What is the difference between Launch X431 PRO3 SmartLink Series (PRO3 V+ Elite, PRO3S+ Elite, PRO5) and Autel MK908Pro II diagnostic tool? Which one is better? How to choose?
Check the detailed comparison below to make a good decision.
Comparison Table:
| Product Model | X431 PRO3 Smartlink Series | Autel Maxicom MK908Pro II |
| Full System Diagnosis | Yes | Yes |
| VIN Code Auto Recognition | Yes | Yes |
| Special Functions | 39 (including Multi-VIN detection and IMMO programmer ) | 38 |
| Actuation Test | Yes | Yes |
| VAG Guided Functions | Yes | Yes |
| BMW Guided Functions | Yes | – |
| ECU Coding | Yes | Yes |
| ECU Programming | Only X431 PRO5 supports BENZ/BMW | Yes |
| Repair Information | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Diagnosis | Yes | Yes |
| J2534, D-PDU/RP1210 | Yes | Yes |
| DoIP, CAN FD | Yes | – |
| SGW Gateway Unlock | Yes (FCA/Renault/VAG/European BENZ) | Yes (FCA/Renault) |
| Paid Database | Yes (HavnesPro) | – |
| Topology Map | Yes | – |
| Diagnostic Feedback | Yes | Yes |
| Mall | Yes | – |
| ADAS Calibration, Tire Pressure Diagnosis, Key Programmer, Immobilizer Programmer, Oscilloscope, Sensor, Multimeter, Insulation Tester, Current Clamp (Optional/Expandable) | Yes (optional) | – |
| Endoscope (Optional/Expandable) | Yes (optional) | Yes (optional) |
| Voltage Detection Clamp (Optional/Expandable) | Yes (optional) | Yes (optional) |
| Free Software Upgrade Period | 2 Years | 1 Year |
| Languages | 23+ | 21+ |
| Data Stream (PIDS) | 4-IN-1 | 5-IN-1 |
| Software Packages (Optional Expansion) | New Energy, Commercial Vehicles, Immobilizer, Motorcycle | – |
In conclusion:
1.X431 PRO3S+ ELITE VS X431 PRO3 V+ ELITE VS X431 PRO5:
There is only one key difference between these models:
- X-431 PRO3 (PRO3S+ ELITE) / X-431 PRO3 V+ ELITE do not support online programming.
- X-431 PRO5 supports online programming, but only for Mercedes-Benz and BMW vehicles.
2.X-431 PRO3 Smartlink Series vs. Autel MK908Pro II
X431 PRO3 Smartlink series offers several key advantages over Autel Maxicom MK908Pro II:
- Communication Protocols:
Support DoIP and CAN FD communication protocols, while MK908Pro II does not.
- BMW Guided Functions:
Support BMW guided functions, which MK908Pro II lacks.
- Topology Map:
Provide topology diagram support, a feature not available on MK908Pro II.
- SGW Gateway Unlock & Paid Databases:
Offer paid access to unlock gateways for FCA, Renault, VAG, and European Mercedes-Benz, along with the HaynesPro database. In contrast, MK908Pro II only supports gateway unlocking for FCA and Renault.
- Add-on Modules:
Support expansion of various software packages and multiple modules. Maxicom MK908Pro II only supports add-ons such as the endoscope and battery detection clamp.
- Special Function and Upgrades:
Offer 39+ special functions, 23+ languages, and a 2-year free software upgrade period. MK908Pro II provides only 38+ special functions, 21+ languages, and a 1-year free upgrade period.
3.Launch X431 PRO3 Smartlink Series Core Abilities:
- Smartlink Remote Diagnosis
- Topology Map
- High-Speed Scanning
- Diagnostic Plan
- HaynesPro Repair Database
- SGW Gateway
- Pin Detection
- CAN Analysis
- Protocol Support: CAN / CAN FD / DoIP / J2534
- ECU Programming (Launch X431 PRO5 only supports Mercedes/BMW)
- Mall (New Energy Vehicles, Commercial Vehicles, Immobilizer Systems, Motorcycles software)
- Add-on Modules
Suggestion:
For most professional technicians and auto repair shops, Launch X431 PRO3 Smartlink series presents a superior and more future-proof investment compared to Autel Maxicom MK908Pro II.
But if your budget is strictly limited to the initial hardware cost, and you do not foresee needing the expanded capabilities offered by X431 PRO3 series, you can choose MK908Pro II.
