TOP 10 BEST DIAGNOSTIC TEST MEASUREMENT TOOLS ALTERNATIVES

The Best Diagnostic Test Measurement Tools for Cars and More

Find the best diagnostic test measurement tools, including top-rated OBD2 scanners, car diagnostic tools, and battery testers for mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.

Whether you are a professional mechanic or a dedicated DIY car owner, having a reliable diagnostic test measurement tool is essential for quickly identifying issues, reading error codes, and maintaining vehicle health. Modern vehicles rely heavily on complex electronic systems, making these tools indispensable for routine maintenance and troubleshooting the dreaded 'Check Engine Light'.

Our curated list focuses primarily on highly-rated OBD2 scanners and multi-functional diagnostic devices, which are the most common and crucial tools for automotive diagnostics. These devices range from simple code readers that clear basic errors to advanced bidirectional scan tools capable of full system analysis and specialized resets. We've gathered the top products to help you make an informed decision based on features, price, and user reviews.

Beyond automotive applications, we also feature specialized diagnostic tests for health and wellness, demonstrating the breadth of 'diagnostic measurement tools' available on the market. Explore our selection to find the perfect tool to measure, diagnose, and resolve your specific needs.

01
ANCEL AD310 Classic Enhanced Universal OBD II Scanner Car Engine Fault Code Reader CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool, Read and Clear Error Codes for 1996 or Newer OBD2 Protocol Vehicle (Black) Global Recycled Standard Global Recycled Standard Global Recycled Standard

ANCEL AD310 Classic Enhanced Universal OBD II Scanner Car Engine Fault Code Reader CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool, Read and Clear Error Codes for 1996 or...

ANCEL

4.6 (3,847 reviews)
  • Classic enhanced universal OBD II scanner
  • Reads and clears engine fault codes (DTCs)
  • Supports CAN diagnostic protocol
  • Compatible with 1996 or newer OBD2 vehicles
02
OBD2 Scanner with Upgrade Battery Tester - Diagnostic Tool for Cars That Check Engine Light & Emissions Readiness Read and Clears Vehicle Error Codes for All OBD II Protocol Vehicles Since 1996

OBD2 Scanner with Upgrade Battery Tester - Diagnostic Tool for Cars That Check Engine Light & Emissions Readiness Read and Clears Vehicle Error Cod...

OBD2

4.6 (826 reviews)
  • 2-in-1 functionality: OBD2 Scanner and Battery Tester
  • Checks Engine Light and Emissions Readiness (I/M)
  • Reads and clears vehicle error codes quickly
  • Wide compatibility with all OBD II protocol vehicles since 1996
03
ANCEL AD410 PRO OBD2 Scanner and Battery Tester, 2-in-1 Car Diagnostic Tool, Check Engine Light, EVAP Test, Live Data, 12V Battery Analyzer with Cranking & Charging System Test for Car Motorcycle

ANCEL AD410 PRO OBD2 Scanner and Battery Tester, 2-in-1 Car Diagnostic Tool, Check Engine Light, EVAP Test, Live Data, 12V Battery Analyzer with Cr...

ANCEL

4.6 (4,521 reviews)
  • Advanced 2-in-1 Car Diagnostic Tool (OBD2 + Battery Tester)
  • Includes EVAP Test and Live Data streaming
  • 12V Battery Analyzer with Cranking and Charging System Test
  • Professional tool suitable for cars and motorcycles
04
FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Live Data Professional Mechanic OBDII Diagnostic Code Reader Tool for Check Engine Light Global Recycled Standard Global Recycled Standard Global Recycled Standard

FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 Scanner Live Data Professional Mechanic OBDII Diagnostic Code Reader Tool for Check Engine Light Global Recycled Standard Global...

FOXWELL

4.5 (1,883 reviews)
  • Professional-grade OBDII Diagnostic Code Reader
  • Displays Live Data stream for accurate analysis
  • Quickly diagnoses and turns off Check Engine Light
  • Features I/M readiness status for emissions testing
05
Upgraded of NT301, FOXWELL NT301 Plus 2-in-1 OBD2 Scanner Battery Tester, Professional Check Engine Code Reader Car Diagnostic Tool, 12V Cranking Charging Analyzer for 1996+ Newer Vehicle

Upgraded of NT301, FOXWELL NT301 Plus 2-in-1 OBD2 Scanner Battery Tester, Professional Check Engine Code Reader Car Diagnostic Tool, 12V Cranking C...

Upgraded

4.5 (3,878 reviews)
  • Upgraded 2-in-1 OBD2 Scanner and Battery Tester
  • 12V Cranking and Charging System Analyzer
  • Professional Check Engine Code Reader functionality
  • Suitable for vehicles manufactured from 1996 onwards
06
Identify Diagnostics Drug Test Cups | 5 Pack | 12 Panel CLIA Waived Instant Urine Marijuana Drug Test Kit for AMP,BAR,BUP,BZO,COC,MDMA,MET,MOP|OPI,MTD,OXY,PCP,THC

Identify Diagnostics Drug Test Cups | 5 Pack | 12 Panel CLIA Waived Instant Urine Marijuana Drug Test Kit for AMP,BAR,BUP,BZO,COC,MDMA,MET,MOP|OPI,...

Identify

4.6 (4,635 reviews)
  • 12 Panel Instant Urine Drug Test Kit
  • CLIA Waived for professional and home use
  • Detects a wide range of substances (e.g., THC, COC, OPI)
  • Comes in a convenient 5-pack of test cups
07
BinaxNOW COVID-19/Flu A&B Combo Self Test, Reliable COVID/Flu Home Test With 15 Minute Results, 2 Tests

BinaxNOW COVID-19/Flu A&B Combo Self Test, Reliable COVID/Flu Home Test With 15 Minute Results, 2 Tests

BinaxNOW

3.8 (190 reviews)
  • Combined COVID-19 and Flu A&B Self Test
  • Provides reliable results in just 15 minutes
  • Convenient home test format
  • Includes 2 individual tests per package
08
Innova 5210 OBD2 Scanner & Engine Code Reader, Battery Tester, Live Data, Oil Reset, Car Diagnostic Tool for Most Vehicles, Bluetooth Compatible with America's Top Car Repair App

Innova 5210 OBD2 Scanner & Engine Code Reader, Battery Tester, Live Data, Oil Reset, Car Diagnostic Tool for Most Vehicles, Bluetooth Compatible wi...

Innova

4.5 (3,600 reviews)
  • Multi-functional tool: OBD2 Scanner, Battery Tester, Oil Reset
  • Bluetooth compatible with leading car repair apps
  • Reads live data and engine fault codes
  • Comprehensive diagnostic tool for most vehicle makes
09
TOPDON Bidirectional Scan Tool, 2025 New ArtiDiag900 Lite Automotive Diagnostic Tool for Full System, Scanner for Car with Active Test, 8 Reset, Wireless OBD2 Scanner Diagnostic Tool for All Vehicles

TOPDON Bidirectional Scan Tool, 2025 New ArtiDiag900 Lite Automotive Diagnostic Tool for Full System, Scanner for Car with Active Test, 8 Reset, Wi...

TOPDON

4.3 (4,325 reviews)
  • Advanced Bidirectional Scan Tool (Active Test capability)
  • Full System Diagnostic coverage for comprehensive checks
  • Features 8 essential maintenance reset functions
  • Wireless OBD2 connectivity for ease of use
10
OBD2 Scanner TOPDON AD500, Oil SAS Throttle TPMS BMS EPB Reset, Engine ABS SRS Transmission, Diagnostic Scan Tool, AutoVIN, Car Check Engine Code Reader with Battery Test, Lifetime Wi-Fi Free Update

OBD2 Scanner TOPDON AD500, Oil SAS Throttle TPMS BMS EPB Reset, Engine ABS SRS Transmission, Diagnostic Scan Tool, AutoVIN, Car Check Engine Code R...

TOPDON

4.4 (1,400 reviews)
  • Extensive Reset Functions (Oil, SAS, Throttle, TPMS, BMS, EPB)
  • Diagnoses major systems: Engine, ABS, SRS, Transmission
  • Includes AutoVIN technology for quick vehicle identification
  • Lifetime free Wi-Fi updates for continuous support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an OBD2 Code Reader and a Diagnostic Scan Tool?

An OBD2 Code Reader is typically a basic device that reads and clears generic engine fault codes (DTCs) and checks emissions readiness (I/M). A Diagnostic Scan Tool is more advanced, often offering full system access (ABS, Airbag, Transmission), live data streaming, specialized reset functions (oil, EPB), and sometimes bidirectional control.

Do I need a bidirectional scan tool?

For basic troubleshooting and clearing the Check Engine Light, no. However, if you perform advanced repairs, component testing (like injector testing or cycling the ABS pump), or require complex resets and programming, a bidirectional scan tool is necessary as it allows the tool to send commands to the vehicle's systems.

Are these diagnostic tools only for cars?

While the majority of the featured products are automotive OBD2 scanners, the category of 'Diagnostic Test Measurement Tools' also includes specialized devices like drug test cups (Identify Diagnostics) and rapid health tests (BinaxNOW), which are used for diagnostic measurement in different fields.

What does 'Emissions Readiness (I/M)' mean on an OBD2 scanner?

I/M (Inspection/Maintenance) Readiness refers to whether the vehicle’s emission control systems have completed their self-tests. If all monitors are 'Ready,' the vehicle is prepared for an emissions test. This feature is crucial for states that require annual smog checks.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a high-quality diagnostic test measurement tool is the smartest way to save time and money on vehicle maintenance. Whether you choose a simple, reliable code reader like the ANCEL AD310 or a professional-grade bidirectional scanner like the TOPDON ArtiDiag900 Lite, having the ability to accurately measure and diagnose issues puts control back in your hands. Review our top picks and click through to find the perfect diagnostic solution for your garage or workshop today!