8 Best Autel Scanners (October 2026)
The best Autel scan tools for car diagnostics include the Autel MaxiCOM MK808S for wired all-system diagnosis, the Autel MaxiCheck MX808S for a broad service menu, and the Autel MaxiCOM MK900BT for wireless diagnostics.
On this page (4 sections)
The Autel MaxiCOM MK808S is the best Autel scanner for most advanced DIY and shop work because it combines full-system diagnostics, active tests and service functions. Pick the MK900TS for TPMS service, or the AL319 if you only need basic engine and emissions checks.
Autel scanners range from compact OBD-II readers to tablet tools that access vehicle systems and run active tests. The right choice depends on what you need to diagnose, your vehicle and whether you want a wired or wireless connection.
For a broader comparison across brands, see our guide to professional OBD2 scanners. If you're still deciding which functions matter, start with our plain car diagnostic tool buying guide.
Our picks at a glance
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Which Autel scanner fits your repair work?
The MK808S is the highest-scoring general-purpose pick here, while the other scanners suit needs such as TPMS service or basic code reading. Match the scanner's functions to the systems you want to check, then confirm support for your vehicle.
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S: Best for wired all-system diagnosis
- All-system diagnostics
- 3,000+ active tests
- 28+ service functions
- 7 in screen
A wired tablet scanner with all-system diagnostics, active tests and service functions. Check vehicle compatibility because functions vary by vehicle.
Pros
- All-system diagnostics
- Bidirectional active tests
- Multiple service functions
Cons
- Wired connection
- Functions vary by vehicle
The MK808S is a wired tablet for home garages and shops that need more than engine codes. It provides all-system diagnostics and more than 3,000 active tests, which let you send commands to compatible vehicle components and check their response.
Its service menu includes functions such as oil reset, battery management system service, SAS calibration, injector service and clutch learning. Functions vary by vehicle, so confirm support for the specific service you need.
The wired connection suits a work area where you can keep the tablet near the diagnostic port. Its 7 in screen gives you room to read codes and live data.
Choose the MK808S when you want a tablet for broad diagnosis and routine service work. If you need wireless access or CAN FD and DoIP, compare it with the MK900BT.
Autel MaxiCheck MX808S: Best for a broad service menu
- OE-level full-system diagnostics
- 3,000+ active tests
- 28+ service functions
- Android 11
This full-system tool combines active tests with maintenance functions. Its feature set depends on the vehicle, so confirm the functions you need.
Pros
- Full-system diagnostics
- Multiple live-data views
- Supports active tests
Cons
- Vehicle coverage varies
- Check compatibility for specific services
The MX808S is a full-system scanner with active tests and 28+ service functions. It shows live data in several formats, including graph, text, column, meter and waveform.
It also supports vehicle identification and automatic scans, though automatic VIN identification does not work on every car. Check compatibility for the services you need, especially if you plan to use the scanner across different makes and model years.
Autel MaxiCOM MK900BT: Best for wireless diagnostics
- 40+ service functions
- 3,000+ active tests
- CAN FD and DoIP
- 8 in screen
A wireless tablet scanner with an 8 in screen, active tests and added protocols. Confirm compatibility for the vehicle and diagnostic tasks.
Pros
- Wireless connection
- 40+ service functions
- Pre- and post-scan reports
Cons
- Some functions depend on the vehicle
- Battery testing requires a separate BT506
The MK900BT suits buyers who want a wireless tablet and a broad service menu. It supports CAN FD and DoIP, pre- and post-scan reports, and Wi-Fi printing.
Its 8 in screen is larger than the 7 in displays of the MK808S and MK808BT PRO. Battery testing requires a separate BT506, and vehicle-specific functions should be checked for compatibility.
Choose this model if wireless access and its added protocols fit your vehicles and workflow. If you prefer a cable, the MX900 also supports CAN FD and DoIP.
Autel MaxiCOM MK808BT PRO: Best for wireless flexibility
- 3,000+ active tests
- All-system diagnosis
- Wireless connection
- 7 in screen
This wireless scanner supports all-system diagnosis, active tests and service functions for compatible vehicles. Battery testing requires a separate BT506.
Pros
- Wireless connection
- All-system diagnosis
- Supports active tests
Cons
- Vehicle-specific functions
- Battery testing requires a separate BT506
The MK808BT PRO gives you a wireless connection for moving around the vehicle while viewing diagnostic information. It supports all-system diagnosis, active tests and service functions for compatible vehicles.
Its service functions include oil reset, ABS bleeding, battery management service and SAS calibration. Battery testing requires a separate BT506, and available functions vary by vehicle.
Consider it when wireless access matters to your work. For a comparison with another professional tool brand, read Autel vs Launch scan tools.
Autel MaxiCheck MX900: Best for CAN FD and DoIP
- 40+ service functions
- 3,000+ active tests
- CAN FD and DoIP
- 8 in screen
This wired scanner supports CAN FD and DoIP, full-system diagnosis and active tests. Check vehicle coverage for the functions you need.
Pros
- CAN FD and DoIP support
- Full-system diagnosis
- Pre- and post-scan reports
Cons
- Wired connection
- Coverage depends on the vehicle
The MX900 combines full-system diagnosis with CAN FD and DoIP support. It also includes active tests, service functions, vehicle identification features and pre- and post-scan reports.
Unlike the MK900BT, the MX900 uses a wired connection. That can suit a home bench or shop bay where you can stay near the diagnostic port.
Choose it if its protocols and service functions fit your vehicles and you prefer a cable. For a detailed look at one of the site's Autel tablet picks, see our Autel MK808S review.
Autel MaxiCOM MK900TS: Best for TPMS service
- TPMS programming and relearn
- 3,000+ active tests
- 40+ service functions
- CAN FD and DoIP
This tablet pairs full-system diagnostics with TPMS features such as sensor activation, programming and relearn. Check vehicle compatibility for specific functions.
Pros
- TPMS functions included
- Full-system diagnosis
- Active tests and service functions
Cons
- Vehicle-specific coverage
- Battery testing requires a separate BT506
The MK900TS is the specialist pick for users who need TPMS service alongside diagnostics. It can activate, read and program compatible sensors, and includes relearn guides.
It also offers full-system diagnostics, active tests and service functions. CAN FD, DoIP and pre- and post-scan reports add diagnostic options, with compatibility depending on the vehicle and task.
Pick it when tire pressure monitoring work is a regular part of your repairs. If you do not need TPMS functions, compare the MK900BT or MK808S.
Autel AutoLink AL519: Best for OBD-II checks with live data
- 10 OBD-II test modes
- Live data in text and graph
- Freeze-frame data
- I/M readiness
A corded reader for standard OBD-II checks, live data and readiness status. It does not provide full engine-system diagnostics or advanced parameter display.
Pros
- 10 OBD-II test modes
- Reads live and freeze-frame data
- Checks I/M readiness
Cons
- Not a full-system scanner
- FCA vehicles with SGW after 2017 are unsupported
The AL519 is a corded handheld reader for standard OBD-II checks on compatible vehicles. It can read and clear codes, show live data in text and graph formats, retrieve freeze-frame data and check I/M readiness.
It does not provide full engine-system diagnostics or advanced parameter display. It also cannot access OBD-II modules or clear codes for FCA vehicles with Secure Gateway on models produced after 2017.
Choose the AL519 for engine and emissions checks when you want more OBD-II test modes than the AL319 provides. For a compact reader, the AL319 covers basic engine and emissions checks.
Autel AutoLink AL319: Best for basic check-engine codes
- Reads and clears engine codes
- Live and freeze-frame data
- I/M readiness check
- Plug and play
A simple corded reader for engine and emissions codes, live data and readiness checks. It does not read ABS or SRS codes.
Pros
- Simple plug-and-play use
- Reads live and freeze-frame data
- No batteries needed
Cons
- Engine and emissions focus
- Does not read ABS or SRS codes
The AL319 is the simplest Autel pick here, aimed at engine and emissions checks. It reads and clears engine codes, shows live and freeze-frame data, and includes a one-click I/M readiness check.
It does not read ABS or SRS codes, so it cannot diagnose those systems. Its plug-and-play design and lack of a battery requirement suit quick checks when you do not need a tablet interface.
Choose the AL319 for basic check-engine light troubleshooting and readiness checks. Step up to the AL519 for more OBD-II test modes and graph views, or choose a tablet scanner for broader system access.
What should you check before choosing an Autel scanner?
Check vehicle compatibility, diagnostic depth, connection type and service needs before choosing an Autel scanner. A longer feature list only helps when the functions work on the cars you plan to scan.
Start with the vehicle's make, model and year, then identify the system or task you need to handle. Check compatibility for gateway access, resets, active tests and TPMS service.
Do you need a code reader or a full-system scanner?
An OBD-II reader is usually enough for engine and emissions codes, live data and readiness checks. The AL319 and AL519 serve this basic role, but neither provides the tablet tools' broader system coverage.
A full-system scanner can access more vehicle modules, such as transmission, ABS and airbag systems, when supported. Learn how to read OBD2 codes before clearing a code so you can record what the car reported.
Will you use active tests and service functions?
Active tests let a compatible scanner send commands to vehicle components so you can check their response. Service functions handle tasks such as resets or calibrations, but the available functions depend on the vehicle.
If you only need to find the cause of a check-engine light, a basic reader may be enough. For broader maintenance or fault checks, compare the scanner's supported functions with your vehicle and repair plan.
Do you need wired or wireless access?
A wired scanner stays connected by cable, while a wireless model pairs a vehicle interface with the tablet. Wired tools suit a fixed work area, while wireless tools can make it easier to move around the vehicle.
The MK808S and MX900 use wired connections. The MK900BT and MK808BT PRO are wireless, so decide how much range matters in your garage or shop.
Are newer protocols or TPMS support important?
CAN FD and DoIP can matter when working with vehicles that use those protocols. The MK900BT, MX900 and MK900TS include them, but check support for your vehicle.
TPMS work calls for a scanner with the needed sensor features. The MK900TS includes sensor activation, programming and relearn functions, while the other picks here suit general diagnostics or engine-code checks.
How did we compare these Autel scanners?
We compared each scanner's diagnostic coverage, active tests, service functions, protocols, connection type and intended use. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
Scores reflect fit for the needs described in each pick. Compatibility checks matter because scanner functions vary by make, model and year.
Which Autel scanner should you choose?
Choose the MK808S for a wired tablet with broad diagnostics and active tests, or the MK900BT for wireless access and CAN FD and DoIP. Pick the MK900TS when TPMS service is part of the job, and the AL319 for basic engine codes.
Before buying, verify support for the functions you need on your vehicle. If you are comparing other professional options, our Topdon scanner guide covers another brand in the same tool category.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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Frequently asked questions
Which Autel scanner is best for most home mechanics?
The Autel MaxiCOM MK808S is a strong fit if you want full-system diagnostics, active tests and service functions in one wired tablet. Confirm that it supports the functions you need on your specific vehicle before buying.
For basic engine codes, the AL319 is simpler.
For TPMS service, consider the MK900TS.
What is the difference between the Autel AL319 and AL519?
Both handle basic OBD-II checks, but the AL519 includes all 10 OBD-II test modes and shows live data in text and graph formats. The AL319 focuses on engine and emissions codes, live data, freeze-frame data and readiness checks.
Neither is a full-system tablet scanner.
Do Autel scanners work on every car?
No. Coverage and functions vary by vehicle, model year and the task you want to perform.
Before buying a scanner for a service function or module, check compatibility using your vehicle details.
This matters especially for gateway access, bidirectional tests, TPMS work and newer vehicles.
Is the MK900BT wireless?
Yes. The MK900BT uses a wireless connection, while the MK808S and MX900 use wired connections.
The MK808BT PRO also offers a wireless connection.
Choose based on how you work around the vehicle, then verify that your required diagnostic functions are supported.
