What is the difference between the Autel MaxiSys Ultra and the new Ultra S2 diagnostic scanner?
1. Hardware Improvements
UPGRADED HARDWARE
- Larger 13.7”Anti-Glare Screen
- Increased Storage (512GB)
- Supports Wi-Fi 6 for High-Speed, Low-Latency Data Transmission
- Enhanced Docking Station with Tablet “Fast Charge”
- 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
In Sum:
Supports complete hardware interfaces including HDMI, dual USB, SD card expansion, dual speakers, headphone jack, and four microphones.
VCI Integrates a remote expert programming box.
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.