Autel IM508 or Autel IM608? Which is the best?
As two of the main key programmers of Autel, both IM508 and IM608 performs very well on car key programming. But they do have difference in the perspective of function, hardware and price. Therefore, we write the article for your reference to choose the most suitable programmer.
Autel IM508 Overview
* MaxiIM IM508 is a fast, easy-to-use, and ultraportable immobilizer and key programming device.
* Equipped with the XP400 key programmer, IM508 is capable of providing extraordinary service functions for the immobilizer system.
* Together with the ability to quickly diagnose all modules of the majority of the makes and models on the market, IM508 provides you with superior special functions.
* IM508 is the perfect solution for shops and technicians who demand affordable and powerful IMMO and diagnostic services.
What is worth noting is that IM508 has the same IMMO function as IM608 when working with XP400pro.
Autel IM608 Overview
* MaxiIM IM608 is the most advanced and the unique all in one key programming and diagnostic tool that combines advanced key programming, all systems diagnostics, and advanced services in one Android-based 10.1-inch touchscreen tablet.
* Equipped with XP400 key programmer and MaxiFlash ECU programmer to provide complete coverage of IMMO and programming functions.
* Together with the ability to quickly diagnose all modules of the majority of the makes and models on the market, IM608 provides you with all special functions.
* It is the unprecedented key programming and diagnostic tool that you ever wanted.
Also, the IM608 has the same function as IM608pro when working with XP400Pro
Autel IM508 vs MaxiIM IM608 Comparison Chart
| COMPARISON CHART |  Autel IM508 |
 Autel IM608 |
|---|---|---|
IMMO |
||
| Smart Mode (Guide and Automated Key Learning) | √ | √ |
| Expert Mode (Advanced Key Learning) | √ | √ |
| Auto Detect Make/Model/Year/System | √ | √ |
| Read PIN/CS (ALL key Lost) | √ | √ |
| Key Generation | √ | √ |
| Key learning | √ | √ |
| Remote Learning | √ | √ |
| IMMO ECU Reset/Adaptation | √ | √ |
| IMMO ECU Refresh/Coding | √ | √ |
| Backup/Restore IMMO Data | √ | √ |
| BENZ 3rd Generation IMMO Add Key, All Key Lost, Key Learning | √ | |
| BMW FEM/BDC key learning and ECU Adaptation | √ | √ |
| BMW CAS4/3/2 key learning | CAS4 available when connected to XP400 | √ |
| VW/Audi MQB(VDD & JCI) Add Key, IMMO V A4/A5/Q5 2015+ Key Learning | √ | |
| VW/Audi/Skoda/Seat IMMO III/IV/V Add Key, All Key Lost | √ | √ |
Key Programming |
||
| Key Read/Write | √ | √ |
| EEPROM Read/Write | √ | √ |
| MCU Read/Write | √ | |
| ECU Read/Write | Basic | Advanced |
| MC9S12 Encryption Chip Read/Write | when connected to XP400 | √ |
| IC Read/Write | when connected to XP400 | √ |
| Mercedes Infrared Read/Write | when connected to XP400 | √ |
| Remote Frequency Detect | when connected to XP400 | √ |
| Support PC | when connected to XP400 | √ |
OE-Level Diagnostic |
||
| All System Diagnostic for over 80 Makes | √ | |
| Auto VIN/AutoScan | √ | √ |
| Read/Erase Codes | √ | √ |
| View, Record, Playback Live Data | √ | √ |
| View Freeze Frame Date | √ | √ |
| Shop and Data Manager Applications | √ | √ |
| MaxiFlash J2534 ECU Programmer(Bluetooth/USE Cable) | √ | |
Advanced Service Functions |
||
| Complete (20+) Service Functions | √ | |
| Oil Reset Service | √ | √ |
| Parking Brake (EPB) Pad Relearn after Replacement | √ | √ |
| Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) Relearn | √ | √ |
| Battery (BMS) Register and Reset | √ | √ |
| Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Regeneration | √ | √ |
| TPMS Sensor ID Relearn | √ | √ |
| ECU Coding | √ | |
Hardware |
||
| Touchscreen | 7-inch | 10.1-inch |
| Resolution | 1024x600 | 1920x1200 |
| Processor | Quad-core processor | Hexa-core processor |
| Memory | 32GB | 64GB |
| Camera | 8.0 Megapixel | |
| Built-in Rechargeable Li-ion Battery | 5000mAh | 15000mAh |
| Internet Updatable | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi |
| Multilingual Support | √ | √ |
| Some listed functions are manufactured dependent. Constantly update MaxiIM for current vehicle coverage. Update software regularly for most accurate | ||
How do you choose?
Autel IM608 is more advanced in IMMO function, Programming or diagnosis, compared to the MaxiIM IM508. But when working with XP400pro key programmer, Autel IM508 has the same IMMO functions and programming features with Autel IM608.
If you are looking for a basic key programming tool with diagnostic functions, then the IM508 key programmer is quite enough. However IM608 should be the first option if you need a complete key programming function with a more extensive vehicle coverage.
If you need both key programming and also advanced diagnostics functions, then please do not hesitate to choose IM608 tools directly, it will be your best choice.
