AUTEL MAXISYS ELITE AND OTHER DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS

Save money by getting to the heart of the matter. Have a look at 10 Diagnostic Tools from Autel to know where your vehicle hurts.

Autel History

Autel Intelligent Technology Corp., Ltd. was founded in September 2004 in China. It is engaged in the design and manufacture of vehicle testing solutions. Autel has affiliates and subsidiaries in more than 50 countries around the world. This list includes the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Australia. The company’s flagship product is the Autel MaxiSys Elite. They have an established and Research and Development Center in the United States attesting to their commitment to the US Automotive market. Autel has been a recipient of various awards. Worth mentioning is the VISION Best New Product Award for the MaxiSys Pro, given by the American Service Association in 2014. They were also recipients of a Red Dot Design Award for the MaxiSys Pro in 2017.

Autel Diagnostic Scanners

Autel Diagnostic tools have been in the market since 2005. Its main products are Automotive Diagnostic Tools, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) tools, and Advanced Driving Assistant System (ADAS) tools. They have also expanded to provide cloud services where automotive maintenance records are stored. The company has developed various OBD and OBD2 diagnostic scanners ranging from the most basic to those for professionals, like the Autel MaxiSys Elite Diagnostic Tool. Most of the tools have touchscreens with sizes ranging from 7 inches to 10 inches. The operating system is Android KitKat. Most of the Diagnostic tools have internal batteries with capacities ranging from 5000 mAh to 15000 mAh. With moderate use, an Autel MaxiSys Elite Battery lasts seven days. They all have cameras except for the Autel 4 Diagnostic Scanner. All have USB ports, while some also have HDMI ports and a 3.5mm audio jack. They connect through Bluetooth and Wi-FI. As most are tablet type, they are also capable of surfing the internet. Most are also equipped with cameras to keep visual records in built-in storage.

The diagnostic tools can scan and reset codes for at least 50 brands from the US, Europe, and Asia. They are capable of bidirectional testing of at least 31 maintenance and reset functions. Engine Reset, ABS Reset, and Diesel Particulate Filter Regeneration are some examples. The Autel MaxiSys Elite troubleshooting functions include Idle Speed tests and Window tests. Software updates are free for 1 or 2 years.

These diagnostic tools sell from a few hundred dollars to as high as around US$3,000.00, where the Autel Maxisys Elite price usually hovers. Being a flagship product, much is devoted to an Autel MaxiSys Elite Review, especially against competing products from Launch.

Autel Diagnostic Devices and Alternatives Overview

The diagnostic scanners have become easier to operate as they now use Android and touchscreens. Connectivity options abound, both wired and wireless. They can store data for easy review of repair history. All connectors and necessary paraphernalia are included in the packages already. Diagnostic tools usually differ in screen sizes and resolution, the high-end ones getting better screens. Some models, like the us Autel MaxiSys elite also have integrated email or web browsing capabilities. Storage solutions have also increased over the years. Though they use current technology, succeeding updates after a year or two are not free. 

Autel Scanners enjoy worldwide free tech support for life. There are several ways to reach them, including Facebook and Twitter. For support details, please go to this website. All Autel products are backed by nearly two decades of continuous Research and Development, thus, assuring up-to-date technology and innovations on their products.

These scanners should provide the following minimum abilities:

1. Fast data transfer between the ECU and the scanner.

2. Compatibility with specific cars.

3. Must have data storage capabilities.

4. A highly intuitive user interface system.

5. Easy to learn and navigate functions.

6. Software upgrade capabilities.

7. Wireless Connectivity.

8. Bidirectional capabilities.

A lot of scanners from different manufacturers are available in the market now. We have compiled for you a guide of the finest scanners on the market today. Presented are the highlights of each model to help you choose the perfect one for your needs. 

Autel MaxiSys Pro vs Other Autel Diagnostic Tools – Comparison Table A

Model	Autel Maxisys Pro MK908P	Autel MK908P	Autel MaxiSys MS906BT	Autel MaxiCOM MK808TS
Picture
Number of Car Brands	80	80	80	57
Functions	30	25	31	28
Bi-directional	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Live View Data	Yes	Yes	Yes	yes
ECU Programming	Yes	Yes	No	No
DTC Read / Clear	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
VIN Reading	Auto	Auto	Auto	Auto
Android Version	KitKat	KitKat	KitKat	KitKat
Screen Size	10.1”	10.1	8	7
TouchScreen	Yes	Yes	yes	yes
Storage	64 GB	64 GB	32 GB	32 GB
Camera	8 MP with Flash	8 MP with flash	8 MP with Flash	None
Wireless Connections	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Ports	HDMI, USB, Audio Port	HDMI, USB, Audio Port	USB, mini-USB, and HDMI	USB, mini-USB, and HDMI
Battery Capacity (mAh)	15,000	15,000	10,000	5,000
Warranty / Updates	1-year / 1-year free	1-year / 1-year free	1-year / 1-year free	1-year / 1-year free
Inclusions	J2534 ECU Preprogramming	J2534 ECU Programming Device and MaxiTPMS PAD, MaxiFix online Tech Support Database	Cable	Built-in Advanced TPMS

In this table, only the Autel MaxiSys Pro MK908P and the Autel MK908P are on par with the Autel MaxiSys Elite programming for ECUs, with the other two having no such capabilities. All four diagnostic tools run KitKat with varying screen sizes. The MK908Ps sport slightly bigger screens than the Elite. They also have similar data storage capacities of 64GB as the Elite. All have HDMI ports for connecting to a projector, and like in an Autel MaxiSys Elite training, making it easier to deliver the product features to the audience.

Autel MaxiSys Elite vs Other Autel Diagnostic Tools – Comparison Table B

Model	Autel 4 System Scanner MD806	Autel MaxiIM IM608	Autel MaxiSys MS906TS	Autel Maxisys Elite
Pictures
Number of Car brands covered	46	80	80	140
Functions	7	30	25	36
Bi-directional	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Live View Data	No	Yes	Yes
ECU Programming	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
DTC Read / Clear	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
VIN Reading	N/A	Yes	Yes	Yes
Android Version	N/A	KitKat	KitKat	KitKat
Screen Size	4 inches	10.0 inches	8 inches	9.7” Retina Display
TouchScreen	No	Yes	yes	Yes
Storage		64 GB	32 GB	64 GB
Camera	No	8 MP with flash	8 MP with flash	Rear: 8MP with Flash Front: 2MP
Wireless Connections	No	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Ports	No	HDMI, USB, Audio Port	HDMI, USB, Audio Port	HDMI, USB, Audio Port
Battery Capacity (mAh)		15000	10000	15000
Warranty / Updates	5 year / lifetime free	1-year / 1-year free	1-year / 1-year free	1-year / 1-year free
Inclusions	N/A	IMMO & Key Programmer XP400 & J2534 Re-programmer	Integrated TPMS Antenna	J2534 ECU Programming, Docking Station

Presented in this table is one of the most basic scanners, the Autel MD806. The diagnostic tool performs the most usual and most basic of all diagnostic functions. In this case, the MD806 only has 7 of these. However, one advantage of the MD806 is that it comes with free updates for a lifetime. It diagnoses only thru a wired connection. There is also no need to configure wireless networks, unlike the scanner Autel MaxiSys Elite, which connects wirelessly.

Autel MaxiCom MK808 vs MK808BT Diagnostic Tools – Comparison Table C

Model	Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808	Autel MaxiCOM MK808BT
Picture
Number of Car brands covered	80	80
Functions	25	25
Bi-directional	No	Limited
Live View Data	Yes	Yes
ECU Programming	No	No
DTC Read / Clear	Yes	Yes
VIN Reading	Yes	Yes
Android Version	KitKat	KitKat
Screen Size	7 inches	7 inches
TouchScreen	Yes	Yes
Storage	32 GB	32 GB
Camera	None	None
Wireless Connections	WI-FI only	WI-FI only
Ports	Mini USB, USB, HDMI	Mini USB, USB, HDMI
Battery Capacity (mAh)	10,000	5,000
Warranty / Updates	1-year warranty / 1-year free updates	1-year warranty / 1-year free updates
Inclusions	IMMO Features, OBD2 cable	MaxiVCI

Top 10 Autel Diagnostic Scanners Full Comparison

1. Autel MaxiSys Pro MK908P VS the Autel MaxiSys Elite

Pros:

An updated Autel Maxisys Pro MK908P now covers more than 80 car brands from the US, Europe, and Asia. It also does not fall short on its hardware. The scanner can store lots of data on its 64GB of internal storage. It sports a 10-inch screen with a resolution of 1920 X 1200 dpi. It has stereo speakers, a USB port, and an HDMI port. All handy during staff training. It has an 8MP Auto Focus rear camera with a flash for dark areas of the engine bay.

The scanner runs Android KitKat. It can show live data, has 30 functions, and is compatible with 80 car brands.

Cons:

It is more expensive and only has a 1-year warranty. Updates are free for one year only. Succeeding updates will cost the user extra. The included J2534 Programming for Mercedes Benz and BMW units only.

This Diagnostic tool awards anyone an informative and easy diagnostic experience. Its onboard storage is ideal for storing clients and other data for reference. Autel Maxisys Pro MK908P vs. Elite shows an advantage on a more refined screen due to the Elite’s higher screen resolution despite a smaller 9.7-inch screen. The Elite is a capable diagnostic tool and can be upgraded to perform ADAS by buying an upgrade to the tablet. The Autel MaxiSys Elite radar programming is included in the ADAS package.

2. Autel MK908P VS Autel Maxisys Elite TPMS

Pros:

The MK908P is an upgrade to the MS908P. It now has a screen size of 10.1 inches. The screen resolution is 1920 x 1200 dpi. It comes with 64 gigabytes of storage. At the rear is an 8MP camera with a built-in flash. The Diagnostic scanner also boasts of various connection ports like HDMI and USB. It has two new applications, the Shop Manager and MaxiFix. The former is an online database of procedures and fixes accessible by users for reference. Functions include Oil Reset, BMS Service, and TPMS Service. The J2534 ECU Programming Device and MaxiTPMS PAD for tire pressure troubleshooting.

Cons:

The Diagnostic Scanner is limited to only 25 diagnostic functions. It only has a year of warranty and one year of free updates. Have to pay for succeeding updates.

The MaxiCOM MK908P is a capable scanning tool, but functions are limited only to 25. What is commendable is that its screen size has increased to 10.1-inches. Its storage capacity also increased from 32GB to 64GB. It also comes with a free MaxiTPMS PAD for Tire Pressure Monitoring. The MK908P and the Autel MaxiSys Elite have almost similar functions. The elite however bests the MK908P by having more diagnostic functions, better screen resolution, and one more year of free software updates.

3. Autel MS906BT MaxiSys VS Autel MaxiSys Elite

Pros:

The Autel MaxiSys MS906BT has an 8-inch touch screen with a resolution of 1024 X 768 pixels. A single battery charge allows it to run for 14 hours non-stop. The tablet communicates thru Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, mini-USB, and HDMI. Storage is also expandable via a built-in microSD card reader that can accommodate an additional 32GB. It also comes equipped with a single speaker, a built-in microphone, and a 3.5mm headset jack. The Bluetooth range is about 50 meters or 164 feet. There is a rear camera with an 8 MP resolution and a built-in flash.

The operating system and integrated user interface make for simple navigation across features and clustered information that is just a touch away. The MaxiSys MS906BT covers more than 80 US, European, and Asian Brands. The Autel MaxiSys MS906BT can wirelessly connect to available car modules and perform tests, including but not limited to the ECM and TPMS.

The Autel MaxiSys MS906BT comes with a one-year warranty and, also gives you free software updates for a year.

Cons:

Only 32 GB of storage capacity, maybe less because of the operating system. All Service functions do not work on all vehicles. It supports ECU Coding on some cars but cannot perform ECU Programming.

The Autel MaxiSys MS906BT is half the cost of the higher-end Autel models. For car enthusiasts or casual home mechanics, this is more than an adequate alternative. It is an OBD 2 scanner capable of code scanning. It allows users to perform vehicle system testing almost anywhere in the shop due to a high range of Bluetooth capabilities. The MS906BT is a diagnostic tool that is nearly as capable as higher-end Autel Units, despite its economical price. Compared with the Elite, it lags in the hardware department with a smaller screen, only 32GB of storage, and less battery capacity. What sets them apart is ECU Programming, where the Elite excels. Amongst all other capabilities, reprogramming Ford ECM with Autel MaxiSys Elite is one of the diagnostic tool’s strengths.

4. Autel MaxiCOM MK808TS VS Autel MaxiSys Elite

Pros:

The Autel MaxiCOM MK808TS is a small diagnostic tablet with TPMS or the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. It boasts of an integrated TPMS App to perform functions such as diagnostics and clearing of TPMS codes. It has full OBD2 Functions which, include Component Tests, VIN Scan, and I/M Readiness. It can also show real-time data from the sensors in the form of graphs. It can perform 21 services for Cylinders, BMS, Air and Fuel (A/F) Mixture setting, and Oil Reset.

The MK808TS has a 7-inch screen with a resolution of 1024 x 600 dpi. It connects through USB and HDMI. Wirelessly, it can connect thru Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Onboard Storage capacity is 32Gb with an expansion slot of an additional 32GB.

Cons:

Only a year of free updates, payment needed for succeeding updates. It has a limited storage space of only 32 Gb. Android KitKat is a bit outdated.

The Autel MaxiCOM MK808TS’s features are on par with more expensive diagnostic tools. A sub-$1000.00 diagnostic tool that does not lack features. It has lean specifications but manages to perform various important tasks like System and OBD2 Scanning. It is a relatively low-priced model with most features included. The MK808TS is an inexpensive scanner that is equipped with an advanced TPMS diagnostics. Though they have similar TPMS capabilities, the MK808TS is cheaper compared to the Autel MaxiSys Elite. The MK808TS though has a smaller screen, smaller storage capacity, and only has 21 functions. The MK808TS is perfect for mechanics with limited budgets but needs TPMS functions.

5. Autel 4 System Scanner MD806

Pros:

The Autel MD 806 is an OBD2 capable scanner in a small form factor. It can Scan, Diagnose, or Clear codes for the Engine, Transmission, SRS, and ABS systems. It has six special functions that include Diesel Particulate Service and Oxygen Level monitoring. There is an auto-scan feature to execute all necessary scanning and testing in one sweep. It performs diagnostics through a wired connection. It works on most cars from the model year 1996 and compatible with 46 US and Foreign vehicle brands. The MD806 has five years warranty and free unlimited software update. The Autel MD806 is a handheld device. It does not have a touch screen but instead has intuitive buttons which are easy to learn. Very portable scanning device. Priced at less than $200.00. A rather small amount compared to the Autel MaxiSys Elite Price of nearly US3,000.00. It is capable of OBD2 diagnostics, and the essential functions are present. It has a five-year warranty with unlimited free lifetime software updates.

Cons:

Wired connectivity with vehicles. It does not have a touchscreen. No wireless connections. Small screen real estate at 4-inches diagonal only. The small screen may be hard to read for some. There are intuitive buttons instead of a touchscreen.

The Autel MD806 is a cheap but capable OBD2 scanner. It lacks the technological capabilities of the other scanners but, it gets the job done. It also has lifetime free updates. For those who are on a very tight budget, this should be on your shortlist.

6. Autel MaxiIM IM608 VS Autel MaxiSys Elite

Illustration above is the Autel MaxiIM IM608 which boats of IMMO functions despite being an inexpensive diagnostic tool alternative. IMMO Function prominently displayed on the tablet’s left screen.

Pros:

This Autel model MaxiIM IM608 sports a 10-inch display but with a lower resolution than the Elite. Its Operating System is Android KitKat, like other Diagnostic Scanners. The MaxiIM IM608 has both wireless and wired connectivity, Bluetooth, and USB.

AT the rear portion is the camera with flash. A loudspeaker and a headphone jack are built-in to the device. This diagnostic tool supports more than ten languages. It is compatible with 80 US, European, and Asian brands. Amongst its features is a data management app that saves your records to the cloud. It can also access vehicle sub-systems and perform comprehensive scans. Some of its commendable functions are Key Generation, Repair of IMMO Data, and ECU Coding.

Cons:

Screen resolution at 1024 X 768 is lower than its counterparts. Installed is an old version of the Android Operating System. Only one year of free updates and one year warranty.

Despite its forgivable shortcomings, the IM608 has capable diagnostics with Key programming and IMMO functions. This capability can generate extra income. It comes with the XP400 key and MaxiFlash ECU programmers. The IM608 and the Elite have one thing in common despite differences in their diagnostic functions. Both can program keys of Asian, Domestic, and European vehicles. In case you are eager to learn how to use Autel MaxiSys Elite to program keys, there are YouTube tutorials for almost all brands of cars for reference.

7. Autel MS906TS Diagnostic System VS Autel MaxiSys Elite

Pros:

The Autel MaxiSys MS906TS is a wireless-capable diagnostic tool. The diagnostic scanner has a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. It also has a built-in 8-megapixel camera with Auto-Focus and a built-in flash. The battery capacity will give a total of 14 hours of continuous operations. Aside from being wirelessly capable, it also connects through USB and other ports. The scanner is compatible with 80 car brands from around the world. It has auto VIN functions and has the auto-detect function to pull information off your vehicle. It has an Auto-Scan Function for checking the whole system.

Cons:

The Diagnostic Scanner only comes with a 1-year warranty and one year of free updates. Low-resolution display despite a large touchscreen.

The Autel MaxiSys MS906TS is a capable diagnostic tool for those who work with tires. It is best for Tire Dealers or Retailers. The tablet also has a generous battery capacity. It can operate for 14 hours, and it will always be right there if needed. It is Compatible with MaxiScope Oscilloscope and Video Inspection Camera. Being Android-based makes the MS906TS easy to navigate. Anyone who has a smartphone can figure out the user interface. Aside from being short on hardware specifications compared with the Elite, the MS906TS is not capable of ADAS diagnostics and ECU programming. Where it shines is its TPMS capabilities. It only costs half the price of the Autel MaxiSys Elite. This diagnostic tool will shine on shops that focus on tire replacement and other tire-related concerns. The Autel MaxiSys Elite 2019 model compares to the MS906TS. They are capable of diagnostic functions for 80 brands of vehicles, and both have 32GB OF Storage. The Elite 2019, however, has a larger battery capacity of 13,600 mAh.

8. Autel Maxisys Elite Diagnostic Tool

Pros:

The Autel MaxiSys Elite MS908e is the upgraded version of the Autel MS908Pro. The system now boasts a 9.7-inch retina display with a resolution of 2048 x1536, like an iPad. It comes with a 64GB storage capacity, and its processor is NVIDIA’s Tegra 4. It runs three times faster than its known competitors in the market under Android KitKat. It has two cameras, an 8-megapixel at the back portion, and a 2MP front camera. It has Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB 3.0, and an Ethernet connection. Audio-wise, it has a microphone, a 3.5mm port, and boasts dual speakers. The Autel Maxisys Elite battery is 15000 mAh, which would last about a week for moderate usage. Included in the package is a J2534 ECU Programming Accessory.

The Elite is capable of system diagnostics, ECU Coding and Matching, and TPMS. It can perform bidirectional active tests for actuators, valves, and pumps. It has more than 36 service functions including, Oil-Reset, and Brake Bleed, to name a couple. It has MaxiFix, an online community of MaxiSYS owners. The software update is free for two years. The Autel MaxiSys Elite vs Pro covers more than 140 brands compared to the Pro’s 80 brand compatibility.

From the website, you can download and install the program Maxi PC Suite that includes PC Link. The program enables the Autel MaxiSYS Elite App for printing. If you ever experience an Autel MaxiSys System Elite print failure, check all the cables in the computer, make sure the Elite is connected to the computer thru Wi-Fi or the Ethernet Cable or that the PC Link is installed in your computer.

Cons:

The Autel Maxisys Elite’s Price is on the high end of the spectrum.

The MaxiSYS Elite is a high-end diagnostic tool that will not get you wanting more. It has so many functions that cover most automotive problems. The database of 140 brands is an advantage to the professional mechanic. And so is the bundled 2 years of free updates. The Autel Maxisys Elite with J2534 ECU Programming Box is a highly capable diagnostic tool despite its high price.

Comparing the Autel MS908Pro vs MaxiSys Elite, the MS908Pro has a lower screen resolution despite having the same screen size. It also has a lower battery capacity of only 11,000 mAh which lasts 7.5 hours on normal usage. The MS908Pro has only 25 special functions compared to the Elite’s 36 plus. The Autel Maxisys Elite misfire counter can be accessed thru the scanners’ Autoscan function. Then go to the Power Control Module, Special Function, then Power Balance. This is a test to check engine cylinder misfires. The Autel MaxiSys Elite BMW 20 pin cable adapter is needed to diagnose the German luxury vehicles.

9. Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808 VS Autel MaxiSys Elite

Pros:

The Autel Scanner MaxiCOM MK808 is one of the cheapest diagnostic tools in the market. It has an Android Operating System, a 7-inch display, and it connects via USB 2.0, Mini USB, and Wi-Fi. There is a port for a MicroSD card up to 32GB for additional storage capacity. The battery lasts 5 hours of continuous use.

The MK808 can perform an all systems diagnosis. It can scan and erase codes or DTCs and show real-time data of each item. It has 25 Service Reset Functions that include Oil reset, Injector, and Brake Bleed. It also has a data manager and shop manager for record-keeping. The MK808 is compatible with 13 languages. It covers 56 brands that include domestic, European, and Asian.

Cons:

The MK808 does not come with Bluetooth. It needs a cable to connect to a vehicle. It only 56 covers car brands in the database. It has a one-year warranty and 12 months of free updates.

The MK808 is a cheap alternative for the more costly diagnostic tools. Though it comes with fewer functions, it would cover most issues in a repair shop. It can also keep track of all your records. Though it does not come with Bluetooth connectivity, sometimes a wired connection is more reliable than a wireless one. Android KitKat, a reliable and stable operating system, runs the sub $500.00 Diagnostic Tool. It has most service functions and diagnostics covered. The MK808 costs nearly a sixth of the Autel MaxiSys Elite, and it performs 25 special functions, enough to diagnose the systems of a vehicle. However, the MK808 cannot program car ECU’s, compared with the Elite. With OEM Data subscriptions from car manufacturers, programming GM ECU with Autel MaxiSys Elite allows car shops to perform more jobs and increase the number of services offered to clients, thus increasing revenues.

10. Autel MK808BT VS Autel MaxiSys Elite

Pros:

The Autel MK808BT is an upgrade of the Autel MK808. The main difference is that this iteration is now Bluetooth capable. It supports Original Equipment Level Systems Diagnostics, such as ECM, PCM, and TCM. It can perform 20 advanced services for Headlamps, Suspension, and Oil Reset, to cite a few. It comes with 12 months of Free Software Update and Data Manager for managing records in your garage. The MK808BT diagnostic tool is compatible with 80 brands from the US, Europe, and Asia.

This Autel scan tool has a 7-inch screen with a 1024 X 600 resolution display. It runs on Android KitKat 4.4.2. It has a 5,000 mAh battery that gives 7 hours of continuous use.

Cons:

Only 7 hours of continuous usage. Bluetooth connectivity up to 10 feet only. Short-time warranty and update. The MK808BT does not support bidirectional assessments. One-year warranty and one-year free software update.

The MK808BT is a capable diagnostic tool as it covers most bases. It has also expanded its capabilities to be compatible with around 80 car brands. It is simple to operate, owing to its being Android-based. Bluetooth equipped but at an affordable price. The MK808BT is very portable, and it has a lot to offer despite its low price. It may look like the MK808BT has been an old model in Autel’s range of Diagnostic Tools, but it can also hold its own against the newer models such as the Autel MaxiSys Elite, but on a limited basis. The MK808BT is for professionals on a limited budget but prefer to work and enjoy the freedom of movement that a cable limit.

Launch x431v VS Autel MaxiSYS Elite Programming Full Comparison

The Launch X431 is a diagnostic tool available in the market. The manufacturer is Launch Tech Co. Ltd., founded in 1992, cater to the needs of the diagnostic market. It is one of China’s industry pioneers in automotive repair and maintenance. Launch Tech Co. Ltd. has Research and Development facilities in the US, Japan, and Germany.

These two scanners run on Android. They both have large touchscreens for easy operations. Being android scanners are advantages for both since anyone who has handled a smartphone will find the user interface easy to navigate. Both cover a wide range of vehicle brands and have all the needed diagnostic functions and scan tools. Software updates are free for two years. Though there are some similarities, differences are evident in their hardware. The X431 has a larger 10.1” screen against the Autel MaxiSys Elite’s 9.7”. The Elite, however, bests it by having a retina display. The Autel MaxiSys Elite’s internal storage of 64GB doubles that of the X431’s 32GB and a higher resolution camera. The Elite also has more communication ports, including an Ethernet Connection.

Other differences between Launch X431 and Autel MaxiSYS Elite:

• The screen sizes are almost the same at 9.7” for the Autel Elite and 10.1” for the X431.
• The Elite has a better screen resolution of 2048 x 1536 against 1280 x 800 for the X431.
• The Elite gives the user more storage at 64GB against the 32Gb for the X431.
• Camera Resolution is in favor of the Autel MaxiSys Elite as it has an 8MP sensor compared to the X431’s 5MP. The Elite’s camera shows more details than the one from Launch X431.
• The Elite can also last longer with its battery capacity of 15,000 mAh against 7,000 mAh for the X431.
• Both run on Android OS, but the X431 is on Android 9.0 Pie while the Elite runs on Android 4.4.4 KitKat.
• Vehicle brand recognition is nearly equal but with 140 brands for the Elite and 150 for the X431.
• The Autel MaxiSys Elite TPMS capabilities mirrors that of the Launch X432.

System Wise, they both run on Android OS, but the Launch runs a newer version against Elite’s KitKat. The Launch X431 V Pro 4.0 and the Launch X431 V 4 are diagnostic tools based on Lenovo tablets. Meaning you can install other applications for Android OS like Facebook and Twitter. Cameras now sport 5-megapixel resolutions. Both of the X431’s has 7000 mAh Batteries, half of the Elite’s 15000 mAh. The X431s both can perform 31 functions. They have Key programming functions but on a limited scale. They also support live data for real-time diagnostics. The Autel Maxisys Elite update comes free for two years, the same as the Launch X431 series.

Autel MaxiSYS Elite: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What advantage has the Autel MaxiSys Pro vs Elite?

The scanner Autel Maxisys Elite is the more advanced between the two as it costs more. However, it has a Retina Display Screen and a faster CPU. It also has two cameras, one at the rear and a 2.0 MP front camera for video calling. It has USB 3.0 with a faster data transfer rate than a USB 2.0. The Elite also has 36 Service Functions VS 30 for the Pro. The Elite recognizes 140 car brands VS 80 for the Pro, and 2-years of free updates against 1-year for the Pro.

2. Do Diagnostic Tools work on Diesel Engines?

They do work with most diesel engines but only those with 12V systems. However, if what you have is a commercial vehicle, you will need the MaxiSys CV. For instance, and as with the other scanners, the Autel MaxiSys Elite Diesel Engine Scanning capabilities are industry standard.

3. What is the difference between the Autel Maxisys Elite and Autel Maxisys MS908SP?

The Elite and the MS908SP are both professional-grade diagnostic tools and are two of the best examples in the market today. The Elite has a faster NVIDIA Tegra 4 processor than the MS908SP, which has an Exynos. The Elite has a retina display and improved connectivity with USB 3.0 and an RJ45 Ethernet connector. It also has two cameras. The battery runs longer due to an increase in capacity to 15000 mAh. They are almost the same function-wise, but the Elite provides free software updates for two years. Due to its larger battery and faster processor, the Elite has a better diagnostic response, and usable over a longer period than the MS908SP.

4. I own a Shop, and I have only one diagnostic tool, is the Autel MaxiSys Elite

Training Capable for new employees?

Most diagnostic tools only have wireless and wired connection capabilities. The HDMI port, as an example, is convenient when conducting staff training. Connecting the diagnostic tool to a large screen TV will provide a clearer picture to the trainees, and they do not have to crowd to see what is going on the small screen. Anything happening on the Diagnostic Scanner screen is shown on the TV and heard on the speakers.

5. How to take a screen shot from Autel MaxiSYS Elite when I need it?

Sometimes, a screenshot or screen capture is the most convenient way of sharing information with a client or a colleague. With Autel Scanners equipped with cameras, all one needs to do is press the camera icon at the bottom of the screen for a screen-capture or a screenshot. It then saves the picture in your files. You can then send this thru an email or print it to share with your client or a colleague.

6. Can the Autel MaxiSys Elite work with scope?

Though the Maxisys Elite does not come with a scope, you just need to buy a Maxiscope like the Autel MV105 or MV108 which can be attached to the elite.

7. What are the hardware differences between Autel MaxiSys Elite VS Snap On Verus D10?

While the Autel and Launch products run Android Operating Systems, the Snap On Verus D10 opted to use Windows as its underlying Operating System, which allows the units to install Windows-based programs. The Snap On can only scan 48 brands of cars against the 140 brands compatibility of the Autel MaxiSys Elite. It can diagnose most functions and has ADAS capabilities for Buick, Cadillac, and Toyota. Hardware-wise, the Verus D10 has a 10-inch screen but a not so impressive resolution of 1024 X 600. Where it shines, though, is its extended warranty option of up to 3 years, a removable battery, and PC connectivity.

Autel Users Quotes

Divad968 said “I have been a Ford Master Technician for 30 years and used about every brand diagnostic scanner Autel Maxisys Elite over the years from obd2tool.com and this one is hands down the best and most universal scanner I have used to date!”

Audiworld.com/forums

Nickb2 said “I like Autel, it just seems better suited for rough abuse than the launch. I also have used the newer version launch, it seemed slower even though it had android 7.1.”

batauto.com

Conclusion

The US Autel Maxisys Elite is a highly capable Diagnostic Tool. It may be the most expensive but it is the most capable of the diagnostic tools reviewed. It has the most advanced screen with a resolution like that of an Apple iPad which means that letters and figures come out sharp, and readable. It can connect not only wirelessly but also thru Ethernet, USB, and HDMI. System-wise, the diagnostic tool boasts more than 36 functions and is capable of programming. It can communicate with 140 car brands and boasts of free updates for two years. The only caveat is that the Autel scan tool MaxiSys Elite comes only with a one-year warranty.

The links to purchase are provided across the article. It is up to you now to decide on which among the Autel diagnostic tools is just right for your needs and your budget. Buy one now and never second guess again!