AUTEL vs LAUNCH: which scan tool brand should you buy?
Updated November 5, 2026
AUTEL and LAUNCH are two of the most popular scan tool brands for DIY mechanics and repair shops. Both sell everything from basic code readers to professional diagnostic tablets, so the better choice usually comes down to the specific model, your vehicles and the update terms. Here's how to compare them, with in-stock models from U.S. online stores that sell each brand.
COMPZA may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. How we make money.
Similar ranges, different names
Both brands cover the same ground: simple OBD2 code readers, DIY scanners that add ABS, airbag and service resets, bidirectional tablets, and professional tools with coding and programming. AUTEL's ranges include MaxiLink and AutoLink readers, MaxiCOM and MaxiCheck DIY tools and MaxiSYS professional tablets. LAUNCH's include Creader and CRP readers and scanners, and the X431 family of bidirectional and professional tools.
Because the ranges overlap so closely, compare individual models at your budget rather than choosing a brand first.
What to compare between two models
Vehicle coverage for the functions you need is the most important factor; check each brand's coverage list for your car. After that, compare which service functions are included, whether the tool is a handheld, a tablet or a phone dongle, and how long software updates are included before a renewal fee applies.
Update terms differ by model, not just by brand, and renewal prices can be a significant part of the cost over several years.
Where to buy
The products below come from U.S. online stores we partner with that specialize in each brand. Prices update from each store's product feed, but always confirm the price, warranty, included accessories and update period on the store's page before you buy.
Before you buy
- Is your vehicle covered for the functions you need on both models?
- Which model includes the service resets you use?
- How long are updates included, and what does renewal cost?
- Handheld, tablet or Bluetooth dongle?
In-stock options
Picked automatically from partner stores' live product feeds using the criteria above, cheapest first. Confirm price, vehicle coverage and update terms on the retailer's page before you buy.
AUTEL models in stock
44 matching models in stock, from $52 to $5,459.
Autel MaxiLink ML529$52at AUTELOnline 
MaxiLink ML629$114at AUTELOnline 
MaxiCheck MX900 - MX900$519at AUTELOnline 
OTOFIX D1 PROS2$700at AUTELOnline 
OTOFIX D1 Max2$950at AUTELOnline 
MaxiCOM MK908 Pro II - MK908 Pro II$1,649at AUTELOnline 
MaxiSys MS909 S2 - MS909 S2$3,299at AUTELOnline 
MaxiSys Ultra S2 - Ultra S2$5,459at AUTELOnline LAUNCH models in stock
22 matching models in stock, from $24.99 to $2,199.
LAUNCH CR319 OBD2 Code Reader & Emissions Readiness Tester$24.99at LAUNCH X431 Online 
LAUNCH CRP123X Code Reader for Check Engine Light, Transmission, ABS & SRS - CRP123X V2$169at LAUNCH X431 Online 
LAUNCH CRP129X Plus All-System OBD2 Scanner with 8 Reset Functions$249at LAUNCH X431 Online 
LAUNCH X431 CRP919X All-System Bidirectional OBD2 Code Reader - CRP919X$389at LAUNCH X431 Online 
LAUNCH X431 PROS Elite Professional Automotive Scan Tool - PROS ELITE$549at LAUNCH X431 Online 
LAUNCH X431 V+ 4.0 Global Version Bidirectional Scan Tool$729at LAUNCH X431 Online 
LAUNCH X431 PRO3 APEX Bidirectional Scan Tool with Online Coding$849at LAUNCH X431 Online 
LAUNCH X431 PAD VII ECU Programming & Online Coding Scan Tool for Cars - PADVII+Free CRP123X$2,199at LAUNCH X431 Online Affiliate links. AUTELOnline prices updated Nov 14, 5:26 PM EST · LAUNCH X431 Online prices updated Nov 14, 4:18 PM EST.
Compare on eBay
These links open eBay search results with the price range already set, including new, open-box and used options. eBay sellers set the listings, prices and condition, so check the seller and the item details before you buy.
Affiliate links: COMPZA may earn a commission from qualifying eBay purchases at no extra cost to you.
Questions
Is AUTEL or LAUNCH better?
Neither brand is better across the board. Both make reliable tools at every price level, so compare the specific models you're considering on vehicle coverage, functions and update terms.
Which brand is cheaper?
Both brands have entry-level code readers under $100 and professional tablets over $1,000. The price ranges below show what each store currently has in stock.
Do AUTEL and LAUNCH tools need subscriptions?
Most mid-range and professional models include updates for a set period and then offer paid renewals. The tool keeps working without renewing, but you stop receiving new vehicle coverage and fixes.
Related
📬 Get the weekly deals email
One email a week with the best current deals from our partner stores: home, kitchen, tech, car and gifts. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Emails include affiliate links; COMPZA may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our privacy policy.