Autel diagnostic devices at a glance: origin, functions and buying advice
Autel is one of the world's leading manufacturers of professional vehicle diagnostic systems. Its devices cover a wide range – from compact OBD2 scanners for hobbyists to high-end diagnostic platforms for automotive workshops. Below, we answer the most important questions about Autel: from production and possible applications to the best models and the cost of updates.
Where is Autel manufactured?
Autel Intelligent Technology Corp. Ltd. is an international company headquartered in Shenzhen, China . Both development and a large part of production are located there. Autel also operates international offices, including in the USA (New York) , Germany (Munich) , and Mexico , to ensure sales, service, and support worldwide.
All devices undergo strict quality controls according to international standards such as ISO 9001. Despite being manufactured in China, the quality meets the requirements of European workshops and hobby users.
Which Autel is the best?
The best Autel diagnostic tool depends on the application:
- For hobbyists and smaller workshops : Models like the Autel MaxiCOM MK808 or Autel MaxiDAS DS808 offer excellent value for money. They enable comprehensive fault diagnostics, service functions (e.g., oil service reset), and ease of use.
- For professional automotive workshops : High-end models such as Autel MaxiSys Ultra or MaxiIM IM608 Pro II provide advanced functions such as ECU programming, coding, ADAS calibration and key programming.
The "best" device is the one that best suits the work environment. For an independent workshop with a wide range of vehicle brands, a high-end scanner is worthwhile, while for private users, more compact models are sufficient.
Is Launch better or Autel?
Autel and Launch are both leading manufacturers of professional diagnostic devices, but differ in some respects:
- Ease of Use : Autel places great emphasis on intuitive user interfaces. Many users find the menu navigation clearer and updates easier.
- Vehicle coverage : Both brands cover virtually all common vehicle manufacturers. However, Autel often has the edge in Europe when it comes to coverage of current models.
- Price-performance : Launch devices are sometimes a bit cheaper, while Autel often offers additional high-end features such as ADAS (driver assistance system calibration).
Conclusion: Autel scores with broad vehicle coverage and future-oriented features , while Launch is attractive for price-conscious users. Which brand is better depends on budget, application, and desired feature set.
What is Autel used for?
Autel diagnostic tools are used in vehicle diagnostics and maintenance . Typical applications include:
- Read and delete error codes (engine, transmission, ABS, airbag, etc.)
- Evaluate live data , e.g. sensor values, fuel pressure or battery voltage
- Service functions such as oil service reset, DPF regeneration or steering angle sensor calibration
- ECU coding and programming (depending on model)
- Key and immobilizer programming (for IM series)
- ADAS calibration for modern driver assistance systems
This makes Autel devices equally suitable for hobby users, independent workshops and brand-independent diagnostic centers.
Which Autel diagnostic tool is the best?
There are different top models for different user groups:
- Beginner/Hobby : Autel MaxiCOM MK808 or Autel MaxiDAS DS808 – ideal for basic diagnostics and service functions.
- Professional workshops : Autel MaxiSys MS906 Pro or MS908S Pro – comprehensive vehicle coverage and fast data processing.
- High-end applications : Autel MaxiSys Ultra and MaxiIM IM608 Pro II – the top models for ECU coding, programming, ADAS and key management.
If you are looking for a device for cross-brand diagnostics at the highest level , the MaxiSys Ultra is currently the best option.
How much does an Autel update cost?
Autel diagnostic tools operate with an annual software license , which should be renewed regularly to maintain access to current vehicle data, new models, and advanced features. The cost of this renewal depends on the specific device and its scope of services. After the license expires, the tools can still be used, but without the latest software versions and without access to newly added vehicle models. Therefore, an annual software license renewal is recommended for workshops that regularly work with the latest vehicles.
Which is the most advanced Autel scanner?
The most advanced model currently is the Autel MaxiSys Ultra . It offers:
- Android 10 tablet with a large 12.9-inch touchscreen
- 5-in-1 VCMI module (oscilloscope, multimeter, signal generator, CAN bus tester, etc.)
- Intelligent diagnostics with automatic VIN recognition
- Advanced ECU programming and coding
- ADAS calibration for driver assistance systems
- Wireless connection with extremely fast data transfer
The Autel MaxiIM IM608 Pro II is also the leader for key and immobilizer programming, while the MaxiSys Ultra is considered the reference for workshops focusing on high-end vehicles.
Autel impresses from entry-level to high-end
Autel has established itself as one of the world's leading providers of vehicle diagnostics. The company offers a wide range, from compact devices for hobbyists to high-end scanners for professionals. Manufacturing in China is secured by strict quality controls, and international support ensures reliable updates and service.
Which model is best depends largely on the area of application: For home use, devices such as the MK808 are sufficient, while workshops rely on the MaxiSys Ultra or the IM series for future-proof diagnostics.