Which 2025 scanner should an independent shop pick?

By 2025 a “just read codes” tablet is no longer enough. New vehicles arrive with DoIP (diagnostics over IP), CAN-FD, FCA/Stellantis SGW and VAG SFD. If your scanner cannot handle at least two of these, the job will go to another workshop. This guide compares four popular aftermarket lines – Autel, Launch, Thinkcar and Topdon – from that exact angle.

1. What a 2025 scanner must support

DoIP – for late BMW, Mercedes, JLR, VAG EVs and software-defined vehicles.
CAN-FD – for 2024–2025 platforms with higher bandwidth CAN.
SGW/SFD unlock – either built-in cloud unlock or the ability to log in with an OEM/account.
ADAS & EV add-ons – to keep collision and EV customers in-house.
Cloud / remote programming – for closed vehicles or when you don’t have the OEM subscription.

2. Brand snapshots

Brand	Strengths	Watch out for
Autel	Very wide coverage, strong FCA SGW integration, good ADAS kits, growing EV line, remote expert/programming services.	Annual subscription needed to keep advanced functions; top tablets can be expensive.
Launch	Great price-to-features ratio, DoIP/CAN-FD with newer VCIs, large user base, ADAS modules available.	You must check which VCI is actually included and whether SFD/online functions are available in your region.
Thinkcar	Flexible subscription model, lots of special functions, compact hardware.	Not every bundle includes ADAS/EV; some deeper functions are behind extra subscriptions.
Topdon	Very clear UI, fast updates for FCA SGW and new Asian models, good choice as a first serious scanner.	For heavy ADAS or complex VAG coding it can still be easier to go with a higher-end brand.

3. What to buy if...

...you see a lot of FCA / Jeep / RAM 2018+: pick Autel or Topdon with cloud-based SGW unlock included.
...you see a lot of VAG 2020+ (SFD): look at Autel or Launch that can work with online tokens or with a partner service.
...you need ADAS panels and printable reports: Autel and Launch are the easiest route because they sell the frames and the software together.
...you want affordable broad coverage with some coding and service functions: Thinkcar or Topdon are a good starting point.

4. Subscriptions and renewals

All four brands usually give you full power in year one. After that:

Autel: paid renewal; without it you keep basic diagnostics but lose new models and some cloud functions.
Launch: similar idea; no renewal = you stay on old coverage.
Thinkcar: often offers per-brand or short-term packages – useful if you only get that brand from time to time.
Topdon: renewals are usually cheaper; good for a “second line” scanner in the shop.

5. Extra modules

ADAS: buy it only from the brand whose ADAS frames and targets you can actually get locally.
EV/HV: still kind of a premium add-on – most mature with Autel and Launch.
Remote expert / online coding: perfect for closed cars, but you need stable internet in the bay.

6. 2025 pre-purchase checklist

DoIP and CAN-FD supported by your exact VCI and in your region.
SGW/SFD unlock available now or as an add-on.
Clear annual renewal price — write it down for the accountant.
Local service/distributor who can repair/update this brand.
Plan for ADAS (now or later).

Conclusion

There is no “best” 2025 scanner for everyone. There is a scanner that fits your car mix and your budget. European & ADAS-heavy shops will be happier with Autel or Launch. General-purpose garages that just need something modern, with SGW and basic coding, can safely start with Thinkcar or Topdon. Just don’t skip the renewals — 2025 cars move too fast.

2025 Diagnostic Tablet Buyer’s Guide: Autel vs Launch vs Thinkcar vs TOPDON