Compare Autel BT508 and BT506: Which One Suits You Best?

When it comes to vehicle battery diagnostics, Autel is a name professionals and DIYers alike trust. Two of its most popular battery testers—the Autel BT508 and BT506—offer reliable performance, wide battery compatibility, and smartphone-based analysis via the Autel Battery Test app. 

But what makes the BT508 a worthy upgrade over the BT506? Let’s break down the differences and features to help you decide which Autel battery tester best suits your needs.

Autel BT508 vs BT506: Side-by-Side Comparison

Key Upgrades in the Autel BT508

1. Battery Registration Support for 53 Brands

One of the standout features in the Autel BT508 is its ability to perform battery registration for up to 53 vehicle brands. This is crucial when replacing batteries in modern vehicles that use intelligent battery sensors.

2. Electrical Reset Functions

The BT508 allows users to reset the electrical system after battery replacement, saving time and ensuring proper integration with the vehicle’s BMS (Battery Management System).

3. AutoVIN Vehicle Detection

With built-in AutoVIN, the BT508 can automatically detect your vehicle's VIN, speeding up the identification and diagnosis process.

4. AutoSCAN Full System Diagnostics

The BT508 supports AutoSCAN for complete system diagnostics—although only one vehicle brand is included by default, users can purchase access to additional brands through the Autel app.

5. Software Updates & Expansion

Unlike the BT506, the BT508 supports diagnostic software updates and expansion via in-app purchases, making it a more future-proof tool.

The Autel BT508 adds battery registration, AutoVIN, AutoSCAN, and software updates.

What Can the Autel BT508 Battery Tester Do?

✅ Adaptive Conductance Technology

The BT508 uses adaptive conductance to reduce misdiagnosis, test low-charge batteries accurately, and safely retest discharged batteries.

✅ BMS Reset & Guided Procedures

After replacing a battery, the BT508 guides you through memory reset procedures and performs one-tap registration. This feature is especially valuable for modern vehicles that require BMS reprogramming.

✅ Battery Health Reports

Receive detailed battery condition reports directly to your email and store them on the cloud. These can include battery type, state of charge, state of health, internal resistance, and more.

✅ Battery Location Mapping

The BT508 displays the battery location within the vehicle, helping users locate and replace batteries faster—especially useful for models where the battery isn’t under the hood.

The Autel BT508 offers accurate battery testing, full diagnostics, and code reading/reset features.

Why Choose the Autel BT508 Over the BT506?

While both models use the same processor and support a wide range of battery types and ratings (CCA, CA, MCA, JIS, DIN, SAE, IEC, EN, EN2, BCI, GB), the BT508 adds powerful features that cater to modern diagnostics needs. The ability to register new batteries, reset systems, detect VINs, and upgrade software puts the BT508 a step ahead.

For professional garages and advanced DIYers who work on newer vehicles or different makes, the BT508 is worth the slightly higher investment. On the other hand, if you only need a basic battery tester for traditional use, the BT506 still offers reliable performance at a more affordable price.

The Autel BT508 supports battery registration and reset.

Final Thoughts

If you're deciding between the Autel BT506 and BT508, consider your vehicle types, need for diagnostics, and long-term tool expansion. For complete control, advanced reporting, and modern car compatibility, the Autel BT508 battery tester stands out as the superior choice.