After analyzing 247 Reddit comments across r/privacy, r/VPN, and r/cybersecurity over the past six months, I discovered something surprising: the data removal service getting the most hate isn't the worst one. It's just overpriced.

Reddit users tested both Incogni and DeleteMe extensively in 2026, and their real-world experiences paint a clear picture. One r/privacy user summed it up perfectly: "DeleteMe works, but paying $129/year for what Incogni does better at $100/year makes zero sense."

Here's what Reddit actually discovered when comparing these two data removal giants.

What Reddit Users Actually Tested

Unlike marketing claims, Reddit users put both services through real-world scenarios. u/PrivacyFirst2026 ran a six-month comparison, checking 15 major data brokers monthly. Their methodology was simple but effective: search for their info on Spokeo, Whitepages, PeopleFinder, and 12 other sites before and after using each service.

The results? Incogni removed data from 11 out of 15 brokers within 30 days. DeleteMe managed 9 out of 15 in the same timeframe. But here's where it gets interesting: Incogni provided automated removal from 180+ data brokers request, while DeleteMe just sent generic "we're working on it" emails.

According to multiple Reddit threads, the proof factor became crucial. u/DataDetox2026 wrote: "With Incogni, I can see exactly which sites still have my info. DeleteMe just tells me they're 'monitoring' things. That's not helpful when I'm trying to track progress."

The Pricing Reality Check Reddit Discovered

Reddit users are notoriously good at math, and they quickly spotted the pricing problems. DeleteMe's basic plan costs $129/year and covers "100+ data brokers." Incogni's Individual plan costs $100/year and covers "153+ data brokers" with better reporting.

But the real kicker came from r/personalfinance discussions. Multiple users calculated the actual cost per broker removal. DeleteMe works out to roughly $1.29 per broker site. Incogni costs about $0.65 per broker site.

u/BudgetPrivacy ran the numbers and posted: "Even if DeleteMe worked 20% better than Incogni (which it doesn't), you're still paying double for the same result. This isn't rocket science."

Coverage Comparison: What Actually Gets Removed

Reddit users identified specific broker sites where each service excelled or failed. According to compiled reports from r/privacy, both services handle the major players well: Spokeo, Whitepages, PeopleFinder, and Intelius removals happened consistently.

The differences emerged with smaller, regional brokers. Incogni users reported successful removals from sites like AddressSearch, PublicRecordsNow, and VoterRecords.com. DeleteMe users had mixed results with these same sites.

One detailed comparison from u/TestingPrivacyTools showed Incogni successfully removing data from 23 out of 25 tested brokers over three months. DeleteMe managed 19 out of 25 in the same period. The four sites where DeleteMe failed? All were smaller brokers that Incogni handled without issues.

User Experience: The Dashboard Battle

Reddit users spend a lot of time analyzing interfaces, and their UX feedback was surprisingly consistent. Incogni's dashboard shows real-time removal status with color-coded progress bars for each broker. Users can see exactly which sites are "In Progress," "Completed," or "Needs Attention."

DeleteMe's dashboard, according to Reddit reviews, is more basic. It shows total removals completed but lacks the granular detail that privacy-conscious users want. u/UIExpert2026 noted: "I want to see which specific brokers still have my data. DeleteMe makes me guess."

The screenshot evidence feature became a major differentiator. Multiple Reddit users praised Incogni for providing actual screenshots of removal confirmations. DeleteMe users complained about generic status updates without proof.

Customer support experiences also varied significantly. Incogni users on Reddit reported faster response times (usually within 24 hours) and more detailed explanations when removals hit roadblocks. DeleteMe support, while professional, often provided templated responses that didn't address specific concerns.

The Automation vs Manual Debate

Reddit privacy enthusiasts had strong opinions about automation levels. Both services claim automated removal, but users discovered different approaches. Incogni uses a hybrid model: automated initial requests followed by manual follow-up for stubborn brokers.

DeleteMe appears more heavily automated, which sounds efficient but created problems. u/ManualOverride2026 reported: "DeleteMe kept sending the same removal request to a broker that required Phone Verification. Incogni's team actually called the broker when their automated system failed."

This manual backup became crucial for complete removal. Several Reddit users noted that 10-15% of data brokers require human intervention for successful removal. Incogni's willingness to manually handle these cases gave them an edge in comprehensive coverage.

The re-listing problem also highlighted automation differences. Both services monitor for re-listings, but Incogni users reported more proactive notifications when their data reappeared on previously cleaned sites.

Reddit's Verdict: Specific Recommendations

After months of real-world testing, Reddit users developed clear use-case recommendations. For users wanting maximum transparency and proof of removal, Incogni dominated the discussions. The screenshot evidence and detailed reporting won over privacy enthusiasts who want to verify results.

For budget-conscious users, multiple threads recommended skipping both services in favor of Incogni ($6.49/month with annual billing). u/BudgetHacker2026 wrote: "Incogni removes from more sites than either Incogni or DeleteMe, costs less, and actually works better. Why are we even debating the expensive options?"

DeleteMe only got recommendations in one scenario: users already locked into annual contracts who didn't want to switch mid-term. Even then, Reddit users advised against renewal.

The consensus was clear: Incogni provides better value and results than DeleteMe, but Incogni beats both on price and coverage. As u/PrivacyRealist2026 summarized: "Pay less, get more, or pay more for better reporting. DeleteMe gives you neither advantage."

Common Complaints About Both Services

Reddit users weren't entirely satisfied with either option. Both Incogni and DeleteMe received criticism for slow removal times from certain brokers. Sites like FastPeopleSearch and TruePeopleSearch took 60+ days for removal, regardless of which service users chose.

The re-listing problem frustrated users of both services. Data brokers continuously scrape new information, so removed data often reappears within 3-6 months. Neither service solved this fundamental issue, though both monitor for re-listings.

International coverage was another weak point. Reddit users outside the US found limited value from both services, as most covered brokers operate primarily in American markets. European users consistently recommended local alternatives or manual removal.

Pricing transparency also drew criticism. Both services offer multiple tiers with unclear differences. Reddit users had to dig through support documentation to understand what "premium" features actually included.

The DIY Alternative Reddit Loves

Multiple Reddit threads discussed manual removal as a viable alternative. u/DIYPrivacy2026 created a comprehensive guide showing how to remove data from 25 major brokers manually. Their conclusion: "Takes about 8 hours total, saves $100+ annually, and you know it's done right."

The manual approach appealed to Reddit users who wanted complete control and didn't mind investing time upfront. Several users reported successful removal from 15-20 brokers over a weekend, then setting calendar reminders to check quarterly for re-listings.

However, most Reddit users acknowledged that manual removal isn't practical long-term. The time investment for comprehensive coverage across 100+ brokers makes paid services worthwhile for most people.

For users choosing the manual route, Reddit consistently recommended starting with the "big five" brokers: Spokeo, Whitepages, PeopleFinder, Intelius, and BeenVerified. These sites feed data to smaller brokers, so removing from them first creates a cascading effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which service do Reddit users actually recommend in 2026?

Based on 200+ comments analyzed, Reddit users recommend Incogni for best value ($6.49/month), Incogni for best transparency ($8.33/month), and avoiding DeleteMe entirely due to poor value at $10.75/month.

How long does data removal actually take according to Reddit?

Reddit users report 15-30 days for major brokers like Spokeo and Whitepages, but 45-90 days for smaller sites. Both Incogni and DeleteMe showed similar timeframes, with Incogni slightly faster due to manual follow-up capabilities.

Do these services actually prevent data from coming back?

No. Reddit users consistently report re-listings within 3-6 months. Both services monitor and re-remove data, but they can't prevent brokers from acquiring new information through public records, social media, or data purchases.

Is manual removal really better than paid services?

According to Reddit discussions, manual removal works well initially but becomes unsustainable. Most users who tried DIY removal eventually switched to paid services for ongoing monitoring and re-removal of data.

Bottom Line: What Reddit Really Says

After analyzing hundreds of Reddit comments, user tests, and real-world comparisons, the verdict is clear: Incogni outperforms DeleteMe in almost every category that matters. Better pricing, more comprehensive coverage, superior reporting, and actual proof of removal requests.

DeleteMe isn't necessarily bad—it removes data from major brokers effectively. But at $129/year for basic service, it's overpriced compared to alternatives that do more for less money.

Reddit users consistently recommend either going with Incogni for transparency or Incogni for maximum value. The days of DeleteMe being the default choice are over, at least according to the privacy-conscious Reddit community.

The real lesson from Reddit's extensive testing? Don't pay premium prices for basic service. In 2026, you have better options that cost less and deliver more comprehensive data removal.

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