Autel ML629 or ANCEL AD530 Pro: The Best Code Reader in 2025?

If you're a DIY enthusiast or run a small auto repair shop, price and functionality are key factors when choosing a code reader. Naturally, you want to get the most comprehensive car diagnostic tool for the least amount of money.

That’s where the decision often comes down to two popular and trusted brands—Autel and Ancel. Both offer solid options, but which one truly gives you the best value for your needs?

Should you go with Autel or Ancel? To help you decide, we’ve picked two of the most popular and affordable code readers from each brand—both priced around $100. Today, we’re comparing the Autel ML629 and the ANCEL AD530 Pro to see which one offers the better value, features, and performance. Let’s find out which is the best code reader for your car!

What is the Autel ML629?

Brief Overview

The Autel ML629 is a versatile OBD2 scanner designed for both professionals and DIYers. It can read and clear trouble codes for the engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS systems on most major vehicle models from 1996 and newer.

With support for all 10 OBDII test modes—including O2 sensor testing and onboard monitor checks—the ML629 offers comprehensive diagnostics and makes it easy to identify the cause of a check engine light.

Autel ML629

$99.00

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The Autel ML629 is a versatile OBD2 scanner designed for both professionals and DIYers. It can read and clear trouble codes for the engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS systems on most major vehicle models from 1996 and newer.

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Key Features

• 4-System Diagnostics
  Reads and clears codes for Engine, Transmission, ABS, and SRS, covering essential safety and powertrain systems.
• Full OBDII Functionality
  Supports all 10 OBDII test modes, including O2 sensor test, on-board monitor test, I/M readiness, freeze frame data, and live data graphing.
• Broad Vehicle Compatibility
  Works with most 1996 and newer OBDII & CAN vehicles, covering a wide range of U.S., European, and Asian makes such as Ford, GM, Toyota, Honda, VW, BMW, and more.
• AutoVIN & Advanced Code Reading
  Automatically retrieves vehicle info (VIN, CALID, CVN) and reads generic and manufacturer-specific codes, with built-in DTC lookup for easy interpretation.
• User-Friendly Features
  Offers graphing, data playback, and PC printing, with a multi-language interface (English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, etc.).

The Autel ML629 supports PC printing.

• Free Lifetime Updates
  Comes with lifetime free software updates via Autel’s official website, ensuring long-term value and vehicle coverage expansion.

What is the Ancel AD530 Pro?

Brief Overview

The ANCEL AD530 Pro is a 2-in-1 diagnostic tool that combines a full-featured OBD2 scanner with a 6V/12V car battery tester. Designed for vehicles from 1996 and newer, it allows you to read and clear check engine codes, view live data, and perform comprehensive battery tests—including load testing, charging, and cranking analysis.

Ideal for DIYers and small repair shops, the AD530 Pro helps you diagnose both engine and battery issues in one compact device.

ANCEL AD530 PRO

Key Features

• 2-in-1 OBD2 Scanner + Battery Tester
  Combines full-function engine diagnostics with advanced 6V/12V battery testing (including health, charging, and cranking tests), making it a cost-effective all-in-one tool.
• Comprehensive OBD2 Functions
  Supports all 10 OBD2 modes, including reading/clearing codes, live data graphing, freeze frame, O2 sensor test, EVAP system test, on-board monitor test, I/M readiness, and Auto VIN retrieval.
• Battery Test Accuracy & Compatibility
  Delivers 99% accurate battery analysis for various battery types—Regular Flooded, AGM Flat Plate, AGM Spiral, GEL, and EFB—on cars, motorcycles, and more.
• User-Friendly Features with One-Touch Operation
  One-button I/M readiness check for smog tests, and an exclusive “i” hotkey that instantly provides DTC definitions and repair tips—ideal for beginners.
• Wide Vehicle & Language Coverage
  Compatible with 120+ car brands and 13,000+ models (U.S. cars after 1996, EU after 1998, Asia after 1996); supports 16 languages.
• Enhanced Safety & Build Quality
  Includes short-circuit, reverse-polarity, and temperature protection, upgraded insulated battery clips, a 2.8-inch color display, and features like backlight, screen brightness adjustment, beeper toggle, and PC printing.

Comparision Table

Autel ML629 VS ANCEL AD530 Pro: Key Difference

System Coverage

• Autel ML629: Supports 4 major systems—Engine, Transmission, ABS, and SRS—ideal for more in-depth vehicle diagnostics.
• ANCEL AD530 Pro: Focuses primarily on engine diagnostics, making it more suitable for general OBD2 checks.

The Autel ML629 supports 4 major systems.

Battery Testing

• Autel ML629: Does not support battery testing.
• ANCEL AD530 Pro: Includes a built-in 6V/12V battery tester with charging, cranking, and health analysis—great for checking battery issues before they lead to failure.

Ease of Use & Beginner Support

• Autel ML629: Offers standard diagnostic menus and DTC lookup.
• ANCEL AD530 Pro: Features an exclusive “i” button for instant code definitions and repair tips, making it more beginner-friendly.

Price & Value

• Autel ML629: Priced at $99, better for users needing multi-system diagnostics (ABS/SRS).
• ANCEL AD530 Pro: Slightly more affordable at $80, with added battery testing function for all-in-one basic diagnostics.

Which Is the Best Code Reader?

When comparing Autel vs ANCEL, both the Autel ML629 and ANCEL AD530 Pro stand out as top choices under $100. If you need diagnostics for engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS, the Autel ML629 is the best code reader for advanced vehicle checks.

If you're looking for an affordable 2-in-1 tool that also tests batteries, the ANCEL AD530 Pro is ideal. It’s beginner-friendly and practical—especially in cold seasons.

Both are strong contenders for the best code reader for car owners on a budget.