Autel vs Launch X431 vs Topdon vs ThinkCar

When it comes to automotive diagnostic tools, Autel, Launch X431, Topdon and Thinkcar are undeniably at the forefront. All brands offer powerful, comprehensive, advanced, and reliable scan tools that cater to various user requirements. One common question that arises is, “Which brand is better: Topdon, Autel, Thinkcar or Launch X431?” We will delve into the comparison of four prominent brands, Autel vs Launch X431 vs Topdon vs Thinkcar, to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

 

Part I: Autel vs Launch X431 vs Thinkcar advacened diagnostic scanners

MS909 vs MS919 vs Ultra vs Launch X431 PAD V vs PAD VII vs Thinktool Master 2 vs Thinktool Master X

Part II Autel vs Launch 

 

Software & Hardware

Both Autel and Launch are Chinese brands and have been in existence for years, so in terms of quality manufacturing, they can be considered prime choices in the market, surpassing most other brands with the exception of a few newer contenders like Topdon. Overall, both produce very powerful and capable diagnostic tools for automotive professionals. 

Autel is known for its sturdy, robust designs that are durable and user-friendly, giving you excellent coverage. If you need powerful OEM-level diagnostics and want value for money, take a look at the Launch range of scan tools. They are definitely lighter devices with a sleek appearance and emphasis on finer details and precision rather than heavy-duty performance.

Autel diagnostic tools are known for advanced features and capabilities. However, all software is built into the device, so if it is lost, so is your information. With this lack of programming functionality, it will also mean having to purchase a separate device if you require additional functions. Launch uses Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI), allowing accounts to be transferred in the case of loss and also allowing more programming functionality.

 

Unveiling The Costs

In the cost comparison between Autel vs Launch, Launch comes up most often as the preferred choice for value for money. This may be true for some reasons, but it’s worth noting that with Autel’s reputation for durability and reliability, it may also offer a better return on your investment in the long run, with minimal replacements being required. Autel is more expensive as a brand, but keep in mind that this price brings with it advanced features that can enhance your service offering. 

The majority of professional Autel scan tools and Launch scan tools come with two years of free updates. The cost to update varies per tool, but Launch is overall cheaper to update, making it a more appealing option. 

 

Comparing Similar Autel & Launch Scan Tools:

 

Autel MK808S vs Launch CRP919X:

FEATURES	Autel MK808S	Launch CRP919X
Display	7″	7″
Operating system	Android 11.0	Android 7.0
Languages	13+	10
Service functions	38+	28
Software updates	1-year free software update	2 years of free updates
Vehicle coverage	2018-2022 Chrysler, Fiat, Dodge, Jeep, Alfa Romeo, Full car coverage for American, Asian, Australian and European vehicle makes and models, till 2022/2023	Full System Diagnose Scan For: Abarth, Accura, Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW, Bugatti, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Citroen, Dacia, Daewoo, Daihatsu, Dodge, Eurford, Fiat, Ford, GM, Gmsa, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Isuzu, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Lancia, Landrover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mahindra (Indian), Maruti (Indian), Maserati, Mazda, Mercedes, Mini,  Mitsubishi, Nissan,  Nissangtr, Opel, Peugeot, Porsche, Renault, Renault Samsung,  Saab, Seat, Skoda, Smart, Sprinter, Ssangyong, Subaru, Suzuki, Tata (Indian), Tlisuzu, Toyota, Vauxhall, Volvo, VW, VAZ
Warranty	1 year warranty	1 year warranty

 

Autel MS919 vs Launch X431 Pad 5:

FEATURES	Autel MS919	Launch X431 Pad 5
Display	9.7″, 1536 x 2048 DPI / TFT-LCD Asahi Glass	10.1″, 1920 x 1200 Gorilla Glass
Operating system	Android 7.0 OS	Android 7.1
Special Functions	26 + Bi-directional control + Advance coding	26
Memory	128GB built-in memory	64G, 128 extendable
Processesor	Samsung Exynos8895V octa-core Processor (2.3GHz Quad-core Mongoose + 1.7GHz Quad-core A53)	Eight-core Cortex-A53 2.0GHz
Modes	6	10
Software updates	Two years of free software updates
Vehicle coverage	Autel updates provide the latest OE level coverage for more than 80 US Domestic, Asian and European vehicles, including supercar.	Passenger vehicles: – Australian:  AUST Holden, AUST Ford – Asian: Toyota/Lexus, Honda/Acura, Mazda, Subaru, Nissan/Infiniti, Mitsubishi, Hyundai, Isuzu, Daihatsu, KIA, Daewoo, Suzuki, Proton, Tata, Mahindra, Ssangyong, Perodua, Maruti – European: Audi, Mercedes/Maybach, BMW/MINI/Rolls Royce, VW/Bentley/Bugatti, Opel/Vauxhall, Peugeot, Citroen, Volvo, Sprinter, Renault/Dacia, Fiat/Romeo/Abarth/Lancia, Rover, Landrover, Saab, Seat, Skoda, Smart, Maserati, Ferrari, Arston Martin, Porsche, Jaguar – USA: USA Ford/Lincoln, GM/Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet, Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep – Chinese: Changcheng(Great Wall), Geely, Qirui_TY(Cherry), Futian, Changan, Changhe, Haifei ….etc. – Special: Immobilizer/Key, Injector, Reset Brake Bleed, Reset TPMS, Electronic Throttle Relearn, Reset DPF, Reset SAS, Reset Oil, Reset Brake, Reset BMS – Others: EOBD, Demo * Standard 1 year free update.Heavy Duty Vehicles: (add on purchase) – Nissan (Diesel) – Mitsubishi (Diesel) – USA Ford Diesel, Kenworth – Astra, Benz Heavy Duty,  Bosch Diesel, China Heavy Duty, Cummins Heavy Duty, DAF, Delphi Diesel – Denso Diesel, FAW Liberation, Foton Auman, FUSO, Hino, Hyundai Heavy Duty, Isuzu Heavy Duty – Iveco Heavy Duty, JAC Heavy Duty, Mack , MAN , OBD Heavy Duty, Scania, Shangchai Diesel, Volvo Heavy Duty – WP Diesel, Airbus, Allison Transmission Box, Ashok Rejlander, Bendix ABS, Caterpillar Heavy Duty – Chai Heavy Vehicle, Chaoyang Diesel, Construction Machinery, CREDO Heavy Vechicle, Detroit Engine – Dongfeng Commercial Vehicle, Dongfeng Yufeng, Doosan Engine, Freightliner Heavy Duty Truck – Full Diesel Diagnosis Software, Haldex ABS Heavy Duty, HD_ABS System, HD_GoldenDragon, HD_International HD_Kinglong, HD_Maxxforce, HD_Tata, HD_Western_Star, Heavy Truck Presentation Software – IRISBUS HD, IRIZAR HD, NEOPLAN HD, Peter HD, Renault HD, SETRA HD, Stannic Bavin, Sterling HD – Sunlong Bus, Sunwin Bus, UD Trucks 2F Nissan Diesel, WABCO ABS, Yang Chai Engine
Camera	Rear: 16 Megapixel, Autofocus with Flashlight Front: 5.0 Megapixel	Rear: 13.0M, AF with flashlight Front: 8M
Warranty	1 year warranty	1 year warranty
Connectivity	Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connection	2.4GHz & 5 GHz Wi-Fi communication
Battery	15000mAh lithium-polymer battery	9360mAh lithium-polymer battery

 

Autel Ultra vs Launch Pad 7:

FEATURES	Autel Ultra	Launch Pad 7
Display	12.9″, 2732 x 2048	13.3″, 1920 x 1080
Operating system	Android 7.0 OS	Android 9.0
Functions	36 maintenance functions	32 service functions, TPMS service and 8 extended modules functions
Memory	256GB	8GB
Camera	Rear: 16 Megapixel, Autofocus with Flashlight Front: 5 Megapixel	Rear: 13MP Front: 8MP
Software updates	Two years of free updates	2 years of free updates
Vehicle coverage	Autel updates provide the latest OE level coverage for more than 80 US Domestic, Asian and European vehicles, including supercars	Passenger vehicles: – Australian:  AUST Holden, AUST Ford – Asian: Toyota/Lexus, Honda/Acura, Mazda, Subaru, Nissan/Infiniti, Mitsubishi, Hyundai, Isuzu, Daihatsu, KIA, Daewoo, Suzuki, Proton, Tata, Mahindra, Ssangyong, Perodua, Maruti – European: Audi, Mercedes/Maybach, BMW/MINI/Rolls Royce, VW/Bentley/Bugatti, Opel/Vauxhall, Peugeot, Citroen, Volvo, Sprinter, Renault/Dacia, Fiat/Romeo/Abarth/Lancia, Rover, Landrover, Saab, Seat, Skoda, Smart, Maserati, Ferrari, Aston Martin, Porsche, Jaguar – USA: USA Ford/Lincoln, GM/Buick/Cadillac/Chevrolet, Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep – Chinese: Changcheng(Great Wall), Geely, Qirui_TY(Cherry), Futian, Changan, Changhe, Haifei ….etc. – Others: EOBD, Demo The software includes 2 years of free updates   Heavy Duty Vehicles (Optional add on): – Nissan (Diesel) – Mitsubishi (Diesel) – USA Ford Diesel, Kenworth – Astra, Benz Heavy Duty,  Bosch Diesel, China Heavy Duty, Cummins Heavy Duty, DAF, Delphi Diesel – Denso Diesel, FAW Liberation, Foton Auman, FUSO, Hino, Hyundai Heavy Duty, Isuzu Heavy Duty – Iveco Heavy Duty, JAC Heavy Duty, Mack , MAN , OBD Heavy Duty, Scania, Shangchai Diesel, Volvo Heavy Duty – WP Diesel, Airbus, Allison Transmission Box, Ashok Rejlander, Bendix ABS, Caterpillar Heavy Duty – Weichai Heavy Vehicle, Chaoyang Diesel, Construction Machinery, CREDO Heavy Vehicle, Detroit Engine – Dongfeng Commercial Vehicle, Dongfeng Yufeng, Doosan Engine, Freightliner Heavy Duty Truck – Full Diesel Diagnosis Software, Haldex ABS Heavy Duty, HD_ABS System, HD_GoldenDragon, HD_International – HD_Kinglong, HD_Maxxforce, HD_Tata, HD_Western_Star, Heavy Truck Presentation Software – IRISBUS HD, IRIZAR HD, NEOPLAN HD, Peter HD, Renault HD, SETRA HD, Stannic Bavin, Sterling HD – Sunlong Bus, Sunwin Bus, UD Trucks 2F Nissan Diesel, WABCO ABS, Yang Chai Engine
Warranty	1 year warranty	1 year warranty

Check the detailed comparison between PAD 7 and Ultra here

Autel MaxiSys Ultra vs Launch X431 PAD VII

 

 

 

 

 

Part III:  Autel vs Topdon 

 

To decide between Topdon and Autel, it’s essential to assess your specific requirements and preferences. If you’re seeking a high-end scan tool with exceptional capabilities, Topdon is a strong contender. However, if you’re in the market for entry-level to mid-range professional tools, Autel offers an array of options like the:

Autel tools excel in this segment with their diverse range.

If you require a step up in functionality from these models then take a look at the Topdon Phoenix series.

When it comes to Topdon vs Autel in terms of software updates, the majority of Autel’s professional scan tools offer a complimentary two-year period for updates, as do Topdon’s scan tools.

The expenses associated with updating each tool vary, but in general, Topdon’s updates tend to be more budget-friendly. This leads us to the conclusion that, in terms of value for money, Topdon presents a superior option.

Please note that updating your tool is not obligatory. You are not locked into a contract and have the option to refrain from updating the tool if you prefer.

Overall, both options stand out as robust and proficient tools. However, for workshops or mechanics seeking a top-tier tool, our recommendation leans towards Topdon as the preferred choice.

 

Comparing Similar Autel & Topdon Scan Tools:

For individuals interested in a comprehensive analysis of comparable models from both brands, we have assembled the following comparative tables:

Topdon Phoenix Smart vs Autel Maxisys MS909:

FEATURES	Autel MaxiSys MS909	Topdon Phoenix Smart
HARDWARE:
CPU	Octa-core processor	MT6761 Core 4, 2.0GHZ
RAM	4G	4G
ROM	128G	128G
Battery Capacity	15000mAH, 3.8V	12600mAH, 3.8V
Screen Resolution	1536×2048	1280×800
Screen Size	9.7″	10.1″
Wi-Fi	2.4 & 5 GHz	2.4 & 5 GHz
Camera	Rear: 16mp	Rear: 8.0mp
Weight	1.66kg	1.567 kg (3.45 lb)
Communication	Bluetooth MaxiFlash VCI Including CANFD, DOIP, D-PDU, J2534, RP1210	Bluetooth MDCI Pro Including CANFD, DOIP, D-PDU, J2534, RP1210
Warranty	1 year warranty	1 year warranty
SOFTWARE:
Operating System	Android 7.0 / Android 10.0	Android 10.0
Software updates	2 years of free updates	2 years of free updates
Auto VIN	√	√
FCA Secure Gateway	√ (USA version only)	√
Full-System Diagnostic	√	√
Component Activation	Bi-Directional Control	Bi-Directional Control
Enhanced Functions	√	√
Daily Maintenance Functions	36+ Service Functions	35+ Service Functions
Diagnostic Topology Mapping	√	√
ADAS	Adas Upgrade & Frame Kit Purchase Required	Adas Upgrade & Frame Kit Purchase Required
Cloud-Based Programming	2 Brands Benz, BMW	15 Brands (Benz, BMW, Audi, VW, SKODA, SEAT, Porche, Jaguar, Land Rover, Nissan, Subaru, Infiniti, Renault, Hyundai, Kia)
Online FFS Activation (VW, Audi)	√	√
Mercedes-Benz DTC Guided Function	√	√
DTC Guided Function (BMW, Porsche, Audi, VW)	√	√
COMPATIBLE ADD-ON TOOLS / SOFTWARE:
Battery Tester	BT506 (Purchase Required)	BTMobile Pros (Purchase Required)
Key Programming	X	T-Ninja Box (Purchase Required)
Tesla Software	X	Tesla Software Upgrade & Tesla Connectors (Purchase Required)
Heavy Duty Compatibility	X	HD Software Upgrade & HD Connector Kit (Purchase Required)
OTHER:
Software Languages	English	15 Languages English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian,Polish, Turkish, Dutch, Hungarian, Chinese (Traditional), Korean, Finnish
Upgrade Fee (End User)	$1,295 USD/Y	$795 USD/Y, $1099 USD /2Y

 

Autel MK808S vs Topdon ArtiDiag Pro:

FEATURES	Autel MK808S	Topdon ArtiDiag Pro
Display	7″	7″
Operating system	Android 11.0	Android 7.0
Languages	13+	10
Service functions	38+	31+
Software updates	2 years of free updates	2 years of free updates
Vehicle coverage	Full car coverage for American, Asian, Australian and European vehicle makes and models, till 2022/2023	Over 100 makes of vehicles. You can check coverage against a certain vehicle here.
Warranty	1 year warranty	1 year warranty

 

Autel MS906 Pro vs Topdon Phoenix Plus

FEATURES	Autel MS906 Pro	Topdon Phoenix Plus
Display	8″, 1920 x 1200 high-resolution touchscreen tablet	10.1” Touch Screen (1280*800 Resolution)
Operating system	Android 10.0 OS	Android 10.0
Languages	13+	24
Special Functions	33	28
Memory	128GB built-in memory	4GB RAM & 64GB On-Board Memory
Processesor	Exynos Octa-core processor with 4G RAM	4-core 2.0GHz Processor
Software updates	2 years of free updates	2 years of free updates
Vehicle coverage	Compatible with U.S., Asian and European vehicles, 1996 and newer.	Over 100 makes of vehicles.
Camera	5 MP front camera and 16 MP rear camera	8MP Rear Camera with AF
Battery	11,600 mAh	12600 mAh/3.8V
Warranty	1 year warranty	1 year warranty

In sum:

All perform similar functions. All allow access FCA SGW gateway.

Autel update cost is expensive over Launch. Launch update cost is expensive over Topdon.

Launch/Thinkcar/Topdon software are similar. They allow you to add IMMO, TPMS and heavy duty add-on modules. While Autel you need to buy stand-alone device.

If you do heavy duty works, Thinkcar/Topdon/ Launch has heavy duty with what you are looking for.

Topdon represents a new and dynamic force in the diagnostic scan tool market. Topdon has great customer service,  If something wrong with scanner he will quickly fix it or something not working . Send feedback and engineers will shortly fix it. He cares about customer satisfaction.
Depends on the vehicle,  Topdon/Launch does Audi VW Mercedes (European vehicles) much better. Autel does American vehicles better. Topdon cheap and cheerful. The Autel menus and graphing functions are a little better in my opinion but they are pretty similar. Launch X431 smartlink give you access to oem remote access.

A friend of mine owns a euro shop, he said his Topdon is better than Autel on Porsche, but Autel is miles ahead in terms of Volvo coverage.

Phoenix is same as maxicom or maxisys. On one model maybe better is Autel on other is topdon for this rea. No one brand or model is going to cover everything properly. So you will need more than one tool.

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