Autel MaxiSys Ultra vs Ultra S2

What is the difference between the Autel MaxiSys Ultra and the new Ultra S2 diagnostic scanner?

Autel Ultra Vs Ultra S2

1. Hardware Improvements

 

UPGRADED HARDWARE

  1. Larger 13.7”Anti-Glare Screen
  2. Increased Storage (512GB)
  3. Supports Wi-Fi 6 for High-Speed, Low-Latency Data Transmission
  4. Enhanced Docking Station with Tablet “Fast Charge”
  5. Faster 2.7G 8-Core Processor
  • Screen Size and Quality:
    • The Ultra S2 features a larger and sharper screen compared to the older Ultra model. The improved display enhances visibility and user experience, making it easier to read diagnostic data and navigate the interface.
    • The monitor is better, providing a clearer and more detailed view of diagnostic information.
  • Size and Weight:
    • The Ultra S2 is slightly larger but lighter than its predecessor, making it more portable and easier to handle during diagnostics.
  • Memory:

The new model comes with more memory, which allows for faster processing and the ability to handle more complex diagnostic tasks without lag.

 

2. Software Enhancements

  • Network Diagnostics:
    • One of the most significant upgrades in the Ultra S2 is its advanced network diagnostics capabilities. The tool now includes features that help diagnose communication issues between modules in a vehicle’s network. This is particularly useful for identifying problems with module-to-module communication, which can be challenging to diagnose with traditional tools.
    • The topology map feature, which was introduced a few years ago, has been further improved. It now provides a detailed map of the vehicle’s network, showing which modules are connected and on which network they communicate.
  • Terminating Resistor Values:
    • The Ultra S2 can now display terminating resistor values for CAN networks. This feature allows technicians to verify the correct resistor values, which are crucial for proper network communication.
  • Ping Functionality:
    • A groundbreaking feature in the Ultra S2 is the ability to ping specific modules. This allows technicians to send a signal to a module and wait for a response, similar to how network diagnostics work in IT. This feature helps identify communication issues, such as wiring faults, connector problems, or even module failures, by monitoring packet loss during the ping process.
    • This functionality is particularly useful for live diagnostics, where technicians can manipulate the wiring harness or move around the vehicle while monitoring the ping results to pinpoint the exact location of a fault.

Comparison Summary

Hardware/Model MaxiSys Ultra S2 MaxiSys Ultra
Processor 8-core Configuration Samsung 8-core
RAM/ROM 12G/512G 8G/256GB
Battery Capacity 18000mAh 18000mAh
OS Version Android 13 Android 11
Display 13.7 inch 12.7 inches
Resolution 2176*1600 2732×2048
WIFI 2.4 & 5 GHz 2.4 & 5 GHz
Bluetooth
USB USB2.0: (2 USB Host Type A, 1 Type C) USB2.0: (2 USB Host Type A, 1 USB mini device)
HDMI Port HDMI2.0
Screen Cast
SD Card SD Card (Max 256GB) SD Card (Max 256GB)
Headphone Jack
Microphone Port 4 MIC
Speaker Port √ (2 Speakers) √ (2 Speakers)
GPS
Light Sensor
Buttons 1 Lock/Power Button 1 Lock/Power Button
Charging Dock
DC Fast Charging ×
Camera Front: 16 MP, Rear: 16 MP Front: 16 MP, Rear: 16 MP
Lower Computer MaxiFlash VCMI2 MaxiFlash VCMI
Connection Method WiFi/BT/USB WiFi/BT/USB
Read/Clear Codes
Data Stream √(3.0, Multi-system) √(2.0 Single system)
Freeze Frame
ECU Information
Service Functions
Special Functions
Actuation Test
Advanced Functions
ECU Online Programming Supports: Benz, BMW, Mini, Nissan/GT-R, Infiniti, Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, Land Rover, Jaguar, Audi, VW, Skoda, Porsche, free sync pre-programmer Benz, BMW, Mini
ECU Online Coding Supports: Benz, BMW, Mini, Audi, Porsche, VW, login, Nissan/GT-R, Infiniti, Renault, Kia, Hyundai Benz, BMW, Mini, Audi, Porsche, VW
Hidden Feature Activation BMW, VW, Audi, Skoda BMW, VW, Audi, Skoda
Guided Functions VW, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Man LD VW, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Man LD
High Voltage System Diagnosis √(Requires additional EVDJag box)
High Voltage Battery Offline Test √(Requires additional EVDJag box) √(Requires additional EVDJag box)
High Voltage Component Test √(Requires additional EVDJag box) √(Requires additional EVDJag box)
SOI Battery Health Assessment √(Requires additional EVDJag box) √(Requires additional EVDJag box)
Topology Diagram √(3.0) √(2.0)
New Features
Vehicle Identification (Independent entry on main interface) X
Digital Vehicle Detection X
AI Voice Assistant X
Special Vehicle Diagnosis
McLaren Diagnosis
Tesla Diagnosis
Cloud Services
Remote Expert Client √ (Cross-region Europe) √ (Cross-region Europe)
Report Management
TPMS Comprehensive Function X X
Extended Functions
Oscilloscope Function √(3.0)
Endoscope Function (with MV105/MV108/MV105S/MV108S) √(Compatible) √(Compatible)
Four-Wheel Complete Version √(Compatible) √(Compatible)
Battery Test (with BT506) √(Compatible) √(Compatible)
Add EV Box to Upgrade to EV Product √(Compatible) √(Compatible)
Multimeter
J2534 & RP1210
DoIP
CAN FD
Pre & Post Scan
Auto VIN Auto detect, Manual input, Scan VIN/License
WiFi Printing
Gateway Unlock Function
FCA Gateway Unlock √(May vary by region) √(May vary by region)
Renault Gateway Unlock
Nissan Gateway Unlock √(Japan, some European countries and North America only) √(Japan, some European countries and North America only)
VAG SFD Gateway Unlock
Benz AutoAuth Gateway Unlock √(US only) √(US only)

 

VCMI vs VCMI2

Ultra: comes with 5-in-1 VCMI that integrates VCI, oscilloscope, waveform generator, multimeter, and CAN BUS tester.
Ultra S2: comes with new 6 in 1 VCMI2 that integrates VCI, oscilloscope, waveform generator, multimeter, CAN BUS tester and standalone Remote Expert device.

Autel Vcmi Vs Vcmi2

 

In Sum:

Hardware Comparison:
Ultra:
Samsung octa-core processor + 8GB RAM + 256GB ROM, with running speed and stability sufficient to handle diagnostic and programming needs for various vehicle models.
Supports complete hardware interfaces including HDMI, dual USB, SD card expansion, dual speakers, headphone jack, and four microphones.
Ultra S2: 
Adopts a more powerful processor, paired with larger memory and RAM, providing stronger processing capabilities in complex environments.

VCI Integrates a remote expert programming box.

Can also connect to a second WiFi (Ultra’s host and VCMI can only connect to the same WiFi).

 

Software Function Comparison:
Ultra:
Powerful software functions, supporting complete Mercedes-Benz/BMW/Mini programming and coding capabilities.
Data Stream 2.0+ Topology Map 2.0, with a clean and easy-to-read interface and low learning curve.
The Ultra is very close to the Ultra S2 in terms of supported vehicle models, as well as software capabilities for vehicle diagnostics/programming/coding, including advanced features like online programming, online coding, and hidden function activation (flash hidden).
Powerful expansion functions, basically consistent with the Ultra S2, supporting advanced diagnostic and programming capabilities such as J2534, RP1210, DoIP, CAN FD, Auto VIN, Pre & Post Scan, etc.Modular expansion, with optional accessories like EV Box, battery tester, borescope, etc., to meet different repair scenarios.
Ultra S2:
Offline version supports more vehicle models for programming and coding coverage.
Upgraded to Data Stream 3.0 and Topology Map 3.0, with richer data display.Supports diagnostics of high-voltage systems without the need for an EV box.
New features: vehicle ID recognition, digital vehicle inspection, AI language.
Upgraded Oscilloscope 3.0.

Ultra S2 has new 6 in 1 VCMI2.
The Ultra 2 offers actionable, real-time network diagnostics, cutting diagnostic time compared to the Ultra’s more static topology feature.
The Ultra 2 improves upon the original Ultra with a larger, sharper screen, more memory, slightly lighter weight and possibly a faster processor.

MSUltra S2 adapts AI technology. It supports Multi-point Digital Vehicle Inspection: AI-powered image analysis for auto-detection of dents and scratches.

The Ultra 2 introduces sophisticated network diagnostic tools—real-time resistor value display and module pinging—that enable technicians to isolate communication faults faster and more precisely than the Ultra’s topology mapping alone. These features, described as unprecedented in aftermarket scan tools, suggest the Ultra 2 is a significant leap forward for professional diagnostics, particularly for complex network issues.

OBDII365