OBDSTAR iScan Ducati and Topdon Topscan Moto are two standout tools for Ducati motorcycles. Which one is better?
Here comes the tool comparison:
Overview:
- OBDSTAR iScan Ducati
- A dedicated, standalone Android tablet designed specifically for Ducati motorcycles.
- Offers professional-grade diagnostics, key programming, and advanced functions tailored for Ducati models up to 2024.
- Ideal for enthusiasts, professional mechanics, or those seeking a comprehensive, Ducati-specific tool without reliance on external devices.
- Topdon TopScan Moto
- A compact, Bluetooth-enabled OBD-II dongle that pairs with a smartphone app (TopGuru/TopScan) for diagnostics.
- Supports multiple motorcycle brands (including Ducati, BMW, Harley, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, with more to come) and is designed for portability and ease of use.
- Geared toward DIY riders, casual enthusiasts, and those who prefer a budget-friendly, multi-brand solution.
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Feature
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Topdon TopScan Moto
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|---|---|---|
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Device Type
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Standalone Android tablet (5.0-inch capacitive touch screen, RK3128 quad-core processor)
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Bluetooth dongle paired with smartphone app (iOS/Android)
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Ducati Compatibility
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Comprehensive support for Ducati models up to 2024, including Euro 4 and Euro 5 bikes
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Supports Ducati, BMW, Harley, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, with more to come
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Diagnostic Functions
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– Code reading/clearing
– Live data streaming
– Action tests
– ECU coding/programming
– Service light resets (oil, annual, Desmo)
– Key programming
– TPMS, CO adjustment, idle speed, A/F value reset, ABS settings, etc.
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– Full-system diagnostics (engine, ABS, smart key, etc.)
– Code reading/clearing
– Active tests (varies by make)
– Oil maintenance resets
– Service indicator adjustments
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Advanced Functions
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– Key programming
– Odometer recalibration (optional license)
– Accessory activation (e.g., fog lights, grip heaters for Multistrada V4 S 2022)
– Gear sensor learning
– DQS functionality test
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Limited advanced functions;
primarily focused on diagnostics and basic maintenance resets
(no key programming or odometer recalibration)
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Ease of Use
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Intuitive menu, but requires some learning for advanced functions;
no smartphone needed
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User-friendly app interface, ideal for beginners;
requires smartphone and app setup
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Portability
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Larger (198mm x 115mm x 31mm, ~700g); less portable but self-contained
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Compact (84.1mm x 50.4mm x 27.2mm, 78g); highly portable, relies on smartphone
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Cost
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~$389–$450 (with M041 cable for Euro 5 bikes);
more expensive upfront
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~$100; lower initial cost, but requires $99.99/year subscription after first year
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Subscription/Updates
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One year of free updates;
$80/year thereafter for new models/features
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One year of free updates; $99.99/year thereafter;
Software access expires without renewal
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Cables/Adapters
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Includes M001A main cable, M037 (4-pin), N004 (3-pin); M041 (6-pin Euro 5) sold separately
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Requires specific cables (e.g., M010 for 6-pin, M012 for 4-pin Ducati); not included
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Multi-Brand Support
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Ducati-specific only; cannot add other brands
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Supports multiple brands (BMW, Harley, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, more coming)
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Language Support
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English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Italian
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Not specified, but app likely supports multiple languages
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Connectivity
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Wi-Fi for updates; no internet required for diagnostics
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Bluetooth 5.0; requires smartphone and potential internet for app functionality
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Support
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One-click remote assistance via TeamViewer;
detailed help data/technical bulletins
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One-click feedback via app;
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The OBDSTAR iScan Ducati is a robust Android-based tablet that offers automatic VIN recognition, module programming and coding (including headlight and ECU), active tests, service light and DESMO resets, and key programming. It supports Ducati models up to 2024 and requires an M041 cable for 2019 and newer bikes.
Meanwhile, the TOPDON TopScan Moto, a compact Bluetooth dongle for iOS/Android, also features auto-VIN recognition, system-wide diagnostics (including headlights), active testing, and service functions. Ducati-specific adapter cables (M010/M012/M034) are included.
Choose OBDSTAR iScan Ducati if:
- You own or primarily work on Ducati motorcycles and need a professional-grade tool for comprehensive diagnostics, key programming, or accessory activations.
- You prefer a standalone device that doesn’t rely on a smartphone or internet for operation.
- You’re comfortable with a higher upfront cost and want long-term reliability with optional updates ($80/year after first year).
- You need advanced features like ECU coding, gear sensor learning, or odometer recalibration (with license).
Choose Topdon TopScan Moto if:
- You’re a DIY rider or casual enthusiast looking for an affordable (~$100), portable diagnostic tool for basic tasks like code reading/clearing and service resets.
- You own or work on multiple motorcycle brands (e.g., Ducati, BMW, Harley) and want a versatile tool.
- You’re comfortable with a smartphone-based interface and Bluetooth connectivity.
- You’re okay with the subscription model ($99.99/year after first year) and don’t need advanced features like key programming or accessory activations.
Bottom line: choose the OBDSTAR tablet for full workshop-grade module programming and comprehensive coding tasks; go with TOPDON’s mobile-friendly dongle if you want portability, ease of use, and reliable headlight VIN matching at a lower cost.
If you need a standalone Topdon motorcycle scanner, check Topdon Artidiag Moto or UltraDiag Moto.
