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Autel MS909S2 vs Topdon Phoenix Max: 2025 Scanner Review
Auto diagnostic tools continue to evolve, with new diagnostic scanners hitting the market in 2025. Both the Autel MS909S2 and Topdon's Phoenix MAX are new diagnostic tools for 2025, and their prices are very similar. If you're looking to buy the latest automotive diagnostic scanner, how do you choose?
Today, we'll conduct a detailed review of the Autel MS909S2 vs Topdon Phoenix Max, comparing these two OBD II scanners. We'll examine price, hardware configuration, software features, and their special features to highlight their respective strengths and provide better advice and assistance for your purchase.
Brief Overview
What is the Autel MS909S2?
The Autel MS909S2 is Autel's latest automotive diagnostic scanner, released in 2025. Based on the Autel MS909, it features upgraded hardware and software features. Powered by an octa-core processor and running the Android 13.0 operating system, the Autel MS909S2 boasts an 11-inch screen.
The Autel MS909S2 supports bi-directional control, ECU coding and programming, and 38+ service functions. It also incorporates an AI module, including AI Assistant MAX and digital vehicle inspection technology.
Autel MaxiSys MS909S2
$3,299.00
The Autel MaxiSys MS909S2 features enhanced PID analysis, split-screen diagnostics, voice assistant MAX, Network Topology 3.0, and improved oscilloscope tools.
What is the Topdon Phoenix MAX?
The Phoenix Max is TOPDON's latest cutting-edge automotive diagnostic scanner. This all-in-one tool features a 13.3-inch screen and offers a wealth of features to boost technicians' productivity and help them get more done. The Phoenix Max includes a topology mapping function that displays all vehicle systems in a single view.
Its MDCI (Modular Diagnostic and Communication Interface) incorporates the latest protocols, allowing professionals to perform more complex repairs on a wide range of cars and heavy vehicles with optional add-on software.
Autel MS909S2 vs Topdon Phoenix Max: Detailed Comparison Table
| Item | Topdon Phoenix Max | Autel MS909S2 |
| Price | $3,995 | $3,299 |
| Hardware | ||
| Screen | 13.3 inch | 11 inch |
| Processor | MT8788, 8-Core | Octa-core processor |
| Battery capacity | 18600mAh | 15000mAh |
| Memory | 8G+256G | 12G+256G |
| Camera | Rear 13 Megapixel |
Rear: 16 Megapixel Front: 16 Megapixe |
| VCI | Phoenix MDCI PRO | MaxiFlash VCI2 |
| Communication | Bluetooth Including CANFD, DOIP, D-PDU, J2534, RP1210 |
Wi-Fi x 2 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax 2x2 MIMO) BT V5.2 + EDR GPS USB 2.0 (Two USB host Type A) USB Type C (used to charge the tablet or connect to a PC for data transfer) HDMI 2.0 SD Card (support up to 256 GB) |
| Weight | 3578g (7.89lb) | 1656.5 g (3.65 lbs.) |
| Software | ||
| Operating System | Android 9.0 | Android 13.0 |
| Software Updates | 2 Years Free | 1 Year Free |
| Auto Vin | ✔ | ✔ |
| FCA Secure Gateway | ✔ | ✔ |
| Intelligent Diagnostic | ✘ | ✔ |
| AI Assistant | ✘ | ✔ |
| Digital vehicle inpection | ✘ | ✔ |
| Full-System Diagnostic | ✔ | ✔ |
| Component Activation | Bi-Directional Control | Bi-Directional Control |
| Daily Maintenance Functions | 41 | 38+ |
| Diagnostic Topology Mapping | ✔ | ✔ |
| Online Programming |
Benz, BMW VW, Audi, Skoda, SEAT, Porsche, Land Rover, Jaguar, Renault, Nissan, Subaru, Infiniti, Hyundai, Kia |
Benz, BMW, Mini |
| Online Coding |
Benz (SCN), BMW VW, Audi, Skoda, SEAT, Porsche, Renault |
Benz, BMW, Mini, Audi, Porsche, VW |
Autel MS909S2 vs Topdon Phoenix Max: Key Differences
Hardware Configuration Differences
Screen and Battery
- Autel MS909S2: 11 inch screen and 15000mAh
- Phoenix MAX: 13.3 inch screen and 18600mAh
In terms of screen size and battery capacity, the Phoenix MAX outperforms the Autel MS909S2. The larger screen provides a clearer display of data from each module, but it also reduces portability, making it more suitable for workshop diagnostics.
The larger battery capacity ensures extended diagnostic tool usage, preventing interruptions during complex tasks due to low battery.
Memory and Camera
- Autel MS909S2: 12GB RAM + 256GB Storage, 16MP Rear & 16MP Front Camera
- Phoenix MAX: 8GB + 256GB Storage, 13MP Rear Camera
The Autel MS909S2 outperforms the Phoenix MAX in terms of storage capacity and camera. The MS909S2 boasts more RAM, making multitasking smoother and speedier loading and running of large applications.
Its clearer front and rear dual cameras facilitate recording vehicle faults, while the front camera can be used for remote technical support, improving communication efficiency.
The MS909S2 comes with more powerful hardware.
VCI Device
- Autel MS909S2: MaxiFlash VCI2
- Phoenix MAX: Phoenix MDCI PRO
Different brands have different lower-level computer models. Both VCIs support the latest communication protocols, such as DOIP and CAN FD, expanding vehicle diagnostic coverage.
However, compared to the MaxiFlash VCI2, the Phoenix MDCI PRO can also connect to an oscilloscope, extending its functionality.
Software Features Differences
Operating System & Updates
- Autel MS909S2: Android 13.0 but offers only 1 year of free updates.
- Phoenix MAX: Android 9.0 with 2 years of free updates.
The Autel MS909S2 runs a higher-level Android operating system, offering faster speeds, greater compatibility, and improved security.
The Topdon Phoenix MAX supports two years of free software updates, which is more than the one year the MS909S2 offers. However, its overall price is higher than the MS909S2, so it doesn't offer a price advantage.
Advanced Features
- Autel MS909S2: Intelligent Diagnostic, AI Assistant, and Digital Vehicle Inspection
- Both support Auto VIN, FCA Secure Gateway, Full-System Diagnostic, Bi-Directional Control, and Diagnostic Topology Mapping.
The Autel MS909S2 supports AI-powered features such as voice assistant and digital detection, which are not available on the Phoenix MAX.
These features make diagnostics more intelligent, allowing users to perform some diagnostic functions through voice commands, freeing their hands.
The digital vehicle detection function also provides a better overview of vehicle status, leveraging AI visual recognition to improve accuracy and efficiency.
The Autel MS909S2 improves inspections with AI-powered DVI.
ECU Coding and Programming
- Autel MS909S2: more limited, supporting programming for Benz, BMW, and Mini, and coding for Benz, BMW, Mini, Audi, Porsche, and VW.
- Phoenix MAX: cover a wider range of brands
Phoenix MAX supports a wider range of vehicles and is suitable for multi-brand workshops. While the Autel MS909S2 covers a narrower range, it is optimized for high-end models such as Benz, BMW, and Mini, ensuring a more stable programming process.
Autel MS909S2 vs Topdon Phoenix Max: Which to Choose
Autel MS909S2 - Who is it for?
- Ideal for professional repair shops specializing in luxury brands (such as Benz, BMW, and Mini).
- Ideal for technicians seeking intelligent features (AI Assistant, Smart Diagnostics, and Digital Inspection) to improve efficiency.
- Optimally suited for users who prioritize a seamless experience, security, and future-proofing.
Autel MS909S2 vs Topdon Phoenix Max: Which to Choose
Topdon Phoenix MAX - Who is it for?
- Ideal for comprehensive repair shops that need to service multiple brands of vehicles simultaneously.
- Ideal for fleet managers or technicians who frequently work with different brands and models.
- Optimally suited for users who value extensive online programming/coding coverage and a longer free update cycle (2 years).
Conclusion
The Autel MS909S2 and Topdon Phoenix MAX are both excellent diagnostic tools for 2025. While they differ in hardware and software features, both represent cutting-edge diagnostic technology in the automotive diagnostics industry.
Regardless of which you choose for your workshop, both will meet your daily diagnostic and service needs. The car diagnostic tool that best meets your needs is the best OBD II scanner for you.