Choosing between Friencity V1.5 vs. Foseal Bluetooth vs. Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+, which one is the best?
An OBD2 adapter can be a great alternative to a hand-held scan tool. Not only does it cost less and have wider compatibility, but it’s also more convenient. It’s small and unobtrusive when plugged in. Bluetooth support also allows you to conduct wireless diagnosis from anywhere. Want to get one for yourself? We’ve compared the Friencity V1.5 vs. Foseal Bluetooth vs. Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ in the review below. Check it out if you’re considering adding a new car diagnostic tool to your garage.
Table of Contents
Editor’s Top 3 Picks Of OBD2 Adapter Comparison Chart
| Editor's Pick | |||
 Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ |  Friencity V1.5 |  Foseal Bluetooth | |
| Customer Rating |  |  |  |
| Price |  | | |
| Product Dimensions | 1.6 x 2 x 0.9 inches | 2.6 x 1.7 x 0.7 inches | |
| Item Weight | 2.08 ounces | 1.12 ounces | 1.6 ounces |
| Read & Clear Codes | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Vehicle Information | ✔ | -- | ✔ |
| I/M Readiness | ✔ | -- | ✔ |
| O2 Sensor Test | ✔ | -- | ✔ |
| Live Data Stream | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Hybrid/electric battery diagnosis | ✔ | -- | -- |
| Supported Protocols | All | ISO9141, KWP, CAN networks | All |
| Software Compatibility | Android, iOS | Android, Windows (7, 8, XP) | Android, iOS |
| Pros | Supports enhanced diagnostics for select vehicles Conducts oxygen sensor tests and smog checks Displays live sensor data and monitors fuel economy Works with diesel and gasoline engines Can test battery in electric and hybrid vehicles Works with advanced apps like Bimmercode and FORScan | Most affordable option Shows engine sensor data in real time Reads generic and manufacturer-specific codes Compatible with most 3rd-party apps Easy to install and use | Shows live data and freeze frame data Works with popular diagnostic apps like DashCommand, Torque, and OBD Fusion Conducts I/M readiness tests Compatible with most OBD2 compliant vehicles Simple “plug and play” operation |
| Cons | Not compatible with Windows-based devices | Not compatible with iOS devices Doesn’t work with diesel or electric engines | Doesn’t work with Windows devices May drain battery if left plugged into vehicle |
| Vehicle Compatibility | all OBD2/EOBD vehicles 1996 and later | gas vehicles 1996 and later (no diesel, hybrid, or electric) | most vehicles 1996 and later |
Key Things In Common Of Friencity V1.5 Vs. Foseal Bluetooth Vs. Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+
The Friencity V1.5, Foseal Bluetooth OBD2 scanner, and Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ are all very affordable OBD2 adapters. All three communicate with devices via Bluetooth, allowing easy wireless diagnostics of your vehicle.
One thing to note is that none of these adapters come with an app. You’ll need to download a 3rd-party app to use the Friencity V1.5, Foseal Bluetooth, or Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+. The good news is, you can find many great options for free that will function well with any of these adapters.
These three adapters are also similar in their ease of use. For all of them, you plug the adapter into your vehicle’s OBD2 port, then pair it to your device through Bluetooth. That’s genuinely all there is to it once you’ve downloaded your diagnostic app of choice.
Friencity V1.5 Vs. Foseal Bluetooth Vs. Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+: Key Differences Explained
Design And Specifications
On the outside, these three adapters look very similar. Which diagnostic app each is compatible with is the most significant difference in their specifications. You’ll get the most options in this regard from the Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+, which works with both general and vehicle-specific apps, like BimmerCode and LeafSpy.
From a usability standpoint, the Foseal Bluetooth OBD2 scanner is the most temperamental. Some users have difficulty connecting it to their device through Bluetooth. It also uses more power than other options. Please don’t leave it plugged in all the time, or you risk draining your battery.
The Friencity Bluetooth OBDII scanner is the simplest of the three devices. It reliably works with DashCommand, Toque, and OBD Car Doctor but may not work with other apps. However, it doesn’t drain much power, so you can leave it plugged in continuously without concern.
Overall Features And Functions
Both Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ and Foseal Bluetooth OBD2 scan tool offer full OBD2 diagnostics as part of their basic functions. They can read and clear all codes, run smog checks, read vehicle information, see live, and freeze frame data.
The basic functionality of the Friencity V1.5 Bluetooth OBDII scan tool is more limited. It can read and clear over 3,000 codes, including both generic and manufacturer-specific codes. The Friencity V1.5 Bluetooth OBDII lets you turn off your check engine light, though it doesn’t support smog or EVAP system tests.
Friencity V1.5
Extra Features And Functions
If you want to go beyond the basics, you should get the Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+. It supports advanced features in many diagnostic apps. Most notably, you can code and customize the ECU of BMWs with BimmerCode and BimmerLink. It also supports battery diagnosis for hybrids and electrics using the LeafSpy or Dr. Prius apps.
Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+
The Foseal Bluetooth adapter has some options beyond the basics. The real-time sensor display lets you see the vehicle’s speed, coolant temperature, and other statistics while you’re driving. You can also see handy information like the fuel trim data and throttle position.
As you might guess from the price, Friencity V1.5 is the most limited adapter on the list. While you can use it to see real-time vehicle data, its primary purpose is to read and clear trouble codes.
Supported Protocols
Both the Foseal Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner and Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ support all OBD2 protocols, including J1850 PWM, J1850 VPW, KWP2000, ISO9141, and CAN networks. The Friencity V1.5 supports most OBD2 protocols, including ISO9141, KWP, and CAN networks.
Supported Vehicle Makes
For the broadest compatibility, you want the Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+. It has universal compatibility for OBD2 and EOBD compliant cars and light trucks across brands. Similarly, the Foseal Bluetooth OBD2 scanner is compatible with most vehicles made after 1996, including those made by famous brands like Toyota, Dodge, Ford, and Honda.
You can use the Friencity V1.5 with most gas-powered vehicles made after 1996. Unfortunately, it does not support diesel, hybrid, or electric vehicles.
Software And Updates
The Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ and Foseal Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner can work with both Android and iOS devices. Updates are easy and automatic through Bluetooth.
If you need a device that works with Windows, you want the Friencity V.15 Bluetooth scanner. It’s compatible with Android and Windows devices, though not with iOS.
Reliability
Users of the Friencity V1.5 and Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ report both to be generally reliable, in both the short and long-term. You can use these adapters for years without a problem, making them an excellent investment in the long term.
The main complaint against the Foseal Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner is the reliability of its Bluetooth connection. It sometimes loses the connection and has to be repaired. Some users had to return the adapter because they couldn’t get their device to recognize it consistently.
Foseal Bluetooth
Who Should Buy Each?
Most users will want to buy the Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+. This is especially true for owners of BMWs, Fords, Toyotas, Audis, and Volkswagens since you can access advanced features and enhanced diagnostics for these vehicles with the right app.
If you’re on a budget, the Friencity V1.5 Bluetooth adapter is a great option. It will perform basic OBD2 diagnostics for the best value. The Foseal Bluetooth OBD2 scanner is recommended as a budget option for diesel vehicles and iOS devices.
Bonus: Tim’s in-depth review of Foseal Wifi scanner Improved version
FAQs
Q: What apps are recommended for use with Friencity V1.5, Foseal Bluetooth, and Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+?
Friencity recommends using Torque Pro, Torque Lite, OBDCar Doctor, or DashCommand with the Friencity V1.5. Apps that typically work well with Foseal Bluetooth include Auto Doctor, Torque, DashCommand, and BlueDriver. The Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ has extensive app support. It will work with most OBD2 apps, including those named above.
Q: Can I read codes from the transmission, anti-lock brakes, or airbags with these adapters?
In most cases, no. These systems use non-OBD diagnostics, and the trouble codes associated with them cannot be read by the Friencity V1.5 or Foseal Bluetooth OBD2 scanner. The exception is the Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+, which allows enhanced diagnostics on select vehicles.
Q: How can I tell if my vehicle is compatible?
Most vehicles with an OBD2 port can be diagnosed using these adapters. You’ll find the OBD2 port under the dash in the driver’s side area, usually underneath the steering column.
If you want to verify your vehicle will work with the adapter before you buy it, your best bet is to reach out to the company that makes it. Tell them your vehicle’s make and model year, and they’ll let you know if the device is compatible.
Q: Can I program new keys using any of these adapters?
No. While the Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ has some coding and customization options for BMWs, Toyotas, Volkswagens, and Audis, it doesn’t support IMMO or key programming functions.
Q: Do the Friencity V1.5, Foseal Bluetooth, or Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ support ELM327?
The Foseal Bluetooth scanner and Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ support ELM327 v2.2, one of the more recent command sets. The Friencity V1.5 does not support ELM327.
Read more: OBDLink LX: OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter for Android & Windows Review
