tab for alerts triggered through WhatsApp would have been better.
FlexiSPY is supported on Android and iOS devices, along with computers, tablets, and also via a web browser.
| Plan | Price |
|---|---|
| Lite | $49.95 for 1 month |
| Extreme | $419 for 12-months |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
- Offers WhatsApp voice call recording - Access to photos, videos, and audio files |
- WhatsApp monitoring and overall dashboard is old fashioned and confusing at times - Setting keyword alerts is a time-consuming process |
When it comes to FlexiSPY’s WhatsApp monitoring capabilities, the feature set is undoubtedly powerful and advanced. The only reason we have placed it at number four is its high pricing and somewhat outdated dashboard experience, which may not appeal to every user. So, if you prioritize both advanced features and a smooth user experience, keep in mind that FlexiSPY comes with a noticeable learning curve.
ClevGuard is regarded as one of the most versatile and detailed WhatsApp tracking apps for parents. The software offers a dedicated category to manage WhatsApp activity named ‘KidsGuard for WhatsApp.’
The separate category means ClevGuard offers comprehensive features for viewing WhatsApp activity. Users can access almost everything about the child’s WhatsApp account, including messages, calls, media, status, location, and screenshots.
Overall, we found ClevGuard to be more inclined towards parental oversight. The app features a dynamic dashboard that shows extensive WhatsApp information. ClevGuard discreetly records data from the phone. The features include email tracking, GPS location call recorder, and remote control.
Upon clicking on chats, a page appears showing the contact name and the complete conversation thread. The app even gave us an option to search for interactions.
The call tab displays incoming, missed, and outgoing WhatsApp calls and recordings. Users can view the date and time of the call, its duration, and listen to or download the recordings.
The media section of ClevGuard displays shared photos, videos, documents, and voice notes. ClevGuard’s WhatsApp feature set is further enhanced with tools such as screenshots and alerts. However, it was disappointing that we could only add a maximum of 15 alerts for each type.
ClevGuard runs smoothly on both Android and iOS devices, and what we loved the most about this app was that it is available on both the Play Store and the App Store for easy downloading and installation.
| Plan | Price |
|---|---|
| Monthly | $9.99 |
| Annually | $49.99/month |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
- Provide elaborate features to track WhatsApp and set a screen time limit - Gives a sneak peek at the status of WhatsApp contacts - Search bar to search within the WhatsApp account |
- Only get WhatsApp monitoring, which is expensive in itself - For complete smartphone tracking, one has to subscribe to the ClevGuard main app, which further increases the budget |
ClevGuard’s dedicated “KidsGuard for WhatsApp” category makes navigation simple and keeps all WhatsApp data neatly organized in one place. However, while the feature depth is impressive, accessing broader device monitoring requires subscribing to additional plans, which can increase the overall cost. So, if you are specifically looking for detailed WhatsApp oversight with an intuitive dashboard, ClevGuard can be a strong choice, but for full-scale device tracking, you should be prepared for a higher budget commitment.
SpyX is a versatile and user-friendly mobile monitoring app designed to monitor WhatsApp activity. It offers a wide array of monitoring features, including real-time GPS location, call logs, text messages, and access to popular social media platforms.
One of SpyX's standout features is its ability to record ambient sounds and surroundings. The app also supports remote access, allowing users to block or uninstall apps, including WhatsApp, on the target phone.
SpyX operates in stealth mode and remains undetectable while collecting data. Its intuitive dashboard makes navigating the features and tools easy, ensuring an efficient experience.
You can view the historical and real-time messages with SpyX. Its WhatsApp tracking allows parents to see all the messages, audio files, photos, and videos sent, received, and deleted from the WhatsApp account. We liked how all the messages are time-stamped and even include exchanged emojis or stickers.
The application has a keylogger tool that provides access to all the typed content on WhatsApp. SpyX even offers a keyword alert feature that notifies parents when specified words or phrases are used on WhatsApp. However, while testing, we noticed that the alerts sometimes get delayed.
SpyX monitoring app is compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
| Plan | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 Month | $49.95/month |
| 3 Month | $28.32/month |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
- View disappearing messages - A search bar to search within the WhatsApp account |
- Keyword alert and keylogger tools are not advanced |
When it comes to SpyX’s WhatsApp monitoring capabilities, the app delivers a well-balanced combination of usability and essential tracking tools. We particularly appreciated its clean dashboard. However, while features like the keylogger and keyword alerts are useful, they lack the depth and responsiveness offered by some higher-ranked competitors. So, if you are looking for a user-friendly WhatsApp monitoring solution with solid core features and straightforward navigation, SpyX can be a reliable choice, but those seeking highly advanced alert systems may find it somewhat limited.
Choosing the solution to see WhatsApp account activity depends on several factors, which may differ for everyone. There is no one definitive tool, as all of the competitors in this service have different areas of oversight for WhatsApp activity.
However, through objective analysis, we can conclude that XNSPY offers the most complete WhatsApp activity oversight experience. The smartphone tracking and monitoring application has no obvious flaws and provides the most features of all the apps discussed on this list.
Again, your requirements may vary, and the app you select may only fulfill some criteria.
Yes, advanced WhatsApp monitoring apps can log messages before they are deleted or disappear. Some solutions also capture screenshots or screen recordings, allowing parents to view content such as deleted chats or “View Once” media that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Reputable monitoring apps like XNSPY operate in stealth mode and run quietly in the background without showing icons or notifications on the target device. This prevents kids from both accessing the app and tampering with it.
Parents should look for apps that offer complete chat logs, media access, deleted message recovery, screen recording, keyword alerts, and an easy-to-use dashboard. Compatibility, affordability, depth of insights, and customer support are also important factors when making a decision.
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