Best OBD2 Scanner for 2023

With one of the best OBD-II scanners, you can save money on unforeseen auto repairs. Living expenses are skyrocketing, so the last thing you need is to spend a fortune on a mechanic's diagnosis of a problem you could easily solve yourself.

Therefore, we've tested more than a dozen OBD-II scanners, and we've graded them according to their features, size, warranty, setup, usability, and—most importantly—price. Keep reading for information!

• Best overall: Autel MaxiCOM MK808 Scanner  
• Best premium choice: TOPDON ArtiDiag800BT
• Best purchased product: Launch CRP129E Scan Tool  
• Best value product: Innova CarScan Advisor 5210
• Best cheap product: Foxwell NT301 OBD2 Scanner  

1. Autel MaxiCOM MK808 Scanner 

The Autel MaxiCOM MK808 Scanner reaches a balance between cutting-edge scanning technologies and business-friendly applications, which professional mechanics will appreciate. Customers do not need to work from their cars thanks to the seven-hour battery life of this 7.0-inch HD touchscreen behemoth.

The first year you purchase the device, Autel upgrades it for free, and it already has a ton of data about American, European, and Asian automakers. Software that stores customer and automotive data is also included, giving you an OBD2 scanner and logbook in one.

Specifications:

• Power Source: Battery Powered

• Dimensions: 9.45 x 1.38 x 5.91 inches

• Weight: 1.1 pounds

• Customizable graph data

• Supports microSD cards up to 32GB

Pros:

• Includes vehicle workload information

• Long battery life

• 7.0-inch touchscreen

Cons:

• Updates for the first year are free, however updates beyond that cost a membership payment

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2. TOPDON ArtiDiag800BT 

Our pick for the best OBD2 scanner overall is TOPDON's ArtiDiag800BT diagnostic scanner since it has a wide range of functionality, is simple to use, and even functions remotely. You are free to move around your vehicle while using the tool thanks to the huge touchscreen's internal battery and dongle connection (30-foot range).

If you require a wide range of scanning capabilities, including SRS and ABS diagnostic tools, pick this OBD2 scanner. It is an excellent option for individuals who require a tool capable of extensive OBD2 tasks and is compatible with 96 different vehicle brands.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 8.35 x 4.65 x 1.95 inches

• Power Source: Battery Powered

• Dimensions: LxWxH 8.35 x 4.65 x 1.95 inches

• Operating System: Android 10.0

• Language: English

• Display resolution: 720 x 1440

Pros:

• Wireless connection

• Many functions, including ABS and SRS diagnostics

• Free lifetime software updates

Cons:

• Low battery life (compared to corded models)

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3. Launch CRP129E Scan Tool 

With Launch CRP129E Scan Tool, you can use the 5.0-inch touchscreen without starting the car because it has an inbuilt battery. Additionally, you may run emissions tests, reset diagnostic trouble codes (DTC), and graph real-time data.

As long as you purchase from an authorized dealer, Launch offers free lifetime updates. The Launch CRP129E has data coding protocols from more than 1,000 vehicles and nearly 60 automakers, so it probably knows something about your car.

Specifications:

• Weight: ‎2.56 pounds

• Dimensions: ‎10.75 x 8.7 x 3.23 inches

• Power Source: Battery Powered

• WiFi compatible

• Supports nine languages

Pros:

• Large, 5.0-inch touchscreen

• Free lifetime updates

• Wide range of diagnostic functions

Cons:

• Some features are sold separately

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4. Innova CarScan Advisor 5210 

Innova, a California-based manufacturer of diagnostic scan tools, provides an inexpensive car diagnostic device that does more than clear codes. The Innova CarScan Advisor 5210's ability to display "freeze-frame data" is a notable feature. This setting shows vehicle data from the moment a trouble code is activated.

With this tool, users may test their batteries and charging systems, read and remove the check engine light, and evaluate their anti-lock braking systems (ABS). 

Specifications:

• Power Source: Battery Powered

• Dimensions: 6 x 3 x 1 inches

• Screen Size: 2.8 Inches

• Weight: ‎11.2 ounces

• epairSolutions2 app allows for smartphone connectivity

• Read and clear codes with one button

Pros:

• Great entry-level device

• Works on both foreign and domestic cars

Cons:

• No airbag, transmission, or tire pressure data

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5. Foxwell NT301 OBD2 Scanner 

The Foxwell NT301 OBD2 Scanner can be the ideal OBD2 scanner for you if examining DTC codes is your main need from an OBD2 diagnostic tool. A 2.8-inch LCD color screen and a rather quick loading time for data reports are included in the small design.

The I/M Readiness button in the scanner's center also does a quick emissions test in addition to reading manufacturer-specific OBD2 codes. Additionally, Windows users can upload data from the scanner to their computers using the USB interface.

Specifications:

• Power Source: Battery Powered

• Dimensions: 8.66 x 3.15 x 6.69 inches

• Weight: 1.01 pounds

• Three-stage LED test lights

Pros:

• Good for beginners

• Offers live data

• Quick results

• Emissions test capabilities

Cons:

• Small screen

• Short cord

• Compatibility issues with Apple devices

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1. How many different kinds of OBD2 scanners are there?

There are mostly three kinds. The cheapest are code readers. They tell you if something is wrong. The second one is the full-featured scanner, where you can learn more about automobile systems. Professional OBD2 scanners are the last option that offers even more capabilities, diagnostic power, and functions.

2. Do all vehicles support OBD2 scanners?

Though there are very few exceptions, they are meant to work on almost cars and light trucks produced after 1996, when the OBD2 standard was approved. Some cars built before 1996 also have OBD2 systems. However, you should confirm with the car's manufacturer before spending money on a scanner if there's any uncertainty.

3. How accurate are OBD2 scanners?

The scanners themselves are generally highly precise. The problem may come in deciphering the codes. Scanners with more features can perform that, either directly or through apps for smartphones and tablets.

We hope that you can pick the most suitable OBD2 scanner for you after reading the above review. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to share so that we can improve and bring more useful information to the next posts.