Both Autel and ICON are well-known names in the world of car diagnostic tools. If you're trying to decide between the two, this article will help.
Today, we’re comparing two similarly priced scanners: the Autel MS906MAX and the ICON T10. We'll take a close look at their hardware specs, software features, and overall performance to help you find the right vehicle scanner that fits your needs.
Brief Overview
What is the Autel MS906MAX?
The Autel MaxiSys MS906 Max delivers a major boost in speed and performance, running on Android 10 with an octa-core processor, 4GB RAM, and 128GB storage. Its 10.1" HD display, dual 13MP cameras, and 11,600mAh battery offer powerful diagnostics and up to 10 hours of use. With the latest Auto Scan 2.0, it completes scans in seconds.
Note: Some functions of the Autel MS906MAX may not be compatible with all vehicles; please check the Autel vehicle coverage for details.
What is the ICON T10?
The ICON T10 is a high-performance diagnostic scanner with battery testing, borescope support, and wide vehicle coverage. It runs on Android 10 and includes TRUEFIX™ OEM repair info, topology mapping, bi-directional controls, coding, resets, and live data graphing. It’s built for fast, professional diagnostics.
Autel MS906MAX VS ICON T10: Comparison Table
Item |
Autel MS906MAX |
ICON T10 |
Image |
|
|
Price |
$1599 (including BT506 and MV108s) |
$1,699 |
Hardware |
Processor |
Octa-core Processor |
4-core 2.0GHz |
Screen |
10.1-inch |
10.1" |
Resolution |
1920 x 1200 |
/ |
Camera |
Rear: 13 MP |
Rear: 8 MP Front: 5MP |
Memory |
4 GB RAM & 128 GB |
4 GB RAM & 128 GB |
Weight |
1.71 kg (3.77 lbs) |
1.43 kg(3.16 lbs) |
Battery |
11600 mAh |
6300 mAh |
Conectivity |
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) |
Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n/ac 2.4G/5G dual frequency |
Software |
Operating System |
Android 10 |
Android 10 |
Vehicle Coverage |
Current year vehicle of Asia, Europe, America,China |
Current year vehicle of Asia, Europe, America,China |
Diagnostic System |
All Systems |
All Systems |
Service Functions |
40+ |
/ |
Automatic Detection |
ScanVIN / Auto-VIN / Auto-Scan |
Auto-VIN |
Topology Mapping |
✔ |
✔ |
Bi-directional Control |
✔ |
✔ |
ECU Coding |
✔ |
/ |
Protocol DoIP/CAN FD |
✔ |
✔ |
SoftwareUpdate |
1 YEAR FREE |
2 YEAR FREE |
Extended Function |
Battery Tester |
✔ |
✔ |
ADAS Calibration |
✔ |
✔ |
Endoscope Function |
✔ |
✔ |
Autel MS906MAX vs ICON T10: Key Differences Explained
1. Processing Power and Performance
- Autel MS906MAX features a powerful octa-core processor.
- ICON T10 runs on a quad-core 2.0GHz processor.
The MS906MAX is faster and more responsive, ideal for technicians who run multiple diagnostic sessions or require quick system switching. It minimizes lag during full system scans or when accessing heavy OEM-level data.
The Autel MS9006MAX has more powerful processor and longer battery life.
2. Battery Life and Portability
- Autel includes an 11,600mAh battery (up to 10 hours runtime).
- ICON comes with a 6,300mAh battery.
The Autel MS906MAX's longer battery life reduces downtime and supports all-day mobile diagnostics, especially helpful for field technicians. ICON may require more frequent recharging in extended sessions.
3. ECU Coding Support
- Autel MS906MAX supports ECU coding.
- ICON T10 does not support ECU coding.
If you're working on module replacements, feature personalization, or advanced configurations, Autel enables those capabilities. ICON is more limited to standard diagnostics and may not support deeper programming tasks.
The Autel MS906 Max delivers dealership-level functions for ECU coding.
4. Software Functions and Special Features
- Autel MS906MAX offers 40+ service functions, including oil reset, EPB, BMS, SAS, injector coding, and throttle adaptation.
- ICON T10 provides essential functions like live data graphing, resets, bi-directional control, and repair guidance through TRUEFIX™, but does not include the same level of service coverage as Autel.
The Autel MS906MAX's wide range of service functions makes it a better choice for advanced repair shops handling complex vehicle systems. ICON is still highly capable for diagnostics and general maintenance but may lack certain calibration or adaptation features required by some OEMs.
The Autel MaxiSys MS906 Max OBD2 diagnosis scanner has a vast range of service functions.
5. Software Update Period
- Autel includes 1 year of free software updates.
- ICON includes 2 years of free updates.
ICON offers a longer window of free access to the latest vehicle coverage and software features, lowering long-term costs and ensuring better compatibility with newer models.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Autel MS906MAX and ICON T10 depends on your diagnostic needs and long-term goals. If you’re a professional technician or run a repair shop that deals with advanced diagnostics, ECU coding, and complex service functions, the Autel MS906MAX is the better investment.
If you prioritize accurate diagnostics, routine maintenance, and cost-efficiency, the ICON T10 is a smart choice. It offers full system coverage, bi-directional control, TRUEFIX™ repair support, and two years of free updates—ideal for general garages and mobile techs.