When you're looking to buy an Autel scanner, you'll often see different prefixes such as Autel MX, Autel MK, Autel MP, Autel MS, and so on. These different prefixes represent different series of Autel scanning tools, each series containing a variety of automotive diagnostic tools.
So what are the differences between the different series, and what are some representative diagnostic scanners in these series? Today we will mainly focus on the Autel MK and MS series, fully comparing the differences between these two series to help you make a better choice and purchase.
Brief Introduction
What is the Autel MK Series?
Autel MK is an abbreviation for MaxiCOM. The Autel MK Series scanners are one of Autel's earlier series, and the automotive diagnostic tools in this series are mostly entry-level scanners. In terms of hardware configuration, they are upgraded and updated as the digital display increases, mainly in terms of processor, screen size, memory size, and other aspects.
In terms of software functionality, the 808 and 900 series in the Autel MK series only support active testing functions. However, the higher-end models, 906 and 908, support more diagnostic functions and advanced features such as ECU coding.
What is the Autel MS Series?
Autel MS is an abbreviation for Autel MaxiSys.The Autel MS series is a higher-end series of Autel scanners, including different models such as 906, 908, 909, 919, and Ultra. Similar to the MK series, as the digital portion of the scanner increases, the hardware configuration and software functions of Autel scanners also gradually upgrade.
Autel MS series offers more advanced and comprehensive diagnostic functions, with most models supporting advanced features such as ECU coding and programming. Many flagship models also support intelligent diagnostics and incorporate AI functionality.
Some Autel MS series scanners support AI functionality.
What is the Difference Between Autel MK and MS?
Hardware Configuration Differences
Processor(CPU):
In terms of processors, the Autel MS series uses better processors than the Autel MK series. The Autel MS series uses eight-core processors, while some entry-level scanners in the Autel MK series use quad-core processors.
Screen Size and Resolution:
The screen size and dimensions of both Autel MK and MS scanners are largely related to the number size, but overall, Autel MK screens tend to be smaller, mostly eight inches or less. However, Autel MS series scanners generally have larger screen sizes and resolutions, with the largest reaching 13 inches.
Battery Capacity
The Autel MK and MS series scanners also differ slightly in battery capacity. Most Autel MK series scanners have slightly smaller batteries, typically 5000 mAh or 7000 mAh. However, Autel MS series diagnostic tools generally have batteries exceeding 10000 mAh, offering longer battery life.
Connectivity:
In terms of connectivity, most entry-level scanners in the Autel MK series, such as the Autel MK808Z and those without the 'BT' at the end, are wired. In contrast, the Autel MS series are all wireless and equipped with a VCI device, eliminating the need for data cables and enabling remote diagnostics.
Autel MS series scanners are all wireless
Software Functions Differences
ECU Coding & Programming
ECU coding and programming are advanced functions that optimize software parameters within the vehicle's engine control unit (ECU) and enable manufacturer-installed but not activated features. The Autel MK808 and Autel MK900 series scanners lack these advanced functions, but the Autel MK906 and MK908 series do support ECU coding.
With the exception of the MS906 series, all other scanners in the Autel MS series support ECU coding and programming.
Reset Service
The differences between the Autel MK and MS series scanners in terms of software functionality also lie in the range of supported services. The Autel MS series scanners support more reset services, exceeding 40. However, the Autel MK series scanners offer around 28 or 30 maintenance services.
AI Functions
In the Autel MS series scanners, the S2 series includes three new released scanners launching in 2025: the Autel MS Ultra S2, MS909S2, and MS919S2. They all integrate AI into diagnostic functions, featuring AI voice assistants and innovative DVI inspection methods driven by artificial intelligence.
Autel MX and MS Series Represent Scanners
Autel MaxiCOM MK808Z
The 2025 MK808Z scanner represents the ultimate professional diagnostic upgrade, delivering groundbreaking improvements over the MK808/MX808 series. This MK808S/MK808Z powerhouse scanner packed with 28+ advanced reset services including Oil Reset, with intelligent features such as Auto VIN identification and Auto Scan. The MK808S provides dealership-grade capabilities in a rugged, user-friendly package.
$50 OFF
Autel MaxiCOM MK808Z
$439.00
Same as MK808S | Automotive Diagnostic Scanner | All System Diagnostics | 28+ Reset Service | 3000+ Active Test | NO IP Limitation | 2025 Upgraded of MK808/MX808
Autel MK906S Pro II TS
The Autel MaxiCOM MK906S Pro II-TS is a 2025 premium diagnostic tool with an 8-inch HD touchscreen, octa-core processor, and 128GB storage. It offers full-system diagnostics, TPMS programming, bi-directional control, ECU coding, and advanced service resets (oil, EPB, DPF). Supports 21 languages and hidden function activation.
$450 OFF
Autel MaxiCOM MK906S Pro II TS
$1449.00
2025 TPMS Functions ECU Coding | Bi-directional Control | 36+ Reset Services | Upgrade Ver. OF MS906 PRO-TS/ MS906 PRO/ MS906TS/ MS906BT
Autel MaxiSys MS908S Pro II
The Autel MS908S Pro II is a 9.7-inch touchscreen car diagnostic scanner. The MS908S Pro II is the latest product of the Autel scanner 908 series. The hardware configuration and diagnostic functions of the MS908S Pro II have been upgraded based on the Autel MS908S Pro and MK908II scanner.
$750 OFF
Autel MaxiSys MS908S Pro II
$1649.00
High-level OBD2 Diagnostic Scan Tool 2025 | Online ECU Programming/ Coding | 36+ Services | Active Tests | Full Systems | Android 10, FCA Autoauth | Upgraded MS Elite/ MS908S Pro/ MK908 PRO II
Conclusion
Autel MK and MS are different series of Autel scanners. Within these two series, the Autel MaxiCOM (MK series) mostly consists of entry-level scanners, more suitable for DIY enthusiasts and small auto repair shops, but there are also a few higher-end scanners, such as the 906 and 908 series. If you have a limited budget, you might consider the Autel MK series.
The Autel MS series is a more advanced series, including scanners from the 906 series and above. The 908 series and above support ECU coding and programming. This series of scanners is more suitable for medium to large auto repair shops and professional automotive mechanics, as the MS series typically offers more advanced features and a higher price.
