Scan Tool Recommendation

[AndrewF]

I am in the market for a bidirectional scan tool so was hoping someone can help point me in the right direction. There are so many options out there it is hard to narrow down which make/model to choose.
 

I have always done my own vehicle work so looking to maximize capability with the scanner. Ideal price is $1k or less but would be willing to exceed if it opens up significant benefits. 

Currently my 24 2500 is the newest vehicle but also have a few mid to late 2010s Subarus as well. 
 

It seems that the Autel MP900 has a decent amount of features at a reasonable price?

[CamGTP]

I have an Autel, works great for what it is. Can't do some specific things because you need say the GM tool, VCDS for Audi/Volkswagon and others of course. But those times are few and far between for me.

 

The other tool I'd like to try one day is the new Topdon scan tools. Seen several video's on them and many youtube people review them. 

 

I've never subscribed for updates or payed to do that stuff on my Autel, so I'm sure I'm missing out on some of the updates but I'm fine with that for now.

[PunchT37]

I just bought this. A minimum for me but, I don`t work anymore and don`t want the heavy update costs of the higher end tools. You would have to make money with them.

 

https://www.topdon.us/collections/diagnostic-tools/products/artidiag-pro

 

Even this tool has a $250.00 update cost after 2 years.

Edited 12 hours ago by PunchT37

[AndrewF]

8 hours ago, PunchT37 said:

I just bought this. A minimum for me but, I don`t work anymore and don`t want the heavy update costs of the higher end tools. You would have to make money with them.

 

https://www.topdon.us/collections/diagnostic-tools/products/artidiag-pro

 

Even this tool has a $250.00 update cost after 2 years.

With regards to the updates, I’m assuming the tool doesnt stop working when not updated right? Just that new vehicles after the last update wouldn’t work with the tool? 
 

Or how does the whole update thing work?

Edited 4 hours ago by AndrewF

[PunchT37]

This is what they say about their upper line tools. 
 

How do TOPDON Phoenix Line subscriptions work?

Phoenix tools require a subscription and are renewed annually. Once the subscription is renewed all updates for the tool are covered for the full year. TOPDON’s limited warranty will continue with the subscription. The tools will continue to function without a subscription; however, the tools will not be available for updates, functions may be limited, the tool will no longer be covered by the warranty, and programming functions may be inaccessible

 

I don’t think the tools will “brick”.

[davester]

Yeah, if it bricked if you don't keep up the subscription, that's called renting.