Tested: The Best OBD II Scanners for 2026 (DIYers Edition)

I started my research by asking questions, scouring forums, and paying attention. I got a ton of free information, but there was a problem.

…three big problems, as a matter of fact.

The Problems

Researching the best OBD II scanners for the bucks, I came across a long list of scanners and code readers, each touting to be the ultimate. There were, however, red flags with each article I found, bright red flags that made it suicidal to ignore.

1. These lists were (and are still) put together by automotive journalists/folks who traditionally visit dealerships for services as basic as tire rotation and have never as much as wielded a wrench in their lives! That was when I thought I should provide a better list (if I survived that phase). This list is a personal fulfillment of that self-promise and, by contrast, is written by an active DIY mechanic. I’ve used (by sharp contrast) all the OBD II scanners and code readers shared here.
2. The lists in themselves (as I came across them) were generally shared, without being segmented. If you were looking for a tool that does something extremely well as an auto DIYer (for instance, Bluetooth connections), good luck with that. My list, on the other hand, segments things, sharing the options based on their strengths (and weaknesses). Now, more than ever, you know what you’re getting firsthand – and importantly, what to expect from it.
3. Finally, the lists I came across weren’t tailored (or designed) for auto DIY mechanics, specifically. They were simply generic in the wildest sense of the word. This list, by comparison, is directed not at the casual vehicle owner or professional mechanic but to the repair enthusiast who, more than anything else, loves to see a vehicle fixed by their hand, especially their own. This doesn’t mean a vehicle owner or professional mechanic won’t benefit from this list…it’s only not targeted at that class, directly.

The ‘problems’ addressed and put aside, what are the best OBD II scanners (and code readers) for the passionate DIY mechanic that 2026 offers?

Best Overall OBD II Scanner: The Innova 5610

Sometimes, it doesn’t make sense to beat around the bush. If you share this sentiment with me, then save your time and energy: NO OBD II SCANNER BEATS THE INNOVA 5610 FOR A DIY MECHANIC!

Short, brutal, and ego-bruising – if you’re on the other side of the fence. But, it’s also the truth. Nothing but the gospel truth.

Here’s a direct link to check out the Innova 5610 on Amazon.

However, if you’re in no hurry, let me share why it matters to get the best OBD II scanner as an auto DIY mechanic.

Why It Matters to Get the Best Overall Scanner You Can

I’ve always hated the idea of subscriptions, especially when it comes to OBD II scanners. Granted, as a DIY mechanic, I need good, professional-level scan tools to figure out what’s wrong with my cars from time to time.

However, my use of scanners (when I’m not shooting videos or trying to demonstrate a point on film) is sparing and far between, which makes any investment into a scanner subscription a classic waste.

Why subscribe in the same manner as folks who make a full-time living wrenching and even have a shop where they ply their trade?

It doesn’t make any sense, you’d agree.

But, here’s the thing: OBD II scanner companies have found a way to put a scanner’s best functions behind a paywall, which makes it almost necessary to do things their way, even when it’s clear auto DIYers hate subscription fees.

This was until Innova came onboard and changed the game (at least for me).

Innova, to the best of my knowledge, is the only OBD II scanner company that not only promises free scanner software updates but also delivers on their promise, all the time.

The 5610, being the flagship of the brand, benefits immensely from this free update policy, as it does in the realm of features, as I’ll show immediately below.

Why the Innova 5610 Wins

There are many reasons why I chose the Innova 5610 as the overall best OBD II scanner for those who are brave enough to play with their vehicles and figure out what lies under their hood(s).

Here are the most important:

1. The Innova 5610 OBD II scanner comes free of subscription fees. All updates are FREE (and timely).
2. The scanner has bi-directional abilities, making it very easy for auto DIYers to isolate complex challenges, especially when not exactly sure what could be wrong.
3. With the right adapter, the scanner turns into an OBD I compliant scan tool (for those who own and work on older vehicles using the OBD I protocol).
4. The 5610 is capable of carrying out manufacturer-level (OE) scans for a plethora of brands, making it an invaluable tool for those challenging moments when only a special tool will do.
5. For all it does, the Innova 5610 retails around the $500 mark, which is a complete steal given its capabilities and subscription-free reality.

Here’s the direct link to the Innova 5610 on Amazon. If you’re interested in reading more about the 5610, here’s a review I ran on the scanner sometime back.

Most Rugged/Glove Box Friendly Code Reader: The Ancel AD410

Sometimes, you’re not looking to buy the best option (in this case, an OBD II scanner) that exists. You simply want a unit that does a certain task brilliantly and without much fuss.

If the task or general function you’re looking to achieve is reliability in the glove box or simply the most rugged unit you can find on the market, very few options remotely come close to the Ancel AD410.

Why It Matters to Get a Reliable Glove Box Code Reader

As a vehicle owner (and DIY mechanic), two things are outside your immediate control: when your vehicle will throw a CEL or if/when it will be broken into.

Buy a brand new vehicle and maintain it as religiously as you will, but 5 years (or sooner, for the moneypits) into its life, you’ll be shown a CEL, often, unexpectedly. That’s one.

Secondly, drive/own a car long enough and you’ll one day discover that while you parked (during the day or overnight), some good-for-nothing hoodlum broke into your vehicle.

As insurance generally doesn’t cover items taken from a vehicle during a break-in, you won’t be reimbursed for the loss when this happens. This means you’ll want to leave only inexpensive things in the car, things you can easily replace if there’s a break-in.

A vehicle that is likely to be broken in (and throws a CEL unexpectedly) leaves you, the owner, only one choice: a cheap, sturdy, reliable code reader that will live in the glove box, do its duties, and won’t have you losing sleep if it’s taken away by some useless hoodlum.

This is where the Ancel AD410 comes in and blazes the trail. The unit is small enough to fit into the glove box of even the smallest compact; it’s also durable enough to withstand even the roughest abuse, all while being retailed at a reasonable price point, a price point that makes everything about it make sense.

Why the Ancel AD410 Wins

There are many reasons to love the Ancel AD410 (my glove box code reader for more than 6 years now). The code reader has met (almost) all my friends and family, but it still looks (and performs) like the day I bought it.

This is all the more surprising because it receives no special treatment, yet continues to perform and bring smiles to my face, all year round, in the heat and the cold.

Here are the most important reasons why it wins as the best, rugged, glove box code reader you should have in your vehicle all year round as a DIY mechanic.

1. The code reader is super durable and designed with ergonomics in mind. Use and forget it in the glove box till another time. This is how the unit rolls.
2. For the price it retails for (usually, sub $50), it remains the perfect unit for the road. Lose it and you won’t lose sleep.
3. The display of the Ancel AD410 is truly superior: it works well under direct sunlight and is perfect for use at the stroke of midnight. It truly is superior tech.
4. The keys are easy to use and soft when depressed. Their design and spacing are also intuitive and perfect. This isn’t a code reader that confuses you…this one intuitively works – and urges you on as you use it.
5. Finally, the DTC library is easy to use and points to possible challenges, even without being asked. This is handy, especially for beginners.

Here’s the direct link to the Ancel AD410 on Amazon. If you’re interested in reading more about the AD410, here’s a review I ran on the code reader sometime back.

Most DIY Friendly Code Reader: The Foxwell NT301

At the beginning of this article, I complained bitterly about how, when I researched a DIY friendly scanner some years ago, all I got were generic answers that didn’t make any sense, written by folks who aren’t passionate about cars and worse, NOT DIY mechanics themselves.

It showed – and I knew, immediately, that I wasn’t going with their (numerous, non-inspired) recommendations.

This is exactly the scenario that pans out when you’re interested in a DIY-friendly code reader and keep getting models that are generic at their best and at their worst, completely off the mark.

It’s painful – and it shows. Always.

It’s in such a unique scenario that the genius of the Foxwell NT301 comes to the fore.

Why It Matters to Opt for a DIY Friendly Code Reader

Let’s be honest with ourselves, even if it’s only for a second: figuring out what’s wrong with a vehicle is serious business.

Granted, a code reader makes the process easier to bear, but that doesn’t take away the effort you need to put in, especially as a beginner ( a vehicle is made up of thousands of sensors, components, and actuators, all working together in harmony to ensure smooth transportation, remember?)

A code reader, designed to help you tackle this unique phase of your vehicle ownership, is not only a breath of fresh air; it also may be the only ‘slice of bread’ you’ll be seeing in many, many days, after a sustained stretch of ‘hunger’.

Imagine a code reader that, upon scanning your engine and emissions-related modules, not only tells you what code(s) it finds but also explains what the code(s) mean and, importantly, points you to practical steps you can take to isolate the issue and get to the root of the matter, in a true auto DIY fashion.

That is the promise of the Foxwell NT301 code reader; that is what the Foxwell NT301 code reader ultimately delivers on.

Why the Foxwell NT301 Wins

There are many reasons why I chose the Foxwell NT301 as the most auto DIY friendly code reader. Unfortunately, not all the reasons will be shared here for brevity. However, here are the top five:

1. The Foxwell NT301 not only scans the engine and emissions control system, but it also brings out the related codes, explains what the codes mean, and, IMPORTANTLY, outlines the steps needed to resolve the issues pending, giving users pointers in a step-by-step fashion.
2. The code reader is adequately protected with a thick rubber housing around it. With this, the unit will easily withstand a fall and even the occasional unavoidable abuse.
3. The code reader has many dedicated buttons that make use a breeze, especially for a beginner. Functions are isolated this way and not nestled into a series of steps under the same buttons.
4. The keys on the NT301 are a joy to depress, feel, and use. Never have I found using a code reader as fun as I’ve experienced on the Foxwell NT301.
5. Finally, the price, usually sub $100, is super fair for what this code reader is and, importantly, what it does. It’s an amazing, fairly priced piece of diagnostic tool.

Here’s the direct link to the Foxwell NT301 on Amazon. If you’re interested in reading more about the NT301, here’s a review I ran on the code reader sometime back.

Most Female-Friendly Code Reader: The Foxwell NT201

Now, let’s call a spade a spade: if you’re a lady and are interested in knowing what happens to your car (or even fixing it yourself), few code readers appeal to that feminine side of yours that appreciates bright colors and cute little things.

The mechanical world has been a male-dominated one for ages, and the tools often associated with the trade are always brash, dull, and usually NOT cute.

This doesn’t make sense, especially after going out of your way to invest in a pink VW Beetle (or Purple Mini) only to wind up with a dull-looking, black code reader!

For years, I wondered about this and imagined what it must be like for the ladies who love compliments in their colors and overall femininity in all that they do. Then, by chance, I came across the Foxwell NT201 online, and my daughter screamed that she wanted to take a second look!

That was my clue!!

When I finally bought and brought the code reader home, my wife also decided that at last, I had got a code reader she’d be happy to use.

I wondered, sincerely, how it was that I missed these little bits all along.

Here’s what the Foxwell NT201 looks like on Amazon.

Why a Female-Friendly Code Reader Makes Sense

Pink, purple, and other bright hues dominate the favorite colors of most ladies. On the other hand, men generally prefer duller shades; colors that are okay with blending in the background and generally, not bothering (with anything or anyone else).

The above is fact, backed up by science and hard reality.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. We all know that we keep doing that which we love – and ladies, generally, don’t fancy ‘wasting their time’ with OBD II scanners or code readers.

Now, to reverse this trend and get women interested (or if you need to be interested as a lady yourself), what do you do?

I hope it’s getting clearer now…

…simple: opt for a code reader that you’re likely to use and would be proud of ‘playing’ with. With this reality, it’s a WIN-WIN-WIN for all parties concerned. The car is happy, the owner is happy, and the code reader, too, isn’t left out!

What more is there to ask for?

Why the Foxwell NT201 Wins

The Foxwell NT201 is a uniquely feminine code reader. It evokes all the feminine good, but the reason it was chosen here is much more than that. Here are the top 5 reasons:

1. The Foxwell NT201 is offered in a bright, attentive orange color. Few ladies can afford to miss it.
2. The code reader is portable and designed attractively. It’s what most ladies refer to as ‘cute’.
3. The NT201 is easy to use and works intuitively. With dedicated keys, a lady doesn’t need the manual or even stress herself in order to get to using it. She simply picks it up and boom – she’s done.
4. The code reader has status lights that further simplify the code reading process. This is an attractive and functional feature as well as an emotional one that can easily get you hooked to your vehicle as a female vehicle owner/DIY mechanic. This is a great thing, BTW.
5. Finally, the Foxwell NT201 can easily fit into the center console, glove box, purse, or wherever you want it to fit in, as a lady. It’s that versatile and cute, at the same time.

Here’s the direct link to the Foxwell NT201 on Amazon. If you’re interested in reading more about the NT201, here’s a review I ran on the code reader sometime back.

Most Bluetooth Capable Scanner: The TopDon TopScan

I’ve said it time and time again that I dislike Bluetooth OBD II scanners and code readers with a passion!

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t good things that can be gotten the Bluetooth way. As a matter of fact, a Bluetooth scanner or code reader may be the best fit for a variety of users, depending on budget and circumstances.

Some of these instances include situations where cables prove to be messy, instances where traveling light is of the essence, and ultimately, instances where budgets are constrained.

That said, there’s a lot to be hated after going the Bluetooth way: disconnections, challenges logging into your account, and generally, the unstable nature of wireless connections, plus the challenges (most of the time) of establishing and keeping a wireless connection.

The above was my position (and reality) until I came across the TopScan from TopDon. Now, I’m not so certain if I hate Bluetooth OBD II scanners that much again – all thanks to my experience with TopScan.

Why You Should Consider a Capable Bluetooth Scanner

The fact that TopDon has wowed me with TopScan doesn’t automatically mean I love Bluetooth OBD II scanners. However, it’s now much more difficult to openly criticize Bluetooth scanners and code readers, knowing that there are exceptions to this position of mine.

For instance, there are instances where the smart dongle makes a ton of sense. A good example is when I’m out on an inspection and wish to travel light. I pick up the dongle and my smartphone, and that’s all I need.

Then, there’s another instance: when I need to monitor values in real time as I drive. I use the phone mount and paired, see my engine, tyranny, trims, etc, in real time, with minimal distraction, all while I drive (which can be very instructive when diagnosing complex issues such as poor fuel economy without express setting of codes).

Further, there’s the cheap price, at least at the purchase point. Instead of settling for a simple code reader, with a Bluetooth scanner, you get advanced diagnostics – all for the price of a traditional, basic OBD II code reader.

This is what makes the Bluetooth code readers not only attractive but, in many instances, sexy as hell.

Why the TopDon TopScan Wins

I’ve been privileged to use an array of Bluetooth scanners in the past: none appealed to me, before I came across TopScan, from TopDon. Here’s what makes this cute little Bluetooth scanner an exception to the general (hated) population.

1. TopScan has bi-directional capabilities. This takes the diagnostic ability of the code reader to extra lengths, not usually seen in code readers at its price point.
2. Besides bi-directional capabilities, there are many advanced resets and an array of functions/services such as Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), repair guides, and an awesome support system, especially for DIY folks. It’s a complete ecosystem for the avid DIYer.
3. Despite working in a wireless Bluetooth manner, the TopScan connects easily and effortlessly. It also does not disconnect randomly while in use (at least, for most of the time).
4. Using the smartphone/tablet you already have, the unit doesn’t need a traditional display. This translates to savings for you at the point of purchase. Usually, the TopScan is offered at the sub-$100 price point.
5. Finally, the subscription price is fair enough and one of the most affordable in the industry (at $49.99 as of today). However, as if that isn’t enough, you can further break your subscription into structured bits (monthly, quarterly, etc.), a reality which is novel in the industry.

Here’s the direct link to the TopDon TopScan on Amazon. If you’re interested in reading more about the TopScan, here’s a review I ran on the scanner sometime back.

Most Affordable Code Reader: The Ancel AD310

Before I proceed with this one, it’s important to make something abundantly clear: I’m not a fan of affordable (read: cheap) code readers. My experience with them (as with anything life offers) is simple: there are always trade-offs.

The rock bottom, absolutely bottom of the rung pricing means that:

• You get a basic display, usually a monochrome affair (AKA ‘black and white).
• You get a computer that only reads engine and emission codes.
• You receive a code reader that is typically ineffective against manufacturer-specific codes.
• And, an array of many other limitations you would rather not face.

The above said, the market for these basic code readers is booming, and there is just one logical explanation: most vehicle users want to know the basics of what could be wrong with their vehicles, that’s all.

If this is you, you’ll be absolutely hard-pressed to find an option better than the Ancel AD310 – and I’ll tell you why in a moment.

Why You Should Consider an Affordable Code Reader

Removing my dislike of cheap code readers (primarily because of the limitations and frustrations they cause a DIY mechanic like me), there’s actually a lot to love when looking at these units objectively (I can be a bit emotional sometimes, by the way).

First, because these little computers are usually small and ultra-portable, they’re perfect for the road and super ergonomic. What this translates to is that they fit perfectly into gloveboxes, center consoles, and palms. The net results? They are perfect road companions and give your vehicle a sort of ‘first aid’ scan when something goes wrong or a check engine light pops out from nowhere.

The curious thing? Sometimes, this ‘first aid’ is the only thing needed to bring your vehicle back to its pre-DTC state!

Second, because these little code readers are usually sold for dirt cheap, you don’t need to first win the lottery before considering them or even budget and plan for them for weeks/months before finally buying them: you just swipe your card, forget about it, and a day (or two later), have it delivered in a parcel at your front door.

That’s it!

Third, closely related to the second option treated above, you won’t lose sleep if your vehicle has a break-in, is hijacked, or you plainly lose the code reader.

The reason? It’s cheap! You just go buy another!

Contrast that with this MaxiIM Pro II (with well over 3k test capabilities, costing thousands of dollars): which one will cause the most pain if you somehow lose it?

Finally, cheap code readers are naturally fast as they have light software and fewer initializations to perform after connection and startup. For most of these entry-level code readers, you simply plug them in, and in a few seconds, you’re scanning away like some professional mechanic.

This just doesn’t happen with professional OBD II scanners. The fastest they can be is a few minutes, which particularly annoys if time isn’t on your side or the vehicle has broken down in a place where it isn’t exactly safe.

This is where the simplicity of the cheap code reader comes in. You simply plug it in and get to business…in seconds!

Why the Ancel AD310 Wins

The Ancel AD310 isn’t the only affordable (or ‘cheap’) code reader currently on sale today. As a matter of fact, there are many other options, and this includes the Motopower MP69033. I even ran a comparison article between these two sometime back.

However, I decided on the AD310 as the ultimate winner in this category for the following reasons:

1. The code reader is solidly made – and is something that will last a while, even with everyday ‘rough’ use.
2. The Ancel AD310 has the most features (and options) for code readers I tested within its price range.
3. Finally, the AD310, though with a small monochrome display, is crisp and clear. At its price point, many options I tested have a display that looks like a bad ’90s battery-operated handheld computer game!

Here’s the direct link to the Ancel AD310 on Amazon. If you’d love a review of the Ancel AD310 here on ThrottleHolic, I ran the review a few weeks ago.

FAQs

Penning down this article wasn’t an easy task: I needed NOT just to get the best OBD II code readers and scanners, but also to make sure that while they were the best at their game, they were also DIY-friendly at the same time.

This brought about a challenge: the article is a bit longer than I would have liked.

To address that challenge, I have a list of some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) I’ve compiled, and hope that you get some information, smartly, without needing to spend a fortune (in time) looking for it.

Here.

Summary

Now, you have it: the best OBD II scanners and code readers for 2026, written by a passionate DIY mechanic who actually wrenches and uses the scanners and code readers he recommends.

I’ve also segmented them into:

• Best overall: The Innova 5610 (because it’s subscription-free and has the most features at its price point. It’s also bi-directional).
• Most rugged/glove box friendly: The Ancel AD410 (because it’s rugged, reliable, and easy to use).
• Most DIY friendly: The Foxwell NT301 (because it not only reads codes, it also leads you to their repair/fix, at no extra cost).
• Most female-friendly: The Foxwell NT201 (because it’s bright, affordable, and easy to use) and
• Most Bluetooth capable: The TopDon TopScan (because it’s fairly priced, connects easily, and has a ton of features, including bi-directional ability and Technical Service Bulletins – TSBs).

Good luck with your choice, and may the force guide you as you wrench!

Love the Above? Subscribe for More