Buyer's guide
Which machine do I need?
Choose by the job, not the model number. A handheld all-system scanner diagnoses every module on a car. A tablet adds bi-directional tests and coding. A professional tablet adds programming and J2534. The IMMO Elite handles keys, and a truck module adds 24V to a compatible tablet.
Four questions that narrow it down
01
Cars, trucks or both?
Cars only: any step from 01 to 04. Trucks: a complete 24V kit, or a truck module (step 05) if you already own a compatible X431 tablet.
See step 0502
Workshop or DIY?
Owners and light workshop use usually start with a handheld all-system scanner. Busy workshops move to a tablet for tests and coding.
See step 0103
Do you need tests, coding or programming?
Bi-directional tests and ECU coding start at the CRP919X. Programming and J2534 need a professional tablet.
See step 0304
Do you program keys?
Key programming, immobiliser and ECU/TCU work is specialist territory: the IMMO Elite.
See step 04
The LAUNCH range, step by step
Each step adds capability to the one before it. Most workshops need one tool from this table; mixed car and truck workshops often need a tablet plus a truck module.
| Step | Tool type | What it does | Models | Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Handheld all-systemDiagnose every module on a car | Every system on the vehicle, not only engine, transmission, ABS and SRSOur entry tier. Full-system tools, not basic code readers. | CRP123X Plus, CRP129X Plus | Entry-Level & DIY |
| 02 | Entry professional tabletRun tests and coding, not just reading | Bi-directional tests, ECU coding, 31+ service resets | CRP919X | Professional Workshop (Cars) |
| 03 | Professional tabletCode and program modules | Coding, programming, J2534 | PRO3 APEX, PROS Elite, V+ 5.0 PRO3 | Professional Workshop (Cars) |
| 04 | SpecialistProgram keys and immobilisers | Key programming, immobiliser, ECU/TCU | IMMO Elite | Key Programming & IMMO |
| 05 | Truck moduleAdd 24V trucks to a tablet you own | Heavy-duty 24V coverage on a compatible X431 tabletNot standalone. Check your tablet is compatible before ordering. | SmartLink C 2.0, HD3 | Truck & Heavy-Duty (24V) |
We don’t stock four-system handhelds (CRP123X, CRP129X without “Plus”) that only cover engine, transmission, ABS and SRS.
Adding trucks: check the module fits your tablet
The SmartLink C 2.0 and HD3 are not standalone tools. They add heavy-duty 24V coverage to a compatible LAUNCH X431 tablet. A module bought without a compatible tablet can’t be used.
If you are starting from scratch with trucks, a complete kit that includes the tablet is usually the simpler buy.
| Module | Works with | Not compatible |
|---|---|---|
| SmartLink C 2.0 Standard version (not HD Lite) | X431 V+, PRO3, PRO3S and PRO5 series tablets | — |
| HD3 Older module | Ask us with your tablet model | X431 PRO5 |
Not sure which tablet you have? Send us a photo of the tablet or its model label before you order.
Chery, GWM, Haval, BYD: will it cover my vehicles?
Chinese brands passed 19% of South African passenger and light commercial sales in the first quarter of 2026, and coverage for them is the question we hear most. It depends on the tool, the model and year, and the software version, so we check your actual vehicles instead of promising a blanket yes.
Where you buy matters too
LAUNCH restricts software updates by sales territory. A unit bought outside its intended territory may never receive updates. How updates and renewals work.
Talk to a technician
Not sure which one you need?
Tell us the vehicles you work on and the jobs you need to do, and we’ll point you to the right tool. Closed — opens tomorrow at 08:00.