OBDLink OBD2 Adapters Guide: LX, CX, MX+, and EX Compared

OBDLink OBD2 Adapters Guide: LX, CX, MX+, and EX Compared - Scan Tool Compass

Research-based brand guide: This page summarizes OBDLink adapters we have verified from first-party documentation and current marketplace data. It is not a hands-on brand ranking.

Quick Answer

OBDLink’s verified lineup now includes both wireless and wired adapters. The LX is the Android/Windows Bluetooth option, the CX is a BLE adapter for iOS/Android and BimmerCode-supported workflows, the MX+ is the broader premium wireless model, and the EX is the wired USB choice optimized for FORScan and Ford-family diagnostics.

OBDLink Models We Have Verified

Model Connection Best fit Verified scope Current price snapshot*
LX Bluetooth Android/Windows OBD2 users Standard OBD2 diagnostics, live data, free firmware updates; no iOS support on cited page $89.95
CX Bluetooth LE iOS/Android and BimmerCode-supported workflows BLE, generic diagnostics; enhanced functions depend on app/vehicle support $79.95
MX+ Bluetooth Broader premium wireless workflow iOS/Android/Windows, legislated OBD2 protocols and additional OEM-network capability on supported vehicles/apps $139.95
EX USB Windows/FORScan and Ford-family diagnostics All legislated OBD-II protocols, Ford MS-CAN access, FORScan-focused wired workflow $69.95

*Price snapshots are time-sensitive.

Which OBDLink Adapter Should You Choose?

Choose LX for Android/Windows Bluetooth diagnostics

The OBDLink LX fits Android or Windows users who mainly want standard OBD2 diagnostics and live data without paying for the broader MX+ feature set.

Choose CX for BLE and supported coding-app workflows

The OBDLink CX uses Bluetooth Low Energy and supports iOS and Android. Manufacturer-specific coding or enhanced diagnostics remain dependent on the app and exact vehicle.

Choose MX+ for the broadest wireless flexibility

The OBDLink MX+ is the most flexible wireless model in our verified set, with iOS, Android, and Windows support plus broader OEM-network access where supported.

Choose EX when a wired FORScan connection is the priority

The OBDLink EX is different from the Bluetooth lineup: it is a USB adapter optimized for FORScan on Windows and includes Ford MS-CAN access. Advanced FORScan functions come from the software/vehicle combination, not from the cable alone.

Useful OBDLink Comparisons and Guides

What OBDLink Buyers Should Not Assume

  • The adapter alone does not guarantee every manufacturer-specific function.
  • Coding and enhanced diagnostics can depend on third-party apps and exact vehicle support.
  • Platform support differs: LX is not positioned for iOS, and EX is a wired USB adapter.
  • FORScan’s advanced functions should not be described as native standalone EX features.

Methodology

Our OBDLink coverage uses first-party product and support documentation as the primary source for platform, protocol, and network claims. Marketplace data is used for current price context, not as the sole proof of enhanced capability.