Launch X431 PROS V5.0/PRO DYNO vs. V+/PRO3 APEX: Comparison

Our range of Launch universal diagnostic scan tools is quite extensive, so deciding which one fits your needs can be quite tricky. This is especially true for when it comes to four models of Launch diagnostic scan tools that are quite similar in price and share a number of common features. In this article, we summarise both their shared features and their differences. These models are: 

• Launch X431 PROS V5.0
• Launch X431 PRO DYNO
• Launch X431 V+
• Launch X431 PRO3 APEX

All of these scan tools connect to your car through a wireless Vehicle Communication Interace (VCI) so there's no cables to manage or trip over - Marconi would be proud. You get 2 years of free updates with your purchase and the update subscription is not required in order for the device to function once they lapse. You will only lose access to the newest cars manufactured after your update subscription lapses and you won't be able to access some online features. However if you do decide you want to be able to work on the newest cars, you can purchase a subscription renewal here. 

Diagnostic Features

Just like our two best-selling Launch diagnostic tools, these 4 devices offer the full range of diagnostic features: 

• Reading and clearing DTCs in all control units
• Displaying live data
• Actuator testing
• Adaptations, basic settings and calibrations
• ECU coding
• Online ECU 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 reset and many more

Comparison of PROS V5.0 / PRO DYNO and V+ / PRO3 APEX

PROS V5.0 and PRO DYNO scan tools are practically identical and they differ only in appearance - one is red and the other one is black. On the other hand, V+ and APEX are identical when it comes to internal software and hardware but feature a significantly different design and form factor. All four devices offer the same number of quick service functions (37+) and the extent of diagnostic features remains the same. To make it simpler, we'll only be  comparing DYNO and APEX in the rest of the article.

So what is the difference? APEX sports a larger, 10" display, while DYNO is slightly smaller, at 8". Unlike DYNO, APEX also features ECU topology view, which is displayed during a complete vehicle scan. The individual ECUs and communication buses are visually displayed on the screen. The smaller 8" diagnostic scan tools can only display ECUs through the classic list view.

Expansion for Heavy Duty Vehicles: HD Lite and Smartlink C 2.0 HD

The Launch X431 APEX scan tool can upgraded to be able to work with lorries and heavy duty vehicles using the Smartlink C 2.0 HD, which comes with a one-year licence and updates, both optional. Support covers not only lorries but also buses as well as agricultural and construction machinery.

DYNO can also be upgraded with the help of the HD Lite set. However, the scope of supported vehicles is somewhat smaller and the number of diagnostic functions is also lower. 

Diagnostic specifications 

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

Summary

In closing, all four diagnostic tools offer the same quick service functions and the option for expansion for heavy duty vehicles. The primary differences lie in appearance and hardware specifications. Thanks to the larger display, APEX and V+ offer ECU topology view and are overall more comfortable for reading texts. When purchasing the heavy duty expansion kit, Smartlink C 2.0 HD provides a larger number of diagnostic functions and broader vehicle support.