Launch X431 PRO3 APEX vs CRP919E BT Comparison: Which OBD Scanner Should You Choose?

X431 PRO3 APEX vs Launch CRP919 BT

In this post, we will be taking a look at two of Launch’s most popular OBD scanners, the X431 PRO3 APEX and the CRP919 BT, to see how they perform on a real vehicle, a 2014 Citroen C4. We will look at the key features and functional differences between these two devices to help you choose the one that best suits your needs.

1. Connectivity and VCI

Both scanners feature the updated VCI connector, called DBSCAR VII. They use USB Type-C connectors, with a cable length of about 8 feet, and provide five times faster communication speeds than previous models. The speed and stability of the connection are a significant improvement for both devices.

2. Hardware Configuration

When it comes to hardware, both scanners are very powerful but with some key differences:

• X431 PRO3 APEX: It has a 2.0 GHz quad-core processor, Android 10.0, a 10.1-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 1280x800, 4GB of RAM and 64GB of ROM. It is equipped with a 6300 mAh/7.6V battery (equivalent to 12600 mAh/3.7V) and an 8 MP rear camera. It supports dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz).

• CRP919E BT: It has a similar processor, Android 10.0, but a smaller 7-inch screen with a resolution of 1024x600. Here we also find 4GB of RAM and 64GB of ROM, with an 8 MP rear camera and dual-band Wi-Fi. The battery is still powerful, with a capacity of 6300 mAh.

Both models include USB-A and USB-C ports, as well as a built-in microphone for audio recording during diagnostic sessions.

3. Service Functions

One of the most important differences concerns the available service functions:

• X431 PRO3 APEX offers 41 special functions, including topological mapping, a very popular feature that allows you to visually display error codes in the various vehicle systems.

• CRP919E BT stops at 35 special functions and does not include topological mapping, but it is still very complete for most users.

4. Compatibility with ADAS and Other Advanced Functions

Another exclusive feature of the X431 PRO3 APEX is the compatibility with the ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System), visible directly from the main menu. This tool is not available in the CRP919E BT.

Both devices support AutoAuth for FCA SGW, making them compatible with Dodge, Fiat and Chrysler vehicles from 2018 onwards. This requires a separate registration to access the protected systems.

In terms of advanced features, both support CAN FD and DOIP protocols, as well as coding and programming functions. However, the X431 PRO3 ACE offers a wider range of programming capabilities than the CRP919E BT.

5. Updates and Price

Both the X431 PRO3 ACE and the CRP919E BT offer two years of free updates. After that, the annual update costs are 399 EUR for the APEX and 199 EUR for the CRP919E BT respectively.

6. Additional Tools and Modules

Finally, the X431 PRO3 ACE offers a wider range of tools, including an oscilloscope, a multimeter and an immobilizer programmer. The CRP919E BT is more limited, with only three main tools (TPMS, BST360 and video scope).

7. Conclusion: Which One to Choose?

In summary, the X431 PRO3 APEX offers a more complete and advanced experience, with extra features such as topological mapping and ADAS compatibility. Its price is higher, around 1000 EURO, compared to 500 EURO for the CRP919E BT. The latter remains an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable scanner with all the necessary functions at a lower cost.

Choose the device that best suits your needs based on your budget and the features that are most important to you.