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
Make | AUTEL | AUTEL | AUTEL | LAUNCH | LAUNCH | THINKCAR | THINKCAR |
Product | MS909 | MS919 | ULTRA | X-431 PAD V | X-431 PAD VII | THINKTOOL Master 2 | THINKTOOL Master X |
HARDWARE | |||||||
VCI | MaxiFlash VCI | MaxiFlash VCI | MaxiFlash VCMI | Smartlink C 2.0 | SMART LINK C 2.0 | THINKCAR TVCI | SmartlinkC |
Screen | 9.7 inch touch screen 1536X2048 | 9.7 inch touch screen 1536X2048 | 12.9 inch touch screen 2732×2048 | 10.1 inch touch screen 1920×1200 | 13.3 inch touch screen 1920×1080 | 10 TFT touch screen | TFT touch screen |
Processor | OCTA-CORE 2.3GHz + 1.7GHz | OCTA-CORE 2.3GHz + 1.7GHz | OCTA-CORE 2.3GHz + 1.7GHZ | 2.0 GHz Octa – Core | 2.0 GHz Octa – Core | QUAD-CORE2.0GHz | QUAD-CORE2.0GHz |
ROM/RAM | 128GBSSD/4GB RAM | 128GB SSD/4GB RAM | 128GB SSD/4GB RAM | 128GB/4GB | 256GB/8GB | 64GB/4GB | 128GB/4GB |
Battery | 15,000 mAh | 15,000 mAh | 18,000 mAh | 9360mAh | 19000mAh | 6000mAh | 6000mAh |
Camera | 16MP rear/5MP front | 16MP rear/5MP front | 16MP rear/5MP front | 13 MP rear + 8 MP front | 14 MP rear + 8 MP front | 8MP rear | 8MP rear |
SOFTWARE | |||||||
Operating system | Android™ 7.0 | Android™ 7.0 | Android™ 7.0 | Android™ 7.1 | Android™ 9.0 | Android™ 9.0 | Android™ 10 |
Update | 1 Year Free Update | 1 Year Free Update | 1 Year Free Update | 2 Years Free Update | 2 Years Free Update | 2 Years Free Update | 2 Years Free Update |
Auto VIN | Auto VIN/Auto Scan | Auto VIN/Auto Scan | Auto VIN/Auto Scan | Auto VIN/Auto Scan | Auto VIN/Auto Scan | Auto VIN/Auto Scan | Auto VIN/Auto Scan |
Search Help | GUIDANCE ON FAILURE ANALYSIS AND FAILURE CODE SOLUTIONS | GUIDANCE ON FAILURE ANALYSIS AND FAILURE CODE SOLUTIONS | GUIDANCE ON FAILURE ANALYSIS AND FAILURE CODE SOLUTIONS | ||||
Topology Mapping | COLOR CODED STATUS SCREEN OF THE SYSTEM ON SUPPORTED VEHICLES | COLOR CODED STATUS SCREEN OF THE SYSTEM ON SUPPORTED VEHICLES | COLOR CODED STATUS SCREEN OF THE SYSTEM ON SUPPORTED VEHICLES | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Technical Service Bulletins | CAN BE USED ON SPECIFIC VEHICLES | CAN BE USED ON SPECIFIC VEHICLES | CAN BE USED ON SPECIFIC VEHICLES | ||||
FCA AutoAuth | ACCESS FIAT CHRYSLER VEHICLES WITH AUTOAUTH ACCOUNT | ACCESS FIAT CHRYSLER VEHICLES WITH AUTOAUTH ACCOUNT | ACCESS FIAT CHRYSLER VEHICLES WITH AUTOAUTH ACCOUNT | ACCESS FIAT CHRYSLER VEHICLES WITH AUTOAUTH ACCOUNT | ACCESS FIAT CHRYSLER VEHICLES WITH AUTOAUTH ACCOUNT | ACCESS FIAT CHRYSLER VEHICLES WITH AUTOAUTH ACCOUNT | ACCESS FIAT CHRYSLER VEHICLES WITH AUTOAUTH ACCOUNT |
Scan License | AVAILABLE ON SUPPORTED CARS | AVAILABLE ON SUPPORTED CARS | AVAILABLE ON SUPPORTED CARS | ||||
ACTIVITIES | |||||||
Vehicles | PASSENGER AND LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLES | PASSENGER AND LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLES | PASSENGER AND LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLES | PASSENGER AND LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLES – AGITV VEHICLES (OPTIONAL) | PASSENGER AND LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLES – AGITV VEHICLES (OPTIONAL) | PASSENGER AND HEAVY VEHICLES | |
Basic and Special Functions | USA, Asia and European cars from 1996 and later | USA, Asia and European cars from 1996 and later | USA, Asia and European cars from 1996 and later | USA, Asia and European cars from 1996 and later | USA, Asia and European cars from 1996 and later | USA, Asia and European cars from 1996 and later | USA, Asia and European cars from 1996 and later |
OBDII Test Modes | ALL LIVE DATA OF THE VEHICLES | ALL LIVE DATA OF THE VEHICLES | ALL LIVE DATA OF THE VEHICLES | FULL FUNCTION | FULL FUNCTION | ||
Service Reset | 26 Service functions | 26 Service functions | 26 service functions | 27 service functions | 32 DIFFERENT SERVICES-SMARTLINK REMOTE | MORE WITH DIAGNOSTICS | 28 Service functions | 28 Service functions |
Diesel PM | RESETTING DIESEL EMISSIONS – PASSENGER AND LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLES | RESETTING DIESEL EMISSIONS – PASSENGER AND LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLES | RESETTING DIESEL EMISSIONS – PASSENGER AND LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLES | ||||
Diagnostics | Full system | Full system | Full system | Full system | Full system | Full system | Full system |
Component Activations | Bi-DIRECTION CONTROL | Bi-DIRECTION CONTROL | Bi-DIRECTION CONTROL | Bi-DIRECTION CONTROL | Bi-DIRECTION CONTROL | Bi-DIRECTION CONTROL | Bi-DIRECTION CONTROL |
Advanced functions | ADVANCED CODING+ADAPTATION | ADVANCED CODING+ADAPTATION | ADVANCED CODING+ADAPTATION | ADVANCED CODING+ADAPTATION | ADVANCED CODING+ADAPTATION | ADVANCED CODING+ADAPTATION | |
Remote support | Yes | Yes | Yes | with Smart Link | with (SMART LINK) | ||
Advanced Key programming | with X-PROG 3 and IMMO package | with X-PROG 3 and IMMO package | with Thinkcar Prog | ||||
TPMS module | X-431 TSGUN | X-431 TSGUN | with T-Wand 200 | with T-Wand 200 | |||
VAG Audi Guided Function | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Remote Diagnosis | Yes with Smartlink (Need extra license) | Yes with Smartlink (Need extra license) | |||||
Active Test | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Coding | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | advanced system | advanced system |
Online Programming | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
REQUIRED MODULES | |||||||
ADAS | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional |
Videoscope | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional |
Oscilloscope | Available in VCI | Available in VCI | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | |
CAN BUS Control | Available in VCI | Available in VCI | |||||
Multimeter | Available in VCI | Available in VCI | |||||
Battery Test | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional |
waveform dynamo | Available in VCI | Available in VCI | |||||
Thermal imager | Optional | Optional | |||||
TPMS | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | |||
Worklight | Optional | Optional | |||||
Docking station | Available | Optional | Optional | Optional | |||
Printer | Optional | Optional | Optional | Standard Configuration | |||
Heavy Vehicle Module | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional | |||
REQUIRED PROTOCOLS | |||||||
J2534 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
DoIP | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
RP1210/D-PDU | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
CAN FD | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Service Function List | |||||||
Resetting | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Oil Reset | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Brake Pad reset | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Steering Pain Sensor Reset | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Battery adaptation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
ABS air removal | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Throttle adaptation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
TPMS reset | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
DPF | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
immobilizer | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Injector coding | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Transmission adaptation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Suspension matching | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
A/T introduction | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
AFS (FAR) Reset | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Calibration | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Seat Calibration | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
tire reset | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Change language | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
A/F reset | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Sunroof start | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
EGR adaptation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Taking Air Conditioner Air | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Transportation Mode | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
adblue reset | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Nox Sensor test | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Stop/Stop reset | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
airbag reset | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
ABS SRS reset | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |||
Reorganizing the AC system | Yes | ||||||
Adaptive Cruise Control calibration | Yes | ||||||
Engine power balance screen | Yes | ||||||
gasoline particulate filter | Yes | ||||||
Steering angle calibration | Yes | ||||||
Detecting high voltage battery health | Yes |
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
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 MK808
- Autel MX808
- Autel MP808
- Autel MS906BT
- Autel MS906 Pro
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 |
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 |
We got a customer own all these devices, here is the unbiased review on these tools:
“I’ve Topdon, Autel, Launch and Snap on. They’re all as good as each other, with their own bad points!
Autel is probably the fastest, Launch is a personal favourite, sadly the Topdon struggles with vin numbers, but is equally very good.
The Snap on Zeus, is the most expensive pile of rubbish I’ve ever purchased.
Not one of my guys in the workshops use it. Can be found covered in dust at the back of a cupboard.
So to sum up, I think Autel has a slight edge, but it’s a very slight one too. ”
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.