Autel MS300 and MS309 code readers offer basic diagnostic functions at an affordable price
Autel MS300 and MS309 code readers offer basic diagnostic functions at an affordable price

Autel Code Reader Comparison: Find the Best Tool for You

Choosing the right diagnostic tool can be overwhelming. This guide provides an in-depth Autel Code Reader Comparison to help you select the perfect device for your needs. CARDIAGTECH.NET offers a wide range of Autel scanners to empower both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

Ready to diagnose your car like a pro? This comprehensive guide will break down the features, benefits, and differences between Autel code readers, diagnostic tools, and flagship scanners. We’ll cover key aspects like OBD2 diagnostics, reset functions, and special features to help you make an informed decision. Think of it as your roadmap to navigating the world of automotive diagnostics, with a focus on user-friendly design, extensive vehicle coverage, and advanced functions. Don’t get stuck with a check engine light – empower yourself with the right tool today.

1. Understanding Your Diagnostic Needs

Before diving into the autel code reader comparison, it’s crucial to understand your specific diagnostic needs. This will help you narrow down your options and choose a tool that provides the right level of functionality and vehicle coverage.

1.1. Identifying Your User Profile

Consider which of these profiles best describes you:

  • DIY Enthusiast: Primarily interested in basic diagnostics, reading and clearing codes, and performing simple maintenance tasks on your own vehicles.
  • Serious DIYer: More experienced with automotive repair and maintenance, looking for a tool with advanced features like reset functions and bi-directional control.
  • Professional Mechanic (Small Shop): Need a versatile tool that can diagnose a wide range of vehicles and perform common repair procedures efficiently.
  • Professional Mechanic (Large Shop): Require a high-end diagnostic solution with advanced capabilities like ECU programming and topology mapping for complex repairs.

1.2. Defining Your Budget

Autel code readers range in price from under $20 to over $4000. Setting a budget beforehand will help you focus on tools that fit your financial constraints. Keep in mind that investing in a higher-quality tool can save you money in the long run by providing more accurate diagnoses and reducing the need for costly repairs.

1.3. Considering Vehicle Coverage

Ensure that the Autel code reader you choose is compatible with the makes and models of vehicles you plan to diagnose. Some tools offer broader vehicle coverage than others, so it’s important to check the specifications before making a purchase. Always verify compatibility with your specific vehicle by providing your VIN to CARDIAGTECH.NET for confirmation.

2. Entry-Level OBD2 Code Readers

These are great starting points for basic diagnostics.

2.1. Autel MaxiScan MS300

2.1.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiScan MS300 is an incredibly affordable OBD2 code reader designed for basic diagnostics.

2.1.2. Key Features

  • Reads and clears diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
  • Checks emission monitor status (I/M readiness).
  • Retrieves generic, manufacturer-specific, and pending codes.
  • Turns off the check engine light (MIL).
  • Supports CAN (Controller Area Network).
  • DTC lookup function.
  • Supports engine and fuel system diagnostics.

2.1.3. Pros

  • Extremely affordable.
  • Simple and easy to use.
  • Compact and portable.

2.1.4. Cons

  • Limited functionality compared to higher-end models.
  • No freeze frame data.
  • Basic vehicle compatibility.

2.1.5. Who It’s For

The MS300 is perfect for DIYers and beginners who need a basic tool for reading and clearing codes to address simple emission-related issues.

2.2. Autel MaxiScan MS309

2.2.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiScan MS309 is a step up from the MS300, offering a few additional features while remaining very affordable.

2.2.2. Key Features

  • All features of the MS300, plus:
  • Freeze frame data.
  • Ignition system diagnostics.

2.2.3. Pros

  • Affordable.
  • Easy to use.
  • Includes freeze frame data and ignition system diagnostics.

2.2.4. Cons

  • Still has limited functionality compared to advanced scanners.
  • Basic vehicle compatibility.

2.2.5. Who It’s For

The MS309 is ideal for car DIYers and beginners who want a few extra features beyond the basic code reading and clearing capabilities.

2.3. Autel MS300 vs MS309 Comparison Table

Feature Autel MaxiScan MS300 Autel MaxiScan MS309
Price $17.99 $18.99
Read & Clear Codes Yes Yes
I/M Readiness Yes Yes
Freeze Frame Data No Yes
O2 Sensor Test Yes Yes
Evap System Test Yes Yes
Vehicle Information Yes Yes
DTC Lookup Yes Yes
Engine Yes Yes
Fuel System Yes Yes
Ignition System No Yes
Vehicle Compatibility 1996+ OBD2 Compliant 1996+ OBD2 Compliant
Weight 226 grams 249 grams

2.4. When to Choose an Entry-Level Code Reader

Choose an entry-level code reader like the MS300 or MS309 if:

  • You have a limited budget.
  • You only need basic code reading and clearing capabilities.
  • You’re new to automotive diagnostics.
  • You primarily work on older vehicles (pre-2015).

3. Mid-Range OBD2 Scanners

For more comprehensive diagnostics.

3.1. Autel AutoLink AL519

3.1.1. Overview

The Autel AutoLink AL519 offers enhanced diagnostic capabilities compared to entry-level code readers.

3.1.2. Key Features

  • Reads and clears DTCs.
  • Performs all 10 modes of OBDII tests.
  • Turns off check engine light (MIL).
  • Displays live data.
  • Retrieves vehicle information (VIN).
  • Freeze frame data.
  • I/M readiness status.
  • C.A.N. capability.
  • Data stream.
  • Vehicle information.
  • On-screen DTC definitions.
  • Code lookup function.
  • DTC cause/tips.
  • Bi-directional testing.
  • Advanced Mode 6.
  • One-click I/M readiness key.

3.1.3. Pros

  • More comprehensive OBDII diagnostics.
  • One-click smog check.
  • Displays live data.
  • Provides DTC definitions and tips.

3.1.4. Cons

  • Lacks ABS/SRS diagnostic functions.

3.1.5. Who It’s For

The AL519 is suitable for DIYers and beginners who want a more capable tool for resolving emission and engine-related problems without the advanced features of higher-end scanners.

3.2. Autel AutoLink AL619

3.2.1. Overview

The Autel AutoLink AL619 builds upon the AL519 by adding ABS/SRS diagnostic functions.

3.2.2. Key Features

  • All features of the AL519, plus:
  • ABS diagnostics.
  • SRS diagnostics.

3.2.3. Pros

  • Includes ABS/SRS diagnostics.
  • Comprehensive OBDII diagnostics.
  • One-click smog check.

3.2.4. Cons

  • May not be necessary if you don’t need ABS/SRS diagnostics.

3.2.5. Who It’s For

The AL619 is highly recommended for those who frequently encounter ABS/SRS warning lights or issues.

3.3. Autel AutoLink AL609P

3.3.1. Overview

The Autel AutoLink AL609P is another mid-range scanner that includes ABS diagnostics.

3.3.2. Key Features

  • Live data.
  • Read & erase DTCs.
  • Retrieve the VIN.
  • Freeze frame.
  • I/M readiness status.
  • C.A.N. capability.
  • Data stream.
  • Vehicle information.
  • On-screen DTC definitions.
  • Code lookup function on tool & printing capabilities.
  • DTC cause/tips.
  • Bi-directional testing + Advanced Mode 6.
  • I/M readiness key.
  • ABS diagnose.
  • SRS diagnose.
  • Check engine light.
  • Oil light reset.
  • EVAP codes.

3.3.3. Pros

  • Includes ABS/SRS diagnostics.
  • Oil light reset.

3.3.4. Cons

  • Some features may overlap with other scanners.

3.3.5. Who It’s For

The AL609P is suited for DIYers who want ABS/SRS diagnostics along with other helpful features like oil light reset.

3.4. Autel AL519 vs AL619 vs AL609P Comparison Table

Feature Autel AutoLink AL519 Autel AutoLink AL619 Autel AutoLink AL609P
Price $56.00 $85.00 Inquire
Live Data Yes Yes Yes
Read & Erase DTCs Yes Yes Yes
Retrieve the VIN Yes Yes Yes
Freeze Frame Yes Yes Yes
I/M Readiness Status Yes Yes Yes
C.A.N. Capability Yes Yes Yes
Data Stream Yes Yes Yes
Vehicle Information Yes Yes Yes
On-Screen DTC Definitions Yes Yes Yes
Code Lookup Function Yes Yes Yes
DTC Cause/Tips Yes Yes Yes
Bi-Directional Testing Yes Yes Yes
I/M Readiness Key Yes Yes Yes
ABS Diagnose No Yes Yes
SRS Diagnose No Yes Yes
Check Engine Light Yes Yes Yes
Oil Light Reset No No Yes
EVAP Codes Yes Yes Yes

3.5. When to Choose a Mid-Range Scanner

Choose a mid-range scanner like the AL519, AL619, or AL609P if:

  • You need more comprehensive OBDII diagnostics.
  • You want ABS/SRS diagnostic capabilities.
  • You’re comfortable with basic automotive repair procedures.

4. Advanced Handheld Scanners

Offering extended reset and diagnostic services.

4.1. Autel MaxiCheck Pro

4.1.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiCheck Pro is designed for technicians who need to perform a variety of reset and diagnostic services.

4.1.2. Key Features

  • ABS and SRS system diagnostics.
  • Oil service reset.
  • SAS reset.
  • EPB service.
  • BMS reset.
  • DPF reset.

4.1.3. Pros

  • Supports multiple reset services.
  • Ideal for servicing vehicles a few times a year.

4.1.4. Cons

  • Only diagnoses ABS and SRS systems.
  • Does not support throttle adaptation or A/F adjustments.

4.1.5. Who It’s For

The MaxiCheck Pro is suitable for individuals who perform routine maintenance and need to reset various systems.

4.2. Autel MaxiDiag MD806

4.2.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiDiag MD806 offers diagnostics for four systems: Engine, Transmission, ABS, and SRS.

4.2.2. Key Features

  • Engine system diagnostics.
  • Transmission system diagnostics.
  • Anti-lock braking system (ABS) diagnostics.
  • Supplemental restraint system (SRS) diagnostics.
  • Oil service reset.
  • SAS reset.
  • EPB service.
  • BMS reset.
  • DPF reset.
  • Throttle adaptation.
  • Adjust A/F.

4.2.3. Pros

  • Diagnoses four major systems.
  • Supports throttle adaptation and A/F adjustments.

4.2.4. Cons

  • Does not include diagnostics for electrical park brake, tire pressure monitoring, or steering systems.

4.2.5. Who It’s For

The MD806 is suited for DIYers and small repair shops that need to diagnose multiple systems and perform basic reset services.

4.3. Autel MaxiDiag MD806 Pro

4.3.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiDiag MD806 Pro expands upon the MD806 by including diagnostics for additional systems.

4.3.2. Key Features

  • All features of the MD806, plus:
  • Electrical park brake system.
  • Tire pressure monitoring system.
  • Steering system.
  • Air conditioning system.
  • Battery management system.
  • Chassis system division.
  • Brake assist system.
  • Security system.

4.3.3. Pros

  • Diagnoses more systems than the MD806.

4.3.4. Cons

  • May be more expensive than the MD806.

4.3.5. Who It’s For

The MD806 Pro is ideal for those who need to diagnose a wider range of systems and require additional reset services.

4.4. Autel MaxiDiag MD808 Pro

4.4.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiDiag MD808 Pro is the offline sales version of the MD806 Pro, offering identical functionality.

4.4.2. Key Features

  • Same features as the MD806 Pro.

4.4.3. Pros

  • Identical functionality to the MD806 Pro.

4.4.4. Cons

  • May have a different price point due to distribution costs.

4.4.5. Who It’s For

The MD808 Pro is suitable for users who prefer purchasing diagnostic tools from offline retailers but need the same capabilities as the MD806 Pro.

4.5. Autel MaxiCheck Pro vs MaxiDiag MD806 vs MD806 Pro vs MD808 Pro Comparison Table

Feature Autel MaxiCheck Pro Autel MaxiDiag MD806 Autel MaxiDiag MD806 Pro Autel MaxiDiag MD808 Pro
Price $160.00 $143.00 $185.00 $199.00
OBDII Diagnosis
Engine System No Yes Yes Yes
Transmission System No Yes Yes Yes
Anti-lock Braking System Yes Yes Yes Yes
Supplemental Restraint System Yes Yes Yes Yes
Electrical Park Brake System No No Yes Yes
Tire Pressure Monitoring System No No Yes Yes
Steering System No No Yes Yes
Air Conditioning System No No Yes Yes
Battery Management System No No Yes Yes
Chassis System Division No No Yes Yes
Brake Assist System No No Yes Yes
Security System No No Yes Yes
Reset Services
Oil Service Reset Yes Yes Yes Yes
SAS Reset Yes Yes Yes Yes
EPB Service Yes Yes Yes Yes
BMS Reset Yes Yes Yes Yes
DPF Reset Yes Yes Yes Yes
Throttle Adaptation No Yes Yes Yes
Adjust A/F No Yes Yes Yes

4.6. When to Choose an Advanced Handheld Scanner

Choose an advanced handheld scanner like the MaxiCheck Pro, MD806, MD806 Pro, or MD808 Pro if:

  • You need to diagnose multiple vehicle systems.
  • You perform routine maintenance and need to reset various systems.
  • You want a tool that can handle a wider range of diagnostic tasks.
  • You need to perform throttle adaptation or A/F adjustments.

5. Home Diagnostic Scanners (Android-Based Tablets)

For advanced diagnostics and broad vehicle coverage.

5.1. Autel MaxiCheck MX808S

5.1.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiCheck MX808S is an Android-based tablet designed for home diagnostics, offering all systems diagnostics and a range of reset services.

5.1.2. Key Features

  • Basic features (read/erase codes & view live data).
  • Service functions.
  • Special functions.
  • Bi-directional control (active test).
  • Auto VIN.
  • Remote desk.
  • Endoscope function (MV108S).
  • Autel Cloud Service.

5.1.3. Pros

  • Android-based tablet interface.
  • All systems diagnostics.
  • Bi-directional control.
  • Cloud service and remote desk support.
  • Endoscope Function.

5.1.4. Cons

  • No TPMS functions.
  • Wired VCI connection.

5.1.5. Who It’s For

The MX808S is ideal for DIYers and home mechanics who need comprehensive diagnostics and advanced features but don’t require TPMS functionality.

5.2. Autel MaxiCOM MK808BT Pro

5.2.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiCOM MK808BT Pro is similar to the MX808S but includes a Bluetooth VCI for wireless diagnostics.

5.2.2. Key Features

  • All features of the MX808S, plus:
  • Bluetooth VCI (wireless diagnostics).
  • Battery Test (BT506).

5.2.3. Pros

  • Wireless connectivity.
  • Battery Test.

5.2.4. Cons

  • No TPMS functions.

5.2.5. Who It’s For

The MK808BT Pro is perfect for users who prefer wireless connectivity and need to perform battery tests in addition to comprehensive diagnostics.

5.3. Autel MaxiCheck MX900

5.3.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiCheck MX900 is an upgraded version with a larger screen, advanced protocols, and enhanced functions.

5.3.2. Key Features

  • All features of the MX808S, plus:
  • 8-inch screen with 1280×800 resolution.
  • DoIP & CAN FD protocol.
  • Pre & Post Scan.
  • Scan VIN.
  • Wifi Print.

5.3.3. Pros

  • Larger, higher-resolution screen.
  • Supports advanced protocols.
  • Pre & Post Scan.
  • Scan VIN.
  • Wifi Print.

5.3.4. Cons

  • No TPMS functions.

5.3.5. Who It’s For

The MX900 is suitable for those who need advanced protocols and enhanced features like Pre & Post Scan for detailed diagnostic reports.

5.4. Autel MaxiCheck MX808S-TS

5.4.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiCheck MX808S-TS combines the features of the MX808S with advanced TPMS diagnostics.

5.4.2. Key Features

  • All features of the MX808S, plus:
  • Advanced TPMS diagnostics.
  • Activate 98% of all known TPMS sensors.
  • Program Autel MX sensors.
  • Extensive OBD relearn coverage.
  • On-screen relearn procedure.
  • Battery Test (BT506)

5.4.3. Pros

  • Comprehensive TPMS functionality.
  • Wireless connectivity.

5.4.4. Cons

  • May be more expensive than models without TPMS functions.

5.4.5. Who It’s For

The MX808S-TS is ideal for users who require both comprehensive diagnostics and advanced TPMS capabilities.

5.5. Autel MX808S vs MK808BT Pro vs MX900 vs MX808S-TS Comparison Table

Feature Autel MX808S Autel MK808BT Pro Autel MX900 Autel MX808S-TS
Price $369.00 $469.00 $459.00 $599.00
CPU Rockchip RK3566 Rockchip RK3566 Rockchip RK3566 Rockchip RK3566
RAM 4G 4G 4G 4G
ROM 64G 64G 64G 64G
Battery Capacity 5000mAh 5000mAh 7700mAh 5000mAh
Android Version Android 11.0 Android 11.0 Android 11.0 Android 11.0
Screen Size 7 inch 7 inch 8 inch 7 inch
Screen Resolution 1024*600 1024*600 1280*800 1024*600
Camera N/A N/A 8 MP N/A
VCI Main cable VCI Mini Main cable VCI Mini
Basic Features Yes Yes Yes Yes
Service Functions Yes Yes Yes Yes
Special Function Yes Yes Yes Yes
Bi-Directional Control Yes Yes Yes Yes
TPMS Functions No No No Yes
DoIP & CAN FD Protocol No No Yes No
Pre & Post Scan No No Yes No
Scan VIN No No Yes No
Wifi Print No No Yes No
Auto VIN Yes Yes Yes Yes
Remote Desk Yes Yes Yes Yes
Endoscope Function (MV108S) Yes Yes Yes Yes
Battery Test (BT506) No Yes No Yes
Autel Cloud Service Yes Yes Yes Yes

5.6. When to Choose a Home Diagnostic Scanner

Choose a home diagnostic scanner like the MX808S, MK808BT Pro, MX900, or MX808S-TS if:

  • You need all systems diagnostics.
  • You want an Android-based tablet interface.
  • You require advanced features like bi-directional control.
  • You need TPMS functionality (MX808S-TS).
  • You value wireless connectivity (MK808BT Pro and MX808S-TS).
  • You desire new functions like Endoscope and Battery test.

6. Advanced Home Diagnostic Scanners

6.1. Autel MaxiCOM MK900-BT

6.1.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiCOM MK900BT is an advanced diagnostic scanner that offers several upgrades compared to the MK808BT Pro, including a larger battery, user-friendly design, and expanded vehicle coverage.

6.1.2. Key Features

  • Larger 7700mAh battery capacity for extended use.
  • User-friendly interface with a high-resolution touchscreen display.
  • Expanded vehicle coverage with VIN and license scanning.
  • Supports CAN FD and DoIP protocols for compatibility with a greater range of vehicles.
  • Advanced functions such as Pre & Post Scan and WIFI Print.
  • Comes with MaxiVCI V150.

6.1.3. Pros

  • Longer battery life.
  • Intuitive user interface.
  • Enhanced vehicle coverage.
  • Advanced diagnostic functions.

6.1.4. Cons

  • May be more expensive than previous models.

6.1.5. Who It’s For

The MK900BT is designed for professional technicians and experienced DIYers who need advanced diagnostic capabilities and broader vehicle coverage.

6.2. Autel MaxiCOM MK900-TS

6.2.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiCOM MK900TS includes all the features of the MK900BT, along with comprehensive TPMS diagnostics and service functions.

6.2.2. Key Features

  • All features of the MK900BT, plus:
  • Full TPMS functionality, including sensor programming and activation.

6.2.3. Pros

  • Comprehensive TPMS capabilities.
  • Advanced diagnostic functions.

6.2.4. Cons

  • Higher price point due to added TPMS features.

6.2.5. Who It’s For

The MK900TS is ideal for technicians and DIYers who regularly work with TPMS systems and require advanced diagnostic and service functions.

6.3. Autel MK900BT MK900TS MK808BT Pro and MX808S-TS Comparison Table

Feature MaxiCOM MK900BT MaxiCOM MK900TS MaxiCOM MK808BT Pro MaxiCheck MX808S-TS
Price $589 $809 $469 $599
Processor Quad core Quad core Quad core Quad core
Operating System Android 11 Android 11 Android 11 Android 11
RAM 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB 4 GB
ROM 64 GB 64 GB 64 GB 64 GB
Screen 8 inches 8 inches 7 inches 7 inches
Resolution 1280*800 1280*800 1024×600 1024×600
SD Card Support 64GB Support 64GB Support 64GB Support 64GB
Battery Capacity 7700 mAh 7700 mAh 5000 mAh 5000 mAh
Camera Rear: 8 Megapixel Rear: 8 Megapixel N/A N/A
VCI V150 V150 VCI MINI VCI MINI
Auto VIN Yes Yes Yes Yes
Read/Clear Code Yes Yes Yes Yes
Live Data Yes Yes Yes Yes
Freeze Frame Yes Yes Yes Yes
ECU Information Yes Yes Yes Yes
Active Test Yes Yes Yes Yes
Service √(40+) √(40+) √(40+) √(40+)
Special Functions All System All System All System All System
Cloud Management Yes Yes Yes Yes
Pre & Post Scan Yes Yes No No
SCAN VIN Yes Yes No No
SCAN License Yes Yes No No
Remote Desk Yes Yes Yes Yes
DoIP Yes Yes No No
CAN FD Yes Yes Adapter Needed Adapter Needed
TPMS Full TPMS / / Full TPMS
Endoscope MV108S Needed MV108S Needed MV108S Needed MV108S Needed
Battery Test BT506 Needed BT506 Needed BT506 Needed BT506 Needed
Wi-Fi Print Yes Yes No No

6.4. When to Choose an Advanced Home Diagnostic Scanner

Choose an advanced home diagnostic scanner like the MK900BT or MK900TS if:

  • You need enhanced vehicle coverage and advanced functions.
  • You require comprehensive TPMS capabilities (MK900TS).
  • You value a user-friendly interface and extended battery life.

7. Medium Diagnostic Tools

Suitable for car DIY enthusiasts and small repair shop mechanics.

7.1. Autel MaxiPro MP808BT Pro Kit

7.1.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiPro MP808BT Pro Kit is designed for car DIY enthusiasts and small repair shop mechanics.

7.1.2. Key Features

  • ECU Coding (For BMW, Porsche, VW).
  • Refresh Hidden Functions (For BMW, VW, Audi, Skoda).
  • VAG Guided Functions (For VW, Audi, Skoda, Sear, Man LD).
  • Basic Features (Read/Erase Code & View Live Data).
  • Service Functions.
  • Special Function.
  • Bi-Directional Control (Active Test).
  • Endoscope Function (MV108).
  • Battery Test (BT506).
  • Autel Cloud Service.

7.1.3. Pros

  • Supports ECU coding and hidden function refresh for specific car models.
  • Includes a Bluetooth VCI for wireless connectivity.

7.1.4. Cons

  • Does not include TPMS functions.

7.1.5. Who It’s For

The MP808BT Pro Kit is ideal for DIY enthusiasts and small repair shops that need ECU coding and wireless connectivity but don’t require TPMS functionality.

7.2. Autel MaxiPro MP808S Kit

7.2.1. Overview

The Autel MaxiPro MP808S Kit is similar to the MP808BT Pro Kit but connects to the vehicle via cable and includes a box of non-OBD2 standard adapters for older vehicles.

7.2.2. Key Features

  • Same features as the MP808BT Pro Kit, but with a wired connection.
  • Includes non-OBD2 adapters for OBD1 vehicles.

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