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The LAUNCH CRP129 series of scanners are one of the top lines of affordable scanners on the OBDII scan tool market today.
For a modest price, you can purchase a high-end diagnostic tool that can read multiple systems on your car, provide live data, and offer diagnostic tips for repairing your vehicle.
Here’s a comparison of three LAUNCH CRP129 model scan tools so you can determine which one is best for you.
LAUNCH CRP129 Vs LAUNCH CRP129X Vs LAUNCH CRP129E: Comparison Chart
 LAUNCH CRP129 |  LAUNCH CRP129X |  LAUNCH CRP129E |
|
| Customer Rating |  |  |  |
| Price |  | | |
| Item Weight | 1.65 pounds | 2.86 pounds | 2.7 pounds |
| Dimensions | 5.9 x 1.2 x 2.4 inches | 12.4 x 8.1 x 3.6 inches | 10.8 x 8.6 x 3.2 inches |
| Activate TPMS Sensors | -- | ✔ | ✔ |
| Read TPMS Sensor Data | -- | ✔ | ✔ |
| Relearn TPMS ECU | -- | ✔ | -- |
| Read TPMS Codes | -- | ✔ | ✔ |
| Read Other System Codes | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
1. LAUNCH CRP129
Let’s start with the first of these affordable models (at least by LAUNCH standards). The LAUNCH CRP129 might be the best option for someone on a budget who needs a LAUNCH scanner to check more than a check engine light.
For a little under $200 (based on the most recent prize on Amazon at the time of this writing), the CRP129 reads and clears codes for all four major systems in your car (Engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS). In addition to that, mechanics can use this LAUNCH OBD2 scanner to perform Oil, EPB, and SAS resets.
Know the status of your car’s emissions system with O2 sensor checking and I/M readiness testing. The 4-inch LCD screen is easy to read, and the device produces the graphical data streams within seconds.
The CRP129 is compliant with over 40 car models made after 2006 and works with most major OBD2 protocols.
Pros
- LAUNCH will email you to tell you whether your car or cars are compliant
- 1-year warranty
- Free lifetime updates
- Easy to use
- Simple setup (if you read the instructions)
Cons
- Software downloads could be problematic
- Not compliant with several vehicles
- No live sensor monitoring
2. LAUNCH CRP129X
The LAUNCH CRP129X is the updated version of the previously mentioned CRP129 (no letters). This high-quality scanner uses AutoVIN Technology that quickly identifies your vehicle. The LAUNCH CRP129X is compatible with 57 car brands and models made since 1996.
Based on Android 7.0 technology, the CRP129X upgrades to a larger screen (and a touch screen at that). Read data and turn off warning lights for all the basic systems (Engine, ABS, Transmission, and SRS). But this LAUNCH scan tool also performs reset services (the CRP129 does not) for your TPMS and Throttle Adaptations as well.
Perform multiple OBD2 functions, including EVAP testing, O2 Sensor testing, I/M Readiness testing, and Battery Voltage testing. The CRP129X also stores your data and creates vehicle diagnostic reports that you can store and print.
Other special features included with the LAUNCH CRP129X includes EPB reset, Oil reset, and an SAS reset. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) look-up library informs owners what different trouble codes mean. And access free-lifetime updates over wi-fi with one simple click.
Pros
- 12-month warranty
- Sturdily built
- Performs resets that saves trips to the mechanic
- Updates easily over Wi-Fi
- Works in nine languages
Cons
- Not all features will work with every car
- Does not work with hybrid cars
3. LAUNCH CRP129E
Update the CRP129X’s software with the LAUNCH CRP129E. Using Android 7.1 software, this LAUNCH OBD2 scan tool features touchscreen technology, AutoVIN technology for diagnosing your car, and a longer time stand-by battery.
The LAUNCH CRP129E runs diagnostics for all four of your car’s major systems (transmission, ABS, SRS, and engine). Read and clear codes for all these systems and run resets for the throttle body, EPB, SAS, Oli Service, and TPMS.
The CRP129E also accesses the DTC Library offered by LAUNCH. But few code readers offer the convenient and fast working reports that the CRP129E boasts. The CRP129E’s vehicle diagnostic reports run from an auto-detect process. Once an issue is detected, a report is sent automatically to your email.
The CRP129E covers over 10,000 kinds of cars from close to 60 car brands. And one-click lifetime updates (over wi-fi) will keep your vehicles up to date.
Pros
- No Button Oil-proof design
- 5-year warranty
- 60 day no reason return and replacement
- Easy to use
- Can access all 10 OBDII modes
Cons
- Some functions may require additional tools
- LCD panel easy to scratch
The Bottom Line
All three models we’ve looked at from the CRP129 LAUNCH scan tool series all feature a similar design and quality. And while there may not be many differences in what they do, those differences are critical in deciding which product is right for you.
If you need TPMS features, you must use the CRP129E or CRP129X. But if you don’t want to fool with a touchscreen while relying on a tire gauge to measure your TPMS, then the CRP129 is best.
Those who want a basic understanding of problems with your vehicle will prefer the CRP129. But DIYers will want the CRP129E and CRP129X with their multiple systems and advanced diagnostic reports. And if you need the tool to perform system resets, do not purchase the CRP129 LAUNCH.
No matter who you are, make sure you do your research to ensure the scanner you buy performs all the functions for the vehicles you need it for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do these LAUNCH scanners offer free updates?
A: Yes, free updates for the entire lifetime of the product.
Q: Can these LAUNCH scanners perform ABS brake bleeding?
A: No, the CRP129 scanners only read, clear, and reset ABS lights (the CRP129 only reads and clears). They do not perform brake bleeding.
Q: Do the CRP129 scanners perform bidirectional functions?
A: No. Though LAUNCH does have bidirectional scanners, the CRP129 series scanners are not.
Q: What is the main difference between the CRP129E and CRP129X?
A: The two models feature mostly the same functions. But the CRP129X comes with hot-key for work more intensive than standard car care.
Q: Do the LAUNCH CRP129 series scanners have to be connected to wi-fi to use?
A: No. You only must have your scan tool connected to wi-fi for updates to the software.
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