7 Best Professional Car Diagnostic Tools 2023 [Review & Comparison]

You might have lots of questions in mind needed to be answered like:

“What is the best professional automotive diagnostic scanner 2023?” – or

“Is there any best scan tool for the money? Is there any good scan tool for automotive shop?”

Don’t worry! I’m here to help you decide which scanner meets your needs.

7 Best Professional Scan Tools Comparison Chart

[Mobile users: Swipe left for full table]

Product	Score	Budget	Fit for	Key value
XTOOL D7	9.8	Under $500	DIYers/ Professionals	• Best money saver • ECU Coding covered • Affordable price • User-friendly	Check Price
LAUNCH CRP919E	9.5	Under $500	DIYers/ Professionals	• ECU Coding covered • Fast & Reliable • User-friendly	Check Price
Autel MK808S	9.0	Under $500	DIYers/ Professionals	• Fast & Reliable • User-friendly	Check Price
LAUNCH X431 V+	9.8	$500 – $1500	Professionals	• Shop-level performance • Wide vehicle coverage	Check Price
XTOOL D8BT	9.3	$500 – $1500	Professionals	• Reliable performance	Check Price
TOPDON Phoenix Plus	9.0	$500 – $1500	Professionals	• Shop-level performance • Good battery life	Check Price
Autel Ultra	9.7	Above $1500	Automotive shop (ECU Programming)	• Best for automotive shop • Best hardware & battery • Dealer-level ECU programming	Check Price JBtools.com ➝ (Save $400)

Click HERE to see full comparison chart (PDF, Free Download)

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Table of contents:

• LAUNCH X431 V+ Pro: Best for ECU Coding
• Autel MK808S: Best for Bi-directional Control
• XTOOL D7: Best money saver
• LAUNCH CRP919E Elite: Best for Advanced DIYers
• XTOOL D8BT: Best for The Money
• TOPDON Phoenix Plus: Best for Topology Map
• Autel MaxiSys Ultra: Best for Automotive Shop

7 Best Professional Scan Tools Full Comparison Chart

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#1. LAUNCH X431 V+ Pro: Best Scan Tool for Professional Mechanics with ECU Coding

What Makes Me Like LAUNCH X431 V+ Pro?

1. Accurate bi-directional control

After receiving this scan tool, I tested its bi-directional controls on different OBD2 vehicles. 

Although not all of them function smoothly, I was pretty surprised at the number of functions I could use on some models.

From 2002 to 2020 vehicles, it’s great to have the ability to control circuits like the IAC and electronic EGR. 

Also, I can control other circuits, such as power windows and door locks, purge solenoids, etc.

In addition, 

LAUNCH X431 V+ Pro can support many active tests (depending on specific car models), like:

• transmission solenoids, 
• engine vacuum pump, 
• fuel injectors, 
• set the idle, etc.

And, of course, bi-directional controls help mechanics like me test individual systems or parts in those systems. 

2. The advanced functions are reliable but not universal

LAUNCH X431 V+ Pro allows you to perform up to 35 advanced service functions.

Most of the prominent functions I often use are:

• DPF Regeneration
• IMMO Key
• ABS Bleeding
• Fuel Injector Coding
• Throttle Adaptation, etc.

Yet, those functions are not universally compatible.

For example:

Launch X431 V+ helped me run the ABS motor and did a full auto bleed on a 2010 Honda Accord.

Then, I tried the same feature on a 2007 Toyota Tacoma 4×4 but it didn’t work.

Maybe there will be an update for Tacoma soon.

3. Walk around the vehicle while running diagnostics

One thing I’d like to add is I really like that the LAUNCH uses a Bluetooth connector instead of a cable. 

You can operate away from the car, which is great. 

You can be at the workbench or any location in the vehicle.

What I Dislike?

1. High annual subscription fee

My first concern is that the annual subscription fee is a bit high (~$500) after two years of free updates. 

But I work at a repair shop, so paying a fee each year for newer vehicles is mandatory. 

If your work is on your own or family cars, you don’t need to update every year. 

2. Long battery charging time

Although the battery is sufficient for long diagnostics (4 hours), my biggest gripe is the charging time. 

You have to time your diagnostic process. 

Vehicle Compatibility

From my experience, not all advanced service functions and bi-directional control are available on all vehicles. 

You should check the compatibility on LAUNCH’s website before buying.

Key Takeaway

LAUNCH X431 V+ Pro has most of the features that a professional or an advanced home mechanic would need.

With great bi-directional control, this scanner is a must-have tool for you.

In addition to active tests, X431 V+ Pro is a professional scan tool that can offer many service functions.

Today’s best Launch X431 V+ Pro price:

Read more: Launch X431 V+ vs. Topdon Phoenix Plus: Which Scanner Fits You Best?

#2. Autel MK808S: Best Professional OBD2 Scanner with Bi-directional Control

What Makes Me Like Autel MK808S?

1. Covers a lot of car diagnoses and repairs 

Autel MK808S stands out from other cheaper scanners due to its ability to pull more various trouble codes. 

Unlike cheaper scanners, the MK808S can read factory codes from different vehicle systems, including:

• engine, 
• ABS, 
• transmission, 
• SRS,
• TPMS, etc. 

Additionally, I could use this scanner to pull the brake circuit code that cheaper scanners couldn’t detect.

Regarding other advanced features, Autel MK808S has upgraded to come with active tests. 

You can carry out various functions to command the components like ABS brake, engine cylinders, or any electrical parts. These tests help you a lot in diagnosing and clearing trouble codes.

2. Vivid and responsive live data 

When using the Autel MK808S, it’s easy and responsive enough to read graphed live data.

You can use this feature to point out trouble areas and check the real-time status of your car.

For example, I could check the engine misfires with live data and then know the misfire counts.

3. Affordable price with many advanced features

By using many functions available on the Autel MK808S, the price of this scanner is truly unbeatable.

When choosing Autel, you can rest assured that you’re selecting a high-quality product that will endure.

Furthermore, Autel MK808S represents an upgrade from its predecessor, the MK808. It features enhanced hardware such as Android 11, 4GB RAM, and a faster CPU.

What I Dislike?

1. No manual included

The scanner does not come with a hard copy of the manual, so you must download one online or learn how to navigate it yourself. 

Not a big deal to me, but for anyone unfamiliar with this type of scanner, it’ll be frustrating.

2. Hard to navigate the menu for beginners

Using the scanner is even harder since the menu isn’t easy to navigate. Many features are hidden, so you have to dig deep to find them.

But once you understand the layout, you can easily use the scanner.

Vehicle Coverage

Before buying Autel MK808S, you should check if it can work on your car.

• Check vehicle coverage page 

Key Takeaway

The Autel MK808S is an ideal choice for car workshops and personal use since it has a wide range of features and is highly versatile and cost-effective. 

Today’s best Autel MK808S price:

Read more: LAUNCH CRP919E vs. Autel MK808S: Which One Should I Choose?

#3. XTOOL D7: Best money saver

What Makes Me Like XTOOL D7?

1. Numerous advanced functions at an affordable price 

The XTOOL D7 is a budget-friendly scanner priced at under $500. Despite its low cost, it offers advanced functions that I frequently use in my garage, such as

• full bidirectional control,
• ECU coding,
• and key programming.

In addition to these advanced features, the XTOOL D7 also includes all the common service functions you would expect, including relearn and calibration functions.

After testing the scanner on various vehicles, I can confidently say that all of its functions work well. It’s not only affordable, but it also delivers reliable performance.

2. The best money saver

The fact is XTOOL D7 can cover all the functions at a good price is impressive, but what’s even better is that it comes with a 3-year free update, which is longer than what most advanced scanners offer (usually only 1 or 2 years). Additionally, the update fee is only $99 per year, which is really affordable.

3. Great customer support

This is what I always compliment every time I review an XTOOL product. Their tech support is king! You can ask them anything about their products or report any problem and they with answer and solve everything for you as soon as possible.

What I Dislike?

1. Service functions may not work on some vehicles

It’s worth noting that just because a product claims to have a certain function doesn’t necessarily mean it will work on your specific vehicle. 

In my experience testing XTOOL products, they don’t have the same vehicle and functional coverage as the big players in the diagnostics world like Launch and Autel.

But that doesn’t mean the XTOOL D7 is a bad product. It still offers a lot of reliable functions for many vehicles, even if it may not cover every single one.

Today’s best XTOOL D7 price:

#4. LAUNCH CRP919E Elite: Best for Advanced DIYers

What Makes Me Like LAUNCH CRP919E Elite?

1. Extensive vehicle coverage

My first impression after using it for a while is that this scanner can work on a lot of cars. I have tested it on over 15 customers’ cars, and Launch CRP919E can work flawlessly on most cars. I can perform full system diagnostics and various service functions on these cars.

Thanks to the company’s regular updates, it can be compatible with new cars manufactured in 2023.

In addition, this scanner supports CAN FD & DoIP protocols. 

If you own: 

• 2019+ GM,
• BMW (F&G chassis), 
• 2018 + Volvo models, etc. 

Then you can rest assured that it will work normally.

2. It offers up to 31 service functions

With Launch CRP919E, you can perform many different functions because this scanner supports around 31 service functions like:

• Injector coding
• EPB reset
• ABS bleeding
• SAS calibration
• Throttle relearn, etc.

I usually use the key programming function. And it must be said that this function is very easy to use. It works well on supported vehicles.

I programmed keys for a 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 and did 2 keys in less than 3 minutes.

Save a lot of time for me.

3. Customize your car with ECU coding

For less than $500, being equipped with ECU coding is rare. Among the scanners I know, there are only a few scanners in the same price range that support that function.

Launch CRP919E can allow you to perform from basic to advanced ECU coding functions. This can boost your vehicle performance, and customize your car faster as needed.

• Adjust the hidden features: disable annoying functions.
• Component matching: relearn, calibrate, or initialize adaptive data after repairs or replacements.
• Customize OEM settings (Retrofitting/Modification)

It can be said that with ECU coding, I can perform many of the features required for a mechanic. But note that the above functions will vary depending on each model. Some vehicles will not be fully supported.

What I Dislike?

1. The graph live data is hard to observe

At this price point, this scanner only displays 4 PIDs at once. It’s frustrating that graph live data can only be viewed as combined.

For me, it’s much easier to monitor the live data as 4 individual boxes. Other scanners in this price range already have this option, like XTOOL D7.

Vehicle Compatibility 

Advanced functions will vary depending on vehicle models. You should check the compatibility on LAUNCH’s website before buying.

Key Takeaway

LAUNCH CRP919E is a versatile scanner for DIYers or home mechanics. Not only is it affordable, but it also offers most advanced functions you will need during your diagnostic process.

Today’s best LAUNCH CRP919E price:

Read more: LAUNCH CRP919E vs. Autel MK808S: Which One Should I Choose?

#4. XTOOL D8BT: Best Car Diagnostic Tool For The Money

What Makes Me Like XTOOL D8BT?

1. It’s so convenient to perform active tests with bi-directional control

The bi-directional control (active tests) is a good help to narrow down the problems or for maintenance services. 

For example, I used this feature to perform brake caliper resets when trying to replace the brake pads. 

Besides, it even could assist me in running the fluid bleed procedure after I changed the green fluid on the GM rear differential clutch.

2. Now, you can perform advanced service functions at home like a professional

XTOOL D8BT offers up to 38+ service functions, such as:

• SAS calibration, 
• DPF regen, 
• Injector coding, 
• ABS bleeding, 
• Key programming,
• Throttle and Idle Relearn, etc.

Recently, my customer lost her car keys. 

I tested this scan tool’s function by reprogramming and copying keys for her 2012 Acadia and 2016 Jeep GC.

It works smoothly.

Bonus: Best OBD2 Scanners with Key Programming Function 2023 [Review and Comparison]

3. You don’t have to worry about the update fee in the first 3 years

I am glad that the first 3 years of updates are free ($600 saved). This makes XTOOL D8BT superior to its competitor in the same price range. 

After that, you can choose to pay for the subscription or continue using the old software. 

You don’t have to update the unit, but that might limit what future cars it will work with. 

4. XTOOL tech support made me impressed

They always quickly reached out to me with all my questions before and after my purchase. 

Besides, when I found a bug, they immediately fixed it and put out an update that took care of this issue. 

5. It comes with Topology map, which is rare for this price

Prepare to be amazed by XTOOL’s impressive support for Topology map, a feature typically found in high-end scan tools. 

With this incredible capability, scanning your vehicle becomes quicker and more efficient. 

The topology map provides a comprehensive overview of your car’s entire system. You will identify systems in trouble at a single glance, providing immediate insights.

What I Dislike?

1. Vehicle coverage of advanced service functions should be improved

Yet, some functions won’t work on your car. It’s not due to the actual limitations of the unit. Some cars’ computers will not support those functions.

I can use almost every service function available with a ’09 Acura.

But half of them aren’t supported by a ’09 Hyundai. Key coding is the same. It works great on the Acura, but it’s not for Hyundai. 

Vehicle Compatibility 

Please check the vehicle coverage at XTOOL’s website to confirm if this scanner works on your vehicle before buying.

Key Takeaway

This bi-directional scan tool will equip you with many advanced service features. And what XTOOL D8BT will beat other scanners is the excellent tech support.

Today’s best XTOOL D8BT price:

#5. TOPDON Phoenix Plus: Best Scan Tool with Topology Map Under $1,500

What Makes Me Like TOPDON Phoenix Plus?

1. Topology map at $1,200

Get a scanner with topology map for $1,200? This is what I like the most about TOPDON Phoenix Plus. 

Topology map is a must-have function if you are busy with a lot of cars in the garage waiting to be fixed. 

With this map, it’s easy to locate the fault in a minute because everything is converted into a color-coded topology display. By clicking on the module, you can promptly identify its underlying cause.

This scanner saved me a lot of time when diagnosing cars!

2. Perform easier diagnosis and repair with advanced functions

With TOPDON Phoenix Plus’s 35 service functions and bi-directional capabilities, you can cover many cars with these helpful functions.

For me, these functions are a big help when I diagnose and fix customers’ cars in the shop. 

Regarding the service functions, I was impressed by its ability to be compatible with many cars. For example, I performed DPF regen on a 2016 Nissan Titan XD, injector coding on a 2010 Buick LaCrosse, and ABS recalibration on a 2013 Ford Explorer. 

About bi-directional control, this function is designed for vehicle-specific subsystems. I can find and test the component inside the hood, no need to tear everything apart.

3. Guided function for VAG cars

If you work on several VAG cars, the Guided Function on TOPDON Phoenix Plus helps you maximize productivity.  

Also, this TOPDON Phoenix Plus scan tool will instruct you through each procedure to perform:

• matching 
• calibration 
• basic settings.

I tested this “Guided Function” by calibrating the steering angle sensor on a 2002 Audi S4. What I have to do is to follow each step on the screen and everything’s done. 

4. 2-year free update

TOPDON Phoenix Plus comes with 2 years of free updates. 

Since using this scan tool, it has undergone over 40 updates within a brief period. The update included new features, the latest cars, and bugfix.

This is just the sweet icings on the cake.

What I Dislike?

1. Expensive annual subscription fee

Actually, this is not a big downside to me. But if you buy this tool for a few cars, the update fee of $545 is something you should consider. 

Despite being unable to use ECU coding and active tests, other functions are still available.

2. Repair Info doesn’t support manufacturer-specific codes

The Repair Info feature provides you with information or an explanation of the generic trouble codes only. 

But if you manually search manufacturer-specific codes, you are out of luck.

Vehicle Coverage

Always check the compatibility between your car with TOPDON Phoenix Plus through the brand’s website. This will ensure to buy the right scan tool that can work on your vehicle.

Key Takeaway

With its Topology map, I can say TOPDON Phoenix Plus defeats most scanners in this price range. It is best suited for anyone who wants to have a quick look at the whole car’s systems. 

Not only that, Phoenix Plus is equipped with advanced ECU coding for BMWs and Mercedes like its competitors.

Today’s best TOPDON Phoenix Plus price:

Read more: Launch X431 V+ vs. Topdon Phoenix Plus: Which Scanner Fits You Best?

#7. Autel MaxiSys Ultra: Best Scan Tool for Automotive Shop

What Makes Me Like Autel Ultra?

1. Innovative 5-in-1 VCMI valued $2,000

Autel MaxiSys Ultra has a 5-in-1 VCMI that I find extremely helpful in meeting busy repair demands. 

It functions as an Oscilloscope, Waveform Generator, Multimeter, CAN Bus Tester, and for VCI connection, with dual Wi-Fi. 

The connection between VCI and the Ultra is fast and smooth. 

Also, thanks to the stable dual Wifi, I downloaded any updates without losing connection to the car.

2. Zooming in and out with topology map

Autel MaxiSys Ultra’s topology map lays out every module it can access and tells you whether they are functioning normally or abnormally. 

In addition, the scan tool takes the map to the next level, as it’s capable of zooming in and out of the topology map.

By tapping on the orange-colored module, I can see fault codes and their definition to understand why they are present. 

It gives me a view of how everything works and improves efficiency to the highest level.

3. Multitasking with split screen

This scanner supports split-screen functionality thanks to its large 13-inch TFT screen. 

Its multi-window operation helps me monitor live data and see the oscilloscope simultaneously. 

I used it to see diagnostic guidance and test components to confirm repairs.

Save me a lot of time!

4. Large battery capacity

Autel MaxiSys Ultra boasts an 18,000 mAh battery that can work for 8+ hours without losing power.

Its battery life is helpful in optimizing time, and I never worry about putting it on the charger all the time.

What I Dislike?

1. Too expensive for personal use

Autel MaxiSys Ultra has lots of super-advanced functions, which are more suitable for busy auto shops. 

If you plan to use it on a personal car or don’t use many of its features, it will be an expensive scanner you rarely use. 

2. Only 1-Year free update

Unlike Launch X431 Pro 5, Autel Ultra only comes with a year of free updates. Considering that it costs $1,500 for a one-year update, it’s pretty expensive.

If you don’t want to pay for the update fee, you still have access to available functions on Autel Ultra. Yet, online functions like ECU coding & programming are inaccessible.

Vehicle Coverage

Don’t forget to check if the Autel Ultra works on your vehicles. You can check it on Autel website for further help.

Key Takeaway

Autel Ultra is the best professional car diagnostic tool for busy auto shops. 

If you’re looking for an advanced scan tool to perform fast maintenance and repairs, Autel Ultra gives you VCMI functionality and dependable battery life.

Today’s best Autel Ultra prices:

Read more: Autel Maxisys Ultra Review: A Professional Scan Tool That Can Do Anything

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7 Best Professional Scan Tools Full Comparison Chart

	XTOOL D7	LAUNCH CRP919E	Autel MK808S	XTOOL D8BT	Launch V+	Topdon Plus	Autel Ultra
DIAGNOSTICS
Full-system diagnosis	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Active tests	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
OEM-level diagnosis	–	–	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Topology map	–	–	–	✅	✅	✅	✅
SERVICE FUNCTIONS
Number of functions	36+	31+	28+	38+	35+	41+	40+
Oil/ TPMS reset	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
ABS Bleeding	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
DPF regen	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Throttle relearn	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Crank relearn	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
SAS calibration	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
ADVANCED FUNCTIONS
Key programming	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
ECU coding	✅	✅	–	✅	✅	✅	✅
ECU programming	–	–	–	–	–	–	✅
VEHICLE COVERAGE
Cars & light trucks	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Heavy duty trucks	–	–	–	–	✅	–	✅
CAN FD protocols	✅	✅	–	✅	–	–	✅
DESIGN & HARDWARE
Processor	2.4GHz	UNK	Cortex-A55	Quad-Core 1.8GHz	8-Core 1.8 GHz	4-Core 2.0GHz	8-Core
Memory	32GB	3GB + 32GB	4GB + 64GB	2GB + 64GB	32GB + 128GB	4GB + 64GB	4GB + 256GB
Android OS	10.0	10.0	11.0	5.1.1	9.0	10.0	7.0
Screen size	7″	7″	7″	8″	10.1″	10.1″	12.9’’
Battery capacity	4000mAh	6100mAh	5000mAh	10000mAh	7000mAh	12600mAh	18000mAh
Docking station	–	–	–	–	–	–	✅
Wireless connection	–	–	–	✅	✅	✅	✅
AFTER-SALES SERVICE
Free update	3 years	2 years	1 year	3 years	2 years	2 years	1 year
Warranty	2 years	5 years	1 year	2 years	5 years	1 year	1 year
Update fee	$99/year	$150/year	$125/year	$200/year	$399/year	$545/year	$1695/year
Customer service	10/10	7.5/10	8/10	10/10	7.5/10	9/10	8/10
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

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Conclusion

Every scan tool in this review has revealed unique features for different professionals. 

Don’t forget to share your thoughts and let me know your chosen scanner in the comments.