Earlier this month Merlins Portal closed indefinitely. You can visit merlins-portal.net to read the latest owners closing remarks. In case the site goes completely dark here’s a link to the Merlins Portal closing letter. In the last week we’ve received some emails asking us to recommend alternatives to Merlins Portal. There are several options to choose from. Visit our Usenet search section for a full list or read below for our top picks.
Top 5 Merlins Portal Alternatives
Here is our list of favorite Usenet search options:
1. Newshosting Usenet Client
Newshosting members can rely on the built-in Usenet search engine inside their popular Usenet client to find content. The newsreader is available for Windows, Mac and Linux. Search for content, preview videos before downloading, automatically repair files and unRAR. The client is free to all Newshosting subscribers. Enjoy unlimited Usenet access for $9.99 a month or $99 a year.
2. Newsbin Pro Search
Newsbin Pro newsreader has an optional Internet search feature. The Usenet search engine finds the best results from over 1,000 days of binary newsgroup content. With an excellent user interface and filtering options. The prices ranges from $2.50 to $5 a month. Visit the Newsbin search page to learn more. You can also download a free trial to test the client and search features.
3. Binsearch
Binsearch is our favorite website for conducting Usenet searches. Their engine is built into the Newshosting client. Those who aren’t Newshsoting members can also visit binsearch.info to search 1,100 days of binary posts across 400+ newsgroups. You can also browse newsgroups, search contents of nfo files and filter results using Binsearch.
4. NZB.cc
NZB.cc is operated by the same folks as Binsearch. The difference is that the site is setup to provide the most relevant results across 800 days of binary retention. Visit nzb.cc and try it out for yourself. The engine looks at factors like file set size, PAR files and .NFO file inclusion to help determine relevance. With the best search matches listed first.
5. NZBMatrix
NZBMatrix is one of our favorites. They had some technical issues in months past but seem to be back at 100% now. Visit nzbmatrix.com to sign up for an account. While you can use the site for free the real value comes in having a premium membership. Search from 1,500 days of binaries. Though at the time of writing this post Usenet providers only support around 1,350 days.
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