Autel ML619 vs. ML629 vs. AL629: Which Is the Best Scanner?

Tim Miller

Autel ML619 vs. ML629 vs. AL629, which is the better option? Are they the same OBD2 code readers, or what sets them apart?

The three OBD2 scanners are entry-level tools from the same manufacturer. They are nearly the same, except for a few differences in their specifications and functions.

This article compares ML619, ML629, and AL629 OBD2 scanners, outlining similarities and distinguishing features. Read on for details and recommendations!  

Autel ML619 vs. ML629 vs. AL629: Complete Comparison Table

Autel ML619
Autel ML619
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Autel ML629
Autel ML629
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Autel AL629
Autel AL629
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Customer rating
4.5
4.5
4.4
PriceAutel ML619 priceAutel ML629 priceAutel AL629 price
OBD2 functions10/10*10/1010/10
System diagnosticsABS and SRS.Engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS.Engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS.
Display2.8-inch TFT color (320 x 240 dpi) display2.8-inch LCD (320 x 240 dpi) display2.8-inch LCD (320 x 240 dpi) display
Dimensions7.83” x 4.11” x 1.48”7.2" x 3.6" x 1.3"7.2 x 3.6” x 1.3”
Weight0.617 lb0.544 lb0.524 lb
Updates Free lifetime online updateFree lifetime online updateFree lifetime online update
Warranty12-month warranty12-month warranty12-month warranty
Specialties--Auto VINAuto VIN
Supported ProtocolsSAE J1850 PWM, SAE J1850 VPW, ISO 9141-2, ISO 14230 KWP2000, CANSAE J1850 PWM, SAE J1850 VPW, ISO 9141-2, ISO 14230 KWP2000, CANSAE J1850 PWM, SAE J1850 VPW, ISO 9141-2, ISO 14230 KWP2000, CAN
Vehicle CoverageVolvo, Toyota, BMW, Land Rover, Nissan, Peugeot, Fiat, Citroen, Renault, Jaguar, Hyundai, Honda, Ford, Chrysler, Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Isuzu, Kia, Daewoo, Mazda, Scion, Subaru, Benz, BMW, Maybach, Maserati, Lancia, Abarth, Alfa-Romeo, Holden, Seat, Skoda, Audi, Opel, Porsche, etc.GM, Ford, Mazda, Toyota, Lexus, Scion, Suzuki, Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat, Abarth, Lancia, Alfa, Honda, Acura, Subaru, Nissan, Infiniti, Chrysler, Renault, Dacia, Land Rover, Jaguar, Volkswagen, Audi, Bugatti, Skoda, Seat, Bentley, Volvo, Porsche, etc.GM, Ford, Lincoln, Chrysler, Dodge, Mercedes, Smart, BMW, Mini, VW, Audi, Land Rover, Jaguar, Volvo, Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Abarth, Lancia, Porsche, Bugatti, Skoda, Seat, Bentley, Renault, Dacia, Opel, Saab, Toyota, Lexus, Scion, Honda, Acura, Nissan, Infiniti, Hyundai, KIA, Mazda, Suzuki, Subaru,

*Notes: Excellent: 9-10; Good: 7-8; Fair: 5-6; Poor: 3-4; Very poor: 1-2

Autel ML619 vs. ML629 vs. AL629
The Autel ML619, ML629, and AL629 can all perform 10 OBD2 functions

Autel ML619 vs. ML629 vs. AL629: The Similarities?

OBD2 Functions

There is no difference among these three code readers regarding OBD2 functions. Autel ML619, ML629, and AL629 can all perform 10 OBD2 functions. You can use any of them to retrieve generic codes (P0, P2, P3, and U0), manufacturer-specific codes (P1, P3, and U1), and pending codes.

What sets Autel ML619, ML629, and AL629 OBD2 scanners apart is the price. You may consider buying the Autel ML619 to save a few bucks. Otherwise, the other options are equally good.

Autel ML619
Autel ML619
4.5
The Autel ML619 is a handheld code scanner capable of reading and clearing all OBD2 trouble codes and performing diagnostics in ABS and SRS systems. It is also portable and sleek, making it the go-to code reader for home mechanics and DIYers.

Advanced Service Functions

Autel ML619, ML629, and AL629 are entry-level OBD2 scanners incapable of performing advanced service or reset functions. That’s why they are not suitable for professional use. You may need other high-end scanners if you want this capability.

Updates And Warranty

Autel ML619, ML629, and AL629 all come with a 12-month warranty. Updating them online is also free forever. Once you buy them, you will not have to pay anything to get the latest update.

Supported Protocols

Autel ML619, ML629, and AL629 use the same protocols, including the newest CAN. They will work on your vehicle if it uses any of the following protocols:

  • ISO9141
  • KWP2000
  • J1850PWM
  • J1850 VPW
  • CAN

Vehicle Coverage

Autel ML619, ML629, and AL629 scanners are compatible with vehicles from 1996. Both domestic and exotic makes and models are supported. Refer to the comparison chart above for more information. If your specific car model is not listed, reach out to the technical support team of the respective OBD2 scanner to inquire.

Autel ML619 vs. ML629 vs. AL629: The Differences?

Specifications (Display, Dimension, and Weight)

Autel ML619, ML629, and AL629 are all compact and portable OBD code readers. The main difference is in their weight, with the lightest being the ML619 and Al629 the heaviest. ML619 may be your perfect choice if you don’t need an extra weight on you.

Advanced System Diagnostics

Comparing the three scanners, the Autel ML619 turns out to be the least favorable option. It can only diagnose ABS and SRS systems and nothing more. That can be limiting if you are an advanced DIYer.

The other two options (Al629 and ML629) can be used to diagnose four systems. Apart from ABS and SRS, they can also help you read engine and transmission-related fault codes. They are more advanced and better choices than the ML619 scanner.

Autel ML629
Autel ML629
4.5
Apart from full OBD2 functions, the Autel ML629 can perform advanced diagnostics on the engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS systems. It is also a worthy option for home mechanics, DIYers, and average car owners.

Specialties

Autel ML619 has no specialties. It is designed mainly as an OBD2 code reader to help car owners and DIYers read DTCs and perform limited diagnostics. On the other hand, ML629 and AL629 have auto VIN ability.

Autel AL629
Autel AL629
4.4
This OBD2 scanner is great for DIYers and home mechanics. It supports full OBD2 functions and four system diagnostics, such as the engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS, and has extensive vehicle coverage.

Pros And Cons

Autel ML619

Pros

  • Free lifetime software update
  • Full OBD2 functions
  • DTC lookup library
  • Ergonomic and compact design
  • Universal vehicle coverage

Cons

  • Limited system diagnostics capability
  • Small screen
  • Difficulty upgrading

Autel ML619

Autel ML619

Rating

Bonus: Autel MaxiLink ML619: ABS & SRS scan tool (upgraded AL619) review

Autel ML629

Pros

  • Full OBD2 functions
  • More advanced system diagnostic functions
  • Print data through a connected computer
  • Free lifetime update
  • Auto VIN
  • Wide vehicle coverage

Cons

  • Fails to work with some newer car models
  • Challenging to update
  • Instruction manual could be better

Autel ML629

Autel ML629

Rating

Bonus: Autel ML629: ABS SRS CAN OBDII Scan Tool Review

Autel AL629

Pros

  • Supports full OBD2 functions
  • Has DTCs lookup library
  • More advanced diagnostic functions
  • Auto VIN
  • Free lifetime software update

Cons

  • Below-average tech support services
  • Rather cumbersome to update

Autel AL629

Autel AL629

Rating

Bonus: Autel Autolink AL629: ABS SRS OBDII CAN Scan Tool Review

Final Thoughts

Autel ML619, ML629, and AL629 are entry-level scanners best recommended for home mechanics. You can buy any of them to scan your car and only perform basic diagnostics. If advanced diagnostic functions are your priority, consider the Autel ML629 or Al629. They can read the engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS codes, unlike ML619, which can only perform diagnostics on ABS and SRS systems.

However, if you are just looking for an excellent OBD2 code reader, the ML619 is the most cost-effective option. It performs all OBD2 functions like the other two but at a better price.

FAQs

Does Autel ML619 work on the XC90 Volvo and also read airbag light on VW?

Yes. This OBD2 code reader is a universal tool with the ability to read DTCs in different Volvo models and VWs. However, it can only read the airbag code but cannot clear it from the computer memory. Therefore, you can use it to turn off the airbag light.

My engine light keeps coming back after fixing the P1450 code. Can ML619 OBD2 code reader help turn it off?

The first thing to do is to ensure the cause of the fault code is fixed. Once done, ML619 may help reset it, but that’s not guaranteed. You may need to try AL629 or ML629. These are better for reading and clearing engine codes.

Do I need to buy anything to update the ML629 OBD2 Scanner?

No. This tool is free to update over the internet. You only need your laptop and internet access to download the new updates and install it on the device via a microSD card.

Can I print the information from ML629?

Yes. You can print any information you want, but you have to do it through a PC. After connecting your computer, you should be able to print the data effortlessly.

Does AL629 require an external power source?

No. This OBD2 code reader draws power from the OBD2 port. Once successfully connected, it will automatically turn on.

Does AL629 display live transmission data, such as if the TCC is engaged or not?

Yes. AL329 can successfully display transmission data such as TCC and know if it is engaged or not. Contact the technical support team if you get any problems when doing so.

Read more: Best Autel Scanners in 2023 [Comparison Chart & Review]

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