Best Launch Scan Tools 2023 [Comparison & Review]

Tim Miller

Are you a vehicle owner that doesn’t know much about Launch? Or are you feeling overwhelmed with all the different Launch products out there?

No matter who you are, this post will get you covered! I will help you get a better understanding of what Launch is all about and which product might be best for you. 

I will also share comparison charts of popular Launch scanners and product lines (+ FREE PDF download), such as the Launch X431 comparison chart. Let’s get started!


Table of contents:


Best Launch Scanners: Overview Table

Launch offers a diverse selection of quality products, making it challenging to choose just a few that meet all your needs. However, I have picked the top options that fit different budgets, diagnostic levels, and scanner types. Use the filter to find your perfect match.

ProductsBudgetFit forType
CR529
Autel AL319
Under $100Home mechanicsCode readerCheck Price
Creader 3001
LAUNCH Creader 3001
Under $100Home mechanicsCode readerCheck Price
CR629
Launch CR629
Under $100Home mechanicsCode readerCheck Price
CRP123X Elite
LAUNCH CRP123X Elite
$100 – $300Home mechanics4-system scan toolCheck Price
CRP129X Elite
Autel ML629
$100 – $300Home mechanics4-system scan toolCheck Price
CRP129E
LAUNCH CRP129E
$300 – $500Home mechanics4-system scan toolCheck Price
CRP909E Elite
LAUNCH CRP909E Elite
$300 – $500Home mechanics/ DIYersFull system scan toolCheck Price
CRP909X
LAUNCH CRP909X
$300 – $500Home mechanics/ DIYersFull system scan toolCheck Price
X431 CRP919E
LAUNCH X431 CRP919E
$300 – $500DIYersBi-directional scannerCheck Price
X431 CRP919X
Launch X431 CRP919X
$300 – $500DIYersBi-directional scannerCheck Price
X431 CRP919EBT
LAUNCH X431 CRP919EBT
$500 – $1000DIYers/ ProfessionalsBi-directional scannerCheck Price
X431 PROS V+
Launch X431 PROS V+
$500 – $1000DIYers/ ProfessionalsBi-directional scannerCheck Price
X431 V PRO
LAUNCH X431 V PRO ELITE
$500 – $1000DIYers/ ProfessionalsBi-directional scannerCheck Price
X431 V+ PRO
LAUNCH X431 V+ PRO
$1000 – $2000ProfessionalsBi-directional scannerCheck Price
X431 Elite PRO3S+
LAUNCH X431 Elite PRO3S+
$1000 – $2000ProfessionalsBi-directional scannerCheck Price
X431 PRO5
LAUNCH X431 PRO 5
$1000 – $2000ProfessionalsECU ProgrammerCheck Price
X431 IMMO Plus
LAUNCH X431 IMMO Plus
$1000 – $2000ProfessionalsKey ProgrammerCheck Price
X431 IMMO Elite
LAUNCH X431 IMMO Elite
$1000 – $2000ProfessionalsKey ProgrammerCheck Price
X431 PAD V
LAUNCH X431 PAD V
$2000 – $3000ProfessionalsECU ProgrammerCheck Price
X431 PAD VII
LAUNCH X431 PAD VII
$2000 – $3000ProfessionalsECU ProgrammerCheck Price

Are Launch scanners any good?

  • Launch is the leading brand in this diagnostic world.
  • Launch products are well-known for quick, accurate, high-level diagnostics and repair.
  • Launch products are trusted by numerous customers and always rank high among the top-selling scan tools on Amazon. (e.g. Launch CRP 123X Elite, Launch CRP123, Launch X431 V Pro, etc.)
  • Launch offers great products for all levels of mechanic knowledge, from novice to professional. Whether you’re fixing your car for the first time or you’re a pro, Launch has got you covered!
  • One thing I like about Launch: Their products are not overpriced!

Launch Product Lines: Which One Is for You?

Product linesTargeted UsersKey FeaturesRecommended products
Creader (CR)

< $100

Beginners, Home mechanics • Read/ clear engine & transmission codes
• Smog test
• Engine live data
• Freeze frame data
• Full OBD2 functions
Launch Creader 3001

Creader premium (CRP)

< $400

Advanced DIYers, home mechanics • 4 system/ full system codes
• 4 system/ full system live data
• Reset functions

○ CRP129 is the updated version of CRP123.
○ CRP909 is the most advanced version of the CRP series.
Launch CRP129X

Launch CRP909E
X431

< $3000

Professionals, advanced mechanics/ DIYers• Full system diagnostics
• Full active tests
• Numerous reset functions
• ECU Coding
• Key Programming
Launch X431 V+ Pro


Launch Product Lines Comparison Chart:

I’ve selected the best products from each line, making it easier for you to compare and find your perfect fit. Feel free to explore and find the right option.

Launch X431 Series Comparison Chart:

[Note: Swipe left for full table]

Launch X431 V Pro
X431 V Pro
Check Price
Launch X431 V+ Pro
X431 V+ Pro
Check Price
LAUNCH X431 PRO3S+
X431 PRO3S+
Check Price
LAUNCH X431 PAD VII
X431 PAD VII
Check Price
Under $1000
Under $1200
Under $1200
Under $3000
DIAGNOSTICS
All-system diagnosis
OE-level diagnosis
Live data
Diagnosis report
Topology Map
SERVICE FUNCTIONS
Number of functions
37+
37+
37+
60+
Reset functions
Relearn functions
Calibration functions
ABS Bleeding
DPF Regen
ADVANCED FUNCTIONS
Full Active Tests
Key Programming
ECU Coding
VAG Guide
ECU Programming
VEHICLE COVERAGE
Vehicle brands
All brands
All brands
All brands
All brands
Diesel vehicles
Light trucks
Heavy-duty trucks (+HD module)
FCA AutoAuth
DoIP & CANFD vehicles
HARDWARE/ DESIGN
Android OS
9.0
9.0
9.0
9.0
Storage
32 +128GB
32 +128GB
32 +128GB
8 + 256GB
Battery
11000mAh
18000mAh
7000mAh
18000mAh
Screen size
8″
‎10.1″
‎10.1″
13″
Wireless connection
AFTER-SALES SERVICE
Free update
2 years
1 year
2 years
2 years
Update fee (per year)
$399
$349
$399
$570
Warranty
5 years
5 years
5 years
5 years
Work w/o updates

Click here to DOWNLOAD the FULL comparison chart in PDF (FREE)


Launch CRP Series Comparison Chart: CRP123E vs. CRP129E vs. CRP909E

[Note: Swipe left for full table]

Launch CRP123E
CRP123E
Check Price
Launch CRP129E
CRP129E
Check Price
LAUNCH CRP909E
CRP909E
Check Price
Under $200
Under $300
Under $400
DIAGNOSTICS
Engine-system diagnosis
ABS/SRS/TCM diagnosis
All-system diagnosis
Live data
Diagnosis report
SERVICE FUNCTIONS
Number of functions
3
8
28+
Oil reset
SAS calibration
Throttle relearn
ABS Bleeding
TPMS/ BMS reset
DPF Regen
ADVANCED FUNCTIONS
Key Programming
Active Tests
VEHICLE COVERAGE
Vehicle brands
All brands
All brands
All brands
Diesel vehicles
Light trucks
FCA AutoAuth
HARDWARE/ DESIGN
Connection type
Wired
Wired
Wired
Android OS
7.0
7.0
7.0
Storage
16GB
16GB
2 +16GB
Battery
6100mAh
6100mAh
6000mAh
Screen size
5″
5″
‎7″
AFTER-SALES SERVICE
Free update
Lifetime
Lifetime
2 years
Update fee (per year)
$0
$0
$75
Warranty
5 years
5 years
5 years
Work w/o updates

Click here to DOWNLOAD the FULL comparison chart in PDF (FREE)


Read more Launch scan tools comparison reviews:


6 Best Launch Diagnostic Tools Detailed Reviews

I have picked out the best Launch scanners for different purposes, just for your group below:

Best Launch Scanners for Basic Diagnostics at Home

#1. Launch Creader 3001: Best cheap Launch diagnostic tool

Launch Creader 3001

Launch Creader 3001

★★★★★
★★★★★
4.4/5

Price: Under $50

Pros

  • Straighforward
  • Fast
  • Accurate

Cons

No major cons

This is the most basic and straightforward scanner for any beginners that just step into the diagnostics world. Launch Creader 3001 is exactly a plug-and-go scanner.

Now, let me tell you what you can expect from this basic scanner.

  • diagnose engine issues by reading and clearing codes. It also gives a specific description for each code.
  • see the real-time condition of your engine (live data), making diagnosing problems much easier.
  • determine if your car is ready for national emission tests (I/M readiness), necessary for legal driving
 Launch Creader 3001
The Launch Creader 3001 is easy to use with straightforward buttons.

Sure, Launch Creader 3001 isn’t among the fastest scanners out there, but it won’t leave you waiting around forever to get results. Within a minute, the Launch Creader 3001 can give you all the information you need, and clearing codes is even faster.

Not to mention that this scanner is accurate, I haven’t seen any wrong or ghost codes during tests. You can trust that the codes it shows are correct, so you won’t have to worry about chasing down issues that don’t actually exist.

At this point, the Launch Creader 3001 doesn’t have any major downsides that I can think of. The only minor issue is that it may not support a few vehicles, but that’s a common problem with most scanners. 

Today’s best Launch Creader 3001 price:

Read more: Launch CReader 3001: O2 Sensor EVAP Test OBD2/EOBD Scanner Review

#2. Launch CRP123: Best Affordable Launch Full OBD2 scanner

Launch CRP123

Launch CRP123

★★★★★
★★★★★
4.2/5

Price: Under $150

Pros

  • 4-system codes
  • Straightforward
  • Fast

Cons

  • Quite confusing registration

If you want a more thorough diagnostic tool, I recommend checking out the Launch CRP123. Unlike Launch Creader 3001, Launch CRP 123 can:

  • diagnose not only the engine but also the ABS, SRS, and transmission systems of your car. 
  • show you the real-time working status of all 4 systems with live data displayed on a graph.

Gotta say that my favorite feature of this tool is the live data graph. It makes it super easy to follow and spot any issues going on with your vehicle.

And, the diagnostic process is fast and straightforward, just like the Launch Creader 3001.

Launch CRP123 full package.
Launch CRP123 full package.

The only downside is that the registration and updating process might be a bit confusing for someone who’s new to this. But don’t worry, just reach out to Launch’s customer service for assistance. Their tech support may not be the best, but they’ll respond and help you out.

Overall, I’d recommend the Launch CRP123 for car owners who want to dive deeper into their vehicle systems beyond just the engine.

Today’s best Launch CRP123 price:


Best Launch scanners for thorough diagnostics and maintenance at home (<$400)

#1.  Launch CRP129E: Good for thorough diagnostics and basic repairs.

Launch CRP129E

Launch CRP129E

★★★★★
★★★★★
4.4/5

Price: Under $300

Pros

  • 4-system codes
  • Fast
  • Basic reset functions

Cons

  • Quite limited live data

This Launch CRP129E can do sufficient tasks for home mechanics.

It can give you an overview of what’s going on with the 4 main systems: engine, ABS, SRS, and transmission.

Launch CRP129E can give live data as well, but I have to mention that the live data was quite limited on some vehicles.

Ok, just like other Launch products, this scanner is fast. Launch never disappoints me when it comes to speed.

Launch CRP129E full package,
Launch CRP129E full package,

Let’s talk about the reset functions, Launch CRP129E offers some basic reset functions like oil reset, throttle reset, etc.

And sad to say that, Launch CRP129E cannot do ABS Bleed. If you want this function, consider the Launch CRP909E below.

All in all, the Launch CRP129E is a great tool for home mechanics who want to get a good overview of their car’s major systems.

Today’s best Launch CRP129E price:

#2. Launch CRP909E: Best price Launch key programmer and ABS Bleed tool.

Launch CRP909E

Launch CRP909E

★★★★★
★★★★★
4.0/5

Price: Under $500

Pros

  • Full-system scan
  • 28+ reset services

Cons

No major cons

Choose this Launch CRP909E if you want to go more thorough and more advanced, like becoming your family mechanic. Here’s why.

  • Launch CRP909E can access every system on our vehicle and give out the problem for you, in under 2 minutes. Again, not only the engine or transmission but ALL modules.
  • Launch CRP909E goes beyond the basics and offers advanced features that you would normally find in repair shops.

Well, the best bet here is Launch CRP909E can do

  • Key programming
  • and ABS Bleeding

This means you can add new keys to your car and remove air from the brake system at home, saving you hundreds of dollars in repair costs!

 Launch CRP909E full package.
Launch CRP909E full package.

Just keep in mind that key programming may not work on every car. 

Overall, the Launch CRP909E is a comprehensive tool that can make car maintenance easier and more affordable.

Today’s best Launch CRP909E price:


Best Launch Professional Diagnostic Tool (shop-level) (<$1200)

#1. Launch X431 V+ Pro: All-in-one solution for professionals.

Launch X431 V+ Pro

Launch X431 V+ Pro

★★★★★
★★★★★
4.3/5

Price: Under $1,500

Pros

  • Top-notch functions
  • Wide vehicle coverage
  • Fast

Cons

  • Can’t read VIN sometimes

if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line scanner for your garage, you gotta check out the Launch X431 V+ Pro. It’s the real deal. I’ve heard nothing but great things about it from other mechanics, and I’m not an exception. 

Seriously, Launch X431 V+ Pro comes with a ton of features that make it a great all-in-one solution:

  • Full system diagnostics
  • Topology Map
  • Bi-directional control
  • ECU Coding
  • Numerous service functions (35+)
launch x431 v+
Launch X431 V+ Pro full package.

My most favorite part of Launch X431 V+ Pro? It works on practically 95% of vehicles that I have tested.

You won’t have to switch between a bunch of different scanners to get your job done, which means you can knock out repairs and maintenance tasks way faster. 

The only downside I’ve seen is that sometimes the VIN identification can be a little finicky, but that’s a common issue with Launch scanners.

So, consider the Launch X431 V+ Pro scanner if you want to work more efficiently and effectively without switching between multiple devices.

Today’s best Launch X431 V+ Pro price:

Read more: LAUNCH X431 V+ Pro Scanner: “Strongest” Bi-Directional Scanner For OBD2 & OBD1 Vehicles

#2. Launch X431 PROS Mini: Most affordable Launch professional scanner.

Launch X431 PROS Mini

Launch X431 PROS Mini

★★★★★
★★★★★
4.3/5

Price: Under $1,000

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • Top-notch functions
  • Compact design

Cons

  • No Topology Map

If you want something more affordable and portable, but still do well in the garage, then take a look at Launch X431 PROS Mini. 

Of course, Launch X431 PROS Mini cannot beat the Launch X431 V+ Pro above in terms of advance. This mini scanner doesn’t have the Topology Map function, which makes vehicle diagnostics less thorough. 

And it may be a bit slower in comparison. But for the $400 gap, Launch X431 PROS Mini is still a great option. The scan speed varies depending on the type of vehicle, but it’s usually not too bad (taking between 30 seconds to 2 minutes for a whole vehicle scan).

Launch X431 PROS Mini
Launch X431 PROS Mini compact design.

Just keep in mind that it doesn’t have the widest functional coverage, so it’s better for those who don’t work on a ton of vehicles.

However, what’s great about the Launch X431 PROS Mini is that it’s compact and can still perform advanced functions like full system diagnostics, bi-directional control, ECU coding, and numerous service functions.

Overall, if you’re looking for something that can get the job done and is easy to bring with you, the Launch X431 PROS Mini is a solid choice.

Today’s best Launch X431 PROS Mini price:

What’s Next?

And that’s a wrap on my review of the top Launch scanners!

I hope this post has given you enough information and confidence to find out the most suitable Launch product for you.

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