
What Are the Differences Between Foxwell Nt301 and Autel Al519?
You do not need to visit your truck’s auto repair shop every time your check engine light blinks. This detailed Foxwell NT301 vs AUTEL AL519 comparison offers insight into two scanners that can help improve your DIY truck maintenance.

I enjoy trucking because it offers me freedom of the road, as well as an opportunity to monetize one of my hobbies. I do not enjoy all the repair stops I need to make to ensure my truck is functioning ideally at all times.
The check engine light is a nightmare for me because it means I have to spend more money on diagnostics and repairs. In the long term, this can be rather expensive. I had had enough by my last visit.
As I was conversing with the technician in charge of my vehicle, I found out about on board diagnostic scanners. He sent me a link to this Foxwell NT301 vs AUTEL AL519 comparison which helped me find out how to address my problem.
Foxwell NT301 | AUTEL AL519 | |
Advanced diagnostic features | Yes | Yes |
Easy online update | Yes | No |
Manufacturer specific codes | No | Yes |
DTC look up library | Yes | Yes |
Check Price | Check price |
Foxwell NT301 vs AUTEL AL519 – how do they differ?
Lifetime free update and battery backup
Manufacturers of OBD2 scanners generally offer bug fixes and new features with their updates. It can be a great way to improve the functionality of your diagnostics scanner.
While Foxwell continues to offer lifetime free updates for the NT301, it can be difficult to access updates for the AUTEL AL519. A lot of Autel Al519 users have complained of difficulty updating their software over time. This might impact the operation of the scanner, resulting in a limited growth potential.
Additionally, the NT301 features a one-key update capacity, which is not offered by the AL519. However, both scanners offer compatibility with a lot of vehicles. The Foxwell NT301 scanner is entirely plug and play, which means that it can be used right away when plugged into your vehicle.
This may limit its capacity when compared to the AL519, which offers battery backup. Thanks to additional battery coverage, the AL519 can be used for off-car review. You do not have to have your car on to look into any errors with the AL519.
However, some AL519 users suggest that the model works better when plugged into the OBD2 port than when using the battery backup.
Build and ease of use
The Foxwell NT3012 scanner, like its AUTEL contemporary, features a great build. It includes rubberized coat for protection against heavy impact, as well as provide additional grip. This model will not slip out of your grasp, making it a very durable pick.
The AUTEL AL519 scanner also features a similarly great build with a thick coat. However, the NT301 also includes a protective case for more secure storage. A great scanner should offer a friendly user interface. Both models have ideally placed hotkeys and a simple menu design, allowing for increased ease of use.
However, the AL519 features better hotkey arrangement for a more professional outlook than the NT301. That said, the NT301 is smaller and more compact than the AL519, allowing for increased portability.
It is limited in this aspect when compared to other high end Foxwell scanners, and falls slightly behind the professional grade AUTEL AL519. These scanners feature a 3-color light output that allows users to assess their vehicle with minimal fuss.
Even if you have little experience, you can carry out your vehicle’s diagnostics with minimal help. The ergonomic build and enhanced features offer increased ease of use, making either of these scanners a great addition to your garage.
Diagnostics and special features
Both models support a wide range of vehicles, making them an ideal fit for your garage needs. Whether you have an older or more recent model, these scanners will offer quality services for compatible vehicle options.
They each have a long list of vehicle brands which they support, with either scanner supporting multiple options at once, which makes them great for different vehicle choices. The AL519 features a patented one-click readiness key, offering a range of services with minimal fuss.
This option also supports the patented one-click smog test, which supports assessment of misfire, fuel monitor and comprehensive component monitor systems at a go. The scanner also features a DTC lookup guide, breaks error codes and addresses the Malfunction indicator light.
This model supports both OBD2 and CAN vehicles, which increases their compatibility with other vehicles as well. The NT301 supports all OBD1 &2 modules, and can be useful for a variety of assessment needs, from exploring the catalytic converter and ignition system to addressing the EVAP and other ECU services.
It also offers a one-click readiness, key, making it a great choice for quick vehicle diagnostics. This model also works well for error code definition and multiple code requests. Both scanners deliver a great diagnostic experience, ensuring a thorough assessment of different services that your car may need.
Display and output
Scanners have been tweaked to deliver thorough vehicle assessment, which helps owners understand every system in detail. The NT301 and Autel AL519 scanners meet these display expectations, delivering thorough vehicle assessment for convenient use.
The NT301 will read and record freeze frame data, and can explore different live sensor data for a detailed display. The AL519 can also read and record both live and freeze frame data, enhancing your ability to explore different systems in your car.
The AUTEL AL519 scanner also features an on-board monitor test that reads emission data, which is commonly overlooked by some tools. Both models feature a variety of options in the error code lookup, making diagnostics a seamless process.
The AL519 offers additional perks, such as offering automatic retrieval of Vehicle Identification, Calibration and Calibration Verification for all vehicles that support mode 6. Both models can print via PC, which should offer value for detailed assessment. They are designed to support playback, and feature a help button for certain types of assessment.
Foxwell NT301 vs AUTEL AL519 comparison review
Foxwell NT301 features and specs
The Foxwell NT301 diagnostic scanner is compatible with a variety of gas and diesel models manufactured after 1996. It is also suitable for use with a large number of imported vehicles.
It will provide comprehensive OBD2 service modes, as well as a number of additional features such as the EDD diagnostics. It can show and translate a large number of error codes thanks to an inbuilt look up library that will facilitate seamless maintenance and repairs.
It is very well designed for easier use and storage, thanks to ergonomic build and hotkey placement. The NT301 also features additional LCD lighting to provide an alternative emissions monitoring mode.
While the NT301 is a bit dated compared to a few other Foxwell units, it features the key aspects that make the scanners a must-have addition for your garage. The model is very well built, with fortified rubber coating around the sides for added protection.
It offers detailed display, and delivers very accurate findings on compatible vehicles. The scanner offers a great build that is enhanced by a high end display, as well as quality features for thorough and accurate findings with your diagnosis.
The model offers a multilingual menu, and supports Foxwell’s free lifetime upgrades for enhanced use. This scanner is very easy to use, and supports PC printing for enhanced diagnostics. The plug and play unit is very accurate, and could be a great addition to your garage.
Pros
- Multilingual menu support
- Features lifetime free updates
- Live data and graphical presentation
- Compatible with PC printing for off-car diagnostics
- Quick, efficient and comprehensive OBD2 services
- Does not require additional batteries
Cons
- Not compatible with MAC PC updates
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AUTEL AL519 features and specs
Your check engine light error is no match for the plug-and-play AUTEL AL519 OBD2 scanner. It offers comprehensive OBD2 services that are compatible with a range of vehicles. Like other leading OBD2 scanners, it will work on most gas and diesel models manufactured post 1996.
The model thrives on its simplicity, with a comprehensive range of error code translations and a facilitating design. It is lightweight and convenient for both use and storage.As an added protective measure, the AUTEL AL519 also includes a carrying case to increase its durability.
The high quality screen and ideal button placement work to increase the efficiency of the seamless diagnostic process. The highly detailed user guide will help you manage your diagnosticseven if you do not have sufficient experience with diagnostic scanners.
The Autel AL519 scanner might no longer offer software updates, but it delivers accurate diagnosis for compatible vehicle models. It features a look-up library to enhance the ease of use, and offers a great build as well.
The AL519 scanner is comfortable to use and store, which makes it a great pick for diagnostics both at home and during travel.It is available in multiple color options, which allows you to customize your assessment needs to a favorable theme.
It also features a patented one-key readiness check, which is very effective for assessing your vehicle’s needs without too much work. The model also supports an efficient 3-color light for easier diagnosis, and features multiple menu aspects that increase its overall user friendliness.
Thanks to its capacity to print via PC, assess different systems and deliver a great user experience, the AL519 could be an ideal pick for your vehicle.
Pros
- Basic and advanced diagnostic services
- Look up library for increased ease of diagnostics
- Ergonomic design
- Lightweight and easy to store
Cons
- Does not offer updates
- Not compatible with iOS devices
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My verdict
I have had to make fewer stops and visit to the repair shop thanks to this Foxwell NT301 vs AUTEL AL519 comparison. Both scanners are handy for a thorough and accurate diagnosis, and feature a great build for an increased lifespan.
They are updated to be compatible with more vehicle options, and are very easy to use. The Foxwell and Autel scanners deliver accurate diagnosis, helping drivers stay ahead of their vehicles’ needs. The NT301 is a great choice for some, with the brand making a comfortable, convenient and highly accurate unit that is easy to use both at home and on the road.
However,I like the AUTEL AL519 because it offers a full range of OBD2 services, as well as other additional features that are suited for my vehicle’s needs. The model is lightweight, well designed and fits snugly into my glove box compartment.
I have been able to assess my truck’s condition even when I am in the middle of a job. Thanks to the AUTEL AL519, I no longer live in dread of the check engine light.
Questions
What are engine trouble codes?
When your check engine light is blinking, your vehicle will have at least one engine trouble code. These codes are designed as an early warning system for excessive emissions.
How do I carry out a complete drive cycle?
When performing an OBD2 scanner, you need to follow an 8-step process that will only take about a quarter of an hour. The cycle features a cold start, idle mode, acceleration, a period of steady speed, deceleration, acceleration, a secondary period of steady speed and a final deceleration.
Will Foxwell NT301 scanner work on BMW335i?
The scanner is compatible with a range of vehicle models manufactured after 1996 which feature a 16-pin OBD2 scanner, including the BMW335i.
What does the yellow light on my scanner mean?
While a yellow light is preferable to the red, it signifies that you still need to run at least one more diagnostics test. You can turn your yellow light green by carrying out a drive cycle test.
What does mode 6 on my scanner offer?
Mode 6 performs a regulatory and overview role. It can monitor the performance of emission control sensors, components and systems.