WinSpy is a software tool that allows users to monitor and spy on the activities of a Windows computer.
Starting from $29.99
Best Spy++ Alternatives ranked by AI · updated May 2025
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Spy++ is a window spy utility that is included with Microsoft Visual Studio.
Price: Free
Top 6 Spy++ alternatives
XWinspector is a software tool for inspecting and manipulating windows and messages in real-time.
Window Detective is a free tool used to inspect windows and controls running on a Windows system.
Winspector Spy is a powerful tool for inspecting, monitoring, and debugging Windows applications.
Free trial available, pricing information on request
Microsoft Spy++ is a Windows diagnostic utility included with Visual Studio for inspecting windows, controls, processes, threads, styles, and Windows messages. It...
Pros
- Detailed Windows message monitoring and filtering
- Inspects window hierarchies, handles, styles, processes, and threads
- Well integrated with the Visual Studio developer ecosystem
Cons
- Windows-only and tied to Visual Studio installation
- Less useful for modern UI Automation and accessibility testing
- Steeper interface and workflow than lightweight window-inspection tools
Included with Visual Studio; Community free
ForceToolkit is a Windows utility for manipulating application windows and controls that do not respond normally. It can force-close windows, change window...
Pros
- Can target individual windows instead of terminating an entire process
- Provides window-state and control-manipulation features in one utility
- Useful for troubleshooting stubborn or partially unresponsive applications
Cons
- Windows-only and aimed at technical users
- Less capable for process diagnostics than Process Explorer or System Informer
- Limited automation compared with AutoHotkey
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