Choosing the perfect OBD2 diagnostic dongle is becoming harder and harder. Many devices are coming up every day with excellent features at unbeatable prices. That’s why it’s essential to compare and select the best scan tool for your needs and demands.
BlueDriver and BAFX are both professional-grade OBD2 scanning devices. BlueDriver is a perfect tool for Android and iOS owners, while BAFX is excellent for Android and Windows owners. BAFX Products is easier to use for beginners and car owners, while BlueDriver is more advanced, making it perfect for professional mechanics. Read this BlueDriver VS BAFX Review to know more.
Comparison Chart: Bafx VS Bluedriver
Features |
Bluedriver |
Bafx |
Read & Clear ABS, Airbag & Transmission code: | Yes | No |
Repair Reports: | Yes | No |
Freeze Frame Data: | Yes | No |
Smog Test: | Yes | Yes |
Warranty: | 1 Year | 2 Years |
App Quality: | Best | Better |
DTC Lookup: | Yes | N/A |
Oxygen Sensor: | Yes | Yes |
Ideal For: | Beginners to Professionals | Professionals |
Non-OBD2 Codes: | Yes | No |
Operating System (OS): | Android and IOS | Android |
User interface: | Very Easy | Little bit complicated |
Price Idea: | High | Low |
Price: | Check Price | Check Price |
If you want to select the best wireless scanner for your needs, continue reading and discover its features, functions, pros, and cons. Additionally, the head-to-head comparison will help you select a scan tool that meets your needs.
BlueDriver VS BAFX Review & Comparison 2024
Summary of Contents
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBD2 Scanner
The BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro diagnostic scanner is one of the most popular OBD2 dongles on the market and one of the most effective. This scanner works on Android and iOS devices. If you have a windows gadget, forget about it. BlueDriver has an additional Emissions Readiness feature that the OBDLINK MX+ scanner doesn’t have. Unlike most tools on the market, it comes with its sensor and BlueDriver App. Therefore, you don’t have to download third-party OBD2 apps, which are sometimes unreliable or limit what you can do.
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The scanner performs multiple functions, making it a perfect fit for all users, including beginners and professionals. The device is also compatible with most 1996 and newer OBD2-compliant vehicles sold in the USA. You will diagnose your car and have access to millions of fixes from the BlueDriver database. These fixes are verified by professional automotive technicians, meaning you’re sure about the fixes you’re getting.
Pros:
- It is a plug-and-play device
- Performs multiple functions
- Offers extensive vehicle coverage
- Works with Android and iOS operating systems
- It has free software updates
- It comes with a 1-year warranty
Cons:
- It is more expensive than other FIXD Bluetooth scanners
- Not compatible with the windows operating system
BAFX Products Wireless Bluetooth OBD2 Scan Tool
If you don’t have enough cash to spend but still desire a quality and reliable diagnostic dongle, the BAFX Products wireless Bluetooth scanner is the way to go. This is a plug and plays scan tool that will allow you to read and erase check engine lights, check air-fuel ratio, get readings on your emissions, and much more.
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Despite its affordable price, the BAFX Products wireless scan tool is reliable and efficient in performance. However, it only works with Android and Windows products. If you want a BAFX product that works with iOS, consider getting their Wi-Fi model.
The device works on most 1996 and newer OBD2-compliant vehicles sold in the USA. On top of that, it works with other car makes sold outside the USA, which most scanners don’t do. Last but not least, this gadget comes with a 2-year warranty, which is outstanding for such an affordable unit.
Pros:
- The device is straightforward to use
- Works with Windows and Android operating systems
- It works on a variety of car makes and models
- It’s affordable
- 2-year warranty
Cons:
- The device is not compatible with iOS. If your system is ios supported, you have to use the Autel AP200 Android scan tool.
- It has limited functions.
Similarities between BlueDriver VS BAFX
Emission testing
These automotive scanners will allow you to test for emissions, which is essential for your car. You can drive your vehicle peacefully, knowing that it has passed the emissions testing with any of these tools. The emissions test is done to ensure that cars do not pollute the environment.
Bluetooth connectivity
Having a stable connection is crucial for a wireless scanner. Some people have complained about some diagnostic dongles with poor connections. Not only do they waste time, but they may irritate you unless you diagnose the car from inside the vehicle.
Related article: Should you buy BlueDriver over OBDLINK Scanners in 2024?
BlueDriver Pro and BAFX Products excel in this area as they provide a stable and strong Bluetooth connection. However, some users have complained about BlueDriver having connection issues after many years of use.
Vehicle coverage
You will have to be very keen on this area when choosing a wireless diagnostic scanner. Some products only cover diesel vehicles, while others are gas-powered vehicles. It is ideal for getting a scan tool that covers all vehicles, regardless of whether they use diesel or petrol.
BlueDriver and BAFX products cover all OBDII-compliant vehicles sold to the USA. This implies that you can utilize any of these tools to scan error codes on all 1996 and later cars and light trucks in the USA. This includes GM, Ford, Nissan, Toyota, BMW, Honda, Chrysler, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, etc.
Differences between BlueDriver VS BAFX
Ease of use
A useful scan tool should be simple to use so that you can diagnose your car fast and without any problem. Both of these Bluetooth scan tools are plug-and-play devices. However, BAFX products are easier to use than the BlueDriver scanner. This is because the BAFX does not involve intense functions and diagnosis like the BlueDriver scan tool. Using the BlueDriver scanner requires additional knowledge, which is easier for a professional than a beginner. So it would be ideal to use Autel AutoLink AL619 or Foxwell NT624 for DIY enthusiasts.
Compatibility
How you link up your OBD2 dongle and the app or software is crucial. Most wireless OBD2 scanners use Android, Windows, iOS, Linux, or Mac. If you have the wrong device, the scanner may be of no use to you, and it may force you to acquire the right gadget with the right operating system.
BlueDriver and BAFX products both run on Android devices. However, BlueDriver can also support iOS, while BAFX products can also support Windows. Therefore, if you don’t have an Android device, you can acquire one with the operating system.
What’s more, the BlueDriver scanner comes with a sensor and BlueDriver App. On the contrary, the BAFX Products diagnostic scanner depends on third-party apps like Torque, DashCommand, Piston, and much more.
Related article: BlueDriver VS FIXD: Compare two best Bluetooth Scanners before buying
Functions
When it comes to versatility, the BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII scanner is the best choice. This scanner is built for professionals, and that’s why it comes with additional functions. Apart from performing the basic tasks that are found on BAFX, you will get extra advanced functions.
Both BAFX and BlueDriver scan tools can read and erase, check engine lights, test emissions, check air/fuel ratio, identify trouble codes, view live data, and much more. However, the BlueDriver scanner also allows the user to display multiple PIDs, mode 6, read & clear enhanced codes such as ABS, Transmission, Airbag, and much more.
Price
Pricewise, it is not even a debate. The BAFX Products OBD2 scanner is one of the cheapest wireless scanners on the market. On the other hand, the BlueDriver diagnostic scanner is one of the most expensive devices. BAFX products offer more than what they charge for. It is one of the best deals that you will get. But if you want a reliable and accurate Bluetooth scanner at a slightly higher price, BlueDriver is the perfect option.
Bluedriver or Bafx: Final Thought
With all the detailed information about these two excellent scanners, you can now have an easy time picking a scan tool that meets your needs and demands. The BlueDriver Pro scan tool is best suited for professionals, while the BAFX products are ideal for car owners and DIYers. Additionally, Windows users will prefer the BAFX Products scanner, while iOS users will require the BlueDriver scan tool.
All-in-all, these OBD2 professional diagnostic scanners are some of the best and offer a strong connection between the dongle and the software or app. I hope that this BlueDriver VS BAFX Review article has given you a clear idea about these scan tools.
Meet our professional car mechanic, Russell D. Steele, who has been in this field for five consecutive years and works with several automotive companies. He completed the "AUTOMOTIVE & LIGHT DUTY DIESEL TECHNOLOGY" course from NorthWest Lowa Community College, where he learned essential diagnostic and transportation management skills and became a certified mechanic.