Autel scanners underwent a new round of software upgrades in 2026, with both the Autel MaxiCOM and Autel MaxiSys series receiving functional improvements. Faced with so many Autel scanner models, are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to choose?
Today we'll primarily compare two mid-to-high-end auto diagnostic tools from the Autel MaxiSys series, priced under $2000: the Autel MS908S Pro II and MS906 Max. Both OBD II scanners support bidirectional control and ECU coding, but they differ in hardware configuration and specialized diagnostic functions. Let's take a look.
Autel MS908S Pro II vs MS906 Max: Hardware Comparison
Hardware Comparison Table
| Item | Autel MS908S Pro II | Autel MS906 Max |
| Image | ![]() |
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| Price | $1,649.00 | $1,399.00 |
| Hardware | ||
| Processor | Qualcomm 660 Octa-core Processor |
Octa-core Processor |
| RAM | 4GB | 4GB |
| ROM | 128GB | 128GB |
| Battery Capacity | 11000 mAh | 11600 mAh |
| Operating System | Android 10.0 | Android 10.0 |
| Screen Size | 9.7 inch | 10.1 inches |
| Screen Resolution | 2048*1536 | 1920 x 1200 |
| Camera | Rear 16.0 Megapixel | 13 MP |
| VCI | MaxiFlash Elite | MaxiVCI V200 |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac) USB 2.0 Bluetooth v5.0 + EDR SD card (support up to 64 GB) HDMI |
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 | 1.71 kg (3.77 lbs) |
Autel MS908S Pro II vs MS906 Max: Hardware Differences
1.Battery Capacity
- Autel MS908S Pro II: 11000 mAh
- Autel MS906 Max: 11600 mAh
The Autel MS906 Max and MS908S Pro II have a slight difference in battery capacity, which directly affects the battery life of automotive scanners. Although there is a 600 mAh difference in battery capacity, this is negligible when considering overall operation.
2. Touchscreen
- Autel MS908S Pro II: 9.7 inch, 2048*1536
- Autel MS906 Max: 10.1 inch, 1920 x 1200
Screen size and resolution directly impact the user experience. Larger screens can display more data and facilitate split-screen operation, while higher resolution scanners offer clearer images.
The Autel MS906 Max and MS908S Pro II each have their advantages and disadvantages in terms of touchscreen technology. The MS908S Pro II has a smaller screen but a higher resolution, while the MS906 Max has a larger screen but a relatively lower resolution.

Autel MS906 Max Hardware Configuration
3. Camera
- Autel MS908S Pro II: Rear 16.0 Megapixel
- Autel MS906 Max: Rear 13.0 Megapixel
Both the Autel MS908S Pro II and MS906 Max scanners have rear-facing cameras. However, the Autel MS908S Pro II has a higher camera resolution, which means clearer images can be obtained when capturing details of vehicles, facilitating subsequent diagnosis and repair.
4. VCI Device
- Autel MS908S Pro II: MaxiFlash Elite J2534
- Autel MS906 Max: MaxiVCI V200
VCI stands for Vehicle Communication Interface, which is a bridge connecting the vehicle's OBD port and diagnostic scanner. Different VCI devices support different communication protocols. The MaxiFlash Elite J2534 VCI equipped in the Autel MS908S Pro II is a PassThru programming interface device that conforms to SAE J2534-1 and J2534-2 standards and supports ECU programming.

Autel MS908S Pro II with MaxiFlash Elite VCI supports ECU programming
5. Weight
- Autel MS908S Pro II: 1.42 kg (3.13 lb.)
- Autel MS906 Max: 1.71 kg (3.77 lbs)
The Autel MS908S Pro II is relatively lighter, making it more suitable for carrying around to work, and is ideal for users such as fleet operators who are often on the go.
Autel MS908S Pro II vs MS906 Max: Software Comparison
Software Comparison Table
| Item | Autel MS908S Pro II | Autel MS906 Max |
| Software Comparison | ||
| Basic Diagnostic Function | √ | √ |
| Service | 36+ | 40+ |
| Special Functions | √ | √ |
| Support DoIP/CAN Protocols | × | √ |
| Bi-Directional Control(Active Test) | √ | √ |
| Online ECU Programming | √(Benz, BMW) | × |
| Online ECU Coding | √(Benz, BMW, Audi, Porsche, VW) | √(VW, BMW, Audi, Skoda, etc) |
| Brush Hidden | √ | √ |
| McLaren, Tesla diagnostics | √ | × |
| Remote Expert | × | √ |
Autel MS908S Pro II vs MS906 Max: Software Differences
1. Essential Services Functions
- Autel MS908S Pro II: 36+ Services
- Autel MS906 Max: 40+ Services
Both the Autel MS908S Pro II and MS906 Max support basic service functions. The Autel MS906 Max supports more services, including both popular and less common ones. However, the specific scope of support depends on the specific car model.
2. DoIP/CAN Protocols
- Autel MS908S Pro II: Not Support
- Autel MS906 Max: Support
The Autel MS906 Max supports DoIP/CAN Protocols, enabling faster diagnostics, larger data transfer volumes, and full compatibility with both new and older vehicle models. It not only meets the needs of next-generation vehicles in ECU programming, online coding, and multi-module diagnostics, but is also better suited for diagnosing complex systems and advanced driver assistance features.

Autel MS906 Max Supports DoIP/CAN Protocols
3. ECU Programming
- Autel MS908S Pro II: Support ECU Programming
- Autel MS906 Max: ECU programming is not supported.
ECU programming is an advanced function of automotive diagnostic tools. It allows vehicle control module software to be updated or rewritten to fix software faults, match new parts, apply original factory upgrades, and optimize vehicle performance and driving experience. It can solve deeper problems and make repairs more accurate and thorough.
4. Remote Expert
- Autel MS908S Pro II: Not Support
- Autel MS906 Max: Support
The Autel MS906 Max supports remote expert functionality. This feature allows repair technicians to connect with remote automotive experts in real time for diagnostic support when encountering complex faults, making it very useful for both professional technicians and DIY enthusiasts.

Autel MS906 Max features remote expert support
Which One Should You Choose?
Opt for MS908S Pro II If:
- You need advanced ECU programming skills and expertise in luxury vehicle repair (especially Mercedes-Benz and BMW models), and you need diagnostics for high-end new vehicles (such as Tesla/McLaren).
- You'll need a higher screen resolution, a clearer camera, and lighter, more portable diagnostic tools to complete your repair work.
Opt for MS906 Max If:
- You prioritize cost-effectiveness and don’t require advanced ECU programming (only basic coding and maintenance services).
- You value larger screen size and advanced diagnostic protocols to handle complex repair tasks.
- You need more service features to expand the scope of your auto repair shop's business.
Conclusion
Both the Autel MS908S Pro II and MS906 Max are professional automotive scanning tools from Autel. They both support bidirectional control, ECU coding, and basic hot-service functions. Whichever one you choose, you won't be disappointed.
If you have any further questions or concerns about these two scanners, please contact us at sales@obdprice.com, providing your vehicle's VIN and any specific diagnostic needs. Our customer service staff will help you confirm the details.

