When you hunt for the right OBD2 scanner, it’s likely you will come across both the Autel MaxiCom MK808 and the MaxiDas DS808.
Both of them have incredible qualities that benefit the work of any professional mechanic, but which one is best?
By looking at the differences and similarities of the two, you can find a clear winner in the battle of an Autel MK808 vs. Autel DS808.
Autel MK808 or Autel DS808: Which One is Best?
It depends on what your needs are. The Autel Maxicom MK808 offers compatibility with cars after 1996. It also clears difficult trouble codes and solves a wide range of issues. If you work on multiple vehicles across several makes, this would be the way to go.
If, however, you need deeper diagnostic ability to troubleshoot engine problems, you will want to view live ECM data. Then, the Autel DS808 would be the best option for you.
Autel MK808 Overview
There’s no question that the Autel MK808 offers some of the broadest compatibility available. It works with every make and model vehicle after 1996 and reads most manufacturer-specific codes. You get more than just essential code reading with this scan tool.
With it, you can read and reset DPF, IMMO, ABS, SAS, TPMS codes and perform an oil reset. The large, 7-inch color touchscreen works just like a modern tablet. It features plenty of power and recharges faster than most scan tools.
This unit connects your car with the use of a cord, but the built-in battery allows you to keep the engine off for diagnostics. It also features Wi-Fi capability which enables you to connect to the Internet and download future updates.
Another perk to this device is how it reprograms new keys and disables the old one. This is helpful if you ever lose the key to your car.
One of the downsides to this unit is that it doesn’t read OBD1 codes. If you have an older vehicle, this isn’t going to be a helpful scan tool. It also doesn’t offer some of the advanced functionality that the DS808 provides.
Autel DS808 Overview
The Autel Maxidas DS808 has an entirely different focus. This machine works with ECU and engine diagnostics on a larger scale. To do this, it doesn’t offer some other functions that you might want. If you specialize in engine repair, there’s not much you will lack with this OBD2 scanner.
With the large 7-inch screen, 32 GB of onboard storage and super-fast processor, you will be able to read codes and interpret the data quickly. When time is money, it’s vital that you complete your jobs with ease.
This scanner does have some impressive coverage of vehicles. It covers over 80 vehicles from the United States, Europe and Asia dated after 1996. Aside from that, it weighs just over two pounds. This lightweight tool is portable and easy to carry around with you.
While it does offer Bluetooth capability so you won’t need cables, there are some limitations. It won’t clear all manufacturer specific codes such as ABS and airbags. Of course, professionals focused on engine repair won’t be as concerned about that particular ability and prefer the more in-depth engine scans this tool provides
Comparison of the Key Features Between an Autel MK808 & Autel DS808
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key features between the two machines. This will help you to determine the winner between an Autel MK808 vs. Autel DS808 based on your needs.
Capability
Both machines offer the ability to cover many vehicles dated after 1996. The difference between the two is what they read and troubleshoot. With the Autel MK808, you receive a broader range of trouble code coverage and the ability to clear the codes. On the Autel DS808, the focus is primarily on engine diagnostics.
Price
You will pay a few hundred dollars more to acquire the Autel DS808. Because it’s a specialty tool focused on engine diagnostics, it makes sense that it would require a more substantial investment. For a mechanic that doesn’t need the in-depth engine analysis, it might not be worth the extra cost.
Size
Both systems offer the same 7-inch touchscreen. This tablet-size scanner is easy to hold and comfortable, no matter which model you choose.
Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Connectivity
Both units offer Wi-Fi capability, which is helpful for getting on the Internet and for receiving updates. Only the DS808 features Bluetooth connectivity. If you prefer to do your work without the use of cables, then the Autel DS808 has what you want.
Functions
With the Autel MK808, you can read and erase manufacturer-specific codes such as oil, airbag and ABS. This is a great tool to turn off any dashboard indicator or for performing basic scans.
On the other hand, the Autel DS808 offers extensive engine diagnostics, so some of the other functions are overlooked. It reads ECU information and provides a deep analysis. For this reason, it’s the ideal tool to repair engines.
Final Verdict: Autel MK808 or DS808?
While there is not a clear cut winner to the competition, you might not like to hear that they both win, but for different reasons. Each of these offers unique capabilities geared toward a specific user.
The Autel Maxidas DS808 provides more in-depth diagnostics into engine trouble. With the live ECU data, you have everything you need to resolve engine issues promptly.
If you specialize in engine diagnostics and repair, then the DS808 is the best unit for you.