Best Autel Scanner Guide: Compare MX, MK, MP, MS & Ultra Series
If you’ve ever looked for an Autel scanner online, you probably got lost in the alphabet soup.
MX, MK, MP, MS… BT, TS, Pro, Ultra. It’s a lot.
Here’s the good news:
Once you understand how Autel organizes their scanners, picking the right one becomes easy.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through every current Autel scanner series from basic code readers to professional diagnostic workstations.
First, a Quick Overview
Autel scanners split into two big groups:
Let’s break down what actually matters.
Are the Basic Functions the Same Across All Autel Tablets?
Do All Autel Tablets Do the Same Basic Stuff?
Yes — regardless of the model, every Autel tablet scanner is equipped with these essential core functions:
✅ Read & clear codes
✅ Show live data
✅ Run service functions
✅ Run special functions
✅ Active tests / Bi-directional control
The Key Difference: It’s not about the basics—it’s about how deep they go into vehicle systems and which advanced features (like coding, topology, or specialized IMMO) are unlocked.
MX vs MK – Same Thing, Different Name
💡 Pro-Tip: The "Model Name" Secret
Here’s a secret that saves you money: MX808S, MK808S, and MK808Z are identical in terms of core functionality.
The only real differences are:
- Distribution channels: Different distributors, but no core feature differences.
- Supported languages: May vary depending on the target region.
👉 Don’t stress over MX vs. MK. Simply focus on the model number instead!
Current Models at a Glance
1. Entry-Level Professional Scanners
🔹MX&MK 808 models (Basic Diagnostics)
- • MX808S / MK808S / MK808Z: Standard wired connection.
- • MK808BT Pro: Wireless (Bluetooth VCI), supports BT506 battery tester.
- • MX808S-TS / MK808S-TS / MK808Z-TS: MK808BT Pro + TPMS functions.
🔹 MX&MK 900 Model (Upgraded 808)
Models: MX900 / MK900-BT / MK900-TS
- ✅ New Features: Scan VIN, Scan License, Pre & Post Scan.
- ✅ Protocol Support: DoIP and CAN FD (Essential for new BMW, Mercedes, GM).
2. Advanced Professional Scanners
🔹 MP Series (advanced scanners)
If you run a small repair shop or work on German cars regularly, start here.
🔹 906 & 908 series (advanced scanners)
Models: MS906 Pro / MK906S Pro / MS906 Pro-TS/ MK906S PRO2-TS/ MK908 II
- ✅ Online ECU coding for BMW, Porsche, VW
- ✅ Reflash hidden functions (VW/Audi/Skoda)
- ✅ Guided functions for VAG and Bentley
- ✅ MK908 II adds McLaren & Tesla diagnostics
- ✅ MS906 Pro&MS906 Pro-TS models support Remote Expert
3. Professional Workshop Diagnostic Scanners
🔹 MS Elite II Pro & MS908S Pro II
Once you hit this level, you get:
Once you hit this level, these devices unlock professional-grade capabilities for demanding workshop environments:
- 🔹 Online ECU Programming: Exclusive support for Benz & BMW.
- 🔹 Audi Online ECU Coding: Advanced customization and configuration.
- 🔹 Expanded Coverage: Full diagnostic support for McLaren & Tesla.
💡 Pro Insight: The MS Elite II Pro is the modernized successor to the MS908S Pro II. It features an extended 2-year free update package and full support for both D-PDU and RP1210 protocols.
4. Flagship Autel Diagnostic Scanners
🔹 MS909, MS919, Ultra Lite S, Ultra
This is where Autel stops holding back. All of these support:
🌐 Topology Mapping
Visualizes the entire vehicle network. See how every module talks to each other and identify communication faults instantly.
👨💻 Remote Expert
Get stuck? Connect with a remote, experienced technician who can assist with complex diagnostics directly through your tool.
🛠️ VCMI (Exclusive to MS919 & Ultra)
The ultimate diagnostic hub. It integrates: Oscilloscope, Signal Generator, Multimeter, and Bus Test.
5. Want to test EVs?
For workshops looking to expand into the electric vehicle market, Autel provides two distinct paths:
1. Dedicated EV Diagnostic Tablets
If you are looking for an all-in-one, purpose-built solution, our dedicated EV Series tablets include advanced diagnostic software specifically for electric vehicle battery packs and high-voltage systems.
Models: MS909EV, MS919EV, and Ultra EV.
The Advantage: Out-of-the-box readiness for comprehensive EV diagnostics.
The Advantage: Out-of-the-box readiness for comprehensive EV diagnostics.
2. The Upgrade Path (EV Box)
Already own a flagship unit? You don't necessarily need to buy a new tablet. You can transform your existing diagnostic ecosystem.
The Solution: Pair your current MS909, MS919, or Ultra with an EV Box.
The Result: This configuration gives you the exact same professional-grade diagnostic capabilities as the dedicated EV models.
The Result: This configuration gives you the exact same professional-grade diagnostic capabilities as the dedicated EV models.
6. Heavy Duty Truck Scanners Series
Service and repair for commercial vehicles (CV) require a different level of power and precision. Whether you are managing a fleet of light-duty trucks or heavy-duty machinery, you need tools built to handle the unique protocols and robust requirements of the commercial sector.
To meet these demands, Autel offers our specialized CV series, engineered to provide comprehensive, dealer-level diagnostic coverage for heavy-duty and light commercial vehicles.
MS909CV
The ultimate powerhouse for comprehensive heavy-duty diagnostics. It features the advanced VCI/J2534 protocol support, extensive vehicle coverage, and an intuitive, guided repair process that helps technicians pinpoint faults in complex heavy-duty systems with ease.
MS908CV II
The high-efficiency standard for commercial vehicle service. It provides deep system access for a wide range of trucks, buses, and trailers, making it the perfect reliable workhorse for busy workshops that need speed, accuracy, and versatility in every diagnostic scan.
Which One Should You Actually Buy?
Here’s my no-BS advice:
| You are… | Best Autel scanner |
|---|---|
| A DIYer at home | MX808S or MK808BT Pro |
| A DIYer with newer cars (2020+) | MK900-BT (for DoIP/CAN FD) |
| A small shop owner, mostly Japanese/Korean/US cars | MK900 series |
| A shop working on German cars (VW, BMW, Audi, Porsche) | MP808BT Pro (best value) |
| A busy shop that needs coding & programming | MS906 Pro (coding only) or MS908S Pro II |
| A high-end shop with exotic cars & EVs | MS919 or Ultra |
