Launch X431 PRO 5 vs. PAD VII Elite: Comparison

If you plan to spare no expenses on top-of-the-line equipment for your workshop or simply want the best of the best, you can't go wrong with these two Launch models. Specifically, these are two devices that are considered the manufacturer’s flagships, with the widest arsenal of features, including ECU programming and re-flashing. The two protagonists in our article are below:

• Launch X431 PRO 5
• Launch X431 PAD VII Elite

Both diagnostic scan tools connect to the vehicle wirelessly via the advanced VCI Smartlink C 2.0, which not only supports 24V for lorries and buses but also the J2534 Passthru protocol, enabling the use of OEM diagnostic tools through a compatible diagnostic interface.

You get 2 years of free updates with both devices, and once they lapse, they're not mandatory – the device will keep working, albeit limited to cars manufactures before that date. If you want to keep working on the newest cars and access online features, you can always purchase an update subscription here. 

Diagnostic Features

Just like the two bestselling Launch diagnostic tools, these 2 devices offer the full range of diagnostic features: 

• Read and clear DTCs in all control units
• Display of live data
• Actuator tests
• Adaptations, basic settings and calibrations
• Control unit coding
• Online coding
• Service functions such as service interval reset, injector coding, electronic parking brake service, forced DPF regeneration, ABS and coolant system bleeding, steering angle sensor calibration and many more
• ECU programming
• Online control unit programming

Current carmaker trends also include adding secure access to newer cars, which prevents unauthorised access to certain ECUs and requires a subscription or a token to overcome. How to unlock SGW (Security Gateway) for FCA group vehicles is described in this article. However, Launch diagnostics do not provide an option for direct access to SFD for VAG group vehicles. If you need help with gaining secure access for these vehicles, please contact us, as this area is subject to frequent changes. 

As for other brands with secure access, such as Mercedes and Renault, you can buy a one-year FCA + Mercedes + Renault SGW licence directly in the diagnostic device as an in-app purchase.

Comparing Launch X431 PRO 5 and PAD VII Elite

In every category except price, the PAD VII Elite will always be the winner, as it is the flagship model of Launch. It not only has a larger display and better hardware specs, but also more quick service functions and more pre-paid ECU programming licences. However the PRO 5 is no slouch. Thanks to its 50+ quick service functions and a plethora of advanced features, it is one of the best scan tools on the market, offering highly detailed vehicle diagnostics. It also supports ECU re-flashing for BMW and Mercedes.

Meanwhile, the PAD VII Elite includes more than 20 of these pre-paid ECU re-flashing and programming licences, for example for VAG, Ford, BMW, Hyundai, etc. The downside is  the higher cost of updates after two years and possibly the sheer size and weight of the device. 

Expansion for Heavy Duty Vehicles

The extension for heavy duty vehicles such as HGVs and buses can be obtained by purchasing the HD Set, which includes a one-year licence and updates, both of which are optional to renew. The carrying case also contains a set of diagnostic adapters for heavy duty vehicles. Supported brands cover not only lorries but also buses as well as agricultural and construction machinery.

Diagnostic specifications 

 
*Prices are valid as of the article’s publication date

Summary

Both Launch diagnostic scan tools are among the very best available on the market, as they include the highest number of quick service functions and the most comprehensive vehicle coverage. You will also benefit from advanced ECU programming and re-flashing thanks to J2534 protocol support and smoother Android performance thanks to improved hardware specs.