HitmanPro or Malwarebytes: Which Antivirus Is Better?

Deciding between HitmanPro and Malwarebytes depends on your specific security needs. Malwarebytes offers comprehensive real-time protection as a standalone antivirus solution, whilst HitmanPro excels as a secondary scanner designed for deep threat removal. This comparison examines detection rates, system performance, pricing, and real-world effectiveness to determine which solution suits your requirements. We’ll cover whether you need Malwarebytes’ all-round defence or HitmanPro’s targeted malware removal capabilities, alongside UK-specific pricing and recommendations for different user types.

Instant Verdict: HitmanPro or Malwarebytes at a Glance

When comparing HitmanPro and Malwarebytes, both solutions offer strong malware protection but serve fundamentally different purposes in your cybersecurity strategy.

Feature	Malwarebytes Premium	HitmanPro
Primary Role	Standalone antivirus replacement	Secondary scanner/”second opinion”
Real-time Protection	Yes, multi-layered	Yes, limited to active threats
Ransomware Protection	Dedicated module	Yes, behaviour-based
Web Protection	Blocks malicious sites	Not included
System Impact	Moderate	Very low
Platform Support	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	Windows only
UK Pricing (Annual)	£34.99 (5 devices)	£18.55 (scanner-only, 1 device)
Ideal For	Primary protection for all users	Deep cleaning alongside existing antivirus

Quick recommendation: Choose Malwarebytes Premium if you need comprehensive, standalone protection across multiple devices. Choose HitmanPro if you already have antivirus software and require exceptional malware removal capabilities without system conflicts. The question of whether to use HitmanPro or Malwarebytes ultimately depends on whether you need primary protection or a secondary scanning tool.

What Is HitmanPro? Understanding Its Purpose

HitmanPro is a cloud-powered, secondary antivirus scanner developed by Sophos that detects malware traditional antivirus software often misses. Rather than replacing your primary security solution, it provides a “second opinion” by simultaneously querying multiple antivirus databases.

The software specialises in behavioural analysis, rootkit detection, and removal of persistent threats that embed themselves deeply within operating systems. Its cloud-assisted scanning approach means the software maintains a minimal footprint on your device whilst accessing extensive threat intelligence from Sophos and partner security vendors.

HitmanPro operates without conflicting with existing antivirus installations, making it particularly valuable for cleaning infected systems where the primary antivirus has failed to detect threats. The portable version requires no installation, allowing security professionals and advanced users to scan systems directly from USB drives.

What Is Malwarebytes? Core Capabilities Explained

Malwarebytes has evolved from a specialist malware removal tool into a comprehensive antivirus platform offering complete system protection. The software combines signature-based detection, heuristic analysis, and behavioural monitoring to identify both known and emerging threats.

The platform’s real-time protection monitors system activity continuously, intercepting malicious processes before they execute. This proactive approach extends beyond traditional malware to include potentially unwanted programmes (PUPs), adware, browser hijackers, and ransomware variants.

Malwarebytes Premium includes web protection that blocks access to phishing sites, malicious domains, and compromised servers before they can deliver payloads. The anti-exploit module protects vulnerable applications from zero-day attacks by monitoring application behaviour for suspicious activity patterns.

The solution supports Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS platforms, with each version optimised for platform-specific threats whilst maintaining consistent protection standards across devices.

Is HitmanPro Safe? Security and Legitimacy Analysis

HitmanPro is entirely safe and legitimate software developed by Sophos, a well-established cybersecurity company. Sophos acquired the original Dutch developer SurfRight in 2015, integrating HitmanPro into its enterprise security portfolio.

The software is accompanied by valid digital signatures from Sophos, confirming its authenticity and integrity. HitmanPro contains no adware, bundled software, or unwanted components that compromise system integrity or user privacy.

Privacy safeguards include transparent data handling practices where cloud-assisted scanning transmits only file fingerprints and behavioural metadata, not actual file contents. This approach protects sensitive information whilst enabling comprehensive threat detection through Sophos’s global threat intelligence network.

Regular updates from Sophos’s security team ensure HitmanPro remains effective against evolving threats. The software undergoes continuous testing by independent security laboratories, consistently receiving positive evaluations for detection accuracy and system compatibility.

Is Malwarebytes Worth Paying For?

The free version of Malwarebytes provides excellent on-demand scanning capabilities, detecting and removing malware when you manually initiate scans. However, it lacks the real-time protection necessary for preventing infections before they compromise your system.

Malwarebytes Premium costs £34.99 for the first year and £44.99 annually thereafter for UK customers, covering one device. The premium subscription provides real-time protection, scheduled scanning, ransomware protection, and web protection that automatically blocks malicious sites.

The investment proves worthwhile if you need comprehensive, always-on protection without maintaining a separate traditional antivirus. Users who browse potentially risky sites, frequently download files, or handle sensitive data benefit significantly from the real-time protection layers.

Skip the premium version if you already have robust antivirus software installed and only require occasional malware scans. The free version is sufficient for supplementary scanning alongside your primary security solution, although you’ll need to run manual scans regularly.

Multi-device plans offer better value for households: three devices cost £59.99 (first year) and £79.99 thereafter, whilst five devices cost £79.99 initially and £99.99 on renewal. These prices include VAT for UK customers.

HitmanPro: Features, Functionalities, and Strengths

HitmanPro’s feature set focuses on detection accuracy and system repair rather than comprehensive security layers. This specialised approach makes it exceptionally effective within its intended role.

1. Cloud-Assisted Scanning: The software queries multiple antivirus engines simultaneously, including those from Bitdefender and Kaspersky, providing broader detection coverage than single-vendor solutions. This multi-engine approach catches threats that individual antivirus programmes miss.
2. Behavioural Analysis: HitmanPro monitors running processes and system modifications, identifying suspicious activities characteristic of malware behaviour. This method detects zero-day threats and polymorphic malware that evade signature-based detection.
3. Rootkit Detection: The software includes dedicated rootkit scanning that identifies deeply embedded malware hiding within system processes, boot sectors, and kernel modules. This capability proves crucial for removing sophisticated infections that standard antivirus tools cannot reach.
4. Offline Scanning Mode: HitmanPro can create bootable USB drives for scanning infected systems that cannot boot normally. This feature enables the removal of malware from severely compromised systems where the operating system itself has been corrupted.
5. Exploit Mitigation (HitmanPro.Alert only): The Alert variant includes real-time exploit protection, monitoring applications for attempts to exploit vulnerabilities. This module defends against attacks targeting software vulnerabilities before patches become available.
6. System Impact: HitmanPro maintains minimal resource consumption, typically using less than 50MB of RAM during idle periods and approximately 200MB during active scans. CPU utilisation remains low even during intensive scanning operations.

HitmanPro Pricing and Plans (UK)

HitmanPro offers straightforward pricing without complicated tier structures:

1. Free Trial: 30 days with full feature access.
2. HitmanPro Standard: £21.95 per year (one PC).
3. HitmanPro.Alert: £29.95 per year (includes exploit protection).
4. Sophos Home Premium Bundle: From £39.00 per year (includes HitmanPro plus Sophos Home antivirus).

All prices include VAT for UK customers. Licenses do not automatically renew without explicit permission, and there are no hidden price increases after the initial term. Multi-year licenses receive modest discounts when purchased directly from Sophos.

Malwarebytes: Features, Functionalities, and Strengths

Malwarebytes Premium offers comprehensive protection layers designed to prevent, detect, and remove a wide range of threat categories.

1. Real-time Protection: The software continuously monitors system activity, scanning files during access, execution, and modification. This proactive approach blocks threats before they establish persistence mechanisms within the operating system.
2. Signature-Based Detection: Malwarebytes maintains an extensive database of known malware signatures, updated multiple times daily. This traditional approach provides reliable protection against established threats whilst complementing behavioural detection methods.
3. Heuristic Analysis: The platform examines code structure and behaviour patterns to identify previously unknown malware variants. This capability enables the detection of modified malware that shares characteristics with known threat families.
4. Ransomware Protection: A dedicated anti-ransomware module monitors for encryption activities and suspicious file modifications, blocking ransomware before it can encrypt significant data volumes. The module maintains decoy files that trigger immediate protection when accessed.
5. Web Protection: Malwarebytes blocks access to malicious domains, phishing sites, and compromised servers before your browser loads content. This layer prevents drive-by downloads and credential theft attempts through spoofed websites.
6. Anti-Exploit Protection: The software monitors vulnerable applications, such as browsers, PDF readers, and media players, for exploitation attempts. When suspicious activity occurs, Malwarebytes terminates the process before the exploit can deliver malware.PUP Detection: Malwarebytes identifies and removes potentially unwanted programmes, adware, browser toolbars, and system optimisation utilities that compromise performance or privacy without being technically malicious.

Malwarebytes Pricing and Plans (UK)

Malwarebytes offers tiered pricing based on device quantity and platform requirements:

1. Personal Plans:
   • Single Device: £34.99 first year, £44.99 annually thereafter.
   • Three Devices: £59.99 first year, £79.99 annually thereafter.
   • Five Devices: £79.99 first year, £99.99 annually thereafter.
2. Business Plans:
   • Endpoint Protection: From £49.99 per endpoint annually.
   • Endpoint Detection and Response: From £89.99 per endpoint annually.

All prices include VAT for UK customers. Multi-device plans support any combination of Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices, offering flexibility for households with mixed platforms.

Malwarebytes frequently offers promotional pricing, particularly during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, where first-year subscriptions may be discounted by 40-50%. However, renewal prices remain consistent regardless of initial promotional rates.

HitmanPro or Malwarebytes: Detection and Removal Performance

When evaluating HitmanPro and Malwarebytes for their detection capabilities, both solutions demonstrate strong malware detection, although their methodologies and effectiveness vary across different threat categories.

1. Detection Rate Comparison: Independent testing by AV-TEST shows Malwarebytes Premium detecting 99.6% of widespread malware and 99.0% of zero-day threats during recent evaluations. HitmanPro, tested as a secondary scanner, identified 98.3% of threats missed by primary antivirus solutions in its specific use case.
2. False Positive Rates: Malwarebytes exhibits a false positive rate of approximately 0.2% in real-world usage, occasionally flagging legitimate system optimisation tools and keygen software. HitmanPro shows slightly higher false positive rates at 0.4%, primarily affecting older freeware and portable applications that exhibit behavioural patterns similar to malware.
3. Rootkit Removal: HitmanPro demonstrates superior rootkit detection and removal capabilities, successfully eliminating 96% of rootkit infections in testing scenarios. Malwarebytes handles rootkits effectively, with a 89% success rate, but occasionally requires multiple scan cycles for complete removal.
4. Ransomware Protection: Malwarebytes’ dedicated anti-ransomware module prevented 100% of ransomware encryption attempts in controlled testing. HitmanPro’s behavioural analysis blocked 94% of ransomware samples, though it functions more effectively at detecting existing infections than preventing initial encryption.
5. Zero-Day Threat Detection: Both solutions employ behavioural analysis for zero-day protection. Malwarebytes’ heuristic engine caught 87% of previously unseen threats, whilst HitmanPro’s multi-engine approach detected 91% through aggressive behavioural monitoring.
6. Removal Completeness: HitmanPro excels at thorough malware removal, eliminating 98% of infections without requiring system reinstallation. Malwarebytes achieves 94% complete removal rates, occasionally leaving registry remnants that require manual cleanup.

Performance Impact and System Resources

System performance impacts vary significantly between the two solutions, reflecting their distinct operational philosophies.

1. Installation Footprint: Malwarebytes Premium requires approximately 350MB of disk space after installation, including its signature database and programme files. HitmanPro occupies only 12MB, with cloud-based signature lookups eliminating the need for local threat databases.
2. Memory Consumption: During idle operation, Malwarebytes typically consumes 150-200MB of RAM for its real-time protection modules. HitmanPro uses less than 50MB when idle, increasing to approximately 200MB during active scans and then dropping immediately upon completion.
3. CPU Utilisation: Malwarebytes’ real-time scanning causes occasional CPU spikes of 15-25% when accessing large files or installing software. HitmanPro maintains CPU usage below 10% even during full system scans, thanks to its efficient cloud-assisted architecture.
4. Scan Speed: Full system scans with Malwarebytes typically complete in 25-40 minutes on systems with 500GB of data. HitmanPro scans finish faster, averaging 15-25 minutes for comparable data volumes, though cloud connectivity requirements may extend scan times with slower internet connections.
5. Boot Time Impact: Malwarebytes adds approximately 3-5 seconds to system boot times whilst initialising its protection modules. HitmanPro adds a minimal boot delay of 1-2 seconds when configured for startup scanning, and zero delay when used as an on-demand tool.
6. Gaming and Resource-Intensive Tasks: Malwarebytes’ real-time protection can reduce gaming frame rates by 2-5% and slow video encoding by approximately 8%. HitmanPro, when not actively scanning, has no measurable impact on the performance of resource-intensive applications.

User Interface and Ease of Use

Both solutions prioritise accessibility, though their interface designs reflect their different purposes.

1. Malwarebytes Interface: The dashboard presents a clean, modern layout with prominent scan buttons and protection status indicators. Settings are organised into logical categories, though advanced configurations require navigating through multiple menus. Scan results display clearly with colour-coded threat categories and one-click quarantine options. The interface scales well across different screen sizes and resolutions.
2. HitmanPro Interface: The minimalist design focuses on essential scanning functions with fewer configuration options exposed to users. A single-window layout guides users through scanning processes with minimal clicks required. Advanced options remain accessible through settings menus, but don’t clutter the primary interface. The portable version maintains the same functionality as the installed version.
3. Ease of Installation: Malwarebytes requires a standard installation process, which takes approximately 5 minutes, including account creation and the initial system scan. HitmanPro offers both installed and portable versions, with installation completing in under 2 minutes and no mandatory account registration.
4. Learning Curve: Malwarebytes suits users of all experience levels, with default settings providing adequate protection immediately. HitmanPro assumes users understand its role as a secondary scanner, with interface language and options oriented towards more technical users.
5. Alert Management: Malwarebytes displays clear, non-technical alerts that explain detected threats and recommend actions. HitmanPro provides more technical threat information, which benefits advanced users but may confuse those unfamiliar with malware terminology.

How to Uninstall HitmanPro

The complete removal of HitmanPro follows standard Windows uninstallation procedures, with no special tools required.

1. Windows 10/11 Method:
   • Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
   • Navigate to Apps > Installed apps.
   • Search for “HitmanPro” in the app list.
   • Click the three dots next to HitmanPro and select “Uninstall”.
   • Follow the uninstallation wizard and confirm removal when prompted.
   • Restart your computer to remove all components.
2. Control Panel Method:
   • Open Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
   • Locate HitmanPro in the programme list.
   • Right-click and select “Uninstall”.
   • Complete the uninstallation process.
3. Portable Version: Simply delete the HitmanPro executable file and any associated folders. The portable version makes no permanent system changes requiring formal uninstallation.
4. Registry Cleanup: HitmanPro’s uninstaller automatically removes all registry entries. Manual registry editing is unnecessary and risks system instability if performed incorrectly.

Can You Use HitmanPro and Malwarebytes Together?

The question isn’t always HitmanPro or Malwarebytes as an either/or choice. Running both solutions simultaneously is possible and often beneficial, as their different approaches provide complementary protection layers.

1. Compatibility Considerations: HitmanPro is specifically designed to operate alongside other antivirus software without causing conflicts. Malwarebytes Premium can run concurrently with HitmanPro, as HitmanPro’s minimal real-time protection doesn’t interfere with Malwarebytes’ scanning engine.
2. Recommended Configuration: Install Malwarebytes Premium as your primary real-time protection, then use HitmanPro for weekly or monthly deep scans. This configuration provides continuous protection whilst adding periodic verification from HitmanPro’s multi-engine scanning.
3. Resource Impact: Running both solutions adds their individual resource consumption, totalling approximately 250MB of RAM during idle periods. Schedule HitmanPro scans during periods of low computer usage to minimise performance impact.
4. Cost Consideration: The combined annual cost reaches £56.94 (Malwarebytes Premium: £34.99 + HitmanPro: £21.95), which remains competitive compared to premium security suites from Norton or Kaspersky, costing £60-£80 annually.
5. Practical Benefits: This dual-protection approach demonstrates that HitmanPro or Malwarebytes doesn’t have to be a binary choice. Combined usage catches threats that single solutions miss. Real-world testing shows that combined detection rates improve to 99.8%, compared to 99.6% for Malwarebytes alone or 98.3% for HitmanPro as a secondary scanner.

Which Solution Is Right for You? User-Specific Recommendations

Resolving the HitmanPro or Malwarebytes dilemma requires understanding your existing security setup, technical expertise, and specific protection requirements.

1. Choose Malwarebytes Premium if you:
   • Need comprehensive, standalone antivirus protection.
   • Don’t currently have antivirus software installed.
   • Require cross-platform protection for Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS devices.
   • Want automated, real-time protection without manual intervention.
   • Value web protection and anti-exploit features.
   • Need protection for multiple family devices (3-5 device plans offer better value).
2. Choose HitmanPro if you:
   • Already have primary antivirus software installed.
   • Need to clean an infected system where your current antivirus failed.
   • Want minimal system performance impact.
   • Require a portable scanner for troubleshooting multiple computers.
   • Work in IT support or provide technical assistance to others.
   • Prioritise deep rootkit removal capabilities.
   • Prefer lower annual costs (£21.95 versus £34.99).
3. Use both solutions if you:
   • Handle sensitive data requiring maximum protection.
   • Can accommodate the combined annual cost of £56.94.
   • Experience regular exposure to high-risk environments or downloads.
   • Work in security-sensitive industries requiring layered defence.
   • Have system resources supporting both applications simultaneously.

For UK small businesses: Consider Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection (from £49.99 per device annually) for centralised management, or Sophos Home Premium bundles (from £39.00 annually) that include both HitmanPro and Sophos antivirus for comprehensive protection at competitive prices.

Alternatives to HitmanPro or Malwarebytes

If neither HitmanPro nor Malwarebytes perfectly matches your requirements, several alternatives offer different feature combinations and pricing structures.

1. For Comprehensive Protection:
   • Sophos Home Premium: Includes HitmanPro alongside full antivirus protection, starting at £39.00 annually for up to 10 devices. Particularly good value for families requiring multi-device coverage.
   • Bitdefender Total Security: Offers superior malware detection rates (99.9%) with a VPN and password manager included, priced at £59.99 per year for five devices.
   • Kaspersky Internet Security: Provides excellent real-time protection with minimal system impact, costing £44.99 annually for three devices; however, UK users should consider recent geopolitical developments.
2. For Secondary Scanning:
   • AdwCleaner: Free tool by Malwarebytes specifically targeting adware, toolbars, and PUPs. Excellent supplementary scanner requiring no installation.
   • ESET Online Scanner: Free, cloud-based scanner providing second-opinion detection without installation. Useful for occasional deep scans in addition to primary antivirus protection.
   • Emsisoft Emergency Kit: Portable malware scanner with dual-engine detection and quarantine capabilities, available free for personal use.
3. For Budget-Conscious Users:
   • Windows Defender: Microsoft’s built-in protection achieves detection rates of 96-98% in independent testing, which is adequate for low-risk users who practice safe browsing habits.
   • Sophos Home Free: Offers basic real-time protection for up to three devices at no cost, although advanced features require a Premium upgrade.

The debate between HitmanPro and Malwarebytes ultimately centres on whether you need primary or supplementary protection. HitmanPro and Malwarebytes serve distinct purposes within comprehensive cybersecurity strategies. Malwarebytes Premium functions as a complete antivirus replacement offering real-time protection, web filtering, and anti-exploit capabilities across multiple platforms. Its £34.99 annual cost suits users requiring standalone protection without existing security software.

HitmanPro excels as a specialist tool for deep malware removal and as a second-opinion scanning solution. Its £21.95 annual cost and minimal system impact make it ideal for users maintaining primary antivirus solutions who need occasional verification or superior rootkit removal capabilities.

The optimal approach for security-conscious users involves combining both solutions: Malwarebytes Premium for continuous real-time protection and HitmanPro for periodic deep scanning. This layered strategy costs £56.94 annually, while achieving detection rates that exceed those of either solution individually.

UK users benefit from both solutions’ GDPR compliance and transparent privacy policies, with clear pricing in pounds sterling, including VAT. Regular updates from established security companies (Malwarebytes and Sophos) ensure continued effectiveness against evolving threats throughout your subscription period.

Evaluate your specific needs, existing security setup, and budget constraints to make an informed final decision. Whether you choose HitmanPro or Malwarebytes—or both—each solution offers a free trial, enabling hands-on testing within your environment before committing to an annual subscription.