Top 10 Launch scanners – What makes them the best?

Launch scanners need no introduction as they are consistently among the best selling automotive diagnostic tools.

Basic Launch scan tools can read engine lights, freeze frame data, check O2 and EVAP sensors, show live data, etc.

For users who want more powerful tools, there are advanced scanners that offer ABS/SRS, EPB, DPF, SAS, TPMS and even bidirectional control (active testing) and ECU programming. Our article presents the 10 best Launch scanners while still keeping affordability in mind.

Best Launch scanners reviews

As the table shows, these are the 5 best Launch scan tools that we can think of for everyday users, while still being reasonably affordable. Our review will help you understand why we chose these specific scan tools and we hope that you find the one that is best for all your needs.

So, without further ado, let’s have a look at the 10 best Launch scan tools on the market:

Launch CRP123 V2.0 Plus Elite OBD2 scanner

The Launch CRP123 will let you diagnose four of the most common car systems including engine / transmission / ABS and SRS. In addition, it supports all 10 OBD2 modes, too.

Features

Common features: The scanner can read and clear the check engine light, perform I/M readiness checks, auto check a car’s identification information (VIN), show code definitions (DTC), and record/play live data as well.

10 OBDII / OBD2 modes: You can request all available data from the car’s ECU since this scanner supports all 10 OBD2 modes. You will also be able to request freeze frame data, EVAP/O2 sensor data, emission information, vehicle information, etc.

ABS/SRS: The Launch CRP123 can read and reset both ABS and SRS issues in your car. Both these systems are crucial for your car’s safety.

Transmission codes: The scanner can show live transmission data on the screen including fuel status, emission data.

Vehicle coverage

This Launch CRP123 scan tool works on all OBD2 supported vehicles that are made in 1996 or later. It also supports all the major OBD2 protocols.

Verdict

The Launch CRP123 V2.0 Plus Elite OBD2 scanner is ideal for car owners who want to find issues in the ABS, SRS, engine, and transmission system of their cars and is an easy to use and very efficient device. It will be able to do pretty much everything that any day-to-day DIY user could ever need and more.

Launch CR319 OBD2 scanner

This Launch CR319 code reader offers all the basic features you could need and has a durable cable that is known to be strong.

Features

Basic features: The Launch CR319 can read/clear engine light codes, freeze frame data, test O2/EVAP sensors, perform on-board monitoring, and pick up vehicle identification information via the auto VIN feature as well.

DTC: It will show you code definitions so that you can figure out what a code means.

Plug and play: The device performs diagnosis as soon as you plug it into the OBD2 port.

Vehicle coverage

It supports all 1996 and modern vehicles that are OBD2 compliant.

Verdict

The Launch CR319 OBD2 scanner is for beginners and DIYers who want to find and solve minor issues on their own.

Read more: Launch CR529 VS CR629 – H2H comparison and review

Launch X431 CRP919X Bidirectional OBD2 scanner

The Launch X431 CRP919X is an advanced OBD2 scan tool which offers full system diagnostics, capable of in excess of 35 service functions including oil reset, SAS reset, gear learning, injector coding, ABS bleeding, IMMO key programming, clutch matching and many more.

Features

Common/Basic features: This scan tool has access to all 10 OBD2 modes and offers all the basic features including freeze frame data, read/clear engine light, DTC, I/M readiness, O2/EVAP, live data and more.

Oil reset: This scan tool will tell you once it’s time for an oil change. In addition, you will be able to turn off the oil reset light.

EPB: The tool will find issues with the electronic park brake and allow you to reset the code.

ABS bleeding: You will be able to perform ABS bleeding with this tool.

Key fob/IMMO function: You can generate a new key or reset an existing electronic key with this scan tool.

TPMS: The scanner will read, clear and reset all TPMS related codes for your tyre pressure monitoring system and sensors.

SAS: The Launch X431 CRP919X will read and clear all SAS related codes and allow you to calibrate your steering angle position.

DPF: The Launch X431 CRP919X can read all Diesel Particulate Filter related codes and reset them once the issue is resolved.

BMS: This advanced scanner will allow you to reset your battery after a replacement so you won’t need to go to a dealership to turn off the battery light if you decide to replace your battery yourself.

Bidirectional control: Actuation tests or bidirectional control capabilities (active testing) are another very impressive feature of this scanner for more advanced users and professionals, which allows the activation and testing of certain electronic components in the vehicle from the scanner itself, saving a lot of time when trying to diagnose a problem.

ECU coding: This scanner is also able to perform ECU coding which is an advanced feature which involves modification of the vehicle software to enable the use of features that, for various reasons (mainly country specific regulations), are not available in the car when it leaves the factory. ECU coding changes pre-programmed options that are already present in the software and which your car is already capable of. ECU coding is unheard of in this price range, and this feature is usually only available in products that cost in excess of $800 or more. This is a very impressive feature.

Vehicle coverage

All 1996 and newer OBD2 supported vehicles will work with this scanner. In fact, it supports more than 150 vehicle brands and over 100,000 vehicle models worldwide.

Verdict

Experienced DIYers, enthusiasts, and professional mechanics will all love this Launch X431 CRP919X OBD2 scanner as it can cater to ABS/SRS/transmission/engine systems and supports all 10 OBD2 modes, as well having more advanced bidirectional control (active testing) and ECU coding capabilities.

Launch Creader 3001 OBD2 scan tool

The Launch Creader 3001 OBD2 scanner can do a number of useful things such as read and erase engine light codes, display live sensor data, check O2, and EVAP sensors, etc.

It might not have advanced functionalities but still, it is very useful and is an excellent tool for beginners.

Features

Common features: This Launch scan tool offers many basic features including engine code reading/clearing, EVAP/O2 test, on-board monitor test, smog test, I/M readiness, and freeze frame.

DTC: With the Launch Creader 3001, you can figure out what a particular code means. This feature explains the meanings of codes, removing the need to Google what a specific code means.

Fuel leaks and engine temp: The scanner monitors leaks in the fuel tank and also shows your engine temperature.

Ease of use: Using this Launch OBD2 scanner is a breeze as all you need to do is plug it in.

Vehicle coverage

The Launch Creader 3001 supports all the vehicles built in 1996 or after.

Verdict

The Launch Creader 3001 OBD2 scan tool is a great tool for beginners who want to sort out minor engine problems in the car.

Launch X431 Pros Mini bi-directional OBD2 scanner

If you’re looking for a bidirectional tool with advanced features then the Launch X431 Pros Mini will be your best bet. It offers various advanced features such as TPMS, DPF, BMS, Key coding, bidirectional control (active testing), ECU Coding, SAS, ABS bleeding, etc.

Features

Oil reset: This scan tool will tell you once it’s time for an oil change. Moreover, you can use it to turn off the oil reset light.

EPB: The tool will find issues in the EPB system and help you reset the code.

ABS bleeding: ABS brake bleeding is important to ensure the brake works well. You will be able to perform this complicated process with this tool.

Key fob: You can generate a key and use it to turn your car’s ignition on.

TPMS: The scanner will read and clear all TPMS related codes.

SAS: It will read and clear all SAS related codes and also calibrate a misaligned steering angle position.

DPF: The Launch X431 Pros Mini can read all DPF related codes and reset them once the issue is resolved.

BMS: You will be able to replace the battery on your own as this beauty offers a battery reset feature.

Bidirectional controls: Actuation tests and bidirectional capabilities (active testing) are another strong point of this scanner that more advanced users and professionals will love.

ECU coding: This scanner is also able to perform ECU coding which allows you to reprogram and customize the vehicle ECU software and to reprogram data when a vehicle component is replaced.

Vehicle coverage

It supports all 1996 and newer OBD2 supported vehicles.

Verdict

The Launch X431 Pros Mini bi-directional OBD2 scanner is suitable for experienced mechanics and professionals as it offers some really impressive advanced features.

Launch CR629 OBD2 scan tool

The Launch CR629 supports all 10 OBD2 modes and provides basic bidirectional capabilities too (for ABS and SRS systems), but its main strength lies in its airbag/SRS diagnostic functions.

Features

Common features: It supports DTC lookup, I/M readiness, engine light codes, and freeze frame data.

10 OBD2 modes: Since it supports all 10 OBD2 modes, you can request data including powertrain, freeze frame, emission system, oxygen sensor data, and on board monitoring.

Bidirectional: The Launch CR629 plus will allow you to send and receive data to and from the ABS and SRS systems. This scanner is particularly focused on SRS/airbag diagnostics so it has some really impressive functionality relating the the airbag system.

Vehicle coverage

The Launch CR629 OBD2 scanner supports all US, European, and Asian brands that are OBD2 compliant.

Verdict

The Launch CR629 OBD2 scanner can be a great option for users who require basic features and want to solve basic problems and in particular, check the ABS/SRS systems.

Launch Creader VII+ OBD2 scan tool

Launch Creader VII+ has a 3.5 TFT screen. It lets you check engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS codes.  

Features

Basic features: The Launch Creader VII+ allows you to perform a plethora of basic features such as I/M readiness, freeze frame, O2 and EVAP testing, and DTC lookup.

Transmission diagnosis: This Launch scan tool keeps you updated about the vehicle’s speed and load. Moreover, it will show live transmission data on the screen for easy diagnosis.

ABS/SRS: With the Launch Creader VII+ diagnostic tool, you will be able to figure out why the ABS and SRS lights are on in your car. It will pass a code after the diagnosis is done. You can run a DTC lookup and check what the code indicates.

This way, you will be able to resolve any ABS and SRS issues and reset the light as well.

Vehicle coverage

It supports all vehicles manufactured in 1996 or later, including both OBD2 and CAN protocols.

However, ABS/SRS/ENG/AT code reading is supported only in vehicles built after 2006.

Verdict

DIYers, semi-professionals, and mechanics will love this Launch Creader VII+ OBD2 scan tool as it can cater to ABS/SRS/transmission/engine systems and supports all 10 OBD2 modes as well. It is an excellent pick for users who have a modern car and require a broad range of functions.

Launch X431 Diagun V bidirectional OBD2 scan tool

The Launch X431 Diagun V is a bidirectional tool that offers advanced functionalities. It can also be operated wirelessly since it supports Bluetooth technology. In fact, you can also use the internet on the device via WiFi.

Features

Advanced features: This Launch scan tool allows you to use many advanced features such as:

• ABS/SRS: You can read ABS/SRS lights and reset them after fixing the problem. Moreover, it also supports ABS bleeding.
• Key fob: Create a unique key without which the car’s ignition won’t start.
• TPMS: It will monitor tire pressure and tell you if there’s a problem in the TPMS sensors.
• Oil reset: This Launch diagnostic tool can read and reset the oil light.
• EPB: It can find issues in the electronic parking brake system and help reset it, too.
• SAS: The Launch X431 Diagun V can help set the steering angle position and find faults in the system.
• DPF: Problems in the diesel particulate filter such as soot build up can be diagnosed by this scanner.
• BMS: You can use it to reset the battery.

Other features: It supports other advanced features as well such as injector coding, gear learning, and throttle matching.

Bidirectional control: Bidirectional control (or active testing) is an advanced feature that allows you to control and activate certain electronic components in the vehicle directly from the scan tool, without having to test them manually on the vehicle itself. It will allow you to perform matching, actuation tests, and find issues in specific components of subsystems.

ECU programming/coding: This is another advanced function which this supported by this scanner which allows modification of the vehicle’s ECU software so that you can get more out of your car, including performance tuning, emissions compliance and many other customization options.

Vehicle coverage

This Launch scanner supports more than 150 OBDII/OBD2-supported brands on vehicles made on and after 1996.

Verdict

The Launch X431 Diagun V bidirectional OBD2 scan tool is a great pick for more experienced users who want to solve complex issues on their own. It is a little more pricey than more basic scanners, but this is a really powerful diagnostic device for the money.

Launch CRP129X Elite OBD2 scanner

The Launch CRP129X Elite is an excellent tool that can perform many advanced features including ABS/SRS, TPMS, SAS, and oil reset. 

Features

Common functions: Launch CRP129X Elite can read/clear engine errors, show live data, conduct a carbon canister test, search the library, perform O2/EVAP test, and check freeze frame data.

EPB reset: A malfunctioned EPB system won’t keep your car stationary when parked. This situation can lead to accidents. Therefore, a problem in this system shouldn’t be taken lightly.

The scan tool will read the system and identify the cause of the problem so you can solve it.

SAS:  This feature comes in handy when you replace the steering sensors. The system needs to be reset which can be done with this tool.

Moreover, it will also read and reset SAS related codes.

ABS/SRS/ABS bleed: You can figure out why the ABS/SRS light is on thanks to this scanner. It will diagnose and tell you what the problem is.

Apart from that, you can perform ABS brake bleeding as well.

TPMS reset: This tool can also perform TPMS reset for when new tyre pressure sensors are installed.

Oil light reset: The oil light can be on for a number of reasons but mostly, it indicates that an oil replacement is due. This scanner will tell you why the oil light is on and help reset it too.

Vehicle coverage

This Launch scan tool supports over 60 car brands for vehicles made in 1996 or later. It supports OBD2/EOBD/JOBD (US, European and Japanese) vehicle protocols.

Verdict

The Launch CRP129X Elite professional OBD2 scanner is a very capable and reliable Launch scan tool.  It is suitable for beginners, enthusiasts and pros alike.

Launch CRT5011E OBD2 scanner

The Launch CRT5011E offers a mix of basic and advanced features. This scan tool is a multi-purpose OBD2 device capable of accessing all 10 OBD2 modes, Check Engine Light diagnosis, and also TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system) relearn.

Features

Basic features: It can read and clear engine codes, check I/M readiness status, conduct O2 sensor tests, read vehicle information, provide live data with freeze-frame, and more.

TPMS: The Launch CRT5011E is a great device when installing aftermarket tire pressure sensors or replacing TPMS sensors on your vehicle. Users can use the tire pressure diagnosis and activation tool to trigger and relearn the TPMS sensors. In addition, it can also diagnose issues related to tire pressure and use programming to turn off the TPMS light.

Vehicle coverage

It supports more than 40 brands made in 1996 or later. However, advanced features work on vehicles made in 2006 or later only.

It supports all OBD2 supported vehicles manufactured in 1996 or later.

Verdict

The Launch CRT5011E OBD2 scanner is ideal for DIYers, semi-professionals, and mechanics, especially those looking for a more TPMS focused device. It offers useful features OBD2 features as well as more advanced TPMS features.

Recommendation: Best Launch scan tools

As our first choice, we recommend that you go for the Launch CRP123 V2.0 Plus Elite which is a very cost-effective and capable OBD2 diagnostic scanner. This Launch scan tool works for a wide array of car brands and performs an impressive amount of functions for the price.

Coming in second place is the Launch CR319 because it is an excellent option for beginners and covers all the basic features you will need. Moreover, this Launch scan tool supports many vehicles made worldwide.

If you are an advanced or experienced DIYer or even a semi-professional user, the Launch X431 CRP919X is a great OBD2 scanner that offers you all 10 OBD2 modes and all the possible functions you could require. It is an advanced scan tool that offers bidirectional control (active testing) and even ECU coding, which is unheard of in this price range. It really is hard to beat in this price bracket.

Bottom line

These were the 10 best Launch scanners that you can choose from. Make sure to pick the Launch tool that offers all the features that you need. Good luck!