What is the difference between Autel MaxiSys Ultra S2 and Autel MaxiSys Ultra diagnostic tool?
We’ve prepared a detailed comparison covering the following aspects to help you evaluate both tools:
- Hardware configuration
- Software features and performance
- Cloud service support
- Security Gateway (SGW) functionality
- Expandable and add-on capabilities
Whether you prioritize advanced programming functions, ease of use, or future-proof connectivity, this breakdown will assist you in making an informed decision.
Comparison table 1: Hardware configuration
| Hardware/Model | MaxiSys Ultra S2 | MaxiSys Ultra |
| Image |
|
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| Processor | Qualcomm 8-core | Samsung 8-core |
| RAM/ROM | 12GB/512GB | 8GB/256GB |
| Battery Capacity | 18000mAh | 18000mAh |
| Android Version | Android 13 | Android 11 |
| Display | 13.7 inch | 12.7 inches |
| Resolution | 2176*1600 | 2732×2048 |
| WIFI | 2.4&5GHz | 2.4&5GHz |
| Bluetooth | √ | √ |
| USB | USB2.0: (2 USB HOST Type A, 1 Type-C) | USB2.0: (2 USB HOST Type A, 1 USB Mini device) |
| HDMI Port | HDMI 2.0 | √ |
| SD Card | SD Card (Supports up to 256GB) | SD Card (Supports up to 256GB) |
| Audio Jack | √ | √ |
| Microphone Port | 4 MIC | √ |
| Speaker Port | √(2 Speakers) | √(2 Speakers) |
| GPS | √ | √ |
| Light Sensor | √ | √ |
| Buttons | 1 Lock screen power button | 1 Lock screen power button |
| Charging Dock | √ | √ |
| DC Fast Charging | √ | X |
| Camera | Front: 16MP, Rear: 16MP | Front: 16MP, Rear: 16MP |
| Lower Computer | MaxiFlash VCMI 2 | MaxiFlash VCMI |
| Connection method between upper and lower computers | WiFi/BT/USB | WiFi/BT/USB |
Comparison table 2: Software
| Item | MaxiSys Ultra S2 | MaxiSys Ultra |
| Basic Functions | ||
| Read/Clear Codes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Data Stream | ✓ (3.0, Multi-system) | ✓ (2.0 Single system) |
| Freeze Frame | ✓ | ✓ |
| ECU Information | ✓ | ✓ |
| Service Functions | ✓ | ✓ |
| Special Functions | ✓ | ✓ |
| Active Test | ✓ | ✓ |
| Advanced Functions | ||
| ECU Online Programming | Offline version: Benz, BMW, Mini, Nissan GT-R, Infiniti, Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, Land Rover, Jaguar, Audi, VW, Skoda, Porsche, GreatWall, Renault | Benz, BMW, Mini |
| ECU Online Coding | Offline version: Benz, BMW, Mini, Audi, Porsche, VW, Brazil, Nissan/GTR, Inifiniti, Renault, Kia, Hyundai | Benz, BMW, Mini, Audi, Porsche,VW |
| Hidden refresh | BMW, VW, Audi, Skoda | BMW, VW, Audi, Skoda |
| Guided Functions | VW, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Man LD | VW, Audi, Skoda, Seat, Man LD |
| High Voltage System Diagnosis | ✓ | ✓ (need to bind with EVDiag box) |
| High Voltage Battery Pack Offline Test | ✓(need to bind with EVDiag box) | ✓ (need to bind with EVDiag box) |
| High Voltage Component Test | ✓ (need to bind with EVDiag box) | ✓ (need to bind with EVDiag box) |
| SOH – Battery Health Assessment | ✓(need to bind with EVDiag box) | ✓ (need to bind with EVDiag box) |
| Topology Map | ✓ (3.0) | ✓ (2.0) |
| New Features | ||
| Vehicle Identification (Independent entry on main interface) | ✓ | X |
| Digital Vehicle Detection | ✓ | X |
| AI Voice Assistant | ✓ | X |
| Special Vehicle Diagnosis | ||
| McLaren Diagnosis | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tesla Diagnosis | ✓ | ✓ |
Comparison table 3: Cloud Services+ Extended Features+ Gateway Unlock
| Item | MaxiSys Ultra S2 | MaxiSys Ultra |
| Cloud Services | ||
| Remote Expert C-End | ✓ (Except Europe) | ✓ (Except Europe) |
| Report Management | ✓ | ✓ |
| TPMS Comprehensive Function | ✗ | ✗ |
| Extended Features | ||
| Oscilloscope Function | ✓ (3.0) | ✓ |
| Multimeter Function (MV105/MV108/MV105S/MV108S) | ✓ (Optional) | ✓ (Optional) |
| Four-Wheel Alignment | ✓ (Optional) | ✓ (Optional) |
| Battery Test (BF1506) | ✓ (Optional) | ✓ (Optional) |
| Add EVBox Upgrade or EV Product | ✓ (Optional) | ✓ (Optional) |
| Multimeter | ✓ | ✓ |
| J2534 & RP1210 | ✓ | ✓ |
| DoIP | ✓ | ✓ |
| CAN FD | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pre & Post Scan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Auto VIN | ✓ | Auto detect, Manual input, Scan VIN/License |
| WiFi Printing | ✓ | ✓ |
| Gateway Unlock Function | ||
| FCA Gateway Unlock | ✓ (May vary by region) | ✓ (May vary by region) |
| Renault Gateway Unlock | ✓ | ✓ |
| Nissan Gateway Unlock | ✓ (Japan, parts of Europe and North America only) | ✓ (Japan, parts of Europe and North America only) |
| VAG SFD Gateway Unlock | ✓ | ✓ |
| Benz Autoauth Gateway Unlock | ✓ (USA only) | ✓ (USA only) |
In conclusion
1.Hardware comparison
- Samsung octa-core processor + 8GB RAM + 256GB ROM, providing sufficient speed and stability for diagnosing and programming various vehicle models.
- Support complete hardware interfaces including HDMI, dual USB, SD card expansion, dual speakers, audio jack, and four microphones.
- Equipped with a more powerful processor, larger memory, and enhanced runtime, delivering stronger performance in complex environments.
- Compared to Ultra, its lower computer integrates a remote expert programming box.
- The lower computer can also connect to a second Wi-Fi network (whereas Ultra’s host and VCMI can only connect to the same Wi-Fi).
2.Software comparison
Ultra:
- Powerful software features, supporting full programming and coding capabilities for Mercedes-Benz/BMW/Mini.
- Data Stream 2.0+ and Topology Map 2.0 with a simple and easy-to-interpret interface, reducing the learning curve.
- Ultra’s software capabilities for supported vehicle models, including diagnostics, programming, coding, online programming, online coding, and hidden feature activation, are very close to those of Ultra S2.
Ultra S2:
- Offline version supports programming and coding for more vehicle models.
- Upgraded to Data Stream 3.0 and Topology Map 3.0, providing richer data display.
- Supports high-voltage system diagnostics without requiring an additional EV box.
- New features include vehicle ID recognition, digital vehicle detection, and AI voice assistant.
3.Expanded functions
Ultra:
- Strong expandability, largely consistent with Ultra S2, supporting advanced diagnostics and programming capabilities such as J2534, RP1210, DoIP, CAN FD, Auto VIN, and Pre & Post Scan.
- Modular expansion options, including EV Box, battery testing, endoscope, and other accessories to meet various repair scenarios.
Ultra S2:
Upgraded to Oscilloscope 3.0.
How to Decide Which One to Choose:
Ultra (Cost-Effective)
1.Target Users: Comprehensive repair shops requiring flagship hardware but with a limited budget.
2.Features:
- High-end hardware (12.7″ large screen, 8GB/256GB).
- Built-in VCMI (oscilloscope, signal generator, multimeter, CAN bus analysis).
- Topology Map 2.0 and Data Stream 2.0.
- More affordable than Ultra S2.
- Ideal For: High-end repair shops seeking cost-effectiveness.
Ultra S2 (Latest Flagship)
1.Target Users: High-end repair shops pursuing the latest features and AI capabilities.
2.Features:
- More powerful hardware and a larger screen.
- Supports Topology Map 3.0 and Data Stream 3.0.
- New AI voice assistant.
- Supports digital vehicle inspection (DVI) with Pre-scan/Post-scan reports.
- Ideal For: Users who need the latest features, AI assistance, and a large-screen operation experience.
Summary:
Autel MaxiSys Ultra is a cost-effective flagship device with strong hardware and software capabilities, suitable for repair shops that need high performance without the latest premium features. It supports advanced diagnostics and programming, with modular expansion options.
Autel MaxiSys Ultra S2 is the latest flagship model, offering enhanced hardware, newer software features (Data Stream 3.0, Topology Map 3.0), AI integration, and improved connectivity. It targets high-end users who require the most advanced tools and functionalities.
Key Differences:
- Hardware: Ultra S2 has a more powerful processor and larger memory.
- Software: Ultra S2 supports newer data and topology versions, AI voice assistant, and digital vehicle detection.
- Connectivity: Ultra S2 allows connecting to a second Wi-Fi network, unlike Ultra.
- Diagnostics: Ultra S2 can diagnose high-voltage systems without an additional EV box.
- Price: Ultra is more budget-friendly, while Ultra S2 is premium-priced with advanced features.
Choose MaxiSys Ultra for reliability and cost-effectiveness; choose MaxiSys Ultra S2 for cutting-edge technology and AI capabilities.
