In the market for a professional automotive diagnostic scanner? This detailed comparison breaks down the top mid-range options: the Autel MD906PRO, Foxwell NT716, and Launch CRP129X Elite (including the CRP129I V2.0). We analyze their key features, performance, and value to help you choose the best OBD2 scanner for your needs.
Autel MD906PRO vs Foxwell NT716 vs Launch CRP129
| Brand | Autel | FOXWELL | LAUNCH | LAUNCH |
| Product | MD906 PRO | NT716 | CRP129X Elite | CRP129I V2.0 |
| Price | $299 | $255 | $259 | $239 |
| Software Update | lifetime | lifetime | lifetime | lifetime |
| Connection | V150 Lite | Wired | Wired | Wired |
| System | Android 9 | Android 9 | Android 7 | Android 8 |
| Battery | 5000mAh | 4000mAh | 6100mAh | 6100mAh |
| Storage | 64G | 32G | 16G | 32G |
| Screen | 5.5-inch | 5.5-inch | 5-inch | 5-inch |
| Vehicle Coverage | All series | All series | All series | All series |
| System Coverage | All | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Read & clear codes | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Version Info | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Data Stream | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Actuation Test | × | × | √(Pay separately) | × |
| Special Functions | × | × | √(Pay separately) | × |
| Gateway Unlock | FCA, SFD, etc. | FCA | FCA | × |
| Communication Protocol | CANFD | / | / | / |
| Oil reset | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| ABS bleed | √ | √ | × | √ |
| Injector coding | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| SAS | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| THROTTLE | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| EPB | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| BMS | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| TPMS | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| DPF | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| AFS Headlamp | √ | × | × | √ |
| A/F | √ | × | × | √ |
| AdBlue-Fuel Electrical | × | × | × | √ |
| Power Detection (Autel BT506) | × | × | × | × |
Technical Overview
- Hardware Specifications
Display: The Autel MD906 PRO and FOXWELL NT716 both feature a 5.5-inch screen, while the LAUNCH models have a 5-inch display.
Battery: LAUNCH models lead with 6100mAh, followed by Autel’s 5000mAh and FOXWELL’s 4000mAh.
Storage: Autel offers the most storage at 64GB. FOXWELL and LAUNCH CRP129I V2.0 provide 32GB, while the CRP129X Elite has 16GB.
Connectivity: Only the Autel MD906 PRO supports wireless Bluetooth connectivity; the others rely on wired connections.
- Software and Performance
- All devices include lifetime software updates.
- Each tool supports essential functions like reading/clearing codes, data stream, and version info.
- The Autel and FOXWELL units run on Android 9, while LAUNCH models use older Android versions (7 or 8).
- Key Differentiators
Autel MD906 PRO: Stands out with wireless operation, large storage, CANFD protocol support, and advanced gateway unlocking (e.g., FCA/SFD). It offers full-system diagnostics and supports 11+ service functions.
FOXWELL NT716: A solid wired option with good battery life and core features, but lacks wireless capability and some advanced functions.
LAUNCH CRP129X Elite / CRP129I V2.0: Offer strong battery performance and several advanced features (e.g., AdBlue, AFS, A/F), though some functions require additional payment. The V2.0 model includes more storage and newer Android OS.
Autel, Launch, or Foxwell? Picking the Right Tool
For users seeking wireless freedom, extensive storage, and support for the latest vehicle protocols, the Autel MD906 PRO is an excellent choice. Its Bluetooth connectivity and full-system coverage make it ideal for professional technicians working with modern vehicles.
Alternatively, the LAUNCH CRP129X Elite is a strong candidate for those who prefer a wired tool with high battery capacity and access to paid advanced functions like actuation tests and special operations.
Both tools offer lifetime updates and broad vehicle compatibility, ensuring long-term usability and value.
