A bidirectional dongle plugs into the OBD2 port and runs active tests and resets from an app on your own phone or tablet, so it costs a fraction of a tablet. The app decides what it can do: many limit the number of car makes or charge a yearly fee for full functions, so check the update and subscription terms before buying.
Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Full ranking 4
- XTOOL Anyscan A30M#1 of 4Full review
The best bet for a driver who wants bidirectional control from a phone without a yearly fee.
Amazon $135.12$135.1226-Lifetime - Mucar BT200 Max#2 of 4Full review
For a driver who wants a cheap phone based bidirectional scanner that never asks for a renewal.
Amazon $123.49$123.4915-Lifetime - Topdon TopScan Pro#3 of 4Full review
For a driver who wants a cheap, pocketable bidirectional tool and will either renew yearly or use it heavily in the first year.
Amazon $110.99$110.9913-1 year - Thinkcar Thinkdiag 2#4 of 4Full review
For a driver who wants cheap bidirectional control and CAN FD on a phone and accepts a yearly fee to keep it.
Amazon $129.99$129.9915-1 year
