Best Budget OBD II Scanners: 3 Cheapest Options Tested

The first logical move is to take a step back and examine the lineup of affordable options before you.

This is no mean feat in itself. However, I’ll make it easier by presenting you with three (3) of the best options as tested.

These units are options I’ve owned and used over time and I know their strengths and weaknesses.

Your final choice will be determined by your unique needs and tastes, however.

The above said, why should you trust me or even remotely take me seriously?

Why Listen to Me?

The internet is a wild place: almost everyone comes to it to say things they know nothing about.

Factor in some affiliate commissions and everyone becomes an expert.

So, why am I different? Why should you listen to me?

While I occasionally link to Amazon (and other companies) as a means of keeping the site online, I’m fiercely independent as the other reviews you’ve read here prove.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg however: unlike most affiliate marketers who are simply interested in affiliate commissions, pulling off photos online, and writing about what they have no idea about, I’m an actual, hands-on DIY mechanic and only write about what I know about, via my experience fixing cars.

For instance, I have used all three (3) code readers shared here and actively share my expertise regarding cars on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.

With my credentials and sincerity proved, what’s the importance of owning a code reader? Why should you consider one?

The Importance of Owning A Code Reader

Auto mechanics aren’t the most honest lot you’ll find around: while there are a few awesome mechanics, there are some who live only to fleece you of your hard-earned money.

For instance, some mechanics will charge you for a timing belt replacement when your engine has a chain.

Or, charge you for something as simple as an oil change and NOT change the oil or at best, change with the cheapest available variant.

Having an OBD II scanner or code reader, especially a simple, glove-box-friendly, unit will help you understand most of your vehicle’s challenges before taking them to the mechanic or calling one over.

If you meet a less-than-honest mechanic, you’ll be able to IMMEDIATELY call their bluff and save yourself (and hard-earned money) from being scammed.

There is no alternative, so far as this is concerned, irrespective of the type of vehicle owner you happen to be.

Now that you see the need for your own OBD II code reader, what are the most affordable options open to you?

The Ancel AD410

The Ancel AD410 is one of the best-selling code readers from the stables of Ancel and for good reason too.

It’s simple, rugged, easy to use, and does what it says it will do simply and without much fanfare.

I’ve owned the AD410 for about six years running now and it’s one unit I have only good things to say about. Fewer units beat it at the game of basic code reading, especially on the go.

Here’s a detailed review of the unit; everything you need to know to make an informed decision is shared there.

Why You Should Consider The Ancel AD410

• The unit is small, ergonomic, and easy to use.
• There’s a standard DTC library for those codes you don’t understand.
• The 410 easily fits into the glove box of any vehicle you decide to use it with.
• The code reader is sturdy and solid. I don’t baby my unit and it still works, without complaints, six years post purchase.

Here’s the direct purchase link of the Ancel AD410 on Amazon. You should take a look.

The Foxwell NT301

The Foxwell NT301 follows the design language of the Ancel AD410 – but takes things up a notch. The code reader is also slightly larger and importantly, is designed with a rubber sleeve that protects the unit’s case, ensuring overall durability.

However. what got me hooked on the NT301 wasn’t its physical attributes: it was its dedication to the auto DIY community.

Let me explain: instead of the standard DTC library like the 410, what the 301 has is an explanation of the codes and further, what you need to do to get things up and running.

Essentially thus, the code reader helps pinpoint faults and turns you into a DIY mechanic, someone a traditional mechanic CAN’T cheat on.

It truly is a beauty to hold, use and keep.

Here’s a detailed review of the NT301: I called it a BIG bundle of surprises.

Why You Should Consider The Foxwell NT301

• Large, colored display that is easy on the eyes.
• Wrapped rubber sleeve that protects the body of the scanner if it slips and falls.
• Explanations of what a DTC means (in addition to proferring steps on how to resolve the challenge).
• Finally, the unit’s keys are the softest I’ve come across on a portable code reader: they easily bounce back when depressed and make the entire usage something the vehicle owner looks forward to.

Here’s the direct purchase link of the Foxwell NT301 on Amazon. You should take a look.

The TopDon TopScan

The TopDon TopScan isn’t a ‘physical’ code reader/scanner as the two shared above.

That the scanner isn’t ‘physical’ means it’s BlueTooth powered – and relies on an app and a smartphone to do its thing.

However, it’s one smart OBD II code reader that I’ve come across and for the price it retails, it’s difficult to get a better unit that does what it does.

The TopScan scans, accurately, the engine, tranny, airbags, ABS, and other modules in a seamless fashion: it also makes it super easy to perform occasional routine maintenance such as brake bleeding and oil resets.

With the newly added FCA AutoAuth, the TopScan truly proves that though it’s a small BlueTooth-powered unit, it’s truly ‘mighty’ when it comes to what it can do.

When I received the TopScan from TopDon, I mentioned that it was a scanner that would shock you. Today, I still stand by that position. You can read the review here.

Why You Should Consider the TopDon TopScan

• For the price, it’s difficult to get any option that remotely comes near what TopScan offers. It’s feature-packed and makes a ton of sense.
• Because the unit is BlueTooth powered and relies on a dongle + app to do its thing, it is super efficient to store, work with, and use.
• The various modules the unit scans make it suitable for professional use and makes it, ultimately, a DIYer’s dream. It has nearly every feature/function you may need.
• Finally, the unit is bi-directional. Testing actuators and relays to isolate faults will remain straight and to the point.

Here’s the direct purchase link of the TopDon TopScan on Amazon. You should take a look.

The Best Budget OBD II Scanners (Under $100): Summary

The best budget OBD II scanners are the AD410, NT301, and TopScan. If you’re interested in an affordable code reader, any of the options presented above will serve: no unit will fail you from the options above if you’re on a budget.

That said, if you’re still confused, the guide below should help.

1. If you’re looking for a basic code reader (that will be in your glove box) and prize durability above all else, the Ancel AD410 is where you should be looking.
2. If you’re curious about what the codes your device reads mean and would appreciate direct pointers in that regard, the Foxwell NT301 should be where your attention should be.
3. However, if you’re a professional mechanic, a DIY mechanic, or one who will need to use your OBD machines beyond mere code reading, running advanced scanning, and doing ‘bi-directional’ runs, your best bet is the TopScan from TopDon.
4. If you’re tied somewhere between the 410 and the 301, consider reading this article: Ancel AD410 vs. Foxwell NT301: which is a better bet?

Good luck.

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