thinkcar THINKOBD 100 vs. THINKOBD 20 [Honest review and comparison]

thinkcar THINKOBD 100 vs. THINKOBD 20 are two OBDII scan tools proven to be high in performance and reliability, albeit different in function. You may probably find it challenging to know which thinkcar OBD2 code reader to choose between them. This article will save you stress by giving a detailed look into their features.

thinkcar THINKOBD 100 vs. THINKOBD 20 vs. LAUNCH CR3001: Comparison chart

thinkcar THINKOBD 100 vs. THINKOBD 20: Detailed comparison

Key things in common

Even though the two scanners come in different designs and specifications, there are some communal features between them. 

Firstly, the two products support all OBD2 functions. Also, they support seven languages — English, German, French, Spanish, Russian, Portuguese, and Italian.

THINKOBD 100 and THINKOBD 20 work on OBD2/EOBD compliant vehicles like 1997 and newer US cars, 2000 and newer European cars, and 2008 and more recent Asian cars. However, they are not compatible with the JOBD compliant cars.

Finally, the two thinkcar diagnostic tools have a built-in DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) lookup. This feature saves you time and gives you a quick understanding of the problem by showing you the definition of the DTCSs along with every alert.

Key differences

Designs and specifications

The THINKOBD 100 and THINKOBD 20 have both the touch screen and button navigation. This double navigation option makes it easier for you to do your repairs, as you can operate the device with greasy hands. When it comes to design, the differences between THINKOBD 100 and THINKOBD 20 are in the devices’ sizes, shapes, and weight.

The two OBD2 scanners are slightly different in shape as the THINKOBD 100 has a wider and longer screen display. This makes it more comfortable to use as the diagnostic results show more clearly.

While the THINKOBD 100 comes in a dimension of 4.72 × 2.55 × 0.79 inches, THINKOBD 20 is bigger at 5.7 × 2.9 × 2.6 inches. Furthermore, THINKOBD 100 weighs 9.1 ounces while, THINKOBD 20 weighs 6.4.

Overall features and functions

thinkcar THINKOBD 20 performs special functions in reading and erasing trouble codes within the engine system. 

THINKOBD 100, on the other hand, provides more detailed vehicle information and displays a live data stream through the car’s code reader. Moreover, it goes further than the THINKOBD 20 regarding system diagnosis, in this case, the ignition system.

Extra features/functions

With THINKOBD 100 and THINKOBD 20, you will find your diagnostic work very easy. They analyze fault codes in seconds and have a very thick flexible insulator. With the DTC lookup function, they directly identify the code definition on the screen, giving you an understanding of the problem and a budget. This is a time-saving method as you don’t have to spend extra time looking them up online and can get repairs done faster.

Supported protocols

THINKOBD 20 supports the ISO9141–4, ISO9141–2, and ISO15765 OBD2 protocols. On the other hand, THINKOBD 100 supports more OBDII protocols such as KWP2000, ISO9141, J1850 VPW, J1850 PWM. Consequently, THINKOBD 100 is the most comprehensive when it comes to protocol support.

Supported vehicle makes

While THINKOBD 100 works on 1996 and newer US-based vehicles, THINKOBD 20 works with most 1996 and newer Asian, American, and European OBD2 cars. 

Software and updates

The significant difference between these products regarding updates is that THINKOBD 100 supports lifetime free updates, while THINKOBD 20 is not supposed to update. That means you can update your THINKOBD 100 whenever you want without depending on your computer.

Pros and cons of THINKOBD 100 vs. THINKOBD 20

thinkcar THINKOBD 100 OBD2 scanner

THINKOBD100 is a highly efficient device that makes car inspections and repairs easy by pointing directly to the source problem. In short, it is an OBDII scan tool created to solve basic engine and emission-related issues.

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thinkcar THINKOBD 20 OBD2 code reader

THINKOBD 20 is an electronic DTCS reader designed to show the trouble codes during a car repair or inspection. In comparison to other OBD2 scanners on the same level, it is more effective and easy-to-use.

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Recommendation

THINKOBD 100 and THINKOBD 20 are excellent choices for skilled DIYers, mechanics, and everyone who cares about their car maintenance.

THINKOBD 100 has a built-in DTC library to input DTCs, and it will provide a well-detailed definition to help you figure out the issue. I appreciate this feature, considering it has once saved me from a query. My car had a sputtering engine that morning, and the DTC alerted me that I had a faulty spark plug and dirty fuel injector. Within minutes, my mechanic was able to fix the problem, and I met up with my work appointment.

For the most part, THINKOBD 100 is an excellent development from other OBDII scanners on the same level. And it comes cheaper. Its intuitive menus and four keys are especially useful for DIYers to perform essential car maintenance. 

The THINKOBD 20 is not very different from the THINKOBD 100 scan tool in terms of function. This thinkcar OBDII code reader features an excellent product, enabling car owners to solve simple car problems.

FAQs

❓ Does THINKOBD 100 require an internet connection?

💡 The THINKOBD100 does not need an internet connection to run a diagnostics scan on your car. Conversely, the OBDII scanner connects to vehicles through an attached OBD Adapter cable.

❓ Why do THINKOBD 100 and THINKOBD 20 not work on Japanese cars?

💡 Both thinkcar OBD2 scanner cannot work with Japanese cars because they do not support JOBD protocols.

❓ Will THINKOBD 100 check the Air Conditioner system in a car?

💡 It can only support all OBD functions and DTCs Lookup Functions. Other functions are not available. If you want to check the AC system, consider ThinkDiag.

❓ How is THINKOBD 20 helpful? 

💡 It is easy to use and handy! If you have this OBD2 diagnostic tool, you don’t need to hire a mechanic every time something goes wrong with your car. THINKOBD 20 will trace the source of the car issue. Then, you can decide whether to call a professional or not.

❓ Do I need to pay the extra money on this THINKOBD 20 check engine code reader?

💡 No, if you see any dollar symbol in the product’s system, it just represents a serial number. This product doesn’t charge any extra money and does not need an internet connection.

Final remarks

Car breakdowns can generally be frustrating, but a thinkcar scan tool will help you solve it quickly and restore the smile on your worried face. Generally, the products are user-friendly and efficient and work at maximum accuracy.

These OBD2 diagnostic tools will help you scan the engine’s systems and tell you about the problem’s nature. Besides, it can help detect potential issues and avoid unnecessary and excessive costs for repairs.

I hope you have gathered all the information you need on the THINKOBD 100 vs. THINKOBD 20. Now, it’s all left for you to decide which best suits your specific needs. Whichever one you choose to go for, you can rest assured that you’ll get quality performance.