Topdon AD600S vs Autel MD808 PRO: Best Budget Code Reader?

If you have a budget of around $200 and you're looking for a reliable auto diagnostic scanner, the number of options out there can feel overwhelming.

Two of the most popular brands in this price range are Autel and Topdon. Both are well-known Chinese manufacturers with strong reputations for advanced diagnostic technology. But when it comes to Autel vs. Topdon—how do you decide which one is right for you?

Today, we’re taking a closer look at two of the best-selling code readers in the $200 price range: the Autel MD808 PRO and the Topdon AD600S. We’ll compare these two models across several key categories and offer practical insights to help you decide which one is the better fit for your needs.

Brief Introduction

What is the Autel MD808 PRO?

The Autel MaxiDiag MD808 Pro is a powerful and versatile code reader and scanner designed to elevate your diagnostic capabilities.

It supports a wide range of essential functions, including oil reset, battery registration and reset, parking brake pad relearn, steering angle sensor calibration, throttle adaptation, and diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration.

What sets the MD808 Pro apart is its ability to access all available vehicle modules, providing comprehensive diagnostics in a compact, 4-inch handheld device. For those seeking an all-in-one scan tool at this price point, the MD808 Pro stands out as a top-tier choice.

Autel Maxidiag MD808 Pro

$199.00

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9 Reviews

Autel Maxidiag MD808 Pro Code Reader & Scanner MD808P OBD2 Diagnostic Tool for All System Diagnoses/ BMS / Oil Reset/ SRS/ EPB/ DPF/ SAS Reset

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What is the Topdon AD600S?

The Topdon ArtiDiag600S is a compact yet capable diagnostic scanner that now supports the latest CAN-FD protocol, expanding its compatibility with over 80 vehicle brands worldwide.

It’s designed to deliver in-depth diagnostics on four key systems: Engine, Transmission, ABS, and Airbag. With its fast response time and clear system analysis, the AD600S helps users perform efficient and accurate repairs.

Topdon AD600S

Topdon AD600S vs Autel MD808 PRO: Comparison Table

Basic	Item	Autel MD808 Pro	Topdon AD600S
	Image
	Price	$199	$209
Hardware	Processor	ARM® Thumb® Processor running at up to 400 MHz	4-Core 1.5GHz
	Screen	4.0 inch	5-inchTFT
	Resolution	800 x 480	480 x 854
	Battery	NA	3350mAh
	Memory	32MB, 166 MHz	2 + 32 GB
	Connectivity	Mini USB: 2.0 Micro SD Card (16GB)	Type-c
	VCI	Cable	Cable
	Weight	313 g (0.69 lb.)	630 g
Software	Operating System	Embedded system	Android 11
	vehicle System Support	All System	PCM/TCM/ABS/SRS
	Read and Clear Codes	✔	✔
	Live Data	✔	✔
	Freeze Frame	✔	✔
	I/M Readiness	✔	✔
	vehicle Coverage	Current year vehicle of Asia, Europe, America,China	Current year vehicle of Asia, Europe, America,China
	CAN FD	✘	✔
	Update	Lifetime of tool	Lifetime of tool
Service Fuctions	Oil Reset	✔	✔
	EPB	✔	✔
	TPMS	✔	✘
	BMS	✔	✔
	DPF	✔	✔
	SAS	✔	✔
	Throttle	✔	✘
	AFS Headlamp	✘	✘
	Break Bleeding	✘	✘
	Injector	✘	✔
	A/F	✘	✘

Topdon AD600S vs Autel MD808 PRO: Key Differences

System Coverage (Diagnostic Depth)

• Autel MD808 PRO supports full system diagnostics, meaning it can scan and access all available electronic control modules in a vehicle—such as HVAC, BCM, power steering, and more—not just the powertrain or safety systems.
• Topdon AD600S, on the other hand, focuses only on the four major systems: Engine, Transmission, ABS, and Airbag. While this covers most essential issues for DIY users, it lacks the deeper access that professionals or advanced users might need.

If you want full access to every system in the car, MD808 PRO is the better choice.

The Autel MD808 Pro offers advanced features to diagnose all major vehicle systems.

Hardware and User Interface

• The Topdon AD600S comes equipped with a quad-core 1.5GHz processor, Android 11 operating system, and a 5-inch touchscreen, providing a smoother and more modern user experience.
• In contrast, the Autel MD808 PRO uses an older embedded system with a 400MHz processor and a smaller 4-inch non-touch screen, operated via physical buttons.

If you prefer faster performance and a more intuitive interface, the AD600S feels more like a smartphone and is easier to navigate.

Special Service Functions

• Autel MD808 PRO offers a wider range of reset and service functions, including TPMS reset and throttle adaptation, which are not supported by the Topdon AD600S.
• However, the AD600S includes fuel injector coding, a function missing on the MD808 PRO.

Choose MD808 PRO if you need TPMS or throttle-related services; pick AD600S if injector coding is a priority.

The MD808 Pro offers Oil Reset, EPB, SAS, DPF, and BMS for most modern vehicles.

CAN-FD Protocol Support

• Topdon AD600S supports CAN-FD (Controller Area Network Flexible Data-Rate), which is used in many newer vehicles starting around 2019 and beyond (especially GM and newer Asian models).
• Autel MD808 PRO does not support CAN-FD, meaning it might miss or fail to read some systems in newer vehicles.

If you work on or own 2020+ models, especially GM, the AD600S offers better future-proofing.

Conclusion

If you're a DIYer who values deep diagnostics and service coverage, the Autel MD808 PRO gives you more professional-level functions. If you're looking for a more modern, user-friendly scanner that’s compatible with newer vehicles and everyday needs, the Topdon AD600S is a great pick.

Still not sure? Think about what type of repairs you do most often—and which functions you can’t live without. That will point you to the right tool.