The best OBD-II scanners are essential tools for modern car owners. These devices act as a bridge to your car’s onboard computer, unlocking a wealth of information about its health and performance. Whether you’re facing a mysterious dashboard light or just want to understand your vehicle better, an OBD scanner empowers you to diagnose issues and potentially save money on professional mechanic fees.
However, with a vast array of OBD-II scanners available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. The market is filled with options, from basic, budget-friendly devices to professional-grade scanners packed with advanced features. We’ve rigorously tested a wide range of OBD-II scanners over the years to bring you an expert Obd Scanner Comparison, highlighting the top performers and helping you make an informed decision.
Among our top recommendations, the Topdon TopScan stands out as a remarkably user-friendly wireless option, ideal for mobile diagnostics. For those prioritizing affordability, the Launch CR529, priced around $40, offers exceptional value. If you’re seeking a professional-level experience, the Topdon Phoenix Lite 2 delivers advanced diagnostic capabilities, though it comes with a higher price tag of $799.
Below, we present our comprehensive obd scanner comparison, detailing our top picks for the best OBD-II scanners currently available. Keep reading to explore in-depth reviews and discover which scanner best suits your needs and budget.
Tom Pritchard
Tom is the Tech Editor, covering everything from hardware to software and apps. He’s also an electric car enthusiast, and advocate for sustainable transport.
Quick OBD Scanner Comparison List
Based on our hands-on testing, here’s a quick OBD scanner comparison of the best models you can buy today. Scroll down for detailed reviews of each scanner and to understand why they earned their spot on our list.
1. Topdon TopScan: Best Mobile OBD-II Scanner
The Topdon TopScan is incredibly easy to set up via Bluetooth and packed with professional-grade features in a compact design. It offers comprehensive diagnostics, repair guidance, parts lists, and even predictive analysis to anticipate potential issues.
Read our in-depth review of the Topdon TopScan
2. Launch CR529: Best Budget OBD-II Scanner
The Launch CR529 is a small yet powerful handheld scanner that provides essential OBD-II functions and some advanced features typically found in higher-priced models. It includes lifetime support and updates, offering excellent value for money.
Read our detailed review of the Launch CR529
3. Topdon Phoenix Lite 2: Best Professional-Grade OBD-II Scanner
The Topdon Phoenix Lite 2 is a rugged, professional-grade scanner with a user-friendly interface, resembling a handheld gaming console. Designed for both professionals and experienced DIYers, it offers powerful diagnostic capabilities and durability.
Explore our full review of the Topdon Phoenix Lite 2
4. Ancel BD310: Best Dual-Purpose OBD-II Scanner
The Ancel BD310 functions as both a standard OBD-II scanner and an auxiliary dashboard display. It’s compact, affordable, and offers smartphone connectivity alongside handheld operation.
Discover more in our Ancel BD310 review
5. Carly OBD-II Scanner: Best OBD-II Scanner with Companion App
The Carly OBD-II Scanner excels with its feature-rich companion app, offering extensive customization and professional-level diagnostics, particularly for VW, BMW, and Ford vehicles.
Learn more in our complete Carly OBD-II Scanner review
Detailed OBD Scanner Comparison and Reviews
Why Trust Tom’s Guide? Our expert team rigorously tests and reviews products to provide unbiased and comprehensive recommendations. Learn more about our testing methodology.
1. Topdon TopScan: Best Mobile OBD-II Scanner
(Image credit: Topdon)
Key Features:
- Display/Size: None (App-based)
- Bluetooth/Handheld: Yes/No
- I/M Readiness Test: Yes
- Live Data Display: Yes
- Keys: None (Touchscreen via app)
- Warranty: 2 years
- Size: 3.2 x 2.0 x 1.1 inches
- Weight: 2.6 ounces
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent vehicle diagnostic coverage
- Comprehensive live data monitoring
- Unique performance indicators
- Maintenance item coverage
Reasons to Avoid:
- Larger transmitter size
- Subscription required for some features after one year
The Topdon TopScan may appear unassuming at first glance, but this compact scanner is surprisingly powerful. More than just a basic Bluetooth OBD-II module, it significantly surpasses competitors in its class. Beyond reading fault codes and running I/M Readiness tests, the TopScan excels in performance and efficiency analysis. It can even estimate your car’s horsepower and torque – features often absent in scanners costing ten times as much.
Whether you aim to fine-tune your vehicle’s performance or ensure its roadworthiness, the TopScan is an invaluable tool. Its ease of use and feature set make it a top contender in our obd scanner comparison, especially for users who prefer a wireless, app-driven experience.
Read our full Topdon TopScan review
2. Launch CR529: Best Budget OBD-II Scanner
(Image credit: Future)
Key Features:
- Display/Size: Color/ 2.8-inches
- Bluetooth/Handheld: No/Yes
- I/M Readiness Test: Yes
- Live Data Display: Yes
- Keys: 8
- Warranty: 1 year
- Size: 6.5 x 3.8 x 1.2 inches
- Weight: 11 ounces
Reasons to Buy:
- Very affordable
- Lifetime updates included
- Easy pre-inspection report generation
Reasons to Avoid:
- Lacks manufacturer-specific codes
- Feels somewhat heavy
- Shorter 1-year warranty
The Launch CR529 is arguably the best value OBD-II scanner on the market. Its low price point of around $40 is remarkable considering the diagnostic features it offers. We were impressed by the level of functionality packed into such an affordable device, making it a standout in our obd scanner comparison for budget-conscious buyers.
While compromises exist at this price – such as the absence of manufacturer-specific codes and a slightly heavy feel – the CR529 delivers essential features like live data, instant inspection reports, and in-depth vehicle insights. Lifetime updates further enhance its long-term value, eliminating subscription fees.
Although not ideal for professional mechanics needing advanced, manufacturer-specific diagnostics, the CR529 is an excellent choice for the average car owner seeking a reliable and affordable OBD-II scanner for routine maintenance and troubleshooting.
Explore our comprehensive Launch CR529 review
3. Topdon Phoenix Lite 2: Best Professional-Level OBD-II Scanner
(Image credit: Future)
Key Features:
- Display/Size: Color/8-inch Touchscreen
- Bluetooth/Handheld: Yes/Yes (Wireless connection to OBD port)
- I/M Readiness Test: Yes
- Live Data Display: Yes
- Keys: Touchscreen
- Warranty: 2 years
- Size: 10.2 x 7.2 x 1.7 inches
- Weight: 2.6 pounds
Reasons to Buy:
- Professional-grade OBD scanner capabilities
- Hybrid handheld with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Large 8-inch touchscreen display
- Extensive array of diagnostic tests and live data
- Includes adapters and rugged hard case
Reasons to Avoid:
- Bulky and heavy design
- Expensive initial investment
- Subscription required after two years for updates
The Topdon Phoenix Lite 2 is a premium OBD-II scanner that bridges the gap between amateur and professional diagnostics. While pricier than many other capable scanners, it offers significant value for its advanced features and robust performance, earning its place as the top professional-grade pick in our obd scanner comparison.
A standout feature is its wireless operation: the control pad connects via Bluetooth to a receiver plugged into the OBD port, providing exceptional freedom of movement around the vehicle. The scanner itself is built to withstand workshop environments with a rugged design and kickstand.
It boasts advanced capabilities like live data graphing, detailed fault information, and more, surpassing the features of most budget scanners. However, be aware of the post-warranty update subscription cost of $495 per year after the initial two years.
Read our in-depth Topdon Phoenix 2 Lite review
4. Ancel BD310: Best Dual-Purpose OBD-II Scanner
Ancel BD310 (Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
Key Features:
- Display/Size: Color/2 inches
- Bluetooth/Handheld: Yes/Yes
- I/M Readiness Test: Yes
- Live Data Display: Yes
- Keys: 4
- Warranty: 3 years
- Size: 5.1 x 2.4 x 0.6 inches
- Weight: 5.4 ounces
Reasons to Buy:
- Lightweight and compact design
- Functions as both scanner and secondary car display
- Offers handheld and Bluetooth scanning
Reasons to Avoid:
- Minimalist interface
- Small screen size
The Ancel BD310 is a versatile dual-purpose scanner that operates as a standard handheld device and can connect to smartphones via Bluetooth. Notably, it can also function as a secondary display, showing key engine data within your car’s cabin, making it a unique option in our obd scanner comparison.
Its compact and lightweight design makes the BD310 exceptionally portable, easily fitting in a glovebox. While the 2-inch display is small and the four-key interface slightly basic, these are minor drawbacks considering its functionality. It effectively performs essential tasks like I/M readiness tests and provides performance data including coolant temperature, engine timing, and speed.
The 56-inch cable is convenient for under-hood work. Overall, the Ancel BD310 offers a practical blend of portability and dual functionality at a reasonable price.
Read our full Ancel BD310 review
5. Carly OBD-II Scanner: Best OBD-II Scanner with Companion App
(Image credit: Carly)
Key Features:
- Display/Size: None (App-based)
- Bluetooth/Handheld: Yes/No
- I/M Readiness Test: No
- Live Data Display: Yes
- Keys: None (App-based)
- Warranty: Lifetime
- Size: 2.9 x 1.5 x 0.7 inches
- Weight: 0.7 ounces
Reasons to Buy:
- User-friendly app interface
- Extensive customization options
- Live data display and logging
- Maintenance and repair guidance
- Lifetime warranty and updates
Reasons to Avoid:
- Feature availability varies by car model
- App subscription can be costly for full features
The Carly OBD Scanner distinguishes itself with its exceptional companion app. Unlike many Bluetooth scanners with basic apps, Carly provides one of the most comprehensive and user-friendly app experiences we’ve encountered, making it the top pick in our obd scanner comparison for app integration.
Beyond basic diagnostics and clearing fault codes, the Carly app offers repair assistance, used car checks, and extensive customization. It also boasts a lifetime warranty, a rare and valuable benefit.
However, feature availability is car-dependent; compatibility should be verified before purchase, especially for advanced functions. Furthermore, a subscription is required to unlock the full potential beyond basic OBD features, which can add to the overall cost. Despite this, for users seeking a powerful app-driven OBD-II experience, particularly owners of VW, BMW, or Ford vehicles, the Carly scanner is a compelling choice.
Read our complete Carly OBD scanner review
Other OBD-II Scanners We’ve Tested
Innova CarScan Mobile 1000 (★★★★☆)
The Innova CarScan Mobile 1000 is a highly innovative Bluetooth OBD-II scanner, inheriting Innova’s renowned features like predictive diagnostics in a wireless, phone-based format. Its remarkably simple setup process further enhances its appeal as a Bluetooth-only option.
Read the full Innova CarScan Mobile 1000 review
ThinkCar ThinkDiag TKD01 (★★★★☆)
Despite its larger size for a Bluetooth OBD-II scanner, the ThinkCar ThinkDiag TKD01 is exceptionally robust. It offers a wide range of manufacturer-specific error codes and advanced fault-code analysis capable of resolving minor issues without mechanical intervention. A $40 subscription is required after the first year.
Read our full ThinkCar ThinkDiag TKD01 review
Autel AutoLink AL539 (★★★☆☆)
The Autel AutoLink AL539 excels at diagnosing electrical problems, thanks to its integrated multimeter. It can identify issues like damaged wiring, short circuits, and blown fuses. It also provides extensive live data and pre-inspection readiness checks.
Read our full Autel AutoLink AL539 review
Frequently Asked Questions about OBD-II Scanners
What is an OBD-II Scanner?
Mechanics use diagnostic scanners plugged into your car’s OBD port to access your car’s onboard computer and diagnose issues. OBD-II scanners, in their basic form, read and interpret error codes flagged by your car when it detects a problem. Advanced models can monitor systems in real-time and even predict potential future issues.
What is the OBD-II Port?
The On-Board Diagnostics Version Two (OBD-II) port is a standardized port found in almost all passenger vehicles sold in the United States since 1996, Canada since 1998, the EU since 2004, and other regions subsequently. It’s the interface point for devices like OBD-II scanners, insurance telematics, and dashcams to communicate with the car’s computer.
Find your car’s OBD-II port location on North American cars. For worldwide locations, see this guide to finding your OBD-II/EOBD port.
What is a DTC?
DTC stands for Diagnostic Trouble Code. It’s an error code generated by a car’s OBD system when it detects a problem. OBD-II scanners read these codes, allowing users to understand the nature of the issue. While many DTCs are standardized across vehicle makes and models, some manufacturers use proprietary DTCs.
What do DTCs Actually Mean?
DTCs may appear cryptic, but they follow a logical structure. The first character indicates the affected system: Powertrain (P), Body (B), Chassis (C), or Network (N). The second character, a number, denotes whether the code is generic (0) or manufacturer-specific (1).
The third character specifies the subsystem:
- 1: Fuel and air metering
- 2: Injector circuit (fuel and air metering)
- 3: Ignition system or misfire
- 4: Auxiliary emissions
- 5: Vehicle speed controls and idle control
- 6: Computer auxiliary outputs
- 7, 8, 9: Transmission and gearbox faults
- A, B, C: Hybrid propulsion faults
The fourth and fifth characters pinpoint the exact fault, ranging from 0 to 99. OBD-II scanners decode these codes into understandable descriptions. However, a vast number of potential DTCs exist (over 5,000), sometimes requiring further research. Not all DTCs signify critical problems; some may indicate minor issues like a slightly elevated engine temperature.
Choosing the Right OBD-II Scanner for Your Needs: An OBD Scanner Comparison Guide
For insights into your vehicle’s operation and potential issues, an OBD-II scanner is invaluable. It provides access to the same diagnostic information used by dealerships and repair shops. When considering an obd scanner comparison, remember there are two main types:
Handheld OBD-II scanners: These come with an integrated screen and cable for direct connection to the OBD port.
Wireless OBD-II scanners: These plug into the OBD port and transmit data wirelessly via Bluetooth to a smartphone or tablet.
High-quality OBD-II scanners are available across various price points, including budget-friendly options under $30 and advanced models under $200. Key factors to consider in your obd scanner comparison include:
- Ease of Setup: A scanner should be quick and easy to set up for timely diagnostics.
- Fault Code Explanation: The best scanners provide not only fault codes but also clear explanations for effective troubleshooting.
- I/M Readiness Check: A valuable feature for emissions testing, ensuring your vehicle will pass inspection.
- Accuracy: Reliable and accurate results are paramount for effective diagnostics.
- Size and Weight: Portability is important for on-the-go diagnostics and convenient storage.
- Live Data: Real-time monitoring of engine parameters aids in identifying intermittent issues.
- Graphs: Visual data representation enhances data analysis, especially for before-and-after comparisons.
- Warranty: Opt for scanners with robust warranties, ideally lifetime warranties, for long-term reliability.
When conducting your obd scanner comparison, decide whether you prefer a handheld scanner or a wireless model that pairs with your phone. Consider longevity by choosing scanners with lifetime updates or warranties. For handheld scanners, prioritize screen size and clarity. Rugged designs are beneficial for durability.
Explore extra features like electrical multimeters, manufacturer-specific code reading, and PDF report export. The affordability of even sophisticated OBD-II scanners makes them a worthwhile investment, often costing less than an hour of professional mechanic labor.
How We Test OBD-II Scanners
Our obd scanner comparison is based on rigorous testing. We evaluated each scanner using a 2014 Audi A4 Allroad over several weeks, in both garage and road conditions. Initial tests verified VIN reporting. Wireless scanners were paired with devices like Apple iPads, Microsoft Surfaces, and Samsung Galaxy phones via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Handheld scanners were powered directly through the OBD-II port.
Cord length (for handhelds) and wireless range were measured. Engine and system monitoring was conducted while the car was running. Fault code detection was tested by intentionally disconnecting the engine oil temperature sensor. Scanner details were assessed, the issue was resolved, and fault codes were cleared using each scanner.
Road tests evaluated live data display, including engine speed, timing, and coolant temperature, noting data presentation formats (numerical, graphs, gauges). Our testing methodology ensures a comprehensive and practical obd scanner comparison to guide your purchase decision.
Understanding fault codes is crucial. Codes consist of a letter prefix (P, B, C, or U) and five numbers. Generic codes (starting with ‘0’) apply universally, while manufacturer-specific codes (starting with ‘1’) are unique to specific carmakers, often indicating specialized components or in-depth issue analysis. For example, P0098 typically indicates an intake air temperature sensor issue, whereas a Ford-specific P1112 code points to intermittent intake air temperature sensor readings requiring replacement.
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