ELM327: What Is The Best Genuine ELM327 Adapters 2023 (Bluetooth/Wifi/USB)?

Looking for an ELM327 adapter under $10? Sorry, this article isn’t for you. It’s for those who want the best of the BEST, without any disappointments.

I’ve wasted time and money on cheap knock-offs that break easily. Honestly, those super cheap scanners are nowhere near the real deal. They’re more like clone ELM327 chips!

My advice: Only focus on the reliable ELM327 adapters.

And you can quickly find them in the comparison table below!

6 Absolute BEST ELM327 Adapters:

[Mobile users: Swipe left for full table]

Product	Supported Device	Overall score	Read codes	Reliable connection
OBDLink MX+	Android/ iOS	9.8	10	9.5	Check Price
Veepeak BLE+	Android/ iOS	9.0	8.5	9.5	Check Price
BAFX	Android/ iOS	8.8	8.5	9.0	Check Price
Mestart	Android	7.5	7.0	8.0	Check Price
OBDLink EX	Windows	9.5	9.5	9.5	Check Price
OHP ELMConfig	Windows	9.3	9.0	9.5	Check Price

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Table of content:

• Group 1: Best ELM327 adapters for iOS
  • Veepeak BLE+
  • BAFX (Wifi)
• Group 2: Best ELM327 adapters for Android
  • OBDLink MX+
  • BAFX
• Group 3: Best ELM327 adapters for Windows
  • OBDLink EX
  • OHP ELMConfig

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Group 1: Best ELM327 adapters for iOS (Bluetooth & Wifi adapters)

#1. Veepeak BLE+: Perfect choice for iPhone (with genuine elm327)

If you’re an iPhone user, you know that finding a good ELM327 adapter can be a bit of a challenge. That’s because old Bluetooth tech can’t connect to iPhones.

So, we’re left with the not-so-awesome wifi scanners.

The Veepeak BLE+ is here to save the day. This newer Bluetooth adapter can work with any iOS device, allowing you to browse the web for more information while you scan away.

Here’s a pro tip: Connecting Bluetooth for iPhones is done through the app, not in the “settings” menu.

And trust me, you MUST READ THE MANUAL CAREFULLY BEFORE USING! Don’t be like me, scratching my head and wondering why it’s not working.

Now, let’s talk about what I don’t like. Wait, there’s nothing to complain about, really! Sure, the Veepeak BLE+ is a bit pricier than some clones of clone ELM327 adapters. 

But its data transfer speed is fast and seamless.

And you won’t have to deal with the headache of a wonky connection like those cheap ELM327 adapters I foolishly bought for only $10. You know what they say, “Buy cheap, buy twice!”

So, if you’re looking for a genuine ELM327 adapter for your iPhone, look no further than the Veepeak BLE+. Your car will thank you for it!

Today’s best Veepeak BLE+ deal:

#2. BAFX (Wifi): Cheaper, better customer support, but less convenient

Just a friendly reminder: Connecting to this BAFX adapter will disable your wifi access.

If you’re trying to search the web while diagnosing your ride, you’re out of luck without cell service. So don’t say I didn’t warn you!

But enough about the downsides, let’s talk about why I recommend the BAFX wifi version.

First of all, the data transfer is freaky fast between your phone and the scanner. It’s even faster than the Veepeak BLE+ (sorry, Veepeak, but you’re getting beat here). Therefore, I’m able to figure out what’s wrong with the car in no time.

Plus, it’s wallet-friendly! I mean, it’s a steal compared to other pricey adapters out there, like the Veepeak BLE+.

And, it works like a charm with OBD Fusion ($10) and Car Scanner (free) – 2 best apps that are just perfect for those who don’t wanna spend a fortune.

But wait, there’s more! The 2-year warranty and customer support from BAFX are top-notch. 

I mean, I was blown away by the message I received from BAFX. They’re committed to making sure their customers are happy and satisfied, and that’s something you don’t see every day.

And when I did reach out, I got a solid reply within 48 hours. Sure, it’s not lightning-fast, but they answered all my questions, and that’s what matters.

BAFX adapter (wifi ver) is a must-have ELM327 adapter for any DIY mechanic on a budget. This was money well spent. 

Today’s best BAFX (Wifi) deal:

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Group 2: Best ELM327 adapters for Android (Bluetooth adapters)

#1. BAFX (Bluetooth): Cheapest, basic diagnostics only

BAFX is a solid piece of equipment! But, fair warning, it’s a bit bulkier than you might expect from the pictures.

I tried using it on a ’09 Accord, but it’s too big. The OBD2 connector is tucked away in the corner of the floorboard, and the size of the BAFX gets in the way.

I can’t quite fully seat it, but I can get it partly in there – it’s just a bit of a squeeze!

If you plan on using this while driving, check where your OBD2 connection is located and give yourself about 4 inches of clearance. Safety first, people!

Now, I’m not 100% sure if it uses a genuine ELM327 chip or not (because an ELM327 chip alone can cost up to 20 bucks!). But honestly, it doesn’t really matter. 

The BAFX has worked with every OBD2 app I’ve tried so far, like OBD Fusion, Torque Pro, and even the free version of Torque Lite.

I can read live data, check smog test readiness, and all sorts of other cool stuff (with nearly no lag). And for only about $22, BAFX is an absolute steal. 

So if you want a scanner that can work with all ELM327-compatible apps, the BAFX is definitely the way to go. 

Today’s best BAFX (Bluetooth) deal:

 #2. OBDLink MX+: Cost a lot, but give you a lot

Let me tell you about the best ELM327 adapter out there for getting dealer-level diagnostics – it’s the OBDLink MX+ at about $140 US. 

I’ll admit I’ve had some connection issues with the MX+. It sometimes refuses to connect even when I’ve tried every phone in my house. 

But I’ve discovered a handy-dandy trick to fix this issue. All I have to do is remove the MX+ from the OBDII port and put it back in. Problem solved. Simple as that.

Now, I know some of you are thinking, “Why not just go for a cheaper scanner like the BAFX?” 

Sure, BAFX can pull out basic engine trouble codes, but the OBDLink MX+ takes it to a whole new level. It allows you to scan ABS, SRS, TPMS, A/C, transmission temperature, and wheel speeds. 

All these enhanced diagnostics are free to use on the OBDLink app. No pesky in-app purchase packages like with other OBDLink scanners. It’s like paying upfront and saving a ton of cash down the line. 

OBDLink also allows me to customize vehicles as the way I want, but I had to install other apps depending on the specific car brand. For example, Alfa OBD for Ram Pickups ($49/year) or Carista for Audi ($50/year).

It’s like discovering a secret level in your repairing game!

And if you’re as forgetful as I am, you’ll love this feature – Sleep mode! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve forgotten to unplug the scanner and found out my car battery was drained.

But with the MX+, it sleeps after 10 minutes of inactivity. Genius, right?

Sure, the MX+ may seem pricey compared to other ELM327-compatible adapters. But trust me, the peace of mind you get with the MX+ is priceless. 

For only about $140, you can have advanced diagnostics at your fingertips and sleep soundly at night. It’s a no-brainer.

Today’s best OBDLink MX+ deal:

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Group 3: Best ELM327 adapters for Window (USB adapters)

#1. OBDLink EX: Simple to use, plug and play

Let me tell you about the OBDLink EX – a USB adapter that’s a total game-changer for Forscan users.

Unlike some other adapters (I’m looking at you, OHP ELMconfig), the OBDLink EX is super easy to use.

You don’t have to fiddle with toggles and switches, or guess which mode or protocol to use. Nope, this adapter does all the work for you – automatically!

And if you’re worried about connection issues or lost signals, fear not! The OBDLink EX delivers a reliable, rock-solid connection that won’t let you down.

But installing the software might give you a bit of a headache. There’s no step-by-step guide included, but luckily, a Forscan website provides helpful info.

Just don’t expect any screenshots or detailed instructions (at least, not ones I could find).

Once you’ve got it up and running, the OBDLink EX really shines.

If you want to make changes to your Ford, like adding key or even adding options your vehicle doesn’t have, the “OBDLink EX and Forscan” makes it a breeze.

So don’t waste your time with those cheap ELM cables that only do some functions, and do them slowly at that. Get the OBDLink EX, and get it done right! 

Highly recommended – easy to use, low price, and all the features you need.

Today’s best OBDLink EX deal:

#2. OHP ELMconfig: Cheaper, but less convenient

If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to the OBDLink EX, you might want to check out the OHP ELMconfig USB adapter. It’s only about $33, half the OBDLink EX’s price.

But, as with anything in life, cheaper does come with a few trade-offs.

First off, the HS and MS modes are labeled. But unfortunately, if you have it plugged in under your dash, you won’t be able to see these labels because the dash covers them. 

Don’t worry, though, it’s a simple fix. Just print out a label like in the picture below and attach it to the adapter. Boom! Problem solved.

The second thing I must warn you about is how tight the dongle fits on the OBDII port.

Inserting and removing it is like a gym session for your fingers. But hey, I guess it’s better than having it fall out all the time, right?

Apart from those two things, my experience with the OHP ELMconfig has been great. 

OHP has its own website with plenty of guidance and information, making it easier for newbies to learn how to use Forscan.

Plus, the cable is approximately 6ft long, giving me plenty of lengths to have my laptop or device set on the center console while everything is plugged in. 

And let me tell you, it works great with ForScan. I even managed to program new keys to a 2005 Ford Focus 4DR 2.0 with it!

If you’re looking to fix your Ford at home with a small investment, this OHP ELMconfig adapter is the way to go. 

Today’s best OHP ELMconfig deal:

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Final thought

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this far and found the best ELM327 adapter that fits your needs and budget. 

But wait to go! I want to hear from you! 

• Is my grouping of products helpful? 
• Are there any other product groups you’d like to see me cover? 

Let me know in the comments below so I can keep improving and giving you what you need.

Thanks for reading.