The Best Code Readers & Scan Tools
We reviewed six code readers based on expert opinions, owner ratings, and real-world usage. The ANCEL AD310 is our top pick for its balance of price and performance.
Updated
The bottom line
The ANCEL AD310 is our top pick for a code reader, with a balance of price and performance. It's praised for its ease of use and accuracy, making it a reliable choice for diagnosing check engine light issues. The MOTOPOWER MP69033 is a close runner-up, offering similar functionality at a slightly lower price. For those willing to invest more for advanced diagnostics, the OBDLink MX+ provides enhanced diagnostics and compatibility with multiple apps, though at a higher cost.
ANCEL AD310 $23.99
Best balance of price and performance
The ANCEL AD310, at $23.99, is supported by 66,796 owner ratings averaging 9.2/10. It's ideal for basic diagnostics but skip if you need advanced features.
Check price on Amazon
MOTOPOWER MP69033 $22.99
Affordable with good functionality
The MOTOPOWER MP69033, at $22.99, has a 2.8" LCD display and supports 9 protocols, backed by 52,419 owner ratings averaging 9.2/10. It's a solid choice for basic diagnostics but lacks ABS/Airbag support.
Check price on Amazon
OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner $139.95
Best for advanced diagnostics
The OBDLink MX+ at $139.95 offers enhanced OEM support and compatibility with multiple apps, supported by 15,610 owner ratings averaging 9.2/10. It's the best for those needing advanced diagnostics but comes at a higher price.
Check price on AmazonThe field, ranked
- ANCEL AD310 Best for basic, cost-effective diagnostics. 9.0/10 $23.99 Amazon
- MOTOPOWER MP69033 Good for basic diagnostics at a lower price. 8.0/10 $22.99 Amazon
- OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner Best for advanced diagnostics and app compatibility. 8.0/10 $139.95 Amazon
- FIXD Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner - Car Diagnostic Check Engine Code Reader Good for basic diagnostics with app integration. 7.0/10 $39.99 Amazon
- Veepeak OBDCheck BLE Bluetooth OBD II Scanner Affordable with basic diagnostics and app compatibility. 7.0/10 $31.98 Amazon
- OBDLink EX FORScan OBD Adapter Specialized for Ford vehicles with FORScan compatibility. 6.0/10 $69.95 Amazon
Who should buy which
If you're looking for a basic, cost-effective code reader, the ANCEL AD310 and MOTOPOWER MP69033 are excellent choices. For those needing advanced diagnostics and app compatibility, the OBDLink MX+ is the best option despite its higher price. The FIXD Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner and Veepeak OBDCheck BLE are good for basic diagnostics with app integration, while the OBDLink EX FORScan is specialized for Ford vehicles.
What owners complain about
Owners of the ANCEL AD310 and MOTOPOWER MP69033 have noted that these devices are limited to engine fault codes and do not support ABS or Airbag diagnostics. The FIXD Bluetooth OBD2 Scanner has received complaints about its annual fee for advanced features. The OBDLink MX+ and OBDLink EX FORScan have fewer complaints, but some users have noted the complexity of the FORScan software.