Launch vs. Autel

Launch and Autel are two well-known brands in the automotive diagnostic tool industry. They both offer a range of products with different features and price points.

Launch, a Chinese company established in 1992, provides a wide variety of diagnostic tools such as handheld scanners, diagnostic tablets, and advanced diagnostic systems. Launch products are known for their accuracy, speed, and user-friendly interfaces. They are competitively priced and come with good customer support.

Autel, another Chinese company specializing in diagnostic tools, also offers handheld scanners, diagnostic tablets, and advanced diagnostic systems. Autel products are known for their advanced features, including bi-directional control and programming capabilities. They have a reputation for being durable and reliable.

Now, let’s examine the differences between Launch and Autel to help you make an informed decision.

Software Startup and Protection:
Launch x431 relies on the Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI). If you lose the VCI, you’ll need to buy a new one and transfer your account. However, if you lose the tablet, you can simply buy a new one and log in with your username and password.

Autel’s software is built directly into the tablet. If you lose the tablet, you lose all the software. However, if you lose the VCI, you can easily purchase a new one.

Additional Devices:
Launch allows you to add key programming functionality to your device. Autel, on the other hand, requires a separate device for key programming.
If you need both scanning and key programming capabilities, consider choosing Autel IM608 Pro 2.

The Launch X-431 PAD VII allows you to add a TPMS TGGUN for TPMS sensor programming. Autel does not offer this option, so you would need to purchase a separate device like TS501 or TS601.

Note: Some Autel models, such as MaxiPro MP808TS and MaxiCheck MX808TS, have built-in TPMS functions.

Both Launch and Autel offer the ability to add a borescope camera and a battery tester.

Key Programming:
Autel provides better key programming capabilities. It requires the MaxiIM tablet (IM508, IM608 PRO2), but not the MSUltra.

TPMS Sensor Programming and Relearning:
Autel surpasses Launch in TPMS sensor programming and relearning. However, Autel requires its standalone TPMS scanner.

Price:
Autel products are generally more expensive than Launch products. Additionally, Autel’s update subscription is pricier than Launch’s. While Autel offers more advanced features, Launch provides a more budget-friendly option.

Report:
Both brands offer scan reports to users. Autel Ultra has a cloud-based system that allows for easy report downloading.

Heavy Duty Scanner:
For heavy-duty scanning, LAUNCH X431 V+ and HD III add-on is a better, cheaper, and easier-to-use option compared to MaxiSys MS908CV from Autel. Autel provides standalone equipment options and allows for the addition of heavy-duty modules.

Region:
Launch is more suitable for European, Korean, and Japanese cars, while Autel is better suited for American cars. If you’re unsure whether a specific model is supported, please check the Vehicle Coverage on their respective websites:
Autel: https://autel.com/vehicle-coverage/coverage2
Launch: https://en.cnlaunch.com/service/c-6.html

Ultimately, choosing between Launch and Autel depends on your specific needs and budget. Both brands offer high-quality products that can help diagnose and repair automotive problems. It’s important to carefully consider the features and prices of each product before making a decision.