When it comes to choosing an automotive scan tool, Topdon and Foxwell are two of the most popular brands on the market.
Both offer a range of OBD2 scanners and diagnostic tools at different price points. But which one is better for your needs? Here is a detailed comparison of Topdon vs Foxwell scan tools.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Topdon | Foxwell |
| Price range | $20 – $200 | $60 – $400 |
| Types of scanners | OBD2, enhanced, professional | OBD2, enhanced, professional |
| Vehicle coverage | 1996+ OBDII protocols | 1996+ OBDII protocols |
| Special features | Oil reset, EPB, SAS, DPF regen | Oil reset, EPB, TPMS, Immobilizer |
| Display type | Color screen | Color screen |
| Screen size | 1.8″ – 10″ | 3.5″ – 10″ |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, WiFi | Bluetooth |
| Live data | Yes | Yes |
| Code reading | Yes | Yes |
| Clear codes | Yes | Yes |
Overview of Topdon Scan Tools
Topdon offers a wide range of automotive diagnostic scanners and code readers. Their entry-level OBDII scanners start at around $20 while their professional-grade scan tools go up to $200.
Here are some key things to know about Topdon OBD2 tools:
- Vehicle Coverage: Topdon scanners support all OBDII protocols used in most 1996+ vehicles. This includes common codes and data for check engine lights, ABS, airbags, transmission etc.
- Types of Scanners: Entry-level code readers, enhanced Bluetooth scanners, and professional-grade diagnostic tools. Higher-end models offer more features.
- Special Features: Models like the Topdon ArtiDiag 500 offer oil reset, EPB, SAS, DPF regen and other bonus functions beyond just reading error codes.
- Display and Connectivity: Color displays ranging from 1.8” on basic models up to 10” on high-end scanners. Bluetooth connectivity on mid-range and pro models.
- Live Data: Many Topdon scanners can access and graph live data like engine sensors, temperatures, speeds etc. Great for pinpointing issues.
- Build Quality: Durable plastic housing with solid internal boards. Pro models feature rugged aluminum alloy housing. Standouts for the price range.
Overall, Topdon offers a great range of OBDII scan tools with excellent functionality considering the affordable price points. The mid-range models strike a nice balance of value and capabilities for DIYers.
Overview of Foxwell Scan Tools
Foxwell is known for their professional-grade OBD2 diagnostic scanners. Their tools range from around $60 for basic code readers up to $400 for advanced scan tools.
Here are some key things to know about Foxwell’s line of scan tools:
- Vehicle Coverage: Like Topdon, Foxwell’s scanners support all OBDII protocols for 1996+ vehicles. Works on most domestic, Asian and European makes.
- Types of Scanners: Entry-level code readers, DIY-focused scanners with special features, and professional-level diagnostic tools. More capabilities as you go up tiers.
- Special Features: Foxwell’s mid-range NT650 scanner offers oil resets, EPB, TPMS and more. The FX3000 has immobilizer functions. Lots of bonus features.
- Display and Connectivity: Color displays ranging from 3.5” up to 10″. Bluetooth connectivity across most models for wireless use.
- Live Data: All Foxwell scanners can access, graph and analyze live sensor data from the ECU to pinpoint problems.
- Build Quality: Excellent build construction with durable housings. Pro models have rugged aluminum bodies and rubber grips. Standout quality.
In summary, Foxwell focuses more on advanced DIY and professional-grade scanners with excellent multi-system diagnostics and special functions. The build quality is superb across their line.
Also Read: Comparison Between Innova and Autel
Key Differences Between Topdon and Foxwell
Now let’s take a deeper look at how Topdon and Foxwell stack up against each other across some key factors:
Vehicle Coverage
When it comes to vehicle coverage, Topdon and Foxwell are virtually identical. Both brands support all OBDII protocols which encompasses any 1996 or newer vehicle sold in the US.
This includes everything from engine and transmission codes, to ABS, airbags, stability control and more. Unless you have a pre-1996 classic car, coverage will not be an issue with either brand.
The only difference is that Foxwell claims broader European and Asian manufacturer support on some high-end models.
But for most DIY mechanics, the OBDII coverage offered by both is more than sufficient. You can use any scanner from either brand on your 1996+ vehicle without problems.
Types of Scanners
Topdon and Foxwell both offer entry-level code readers, mid-range scanners with some special functions, and professional-grade diagnostic tools.
Topdon’s line ranges from super basic $20 code readers up to about $200 for their most advanced scanners. They focus more on budget-friendly options for DIYers.
Foxwell spans from around $60 for simple code readers up to $400+ for deep diagnostic tools. Their sweet spot is advanced recreational/DIY scanners in the $150-$300 range with extensive functions.
Overall Foxwell targets more professional-style capabilities, while Topdon is geared towards casual users who want an affordable OBDII tool. Both brands offer comparable tiers of products.
Special Functions
When looking at special functions beyond just reading check engine codes, Foxwell tends to offer more across their mid-range models.
For example, popular Topdon scanners like the ArtiDiag 500 provide oil reset, EPB, SAS and DPF regen abilities. Very useful bonuses, but quite limited in scope.
Comparable Foxwell models add more capabilities like EPB, TPMS resets, battery registration, injector coding, diesel particulate filter regen, and immobilizer functions. They incorporate more multi-system diagnostics overall.
For DIYers who want capabilities beyond basic OBDII, Foxwell provides more integrated special functions compared to Topdon scanners in the same price ranges.
Display Type and Size
Both Topdon and Foxwell use full color displays on all their scan tools. This allows you to see OBD2 data in vivid color readouts along with diagnostic menus.
Entry-level Topdon code readers have smaller 1.8” screens due to their ultra-budget focus. Foxwell code readers start out a bit larger at 3.5”.
In the mid-range, Topdon displays vary from about 3” up to 8” depending on model. Foxwell scanners range from 5” up to their giant 10” display on the NT624 PRO elite model.
For professional techs, Foxwell’s larger screens provide an advantage. But for typical DIY use, the screen size is less important than resolution and interface. Both brands have reasonably good displays.
Connectivity and Live Data
The more advanced Topdon and Foxwell scanners include Bluetooth connectivity for wireless use. This allows you to pair them to your smartphone to view live data there, research codes, share reports and more.
Both brands also provide the ability to access live data from your vehicle’s ECU to view sensor values, temperatures, voltages and other parameters. This data can help pinpoint faults through comparative analysis.
Foxwell has a slight edge when it comes to the smoothness of graphing live data and integrating with mobile apps. But Topdon models like the MaxiCheck offer excellent wireless connectivity and live data streaming as well.
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Code Reading and Clearing
When it comes to the core function of reading and clearing check engine codes, Topdon and Foxwell are largely on par. Even their most basic code readers can reliably pull and erase OBD2 fault codes.
The higher-end models offer more “intelligent” diagnostics by integrating live data and code definitions. This helps narrow down the possible causes through symptom-based troubleshooting.
Both brands also allow you to view freeze frame data which shows engine parameters at the time a code was set. This provides insight into what may have caused the original problem.
Overall code reading and scanning is quick and accurate with both Topdon and Foxwell tools. Their upper-tier scanners provide more troubleshooting guidance than bare-bones entry-level models.
Build Quality
Topdon scan tools are very well-built for their price points, featuring durable plastic shells and decent circuit boards. Their mid-range offerings stand out as incredibly solid for the money.
However, Foxwell products do have an edge when it comes to construction and components. Even their entry-level scanners use thick plastic that can survive drops and bangs. The higher-end models are built like tanks with rubberized grips and metal components.
For DIYers on a budget, Topdon represents fantastic value. But for those who want professional-grade durability, Foxwell scanners are worth the extra investment. The build quality is noticeably better across their line.
Also Read: Comparison Between the Autel MY908 and MS908
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For DIYers, some of the best options are Foxwell’s NT624 PRO or BlueDriver for advanced capabilities, or Autel’s AutoLink AL319 for an affordable and versatile OBDII scanner. Professional techs may need higher-end options from Snap-On, Autel or Launch.
Brands known for high-quality diagnostic scanners include Foxwell, Innova, BlueDriver, Autel and Launch for DIYers. Professional brands like Snap-On, Matco and Autel make excellent top-tier scanners used by auto mechanics.
Yes, Topdon is a reputable brand that makes excellent scan tools for the money. While not as feature-packed as Foxwell, their affordable prices and decent quality make them a great budget-friendly option for casual users. The mid-range Topdon scanners offer fantastic value.
For a versatile OBD2 scanner with professional-grade features at a recreational price, the Foxwell NT624 PRO is an excellent choice. The BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro also offers great mobile integration through an app. Good budget options are the Autel AutoLink AL319 and Topdon MaxiCHECK.
Final Thoughts
When choosing between Topdon vs Foxwell scan tools, think about your budget and needs. For affordable prices with decent quality, Topdon is hard to beat. Their mid-range offerings have great functionality for the money.
However, Foxwell provides superior construction and more extensive capabilities, albeit at higher price points. Their scanners suit advanced DIYers or professionals who need robust tools.
Overall you can’t go wrong with either brand – it just comes down to how much you want to spend and which specific features are important to you. Both Topdon and Foxwell make great OBDII scan tools that can serve backyard mechanics for years.