TOP 10 BEST DIAGNOSTIC TEST MEASUREMENT TOOLS UNDER 50

Top 10 Diagnostic Test Measurement Tools Under $50

Discover the best affordable diagnostic test measurement tools under $50, including top-rated OBD2 scanners and essential testing kits for cars and more.

Whether you're a DIY mechanic, a home enthusiast, or simply need to perform a quick check, having reliable diagnostic measurement tools is essential. The good news is that high-quality diagnostic equipment doesn't have to break the bank. We’ve compiled a list of the best diagnostic test measurement tools available for under $50, focusing on performance, reliability, and value.

This selection primarily features highly-rated OBD2 scanners, which are indispensable for diagnosing car engine issues, reading fault codes, and checking emissions readiness. We also included other useful diagnostic tests that fall within this budget, proving that you can get accurate and effective testing capabilities without a massive investment.

Explore our top picks to find the perfect budget-friendly diagnostic tool to keep your vehicle running smoothly or handle quick testing needs around the home or workplace.

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 (1,814 reviews)
  • Classic enhanced universal OBD II scanner for all 1996 and newer vehicles.
  • Reads and clears engine fault codes (DTCs) quickly.
  • Features a large, easy-to-read LCD screen with backlight.
  • Supports CAN protocol and general OBD2 functions.
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)
  • Dual functionality: OBD2 scanner and upgraded battery tester.
  • Checks engine light and emissions readiness (I/M readiness).
  • Reads and clears vehicle error codes for all OBD II protocols.
  • Supports vehicles manufactured since 1996.
03
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 (2,126 reviews)
  • Professional-grade OBDII diagnostic code reader (Note: Price slightly above $50).
  • Displays live data stream in text and graph format.
  • Retrieves generic (P0, P2, P3, and U0) and manufacturer specific (P1, P3, and U1) codes.
  • One-click I/M readiness key for quick emissions status check.
04
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 (1,071 reviews)
  • 2-in-1 Car Diagnostic Tool: OBD2 scanner and 12V battery analyzer (Note: Price slightly above $50).
  • Performs Cranking and Charging System Tests.
  • Supports advanced features like EVAP Test and Live Data streaming.
  • Reads and clears Check Engine Light codes for cars and motorcycles.
05
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)
  • Advanced OBD2 Scanner with Oil Reset function (Note: Price exceeds $50 budget).
  • Built-in Battery and Alternator Test capabilities.
  • Bluetooth compatible with the RepairSolutions2 app for guided fixes.
  • Displays Live Data and freeze frame information.
06
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 (4,000 reviews)
  • Combines OBD2 Code Reader and 12V Battery Tester (Note: Price exceeds $50 budget).
  • Professional Cranking and Charging System Analyzer.
  • Reads and clears Check Engine Light and retrieves comprehensive vehicle information.
  • Upgraded version of NT301 with enhanced diagnostic capabilities.
07
MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow

MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader Engine Fault Scanner CAN Diagnostic Scan Tool for All OBD II Protocol Cars Since 1996, Yellow

MOTOPOWER

4.6 (1,600 reviews)
  • Ultra-affordable OBD2 scanner under $20.
  • Reads and clears generic and manufacturer-specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
  • Supports all OBD II protocols and works on 1996 and newer cars.
  • Features I/M readiness function for smog check preparation.
08
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 (3,551 reviews)
  • 5-pack of instant urine drug test cups.
  • CLIA Waived for professional and home use.
  • Tests for 12 common substances including THC, COC, and OPI.
  • Provides rapid, easy-to-read results within minutes.
09
OBD2 Scanner, CGSULIT SC103 Car Code Reader Diagnose Check Engine Light Smog Check DTCs Scan Tool Live Data Stream Voltage Test for Vehicles Since 1996

OBD2 Scanner, CGSULIT SC103 Car Code Reader Diagnose Check Engine Light Smog Check DTCs Scan Tool Live Data Stream Voltage Test for Vehicles Since ...

OBD2

4.5 (820 reviews)
  • Extremely budget-friendly OBD2 scanner under $16.
  • Diagnoses Check Engine Light and performs Smog Check (I/M Readiness).
  • Displays Live Data Stream and performs voltage tests.
  • Compatible with most vehicles manufactured since 1996.
10
Dealmed Rapid Diagnostic Strep A Test Kits – Made in USA, CLIA-Waived, 25 Tests/Box (Pack of 1)

Dealmed Rapid Diagnostic Strep A Test Kits – Made in USA, CLIA-Waived, 25 Tests/Box (Pack of 1)

Dealmed

4.2 (119 reviews)
  • Box of 25 rapid diagnostic test kits for Strep A.
  • CLIA-Waived for accuracy and ease of use in professional settings.
  • Made in the USA, ensuring quality standards.
  • Provides quick results for timely diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are diagnostic tools under $50 reliable?

Yes, many diagnostic tools under $50, particularly basic OBD2 scanners, are highly reliable for reading and clearing generic engine trouble codes (DTCs) and checking I/M readiness. While they may lack advanced features like bi-directional control or complex system diagnostics found in expensive professional tools, they are perfectly sufficient for home mechanics and quick fault identification.

What is I/M Readiness and why is it important?

I/M Readiness (Inspection/Maintenance Readiness) is a status check performed by OBD2 scanners that indicates whether the vehicle's emission control systems have completed their self-tests. It is crucial for passing state emissions or smog checks. Most budget scanners, including those listed, feature this function.

Can these budget tools diagnose ABS or Airbag lights?

Generally, no. Most basic OBD2 scanners under $50 are designed only to read powertrain codes (P-codes) related to the 'Check Engine Light.' Diagnosing ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) or SRS (Airbag) lights usually requires more advanced, multi-system scanners that typically cost over $50.

Final Thoughts

Finding effective diagnostic test measurement tools doesn't require a large investment. The products highlighted here—ranging from essential OBD2 scanners like the MOTOPOWER MP69033 and ANCEL AD310 to specialized testing kits—offer excellent performance and value for under $50. Equip yourself with one of these budget-friendly tools today to quickly identify issues, save money on mechanic fees, and keep your vehicle or testing needs under control. Click through to compare prices and read reviews to find the perfect diagnostic solution for you!