You don’t have to spend fortune on scanner as DIY mechanic. Here are best OBD2 scanners under $50 which I found after testing 100+ different scanners. They are cheap but come packed with lot of functionality and can compete with more expensive devices.
Affiliate Disclosure: iamcarhacker.com is an Amazon and other affiliate programs Associate. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Full Affiliate disclosure.
Quick Recommendations:
Thinkcar BD6
The Thinkcar BD6 is the powerhouse in its price range: full-system diagnostics, 5 popular service resets, and free lifetime updates. Hard to beat for versatility.
(10% OFF with “CARHACKER” on official website)
Delphi DS150
The best value-for-money scanner, especially on older vehicles. Offers multi-system scans, service resets, and even bi-directional testing.
Konwei KDiag
Not the widest coverage, but still impressive: full-system scans, bi-directional tests, and some service resets. On brands it doesn’t fully support, it still works as a reliable engine code reader.
Ancel AD310 (310 BT)
A simple engine-only code reader that clears faults, resets the check engine light, and checks readiness monitors. Super fast and easy: a top budget pick for basic scanning..
Vgate Icar PRO 2s
Don’t let the low price fool you this adapter hides one of the fastest ELM chips, with rock-solid connection. Works with 100+ apps (iOS / Android / Windows).
Who tested product & wrote this review?
Tester & Editor for this review: Juraj Lukacko
Hello, I am Juraj (Yuri) and I tested this product to help you decide if it is something you would want to buy, and if yes, show you how to use it.
I make honest reviews based on personal testing in my own garage and If I see the product is bad, I will make it very clear in review.
Read more about how I do reviews on Iamcarhacker.com in my review policy.
1. Thinkcar BD6
Thinkcar BD6
Thinkcar BD6 is a very capable OBD2 scanner for home mechanics or as gift for car guys. It can scan all systems + read data in all systems so it is also good to use for checking used vehicle before buying.
Find the best price
2. Delphi DS150
Multidiag Delphi DS150
Best value for money scanner, since for $50 you will get 5x more functionality than with a traditional code reader.
You can access multiple control modules to read codes, live data and perform bi-directional testing or even service procedures.
Works best for older cars.
Best for Asian/Europian brands, US brand owners complain about functionality.
3. Konwei KDIAG
Konwei KDIAG
Konwei KDIAG is not the best bi-directional scanner but given it’s low price and free updates, it is even cheaper than most engine code readers or ELM327 adapters.
And it comes with features they do not have, like full scan or bi-directional testing.
Find the best price
4. Ancel AD310
Ancel AD310
Ancel AD310 is one of the best-sellers on Amazon and I can see why. You will get full Global OBD functions, including some enhancements like engine live data graphs. The only downside was the data stream menu bug.
I think the bug will be solved now, so don’t hesitate to order one. No more worrying about warning lights, you simply scan your engine whenever you want.
Get the Best price!
Here are multiple stores where you can get Ancel AD310. Check them out to get the best deal possible.
5. Vgate Icar PRO 2s
Vgate iCAR Pro 2S
One of the best choices for your first ELM327 adapters. It will work basically for any app that does not require a high-end fast connection like OBDLink MX+ has.
One of the cheapest adapters that works for both operating systems without any problems.
Find the best price
Popular OBD2 guides
See all guides
Best OBD2 scanners in 2025
I constantly test new OBD-II scanners to give you the best options possible. Here is a full list of the best tools in all categories currently.
