The argument about which one is the best scan tool brand on the market is never-ending. Every day, different brands come up with new and improved diagnostic scanners that outdo the previous models. As technology advances, so do car diagnostic scanners. But today, we will look at some of the two top brands on the market, which are Launch and Autel scanners. If you want the best code readers on the market, Launch, Foxwell, and Autel are some of the best brands to consider choosing a scan tool from. But which one is the best between the Launch VS Autel brands?
- For DIY Use: Choose Autel MaxiDAS or AutoLink Series
- For Both DIY & Professional Use: Choose Launch X431 Series
- Only For Mechanics & Garage Owners: Choose Autel Ulrta or Elite Series
OBD2 Comparison: Launch vs. Autel
This comparison can be broken down by comparing some of the best scan tool models from every brand. We shall compare the Launch X431 V and Autel MaxiDAS DS708 and Launch X431 V 8-inch and Autel Maxidas DS808 scan tools.
Compare Features: |
Launch X431 V |
Autel MaxiDAS DS708 |
Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
Bluetooth | Yes | No |
Yes | Yes | |
Language | English, Italy, Japanese, French, German, Spanish, Dutch, Swedish, Russian, Korean, Czech, Arabic, Portuguese, Serbian, Greek, Turkish, Romanian, Hungarian, Finnish, Polish, Serbian | English, German, Spanish, French, Russian, Portuguese |
Reset language | Download the software and change the setup language yourself | Contact the Autel factory if you want to change a language |
Update | 2-year free update online | 1-year free update online |
Operating system | Android 4.2 | Windows CE |
Memory | 16GB SD card | 4GB SD card |
CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz | ARM+ARM7 Quod-core processor |
Main function | Full system OBDII diagnosis | OBDII diagnosis |
Special function | Steering angle calibration, ABS bleeding, diesel particulate filter, oil reset service, and electronic parking brake reset, electronic throttle position reset, tire pressure monitor system reset, battery register, or battery maintenance. | Key programming like 99 Nissan Maxima2004 Infiniti G35 |
Vehicle coverage | It covers more than 69 car brands and 220 models from Europe, the USA, and Asia. | It covers more than 40 car makes from Europe, the USA, and Asia |
Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Our second comparison of Launch and Autel is about the Launch X41 V 8-inch scanner and Autel Maxidas DS808 scan tool.
Features: |
Launch X41 V |
Autel Maxidas DS808 |
CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz | Cortex-A9 processor |
Wireless VCI | Yes | Yes |
Operation system | Android 4.2 | Android 4.4.4 |
Storage | 16 GB (expandable by up to 32 GB) | 32 GB |
Built-in camera | 2 MP front camera and 5 MP rear-facing camera with 1080p HD Video recording | Yes |
Touchscreen display | 8-inch 1280 x 800 IPS display with 189 PPI | 7-inch LCD 1024 X 600 resolution touchscreen |
Battery | 4200mh rechargeable polymer lithium battery | 3.7V/3200 mAh lithium-polymer battery |
External power | Charges through 5 VDC power supply | Charges through 5 VDC power supply |
Communication interface | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | USB and Wi-Fi |
Multilingual menu codes | Yes | Yes |
Main function | OBD1 & OBD2 compatibility | OBD1 & OBD2 compatibility |
Functions | Freeze frame data, code troubleshooters, reads and clears codes, bi-directional control tests, oil service reset, battery configuration, ABS bleeding, steering angle sensor calibration | Oil service reset, tire pressure monitor system reset, EPB service, freeze frame data, reads & clears codes, hotkeys for quick access data, reads/records/graphs live sensor data |
Weight | 7.45 pounds | 15.55 pounds |
Update | 2 years free update | 12-month free update |
Other features | Recording and playback, VIN identification, remote diagnosis, waveform display, special function | MaxiFix cloud-based information system, complete OEM-specific scanner coverage, shop manager |
Vehicle coverage | It covers more than 69 car makes with models from the USA, Europe, and Asia. | It covers more than 80 cars made in the US, Asia, and Europe |
Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Personal Opinion
Autel and Launch are both popular brands. They don’t have much difference. Launch a higher price scanner good for mechanics. Low-price Autel scanner is good for a DIY car owner. You can also check Innova vs. Autel comparison difference.
Launch or Autel? Final Decision
From the above two comparisons, it is clear that both brands have outstanding code readers. Autel al619 and Autel MaxiCom MK808TS are the most popular OBD2 scanner models on the market. On the other hand, Launch crp123 and Launch crp129 are the best-selling scan tool from the launch brand. It all comes down to what you want and can afford. Every brand has its own advantages and disadvantages. Above all, you should ensure that the brand or code reader you are buying is compatible with your vehicle.
If you want a mid-range scanner for all purposes, Lunch would be the right one. But if you want a basic DIY scanner, then I would suggest Autel. If you are a professional mechanic, you must go with Autel’s Elite or Ultra models.
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FAQs
Are Autel scanners more expensive than Launch scanners?
Autel scanners are often priced higher than Launch scanners due to their advanced features and wider vehicle coverage. However, Launch provides a good balance of affordability and essential diagnostic functions.
Which brand provides better customer support, Launch or Autel?
Autel is known for its extensive customer support network and frequent software updates, while Launch offers adequate support but may not have as broad a network as Autel.
Do Launch scanners require regular software updates?
Yes, Launch scanners require regular software updates to maintain compatibility with new vehicle models and to provide the latest diagnostic features.
Which brand is more suitable for professional use?
Autel scanners are often preferred by professionals due to their advanced diagnostic capabilities, extensive vehicle coverage, and comprehensive customer support.
Can both Launch and Autel scanners perform advanced diagnostics like ECU coding?
Yes, both brands offer models capable of performing advanced diagnostics, including ECU coding, but specific capabilities may vary by model.
Is it easier to use Launch or Autel scanners?
Both brands offer user-friendly interfaces, but Launch scanners are often praised for their intuitive design, making them slightly easier for beginners to use.
Which brand offers more frequent software updates, Launch or Autel?
Autel typically provides more frequent software updates, ensuring their scanners are up-to-date with the latest vehicle models and diagnostic protocols.
Kevin Nicholas is an automotive technician who is a genius at software and hardware-related issues. He manually tested more than a hundred OBD scanners and gave his honest opinion on whether the device was worth the money or not. His in-depth OBD review articles help people choose the right product, whether it is a European, American, or Asian vehicle. He completed his Automotive Specialized Training Course at Universal Technical Institute and has more than 15 years of experience in the field.
Summary of Contents
Can Launch X431V program a brain box (ECU)?
Yes
Which car scanner can program a brain box more effectively?
Launch X431V+