Navigating the world of automotive diagnostics can be overwhelming, especially when trying to Compare Autel Scanners. CARDIAGTECH.NET simplifies this process, offering a comprehensive guide to help you select the perfect Autel diagnostic tool for your needs. Uncover the power of vehicle diagnostics and find the ideal scanner to empower your automotive repairs, maintenance, and troubleshooting while boosting your efficiency and profitability.
1. Understanding Autel Scanner Series
Autel offers a diverse range of diagnostic tools, each designed to cater to specific needs and skill levels. Before we delve into a detailed comparison, it’s essential to understand the different series available. Autel categorizes its products by diagnostic level, including:
- MaxiSys
- MaxiCOM
- MaxiPro
- MaxiDAS
- MaxiCheck
- MaxiDiag
- AutoLink
- MaxiScan
- MaxiIM (Key Programming Tools)
- MaxiTPMS (TPMS Tools)
Within each series, a higher product number generally indicates a higher diagnostic level and a broader range of features. This structure allows you to easily navigate Autel’s offerings and pinpoint the scanners that align with your requirements.
2. Entry-Level OBD2 Code Readers: Autel MaxiScan MS300/MS309
Price: $17.99 – $18.99
For those just starting out or needing basic diagnostics, the Autel MaxiScan MS300 and MS309 are excellent choices. These entry-level OBD2 code readers provide essential functionalities without breaking the bank.
| Model | MS300 – $17.99 | MS309 – $18.99 |
|---|---|---|
| Item Weight | 226 grams | 249 grams |
| Read & Clear Codes | √ | √ |
| I/M Readiness | √ | √ |
| Freeze Frame Data | / | √ |
| O2 Sensor Test | √ | √ |
| EVAP System Test | √ | √ |
| Vehicle Information | √ | √ |
| Retrieve Codes | √ | √ |
| Turn Off CEL | √ | √ |
| CAN Support | √ | √ |
| DTC Lookup | √ | √ |
| Engine | √ | √ |
| Fuel System | √ | √ |
| Ignition System | / | √ |
| Vehicle Compatibility | All 1996+ cars, SUVs, and 12V Diesels (OBD2 compliant, except motorhomes) | All 1996+ cars & light trucks (OBD2 compliant) |
These scanners excel at:
- Reading and clearing diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
- Checking emission monitor status
- Resetting the check engine light
autel code reader
Key Takeaway: The MS300 and MS309 are perfect for DIYers and beginners needing basic OBD2 diagnostics, offering excellent value and essential functionalities.
3. Enhanced OBD2 Scanners: Autel AutoLink AL519/AL619/AL609P
Price: $56.00 – $85.00
Stepping up from the entry-level models, the Autel AutoLink AL519 and AL619 provide enhanced diagnostic capabilities. The AL609P also falls into this category, offering similar features.
| Model | AL519 – $56.00 | AL619 – $85.00 | AL609P |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live Data | √ | √ | √ |
| Read & Erase DTCs | √ | √ | √ |
| Retrieve VIN | √ | √ | √ |
| Freeze Frame | √ | √ | √ |
| I/M Readiness | √ | √ | √ |
| CAN Capability | √ | √ | √ |
| Data Stream | √ | √ | √ |
| Vehicle Information | √ | √ | √ |
| On-screen DTCs | √ | √ | √ |
| Code Lookup | √ | √ | √ |
| DTC Tips | √ | √ | √ |
| Bi-Directional Testing | √ | √ | √ |
| I/M Readiness Key | √ | √ | √ |
| ABS Diagnose | / | √ | √ |
| SRS Diagnose | / | √ | √ |
| Check Engine Light | √ | √ | √ |
| Oil Light Reset | √ | √ | √ |
| EVAP Codes | √ | √ | √ |
These scanners offer:
- One-Click Smog Check for quick emissions readiness assessment
- Full OBD2 diagnostics (all 10 modes)
- ABS/SRS diagnostics (AL619 and AL609P)
Key Takeaway: The AL519/AL619/AL609P are excellent choices for DIYers and enthusiasts who need more comprehensive OBD2 diagnostics, including ABS/SRS capabilities.
4. Mid-Range Scanners: Autel MaxiCheck Pro/MaxiDiag MD806(MD808)/MD806 Pro(MD808 Pro)
Price: $143.00 – $235.00
For users who need more than basic diagnostics, the Autel MaxiCheck Pro and MaxiDiag series (MD806, MD806 Pro, MD808 Pro) offer advanced features like oil reset and ABS auto bleed.
| Model | MD806 – $143.00 | MD806 Pro – $185.00 | MD808 Pro – $199.00 | Maxicheck Pro – $160.00 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OBDII Diagnosis | ||||
| Engine System | √ | √ | √ | / |
| Transmission System | √ | √ | √ | / |
| Anti-lock Braking System | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Restraint System | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Additional Systems | ||||
| Electrical Park Brake | / | √ | √ | / |
| Tire Pressure Monitor | / | √ | √ | / |
| Steering System | / | √ | √ | / |
| Air Conditioning | / | √ | √ | / |
| Battery Management | / | √ | √ | / |
| Chassis System | / | √ | √ | / |
| Brake Assist | / | √ | √ | / |
| Security System | / | √ | √ | / |
| Reset Services | ||||
| Oil Service Reset | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| SAS Reset | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| EPB Service | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| BMS Reset | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| DPF Reset | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Throttle Adaptation | √ | √ | √ | / |
| Adjust A/F | √ | √ | √ | / |
Key Differences:
- System Coverage: MD806 series diagnoses more systems than the MaxiCheck Pro.
- Reset Services: Maxicheck Pro lacks throttle adaptation and A/F adjustment.
- MD808 Pro vs. MD806 Pro: Functionally identical, but MD808 Pro is often sold offline at a different price.
autel medium scanner
Key Takeaway: These scanners are ideal for experienced DIYers and small shops looking for advanced diagnostics and reset capabilities without the high cost of professional tools. Contact CARDIAGTECH.NET to ensure compatibility with your specific vehicle before purchasing.
5. Home Diagnostic Scanners: Autel MaxiCheck MX808S/MaxiCOM MK808BT Pro/MaxiCheck MX900/MX808S-TS
Price: $369.00 – $599.00
The Autel MaxiCheck and MaxiCOM series in this range bring tablet-based diagnostics to your home garage. These scanners offer all-system diagnostics, numerous reset services, and TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) functionality.
| Model | MX808S – $369.00 | MK808BT Pro – $469.00 | MX900 – $459.00 | MX808S-TS – $599.00 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU | RK3566 | RK3566 | RK3566 | 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 | / | / | 8 MP | / |
| VCI | Main Cable | VCI Mini | Main Cable | VCI Mini |
| Main Functions | ||||
| Basic Features | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Service Functions | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Special Function | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Bi-Directional Control | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| TPMS Functions | ||||
| Advanced TPMS | / | / | / | √ |
| Activate Sensors | / | / | / | √ |
| Program Sensors | / | / | / | √ |
| OBD Relearn | / | / | / | √ |
| On-screen Relearn | / | / | / | √ |
| Other Functions | ||||
| DoIP & CAN FD | / | / | √ | / |
| Pre & Post Scan | / | / | √ | / |
| Scan VIN | / | / | √ | / |
| Wifi Print | / | / | √ | / |
| Auto VIN | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Remote Desk | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| New Functions | ||||
| Endoscope Function | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Battery Test | / | √ | / | √ |
| Autel Cloud Service | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Key Relationships:
- MK808BT Pro = MX808S + Bluetooth VCI
- MX808S-TS = MK808BT Pro + Complete TPMS Function
Key Takeaway: These scanners are ideal for home users needing extensive diagnostics, reset services, and the convenience of a tablet interface. If TPMS functionality is crucial, the MX808S-TS is the standout option.
6. Advanced Home Diagnostic Scanners: Autel MaxiCOM MK900-BT/MK900-TS
Price: $589 – $809
The Autel MaxiCOM MK900 series represents a significant upgrade, offering enhanced features and capabilities compared to the MK808BT Pro.
| Model | MaxiCOM MK900BT – $589 |
| Hardware | Processor |
| Operating System | Android 11 |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| ROM | 64 GB |
| Screen | 8 inches |
| Resolution | 1280*800 |
| SD Card | SD Card (Support up to 64GB) |
| Battery Capacity | 3.7V 7700 mAh |
| Camera | Rear: 8 Megapixel |
| VCI | V150 |
| Software | Auto VIN |
| Read/Clear Code | √ |
| Live Data | √ |
| Freeze Frame | √ |
| ECU Information | √ |
| Active Test | √ |
| Service | √(40+) |
| Special Functions | All System |
| Cloud Management | √ |
| Pre & Post Scan | √ |
| SCAN VIN | √ |
| SCAN License | √ |
| Remote Desk | √ |
| DoIP | √ |
| CAN FD | √ |
| Extensive | Full TPMS |
| Endoscope | √(Need MV108S) |
| Battery Test | √(Need BT506) |
| Wi-Fi Print | √ |
Key Upgrades:
- Larger Battery: Increased capacity (7700mAh) for extended use.
- User-Friendly Design: High-resolution touchscreen for easy navigation.
- Expanded Coverage: Camera for VIN scanning and support for CAN FD/DoIP protocols.
- Advanced Functions: Pre & Post Scan, WIFI Print, and MaxiVCI V150.
Key Takeaway: The MK900BT and MK900TS are excellent choices for users seeking advanced features, broader vehicle coverage, and a user-friendly experience. The MK900TS adds comprehensive TPMS diagnostics.
7. Mid-Level Professional Scanners: Autel MaxiPro MP808BT Pro Kit/MP808S Kit/MaxiDAS DS808S-TS/DS808S-BT Kit
Price: $639 – $729
The MP808 and DS808 series bridge the gap between home and professional diagnostic tools. They offer advanced functions like bidirectional control, guided functions, and ECU coding for specific vehicles.
| Model | MP808BT Pro Kit – $669.00 | MP808S Kit – $639.00 | DS808S-TS – $729.00 | DS808S-BT Kit – $699.00 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU | RK3566 | RK3566 | RK3566 | RK3566 |
| RAM | 4G | 4G | 4G | 4G |
| ROM | 64G | 64G | 64G | 64G |
| Battery Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | 5000mAh |
| Android Version | Android 11.0 | Android 11.0 | Android 11.0 | Android 11.0 |
| Screen Size | 7 inch | 7 inch | 7 inch | 7 inch |
| Screen Resolution | 1024×600 | 1024×600 | 1024×600 | 1024×600 |
| VCI | VCI Mini | Main Cable | VCI Mini | VCI Mini |
| Main Functions | ||||
| ECU Coding | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Refresh Hidden Func. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| VAG Guided Func. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Basic Features | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Service Functions | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Special Function | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Bi-Directional Control | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| TPMS Functions | ||||
| Advanced TPMS | / | / | √ | / |
| Activate Sensors | / | / | √ | / |
| Program Sensors | / | / | √ | / |
| OBD Relearn | / | / | √ | / |
| On-screen Relearn | / | / | √ | / |
| Other Functions | ||||
| Auto VIN | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Remote Desk | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| New Functions | ||||
| Endoscope Function | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Battery Test | √ | / | √ | √ |
| Autel Cloud Service | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Key Relationships:
- MP808BT Pro Kit = MP808S Kit + Bluetooth VCI
- DS808S-TS = MP808BT Pro + Complete TPMS Function
Key Takeaway: The MP808 and DS808 series offer a cost-effective way to access professional-level diagnostics. The DS808S-TS is particularly valuable for shops that handle TPMS services.
8. Professional Diagnostic Scanners: Autel MaxiPro MP900/MP900 KIT/MP900-BT/MP900-TS
Price: $699 – $1059
The Autel MaxiPRO MP900 series and its MaxiDAS DS900 counterparts provide a range of options tailored to professional diagnostic needs. The key distinction lies in their regional compatibility: the MP900 series offers multi-language support and unrestricted use, while the DS900 series is a US version, limited to English and usage within the United States.
| Product Type | MP900 – $699 | MP900 KIT – $799 | MP900-TS – $1059 | MP900-BT – $859 | MP808BT Pro – $649 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardware | Operating system | Android 11 | Android 11 | Android 11 | Android 11 |
| CPU | Rockchip RK3566 | Rockchip RK3566 | Rockchip RK3566 | Rockchip RK3566 | Rockchip RK3566 |
| Screen | 8inches, 800*1280 | 8inches, 800*1280 | 8inches, 800*1280 | 8inches, 800*1280 | 7inches, 1024*600 |
| RAM | 4GB | 4GB | 4GB | 4GB | 4GB |
| ROM | 64GB | 64GB | 64GB | 64GB | 64GB |
| Battery | 7700mAh | 7700mAh | 7700mAh | 7700mAh | 5000mAh |
| Camera | Rear: 8M | Rear: 8M | Rear: 8M | Rear: 8M | No |
| DLC | Wired | Wired | V150 | V150 | VCI MINI |
| DoIP | √ | √ | √ | √ | x |
| CAN FD | √ | √ | √ | √ | √(optional adapter) |
| Software | Read/clear code | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Freeze frame | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| ECU information | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Live data | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Active test | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Full system special functions | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Service functions | √(40 kinds) | √(40 kinds) | √(40 kinds) | √(40 kinds) | √(36 kinds) |
| ECU Coding | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Pre&Post Scan | √ | √ | √ | √ | x |
| TPMS integrated function(such as sensor programming, activation) | x | x | √ | x | x |
Key Considerations:
- MP900 vs. DS900: The MP900 series is the versatile choice, while the DS900 series caters specifically to the US market.
- Feature Set: The MP900 offers robust diagnostic capabilities with added functionality such as ECU Coding, Pre & Post Scan, and optional TPMS support.
Key Takeaway: The MP900 series represents a powerful solution for automotive professionals demanding comprehensive diagnostics, ECU coding, and flexible language options. Contact CARDIAGTECH.NET to determine the best fit for your shop’s needs.
9. Advanced Professional Scanners: Autel MaxiSys MS906 Pro/MaxiCOM MK906S Pro/MK906 Pro-TS/MK908 II/MS906 Pro-TS
Price: $1059.00 – $1439.00
The Autel 906 series delivers high-end repair and customization capabilities at a reasonable price. These scanners boast powerful hardware, Bluetooth VCIs, and extended battery life.
| Model | MS906 Pro | MK906S Pro | MK906 Pro-TS | MK908 II | MS906 Pro-TS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $1059 USD | $1199 USD | $1279 USD | $1288 USD | $1439 USD |
| Hardware | |||||
| CPU | Qualcomm 660 | Qualcomm 660 | Qualcomm 660 | Qualcomm 660 | Exynos 8895 |
| RAM/ROM | 4G/128G | 4G/128G | 4G/128G | 4G/128G | 4G/128G |
| Battery Capacity | 11,600 mAh | 11,600 mAh | 11,600 mAh | 15,000 mAh | 11,600 mAh |
| Android Version | Android 10.0 | Android 10.0 | Android 10.0 | Android 10.0 | Android 7.0 |
| Screen Size | 8 inch | 8 inch | 8 inch | 10.1 inch | 8 inch |
| Camera | Rear 16.0 MPFront 5.0MP | Rear 16.0 MPFront 16.0MP | Rear 16.0 MPFront 16.0MP | Rear 16.0 MP | Rear 16.0 MPFront 5.0MP |
| Weight | 0.92KG | 0.90KG | 0.94KG | 1.58KG | 0.96KG |
| VCI | V200 | V200 | V200 | Bluetooth Box | V200 |
| Functions | |||||
| Basic Functions | √ | √ | √ |
