Launch vs. Autel: How to Choose Automotive Diagnostic Tool Brand?
When it comes to automotive diagnostic tools, Launch and Autel stand out as two prominent brands with a wide range of products boasting various features and price ranges.
Launch, a Chinese company established in 1992, has been a key player in the industry for decades. Their product line includes handheld scanners, diagnostic tablets, and advanced diagnostic systems. Renowned for their precision, speed, and user-friendly interfaces, Launch tools come at competitive prices with excellent customer support.
Autel, another well-established Chinese brand, specializes in diagnostic tools like handheld scanners, diagnostic tablets, and advanced diagnostic systems. What sets Autel apart are its advanced features, such as bi-directional control and programming capabilities, along with a reputation for durability and reliability.
Let’s now delve into the differences between Launch and Autel to help you make an informed decision.
1. Software Startup and Protection: Launch X431 relies on a Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI), so losing the VCI means purchasing a new one and transferring your account to it. Conversely, losing the tablet only requires buying a replacement and logging in with your username and password. For Autel, its software is tied to the tablet, meaning that losing the tablet results in the loss of all software. However, losing the VCI can be easily remedied by purchasing a new one.
2. Additional Devices: Launch allows you to add key programming, a feature not available with Autel, which requires a separate device for this purpose. If you need both scanning and key programming on your Autel device, consider opting for the IM608 Pro II.
Launch X-431 PAD VII provides the option to add a TPMS TGGUN for TPMS sensor programming, which Autel lacks. Autel users would need to purchase standalone TPMS scanners like TS501 and TS601. Note that certain Autel models like MaxiPro MP808TS and Maxicheck MX808TS come with built-in TPMS functions. Both Launch and Autel, however, support adding a borescope camera and a battery tester.
3. Key Programming: Autel surpasses Launch in this aspect, with its MaxiIM tablets (IM508, IM608 PRO II) offering superior key programming capabilities compared to MSUltra tablet.
4. TPMS Sensor Programming and Relearning: Autel excels in TPMS sensor programming and relearning functionalities, but it requires the use of Autel’s standalone TPMS scanner.
5. Price: Autel products tend to be more expensive than Launch counterparts, and Autel Update Subscription fees are higher as well. The higher price of Autel tools is often justified by their more advanced features.
6. Report Generation: Both brands provide scan reports to users. Autel Ultra, however, stands out with a cloud-based foundation that allows for easy report downloads.
7. Heavy-Duty Scanner: For heavy-duty scanning needs, Launch X431 V+ and HD III add-on prove to be better, more affordable, and user-friendly than MaxiSys CV from Autel. Autel offers the flexibility of standalone equipment purchase, with the option to add heavy modules as needed.
In conclusion, both Launch and Autel offer high-quality automotive diagnostic tools, but the choice between the two depends on your specific requirements and budget. Autel shines in advanced functionalities and key programming capabilities, while Launch provides cost-effective options for heavy-duty scanning. Consider your specific needs, preferences, and budget constraints before making a decision.
