What is the difference between Keydiy KD-X4, KD-MP and KD-MAX? Some customers are unclear about the differences between KD devices. We will explain their distinctions here.
The Keydiy KD-X4, KD-MP, and KD-MAX are all part of the KeyDIY lineup of professional key programming tools for locksmiths and auto key specialists. They focus on remote/key generation, cloning, programming, and adding keys (including for brands like Toyota, VW/Audi/Porsche VAG group, BMW, etc.), but they differ significantly in design, scope, and how they are used.
KD-MAX: This is a standalone handheld multi-function smart key tool/remote generator (with a built-in 5-inch screen, Android-based interface, Bluetooth/WiFi). It excels at key recognition, generation, copying/cloning (including many transponders like ID46/48, Toyota types), remote simulation, and handling a wide range of vehicles. It often requires pairing with other hardware (like KD-MATE for certain on-vehicle or advanced matching/learning steps, especially for VAG MQB/MLB systems).
KD-MP: This is a specialized add-on tool (not a full standalone programmer). It is designed primarily for reading/collecting original key data from specific VAG Group anti-theft systems, such as MLB (e.g., older Audi/Porsche) and MQB48. After collecting data with KD-MP, you typically generate/learn the new key using another device like KD-MAX (with KD-MATE) or KD-X4. It’s more of a “data extraction” companion for those platforms, not a general-purpose tool.
KD-X4: This is the newest all-in-one (often marketed as 5-in-1) professional universal key programmer. It integrates/combines the core capabilities of KD-MAX, KD-MATE, KD Mini Prog, and more into a single device. It supports standalone operation (or app/PC connection via Bluetooth/USB) for recognition, generation, copying, programming, matching, plus extras like UWB key detection, Toyota key unlocking, BMW BDC2/BDC3/BCP support, VAG MQB49 5C/5D add-key, and MLB chip handling. For many functions (including VAG 5C/5D), it does everything directly without needing extra hardware like KD-MATE or KD-MP.
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Aspect
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KD-MAX
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KD-MP
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KD-X4
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Type
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Handheld standalone remote generator/tool
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Specialized data reader/add-on for MLB/MQB
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Universal all-in-one programmer (replaces several older tools)
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Standalone Use
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Yes (with PC software & app)
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No — needs pairing with KD-MAX or KD-X4
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Yes (with PC software or App)
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Key Functions
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Recognition, generation, cloning, remotes
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Mainly reads original key data (MLB/MQB48)
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Full: recognition, generation, cloning, programming, matching + advanced (BMW BDC2/BDC3, VAG MQB/MLB)
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VAG MQB/MLB Support
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Needs KD-MATE for some steps (e.g., learning)
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Data collection only; pair with others for full add-key
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Often direct (e.g., 5C/5D read & learn without KD-MP)
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Hardware Needed
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Sometimes KD-MATE for advanced/on-vehicle
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Always needs KD-MAX/KD-X4 for key gen/learn
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Minimal — combines most prior tools
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Best For
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General remote/key work, broad coverage
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Specific VAG MLB/MQB48 data extraction
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Professional workshops wanting one versatile device for diverse vehicles
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Current Status (2026)
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Still used/supported
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Niche/specialized companion
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Flagship/upgraded model (broader coverage, updates like BMW BDC3, VAG 5C/5D)
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In short:
Keydiy KD-X4 combines the functions of KD-MAX+ KD-MATE + KD-MAX + KD Mini Prog. It can be used to replace KD-MAX.
KD-MAX is a remote generator. You need KD-MATE to learn key after generating remote.
KD-MP is the data reading tool for MQB48 and MLB. You still need KD-X4 to learn key after collecting data.
