Foxwell NT201 vs NT301: Which Is a Better Bet Today?

At face value, these two code readers appear to be similar – and offer (nearly) the same things. Retailing around the same price point and capable of scanning only the engine modules of vehicles hasn’t helped with this confusion.

However, besides the fact that they both roll off from the same factory, they are as different as anything could be. It’s a challenge though, spotting the differences and making informed choices and decisions, as a prospective buyer.

This is where I come as an auto DIY mechanic and importantly, one who owns both units and actively uses them almost on a day-to-day basis.

First thing first: let’s take a look at both the Foxwell NT201 and NT301 on Amazon.

Brief Overview of the Foxwell NT201

Offered in a bright orange color, the Foxwell NT201 is something that instantly draws attention to itself. If you’re one to step on your code readers, it offers you, (by means of its bright coloration), the chance to see it first – and possibly, avoid stepping on it.

Besides the bright orange coloration (which I stated in my review that ladies love), the code reader reads DTCs stored in the engine control module, erases the same, and gives you access to live data – all of which can be helpful for a car owner or basic DIYer.

The unit itself itself isn’t anything fanciful nor does it offer anything out of the usual. However, on the things it promises, it delivers. It’s like the Corolla of the OBD II world: basic, utilitarian, and focused on delivering just what it promises – without any special extras.

Here’s what the Foxwell NT201 code reader looks like on Amazon (where it retails).

Brief Overview of the Foxwell NT301

The Foxwell NT301, on the other hand, is a larger unit, built to a different specification and designed with a slightly different demographic in mind.

Feeling very reassuring to the feel (with keys that easily bounce up and return), it is a code reader that clearly has extra thought built-in with it – the ultimate objective being durability and long-term service.

As noted in my review of the Foxwell NT301, the outer cover adorning the main case of the unit is proof that it is designed to work – and excel in challenging environments and importantly, is made to serve over the long haul.

This position is confirmed with the introduction of the expansive DTC library that not only tells you the code(s) troubling your vehicle but also, explains them and offers a step-by-step approach to fixing the issue like a (true) professional.

Here is what the Foxwell NT301 looks like on Amazon where it retails.

Similarities Between the Foxwell NT201 & NT301

First, both the NT201 and 301 are basic code readers that essentially, only read (and clear) engine codes. This means, if you need other modules (like airbag and transmission) scanned, you’ll be out of luck (for all such extended capability, the TopDon’s TopScan is a capable unit around the same price point).

Second, both code readers can read live data and offer you information about the current state of a running engine. Both code readers do this in a serialized manner and on both units, the graphical option, as is available on the Ancel AD410, is absent.

Third, if you’re not familiar with the engine codes the unit outputs, both code readers have easy-to-use DTC libraries; simply input any engine code you have before you and you get an explanation of what it means.

Finally, both are powered by a clear, color display. This display is a sharp contrast between the traditional monochrome displays most of the older/or cheaper code readers spot.

So much for what the Foxwell NT201 and NT301 have in common: now, how do they differ?

Foxwell NT201 vs NT301: Where They Differ

First, the NT301, in addition to having a DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) library, also offers a practical step-by-step solution to the issue, as displayed. This is handy for auto DIYers or generally, for car owners who don’t entirely trust their mechanics.

Second, the NT301 is designed with a rubber cover around its body; a cover that firmly protects the unit in the case of a fall and generally, ensures that the unit itself is free of the sweat, dirt, or grease that typically characterizes the hands of most users when they’re scanning their vehicles.

Third, the NT301 has more dedicated keys than the NT201 – which makes it comparatively more intuitive and stress-free to use. If you need to access ‘help’ for instance, there’s a dedicated button for that; need to check your emissions test readiness? There’s also a dedicated button for that. Want to clear codes? One-button operation. It is a breath of fresh air when compared to the depth most of the functions are hidden in on the smaller NT201.

Finally, the NT301 is larger than the NT201, fitting better into the hands of those who are large and prefer to have something a bit larger, fitting into their hands. This size advantage translates to many other beautiful things such as better placement of keys and of course, fewer functions per key. If you don’t like wasting time, or fumbling around when you need to work, you’ll appreciate this reality, immensely.

So, which should you buy?

Which Should You Buy: The NT201 or NT301?

Without mincing words, buy the Foxwell NT301: it’s a better unit, overall, when compared to the Foxwell NT201. It also has more functions, better size, better protection, and importantly, has a step-by-step repair guide, tied to its DTC library, which the 201 lacks.

However, there are instances where I’ll understand if you decide to opt for the NT201 which are:

1. If you love your things brightly colored (it’s a bright orange) and/or
2. If you’re looking at the cheapest unit you can find and just need engine codes read and cleared (it retails for slightly less than the superior NT301).

At the end of the day, however, it all bores down to choice, needs, and preferences. I’m only but a presenter of cold, hard facts.

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