On the hunt for a bi-directional scanner? Well, Autel got three best options for you: MX808, MS906, and MP808.
But how do you choose the one that’s just right for your needs and wallet?
No worries, I’ve got you covered with this comprehensive review. By the end, you’ll have all the insights you need to confidently make the right decision.
So, let’s dive in together and uncover your answer!
Table of Contents
Autel MX808 vs. MS906 vs. MP808: Full Comparison Chart
 Autel MX808 |  Autel MS906 |  Autel MP808 |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| DIAGNOSTICS | |||
| Full-system diagnostics | |||
| Live data | |||
| Active tests | |||
| SERVICE FUNCTIONS | |||
| Service functions | |||
| Oil reset | |||
| ABS bleeding | |||
| Throttle relearn | |||
| Key programming | |||
| Crankshaft Relearn | |||
| Gear Relearn | |||
| OTHER FUNCTIONS | |||
| VAG Guided Function | |||
| ECU coding | |||
| VEHICLE COVERAGE | |||
| Cars/Light trucks | |||
| FCA AutoAuth | |||
| DESIGN & HARDWARE | |||
| Processor | |||
| Operating system | |||
| Memory | |||
| Screen size | |||
| Battery capacity | |||
| Wireless connection | |||
| AFTER-SALES SERVICE | |||
| Free update | |||
| Update fee | |||
| Warranty | |||
| Customer support | |||
| Where to buy? | |||
(Save $50) | (Save $110) |
||
Autel MX808 vs. MS906 vs. MP808: Key Differences
Autel MX808, MP808, and MS906 are well known for their bidirectional control features.
But what makes these models different and why do they have different prices?
- ECU coding: Autel MS906 and MP808 let you customize your cars or adapt new parts after replacing them. Sadly, Autel MX808 doesn’t do this.
- Hardware: Autel MS906 is impressive with its big 8-inch screen and more powerful Exynos 5260 6-core processor. On the other hand, Autel MX808 and MP808 have 7-inch screen and 4-core processor.
- Free update: MP808 wins the update game with 2 years of free updates. MX808 and MS906 offer just 1 year.
So, here’s my suggestion:
Need an affordable bidirectional scanner under $500? Autel MX808 is your go-to. It’s also got cool things like key programming, crank relearn, and gear relearn.
But if ECU coding is your priority, try Autel MP808. Yes, Autel MS906 does ECU coding too, but it costs $350 more. So, not the wisest choice in my opinion.
Autel MX808
Autel MP808
Autel MX808 vs. MS906 vs. MP808: Detailed Comparison Review
Performance
I noticed that even though there’s a price difference, these 3 scanners aren’t all that different in terms of what they can do.
Here are the standout functions they all have:
- Checking the whole car system,
- Turning car parts on and off and finding out what’s wrong (active tests),
- Programming car keys,
- Adjusting throttle, transmission, and crankshaft sensor.
However, because Autel MS906 has a better processor (Exynos 5260 – 6 cores), using it for these tasks is a bit smoother.
The biggest gap between these 3 scanners is ECU coding.
Autel MX808 can’t do this. So if you want ECU coding or to activate hidden functions, look at MP808 or MS906.
MP808 and MS906’s ECU coding covers about 15 car brands:
- VW, VW_Brazil, Skoda
- BMW, MINI, Peugeot, Citroen, DS_EU, Porsche
- Nissan, Infiniti, NissanGT-R, Renault, Hyundai, Kia
Even though it doesn’t cover all brands, it’s good for what I need in my garage.
Honestly, I didn’t really notice a big difference while using MP808 and MS906.
But MS906 costs $400 more than MP808. So, if ECU coding is a must, save cash and get the Autel MP808.
Autel MX808
Autel MP808
Design & Hardware
Autel MX808, MS906, and MP808 are all wired connection, not Bluetooth. But don’t worry, the cord is long enough for comfy use once it’s connected to the OBD2 port.
The batteries in all three are 5000mAh, and they last even better than I thought. Once they’re fully charged, I can use them all day and still have more than 30% battery left.
Now, even though the prices are quite different, the real gap between these scanners comes down to 2 things: the processor and the screen size.
Only Autel MS908 has a wide 8” screen, while the screens of MX808 and MP808 are 7”. To be honest, that 1” difference doesn’t really matter much to me.
The really noticeable thing is the Android OS. While MX808 and MP808 got a cool upgrade to Android 11, Autel MS906 is stuck on Android 4.4.4.
That Android OS on MS906 is super old and sometimes it won’t play nice with certain apps. It sometimes even stops me from downloading some apps from the Play Store, which is a bit frustrating.
Autel MX808
Autel MP808
Autel MS906
After-sales Service
All from Autel, but Autel MX808 wins the after-sales game.
Why’s that?
Autel MX808 is the US version, which means you get a double warranty from both online and offline stores in the US.
For instance, just days after I got the scanner, they reached out to help me out and give advice. Anytime I have a problem, a quick call to them solves it right away.
MP808 and MS906 are the global versions, so you can only get help through emails from customer service.
Speaking of updates, Autel MP808 shines with its 2-year free update, way better than MX808 and MS906’s 1-year offer.
Don’t forget, when the free update is done, you can still use all the cool functions as usual.
So, if you’re all about solid customer support, go for the US model – Autel MX808.
But if you’re into saving with a 2-year update, go for the Autel MP808.
Autel MX808
Autel MP808
Autel MS906
Recommendation
If you’ve made it this far and you’re looking for my recommendation, here it is:
Want an affordable bidirectional scanner under $500? Go for Autel MX808. It’s awesome and even covers key programming, crank relearn, and gear relearn.
But if ECU coding is super important, check out Autel MP808. Yup, Autel MS906 does it too, but it’s pricier by $350. So, personally, I’d say go for MP808 and save some bucks.
Autel MX808
Autel MP808
Autel MS906
Nice write up on the 3 tools,
Thanks.
Thanks, R.F