Best Launch Scan Tools 2023 [Comparison & Review]

Finding the best Launch scanners can be challenging due to the brand’s extensive product range. It may be difficult to determine which scanner suits your budget and specific needs, as well as whether the product lives up to the brand’s reputation.

To simplify the process, our testers have evaluated 12 popular Launch scanners in the market and identified the top 6 options that cater to different diagnostic levels.

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Table of contents:

• Best Launch Scanners: Overview Table
• Are Launch Scanners any Good?
• Launch Product Lines: Which One is For You?
• Launch Product Lines Comparison Chart (+ FREE PDF Download)
  1. X431 Series
  2. CRP Series
• 6 Best Launch Diagnostic Tools: Reviews

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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.

Products	Budget	Fit for	Type
CR529	Under $100	Home mechanics	Code reader	Check Price
Creader 3001	Under $100	Home mechanics	Code reader	Check Price
CR629	Under $100	Home mechanics	Code reader	Check Price
CRP123X Elite	$100 – $300	Home mechanics	4-system scan tool	Check Price
CRP129X Elite	$100 – $300	Home mechanics	4-system scan tool	Check Price
CRP129E	$300 – $500	Home mechanics	4-system scan tool	Check Price
CRP909E Elite	$300 – $500	Home mechanics/ DIYers	Full system scan tool	Check Price
CRP909X	$300 – $500	Home mechanics/ DIYers	Full system scan tool	Check Price
X431 CRP919E	$300 – $500	DIYers	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
X431 CRP919X	$300 – $500	DIYers	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
X431 CRP919EBT	$500 – $1000	DIYers/ Professionals	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
X431 PROS V+	$500 – $1000	DIYers/ Professionals	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
X431 V PRO	$500 – $1000	DIYers/ Professionals	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
X431 V+ PRO	$1000 – $2000	Professionals	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
X431 Elite PRO3S+	$1000 – $2000	Professionals	Bi-directional scanner	Check Price
X431 PRO5	$1000 – $2000	Professionals	ECU Programmer	Check Price
X431 IMMO Plus	$1000 – $2000	Professionals	Key Programmer	Check Price
X431 IMMO Elite	$1000 – $2000	Professionals	Key Programmer	Check Price
X431 PAD V	$2000 – $3000	Professionals	ECU Programmer	Check Price
X431 PAD VII	$2000 – $3000	Professionals	ECU Programmer	Check Price

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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!

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Launch Product Lines: Which One Is for You?

Product lines	Targeted Users	Key Features	Recommended 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

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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]

	X431 V Pro Check Price	X431 V+ Pro Check Price	X431 PRO3S+ Check Price	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	✅	✅	✅	✅
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

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

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

[Note: Swipe left for full table]

	CRP123E Check Price	CRP129E Check Price	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	✅	✅	✅
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

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

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Read more Launch scan tools comparison reviews:

• Launch CRP123 Vs. CRP123E Vs. CRP123X
• Launch CRP129E Vs. CRP129X Vs. CRP129
• Launch CRP123 Vs. CRP129

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6 Best Launch Diagnostic Tools Detailed Reviews

Best Launch Scanners for Beginners

#1. Launch Creader 3001

Launch Creader 3001 can give us all the engine codes in under 30 seconds, and clearing codes is even faster. During tests, we have not encountered any incorrect or ghost codes, so you can trust that the displayed codes are reliable.  

One of the standout features of this scanner is its live data function. It impressively displays all data in under 20 seconds. Moreover, the number of data points it can show on each vehicle is remarkable, with approximately 40 PIDs of data available. This extensive data display is especially notable considering the scanner’s affordable price. We have also tested other OBD2 functions of the Launch Creader 3001, such as I/M Readiness (smog test) and O2 Sensor Test, and found them to be reliable.

Overall, the Launch Creader 3001 has very few drawbacks, the scanner’s impressive performance and accurate results make it a reliable choice for your basic diagnostic needs.

Today’s best Launch Creader 3001 price:

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

#2. Launch CR529

Launch CRP123 is a more comprehensive option for beginners.  While the Launch Creader 3001 is fast, the Launch CR529 is even faster, scanning the vehicle in under 20 seconds. What makes the CR529 stand out is its ability to scan not only the engine system but also the transmission, ABS, and SRS systems, providing a more thorough diagnostic experience. 

One thing we particularly liked about the CR529 is its clear and easy-to-read live data and emission checks. The information is presented in a user-friendly format, making it easier for beginners to understand. (not to mention that Launch CR529 has a bigger screen). 

The standout feature of the Launch CR529, which sets it apart from the Creader 3001, is its ability to graph live data. While this feature can be beneficial for quick checks of various parameters, beginners may need some time to understand how to interpret the data graph.

Today’s best Launch CR529 price:

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Best Launch Scanners for Home Mechanics

#1.  Launch CRP129E

Launch CRP129E has a solid build quality and the menu is easy to navigate, making it very user-friendly. One of its standout features is its incredibly fast scanning speed. It quickly diagnoses and displays codes in less than 15 seconds, making it one of the fastest scanners we’ve tested in its price range (under $200). What we liked is that the Launch CRP129E has an option to search the code directly on the internet, although you need a Wi-Fi connection for that. 

Our favorite aspect of this scanner is its live data functionality. Even though it can only access four systems (Engine/ABS/SRS/TCM), it can scan around 40 data PIDs, which is quite impressive. 

During our testing, we found that all the service functions of the Launch CRP129E worked reliably. However, we were disappointed to discover that it doesn’t have the ABS Bleed function. If you need this function, you’ll have to purchase it separately in the Mall.

In conclusion, the Launch CRP129E is a solid choice for home mechanics who want to handle the main four systems of their vehicles and perform basic maintenance tasks.

Today’s best Launch CRP129E price:

#2. Launch CRP909E

We have found that the Launch CRP909E can address the shortcomings of the Launch CRP129E and offers more advanced features. First and foremost, this scanner can access all the systems of the vehicle for comprehensive diagnostics. While scanning all systems may take a bit longer, it still maintains the fast performance that is common among Launch products. With the Launch CRP909E, we were able to diagnose and identify vehicle problems in under 2 minutes.

The standout feature of the Launch CRP909E is its key programming capability. We have used this scanner to successfully program keys on around 80% of the vehicles we tested. Although the process may not be as smooth as with other professional Launch scanners, it still gets the job done. 

Additionally, we have tested other advanced functions such as ABS Bleeding and Throttle Adaptation, and these functions are available without requiring separate purchases, unlike the Launch CRP129E. However, it’s important to mention that the Launch CRP909E might not be very user-friendly because you may need to go through multiple steps to access a specific function.

So for comprehensive diagnostics and advanced functions like Key Programming at home, we highly recommend the Launch CRP909E scanner.

Today’s best Launch CRP909E price:

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Best Launch Scanners for Professionals/ Automotive Shop

#1. Launch X431 V+ Pro

The X431 product line by Launch is designed for professional use, and the Launch X431 V+ Pro stands out as our favorite. One of the standout features is its compatibility with all vehicles we have tested. This is exactly what we expect from a professional scanner. Moreover, the X431 V+ Pro performs well in terms of speed and reliability. We can scan an entire vehicle in under 1 minute, program new keys in under 8 minutes, and display a full Topology Map in under 2 minutes. Flashing hidden functions takes less than 5 minutes, which is impressive. 

In addition to its strong hardware, the Launch X431 V+ Pro is well-suited for shop and heavy workload use due to its large battery capacity. It can last an entire day of testing under various tasks, which is truly remarkable.

In conclusion, considering its wide vehicle compatibility, impressive speed and reliability, and long-lasting battery, the Launch X431 V+ Pro is an excellent choice for professional mechanics and shops with moderate to heavy workloads.

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 V+ Elite

If you’re looking for a more affordable yet professional option and your daily workload isn’t heavy, we recommend considering the Launch X431 Pros V+ Elite. This scanner covers most functions of the Launch X431 V+ Pro, except the Topology Map feature. However, it remains comprehensive and impressively fast when it comes to diagnostics.

Besides the absence of the Topology Map, we haven’t noticed any significant differences between the Launch X431 Pros V+ Elite and the Launch X431 V+ Pro. It maintains a lightning-fast scanning speed, diagnosing every vehicle in under one minute. In terms of special and advanced functions, the Launch X431 Pros V+ Elite can handle around 95% of what the Launch V+ Pro can do.

The thing is, this scanner cannot stand heavy workloads, when we use it continuously and ask the scanner to do too many tasks, it will be laggy. We mean it’s still reliable and fast,  just not suitable for busy garage work. On the plus side, its battery life is impressive, lasting up to 10 hours with moderate use.

So, if you don’t require the Topology Map feature and your repair tasks aren’t overly demanding, we recommend considering this affordable option.

Today’s best Launch X431 PROS V+ Elite 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.