JRT (Junkware Removal Tool) was my go-to for cleaning up my PC when it started acting like a Windows 98 dinosaur. You know, sluggish browser, weird pop-ups, and that one toolbar I swear I never installed. It was free, simple, and got the job done—until one day, poof, it was gone. Malwarebytes, the company behind it, pulled the plug in 2018.
Now, if you’re here, you probably already miss JRT and need a replacement. Good news? I’ve tested a bunch of alternatives, so you don’t have to. Bad news? Some of them were as useless as a screen door on a submarine. But stick around—I’ll tell you which ones are worth your time.
JRT (Junkware Removal Tool): What Made It So Good?
JRT was that no-nonsense, command-line buddy that zapped adware, toolbars, and bloatware faster than I can say, who installed Yahoo search on my Chrome?! It didn’t have a fancy UI, but who cared? It worked.
What JRT Did Best:
- Adware Assassin: If a sketchy program snuck into your system, JRT hunted it down.
- Browser Savior: Bye-bye, homepage hijackers and annoying search redirects.
- No Installation Needed: Download, run, delete junk—done.
- Log Reports: Because knowing exactly what got removed felt satisfying.
Fast forward to 2018—Malwarebytes axed JRT. Their reason? They said AdwCleaner (their other tool) was a better replacement. But let’s be real. JRT was lightweight, fast, and didn’t nag me to upgrade to a paid plan. AdwCleaner is great, sure, but it’s not the same.
So, now what?
The Best JRT Alternatives (Because We Deserve Better)
Since JRT’s untimely demise, I’ve tried every alternative I could find. Some were gems. Others? Let’s just say I’d rather bring back Clippy from Microsoft Office than use them again.
Here’s the good stuff:
1. Malwarebytes AdwCleaner – The Closest Thing to JRT
Why It’s Worth a Shot:
Malwarebytes themselves told us to use this instead, so I did. And yeah, it’s kinda like JRT. Cleans adware, resets browsers, and works in one click.
What’s Great:
- No installation—just like JRT.
- Zaps adware, PUPs, and other junk.
- Cleans up Chrome, Firefox, and Edge (for the three people still using Edge).
What’s Not So Great:
- Less aggressive than JRT—sometimes leaves traces behind.
- A bit slower, but hey, it’s still free.
Would I use it? Sure. Does it feel like JRT? Not quite, but it’s the closest we’ve got.
2. HitmanPro – The Overachiever
Why It’s on This List:
Imagine JRT but with a fancy suit. HitmanPro doesn’t just remove junkware—it hunts malware like an overcaffeinated detective.
Best Parts:
- Cloud-powered scanning—so it’s always up-to-date.
- Works with your antivirus, not against it.
- Finds the sneaky malware others miss.
Downsides:
- The free version only scans for threats—you need a paid license to remove them.
- Can be overkill if you just want to remove toolbars.
If JRT was a handyman, HitmanPro is a full-blown security guard.
3. Zemana AntiMalware – The Underdog
Why You Should Care:
Zemana isn’t as well-known, but it gets the job done. I ran it on my friend’s laptop (which looked like a virus graveyard), and it cleaned everything.
Why It’s a JRT Alternative:
- Targets adware, spyware, and PUPs.
- Real-time protection—so no more “accidental” downloads.
- Works with other antivirus programs.
Minor Annoyances:
- Free version only scans, not removes threats (sound familiar?).
- Interface feels a little clunky.
But hey, it works. And that’s what matters.
4. SUPERAntiSpyware – The Throwback Tool
Why It’s Still Around:
If you remember downloading antivirus software from CNET, you probably know this one. It’s been around forever—and for good reason.
What It Does Well:
- Detects spyware, adware, and tracking cookies.
- Quick scans that don’t hog system resources.
- Free version removes threats (finally, someone gets it!).
The Catch:
- UI looks like it’s stuck in 2008.
- No real-time protection unless you pay.
Nostalgic? Yes. Effective? Also yes.
5. IObit Uninstaller – The Clean Freak
Why It’s Different:
While not a malware tool, IObit Uninstaller shines when it comes to removing stubborn programs (you know, the ones that refuse to leave).
Features That Stand Out:
- Uninstalls junkware and deletes leftovers.
Browser extension manager—great for removing shady add-ons. - Deep scan for hidden junk.
Downsides:
- Pushes you to install other IObit products.
- Some features locked behind a paywall.
For cleaning up bloatware? Solid choice. For malware removal? Not so much.
6. Avast Cleanup – The Fancy One
Why You Might Like It:
If you want more than just junkware removal—like system optimization—Avast Cleanup is a strong contender.
What It Offers:
- Cleans up bloatware, adware, and system junk.
- Improves PC performance (allegedly).
- Part of Avast’s security suite.
The Annoying Bits:
- Paid software—so no free junk removal.
- Some “optimizations” feel unnecessary.
If you love all-in-one solutions, this might be for you. If not, stick to the free options.
7. CCleaner – The Old Reliable (Mostly)
Why It’s Still Popular:
CCleaner has been around forever, and it’s still one of the best tools for cleaning up junk files.
Why It’s Like JRT:
- Removes leftover files and adware clutter.
- Uninstalls unwanted programs.
Cleans browser data and registry files.
Why Some People Avoid It:
- Had a security breach in 2017 (oops).
- Tries to push its premium version hard.
I still use it, but with a little more caution.
Final Thoughts: What’s the Best JRT Alternative?
If you just want JRT’s no-nonsense cleanup, go with AdwCleaner.
If you’re looking for a serious malware hunter, try HitmanPro or Zemana AntiMalware.
If you hate stubborn programs, IObit Uninstaller is your friend.
And if you just want a classic PC cleanup tool, CCleaner still gets the job done.
JRT might be gone, but there’s no shortage of alternatives. So, pick your fighter, clean up your system, and for the love of all things digital—stop downloading free toolbars.
