Autel scanners come in a wide variety of types and models. Before choosing the most suitable automotive diagnostic tool, you need to understand the specific functions and hardware configurations of each Autel scanner. You need to carefully consider whether their key features meet your needs and whether their prices fit your budget.
If your budget is between $1000 and $2000, which Autel scan tool should you choose? Today, we'll conduct a comprehensive and detailed comparison of the Autel Elite II Pro and Autel MS906 Max, examining their differences in hardware, software, advanced features, and user reviews to provide guidance for your purchase decision.
What is the Autel Elite II Pro?
The Autel Elite II Pro is an advanced automotive OBD II scanning tool. It features a large 9.7-inch screen, a more powerful octa-core processor, and the latest Android 10.0 operating system. It also boasts a long battery life and large memory capacity. These advanced hardware configurations extend its lifespan and improve its operating speed and efficiency.
The Autel Elite II Pro's diagnostic functions include advanced features such as bidirectional control, ECU coding, and programming, while also fully supporting basic diagnostic functions like reading and clearing fault codes, freeze frame data, and live data. Whether you are a repair shop or a professional technician, this scanner can be one of your choices.
Autel Elite II Pro Overview
What is the Autel MaxiSys MS906 MAX
The Autel MS906 Max is a newly released OBD II scanner from 2026. It offers broader diagnostic coverage and can diagnose the latest vehicle models. Its hardware configuration has been upgraded from the MS906 Pro, featuring a larger screen and longer battery life.
The Autel MS906 MAX also boasts comprehensive diagnostic functions, including basic code reading and clearing, as well as advanced bidirectional control and ECU coding capabilities. It is relatively affordable, offering excellent value for money.
Autel Elite II Pro vs MS906 MAX: Compasrison Chart
| Item | Autel Elite II Pro | Autel MS906 Max |
| Image |  |
 |
| Price | $2,039 | $1,399.00 |
| Hardware | ||
| Processor | octa-core processor | Octa-core Processor |
| Screen Size | 9.7 inches | 10.1 inches |
| Resolution | 2048*1536 | 1920 x 1200 |
| Camera | Rear: 16M Front: 5M |
13 MP |
| Battery | 15,000 mAh | 11600 mAh |
| Memory | 4 & 128 GB | 4 GB RAM & 128 GB |
| VCI | MaxiFlash VCI | MaxiVCI V200 |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Bluetooth V5.0 + EDR USB 2.0 HDMI SD Card (Support up to 64 GB) |
Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac) BT 5.0 (BR/EDR + BLE) GPS USB 2.0 (Two USB Host Type A, one Mini USB) SD Card (Support up to 256 GB) |
| Weight | 1.42 kg (3.13 lbs.) | 1.71 kg (3.77 lbs) |
| Software | ||
| Operating Software | Android 10.0 | Android 10 |
| Basic Diagnostic Function | ✔ | ✔ |
| Service | ✔ | ✔ |
| Special Functions | ✔ | ✔ |
| Bi-Directional Control(Active Test) | ✔ | ✔ |
| Online ECU Programming | ✔ | ✘ |
| Online ECU Coding | ✔ | ✔ |
| VW, Audi, Skoda Brush Hidden | ✔ | ✔ |
| VW, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Bently, Man LD Guide function | ✔ | ✔ |
| McLaren, Tesla diagnostics | ✔ | ✘ |
| Endoscope function (requires MV105/MV108S) | ✔ | ✔ |
| Battery Test(requires BT506) | ✔ | ✔ |
| Remote Expert | ✘ | ✔ |
| Diagnostic System Topology | ✘ | ✔ |
| Diagnostic standard D-PDU/RP1210 | ✔ | ✔ |
| Bus protocol DoIP/CAN FD | ✔ | ✔ |
| Language | Multi Language | Multi Language |
| Autel Cloud Service | ✔ | ✔ |
| Wifi Printer | ✔ | ✔ |
Autel Elite II Pro vs MS906 MAX: Key Differences
To summarize the information in the charts above, although the Autel Elite II Pro and MS906 Max share similarities in their processor, operating system, and some diagnostic functions, they still have many differences, which accounts for their different prices.
1. Hardware Configuration
- Screen Differences: The two devices have different screen sizes, but the difference is not significant. The Autel MS906 Max has a larger screen, which allows for a more comprehensive and clearer display of data.
- Battery Capacity: The Autel Elite II Pro has a larger battery capacity and longer battery life, making it more convenient for outdoor work.
- Differences in VCI Devices: The Autel Elite II Pro features a more advanced VCI (Vehicle Communication Interface) device, which supports the J2534 programming protocol and allows for ECU programming.
- Differences in Weight: The Autel MS906 MAX is heavier and less portable. It's more suitable for use on a desktop or in a car during diagnostics, rather than being held in your hand, as its weight makes it difficult to handle.
Autel MaxiSys MS906 MAX Hardware Configuration
2. Software Functions
- ECU Programming: Elite II Pro supports programming your car's ECU, helping you diagnose and fix software issues such as unstable idling. It also allows you to reprogram and write new data to the ECU after replacing certain control modules.
- McLaren, Tesla Diagnostics: The Autel Elite II Pro supports diagnostics for high-end vehicles and electric vehicles such as McLaren and Tesla. This further expands the range of vehicles that can be diagnosed, making it particularly useful for repair shops looking to expand their services.
- Remote Expert: The Autel MS906 MAX supports a remote expert function, which allows for the diagnosis and resolution of complex issues from a distance, providing you with professional assistance. This is extremely convenient for DIY car owners.
- Software Update: The Autel Elite II Pro supports two years of free software updates and upgrades, making it suitable for long-term investment with relatively low update and upgrade costs.
Autel Elite II Pro ECU Programming
Which One You Should Choose?
Ultimately, the choice of which Autel scanning tool to select depends not only on your budget but, more importantly, on your diagnostic needs and required functions.
If you consider ECU programming capabilities essential and plan to use the tool long-term, potentially for diagnosing vehicles like McLaren and Tesla, you might consider the Autel Elite II Pro. This is the biggest difference between the two in terms of functionality.
If you have a relatively low budget and don't need advanced ECU programming capabilities, then the MS906 Max is perfectly sufficient. Its hardware configuration is only slightly inferior to the Elite II Pro in some aspects, and many of its functions are comparable to the Elite II Pro.
