The LAUNCH X431 PAD V Elite is set to launch in 2024. How does it compare to the previous PAD V model, and how does it stack up against the flagship PAD VII Elite? This article highlights the key differences.
| Item | Launch X431 PAD V (old) | LAUNCH X431 PAD V Elite/ X431 PAD V LINK | LAUNCH X431 PAD VII Elite |
| Image |  |
 |
 |
| Configuration | |||
| Operating system | Android 7.1 | Android 7.1 | Android 9.0 |
| Display | 10.1″/IPS 1920*1200 | 10.1” gorilla glass
1920*1200 |
13.3″/1920*1080 IPS |
| CPU | 2.0GHz Octa-core | 2.0GHz 8-core | 2.0GHz Octa-core |
| Memory | 4GB | 4GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 64GB | 128GB | 256GB |
| Camera | 13MP Rear+8MB front | 13MP Rear+8MB front
|
13MP Rear+8MB front |
| VCI Connector | Smartbox | Smartlink C | Smart Link C |
| VCI Connection | 2.4GHz & 5GHz dual WiFi/Bluetooth/USB | 2.4GHz & 5GHz dual WiFi/Bluetooth/USB | 2.4GHz & 5GHz dual WiFi/Bluetooth/USB |
| Battery | 9360 mAh | 35568 mAh | 71440mWh/7.6V |
| Adjustable Supporting holder | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| IP65 waterproof & dustproof | Yes | Yes | |
| Quick charge technology | Yes | Yes | |
| Charging station | Yes | Yes | |
| Features | |||
| Full system diagnostic | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| OBDII full functions | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Tech-to-tech remote diagnosis | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Topology mapping | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Smartlink remote diagnosis | Yes | Yes | |
| AutoVin | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bi-directional Control | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| VAG Guided Function | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ECU Coding (Online & offline) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Online Programming | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| J2534 programming | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| RP1210/D-PDU | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| J2534 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| CAN FD | Yes | Yes | |
| DoIP | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Complete TPMS service | Yes with TSGUN | Yes with X431 TSGUN or Launch X431 i-TPMS | Yes with X431 TSGUN or Launch X431 i-TPMS |
| Advanced key programming | Yes with X-prog3 and X431 Key programmer | Yes with X431 XPROG-3 GIII Key Matching and X431 Key programmer | Yes with X431 XPROG-3 GIII Key Matching and X431 Key programmer |
| ADAS calibration | Yes optional | Yes optional | Yes optional |
| Service Functions | 38+ | 39+ | 39+ |
| Vehicle coverage | Passenger cars Medium & light Duty Vehicle Heavy duty vehicles (Optional) | Passenger cars Medium & light Duty Vehicle Heavy duty vehicles (Optional) | Passenger cars Medium & light Duty Vehicle Heavy duty vehicles (Optional) |
| Software Update | 2 years free update | 2 years free update | 2 years free update |
| Compatible Modules | |||
| X431 ADAS Pro | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| X431 ADAS Mobile | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| X-prog3 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| BST-360 Battery tester | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| VSP600 videoscope | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| TSGUN/i-TPMS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Truck software add-on | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Oscilloscope O2-1/O2-2 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| S2-2 Sensorbox | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Key Observations
- PAD V Elite vs. PAD V:
- The primary upgrade in the PAD V Elite is the adapter. The new SmartLink VCI supports CAN FD protocols, a feature missing in the PAD V’s SmartBox.
- Both models share similar functionality and operating systems (Android 7.1 officially stated, despite some websites claiming Android 9.0 or 10.0).
- PAD V Elite vs. PAD VII Elite:
- Both devices share the same functionality and use the SmartLink VCI adapter with support for DoIP and CAN FD.
- Hardware differences:
- The PAD VII Elite features a larger screen, more memory (8GB vs. 3GB), and an updated operating system (Android 10.0).
- The PAD V Elite has an advantage in battery capacity (11,000mAh).
- Pricing: The PAD V Elite is a more budget-friendly option compared to the premium-priced PAD VII Elite.
Conclusion
The LAUNCH X431 PAD V Elite offers a worthwhile upgrade from the PAD V with improved adapter functionality while keeping costs lower than the PAD VII Elite. For those prioritizing hardware performance and a larger screen, the PAD VII Elite remains the best choice. However, the PAD V Elite is an excellent mid-range option with enhanced compatibility at a more affordable price point.