The Difference Between Brands of Diagnostics
Like most products today, there are many different automotive diagnostic tools to choose from, and they range from your cheap and simple tools,
All the way up to the big boys that can do it all. Each brand has its strengths and its weaknesses though, and this can lead to a tough decision for a person interested in them. So, to help you, we have put together this comparison between some of the more well-known brands using their mid-range tool as a point to reference.
Autel - MX808
Started in 2004, Autel is a relatively new addition to the market. However, they have grown substantially over the years.
They are focused on diagnostic tools and their peripheries, and haven’t branched out in the same way many other brands have to other product groups like tyre-changing equipment and so on, as well as keeping their focus firmly on passenger vehicles.
They work to keep their pricing balanced, keeping them competitive as well as keeping their quality up to standard. The MX808 is their middle of the road tool. It offers full diagnostic capability, as well as live data functions.
Overall, while simple, it offers users a wide range of functionality to diagnose vehicles quickly and effectively.
User rating: ★★★★★
Price point: $
Launch - X431 Pro S Mini
One of the more established brands of automotive diagnostics, Launch is well known for their competitive pricing and quality.
They have a wider range of focus, making diagnostic tools for both passenger vehicles and trucks. They have also expanded to making garage equipment. Over the years however, they have sacrificed product quality to keep their pricing lower, however they still produce great tools.
The X431 was their flagship model for years – and they saw the need for a more affordable tool which could still offer much of what made the original so popular.
The X431 Pro S Mini was the result. Offering wireless connectivity and full diagnostic capabilities, as well as some basic coding functions and active testing, it is a versatile mid-range item, although at a slightly higher price.
User rating: ★★★★★
Price point: $$$
Fcar - F3S-G MasterPro
Fcar is focused on Truck diagnostics – and they have made a name for themselves in this department.
However, their tools do work on a range of passenger vehicles, giving users the option to work on a variety of vehicle types. They are well priced for their functionality, however some may argue that they are not worth the money if you are focused on passenger vehicles.
Their F3S-G MasterPro is a tool that offers a variety of functions on a wide range of vehicle types, although it is still focused on heavy vehicles. It offers full diagnostic capability, as well as giving a few basic coding functions.
On top of this, it comes with a built-in printer, which allows you to print off data as needed.
User rating: ★★★★
Price point: $$
Snap-On - Triton D8
Snap-On is an American brand who have become well known for their high quality.
They offer a wide range of products, from diagnostics to power tools and everything in between, as well as providing diagnostic tools for passenger vehicles as well as trucks and industrial machinery.
The drawback with Snap-On however is the price – to keep their quality as good as possible, it means you end up paying far more than equivalent tools from other brands.
The Triton D8 is their answer to a mid-range diagnostic tool that offers as much functionality as possible. On top of full diagnostic capabilities, the Triton D8 allows you to do some basic coding, and can link to a range of other Snap-On products to give further functionality, such as their TPMS units.
User rating: ★★★★★
Price point: $$$
Bosch - KTS350
Bosch are the original automotive diagnostic manufacturer, and have a history of quality.
However, it can be said that they have not advanced as quickly as other brands in recent years.
While they may be the “godfather” of diagnostics, their technology is anything but old, and thanks to their work on ECU’s, you can rest assured that you will be able to connect with most vehicles.
The KTS350 the latest in their line of mid-range tools, but it does not offer the functionality of many of the other tools in this sort of bracket.
It does offer full diagnostic functionality, but it does not offer coding or actuation testing. For the price, it may seem difficult for many to justify the purchase, however you will never be unhappy with the quality and usability of Bosch tool.
User rating: ★★★★
Price point: $$$
