The iCarsoft CR Pro+ has been one of the most popular all-makes scan tools in the iCarsoft range for good reason. It offers full-system diagnostics, live data, service functions, CAN-FD support and bi-directional control in a compact handheld unit.

Now there is a newer model in the range: the iCarsoft CR Pro S.

So what has actually changed? And more importantly, which one should you buy?

The short version is this: the CR Pro+ is still the best-value all-rounder for most buyers. The CR Pro S is the newer step-up model, with a larger touchscreen, WiFi updates, Android-based hardware, built-in battery and a more modern overall feel.

Both are capable all-makes scan tools. The right choice depends on how you plan to use it.

First, What Do They Have in Common?

Before looking at the differences, it is worth making one thing clear. The CR Pro S is not simply the first “advanced” version of this tool.

The CR Pro+ is already a strong all-makes diagnostic scanner. It is not just a basic engine-code reader.

Both models are designed to give you proper diagnostic access across supported vehicles, including systems such as:

• engine
• transmission
• ABS
• airbag/SRS
• steering
• electronic parking brake
• body control modules
• climate control
• and other fitted vehicle systems

Both tools are also designed for users who work across more than one vehicle make. That makes them useful for mixed households, enthusiasts, mobile technicians, small workshops and anyone who wants one tool for a range of vehicles.

In simple terms, both the CR Pro+ and CR Pro S sit well above a basic OBD2 scanner.

The CR Pro+ Is Still the Sensible All-Rounder

The CR Pro+ remains a very good choice for most customers.

It gives you broad all-makes coverage, full-system diagnostics, service reset functions, live data, AutoVIN where supported, diagnostic reports and bi-directional control in a compact wired handheld tool.

It also supports CAN-FD, which is important for some newer vehicles using more modern communication protocols.

Where the CR Pro+ really makes sense is value. It gives you a lot of useful diagnostic capability without moving into a touchscreen or tablet-style platform.

Choose the CR Pro+ if you want:

• a proven all-makes handheld scan tool
• full-system diagnostics on supported vehicles
• strong service and maintenance functions
• bi-directional control
• CAN-FD support
• a compact wired tool
• good value without paying extra for the newer interface

For most private users, serious DIY customers and small mixed garages, the CR Pro+ still sits in a very useful sweet spot.

What the CR Pro S Adds

The CR Pro S takes the same general idea and moves it onto a newer, more modern platform.

The biggest change you notice straight away is the screen. The CR Pro S has a 5-inch capacitive touchscreen, compared with the 4.3-inch button-operated screen on the CR Pro+.

That changes how the tool feels to use. Menus are easier to move through, information is easier to view, and the overall experience feels closer to a modern diagnostic tablet while still keeping the smaller handheld format.

The CR Pro S also adds:

• Android-based operation
• Quad Core 1.3GHz processor
• 32GB internal storage
• WiFi updates
• 5000 mAh built-in battery
• 49+ service functions
• 4000+ active tests on supported vehicles
• refreshed user interface

So the CR Pro S is not just about one extra function. It is more of a platform upgrade.

Touchscreen vs Buttons

This is one of the simplest differences.

The CR Pro+ uses a traditional handheld layout with physical buttons. Some users actually prefer this because it is simple, familiar and easy to use with dirty hands in a workshop environment.

The CR Pro S uses a touchscreen. This gives it a more modern feel and makes it easier to move through menus, scroll through information and work with live data.

Neither setup is automatically “better” for everyone. It depends on what you prefer.

If you like simple button-based tools, the CR Pro+ makes sense. If you prefer a more modern touchscreen interface, the CR Pro S is the nicer option.

Updates: Cable vs WiFi

Another practical difference is how the tools are updated.

The CR Pro+ uses a computer-based update process. It is not difficult, but it does mean using a PC and the supplied update method.

The CR Pro S uses WiFi updates directly from the device. For most users, this is easier and more convenient. You do not need to connect the tool to a computer just to keep the software up to date.

This is one of those features that does not sound exciting on paper, but in day-to-day use it can make a real difference.

Active Tests and Bi-Directional Control

Both tools offer bi-directional capability, but the CR Pro S takes this further with a more refined active-test setup.

Bi-directional control means the scan tool can send commands to supported vehicle modules, rather than only reading information from them.

For example, where supported, this can allow you to command components such as:

• fuel pumps
• ABS pumps
• injectors
• throttle bodies
• windows
• door locks
• lights
• wipers
• other actuators and control modules

This is useful because it helps confirm whether a component actually responds. Instead of only reading a fault code and guessing, you can command a supported part and see what happens.

The CR Pro S lists 4000+ active tests on supported vehicles, which makes it the stronger option if active testing is a major part of how you plan to use the tool.

Service Functions

Both tools include a wide range of service and maintenance functions.

The CR Pro+ has 48 service functions, covering a mix of common reset functions and more advanced procedures.

The CR Pro S lists 49+ service functions, including common jobs such as:

• oil reset
• EPB reset
• steering angle reset
• DPF regeneration
• battery management
• injector coding
• ABS bleeding
• TPMS reset
• throttle relearn
• AdBlue functions
• immobiliser functions
• clutch matching
• radar and camera calibration
• EV high-voltage battery functions where supported

As always, service functions depend on the vehicle make, model, year and fitted system. Just because a tool has a function in the menu does not mean every vehicle supports it.

If you need one specific function on one specific vehicle, it is always worth checking coverage first.

CR Pro+ vs CR Pro S at a Glance

Which One Should You Buy?

For most buyers, the CR Pro+ is still the easiest recommendation.

It gives you a lot of diagnostic capability for the money. You get all-makes coverage, full-system diagnostics, service functions, live data, CAN-FD support and bi-directional control in a compact handheld unit.

If you want a capable tool without paying extra for the newer touchscreen setup, the CR Pro+ is the practical choice.

The CR Pro S makes more sense if you want the nicer platform.

It is the better choice if you want touchscreen operation, WiFi updates, built-in battery power, faster hardware, more storage and the more refined active-test setup.

Is the CR Pro S Replacing the CR Pro+?

Not really.

The CR Pro S is newer and more modern, but that does not make the CR Pro+ obsolete. The CR Pro+ still has a very clear place in the range because it offers strong capability and value.

The better way to think of it is this:

The CR Pro+ is the practical all-rounder.

The CR Pro S is the modern step-up.

If you want the best value and do not mind the button-operated interface, choose the CR Pro+.

If you want the newer touchscreen platform and easier WiFi updates, choose the CR Pro S.

The Simple Takeaway

Both the iCarsoft CR Pro+ and CR Pro S are capable all-makes diagnostic tools.

For most buyers, the CR Pro+ is still the sensible choice. It gives you full-system diagnostics, service functions, CAN-FD support and bi-directional control in a proven handheld unit.

The CR Pro S is the better option if you want the newer interface, touchscreen operation, WiFi updates, built-in battery, extra storage and a more modern overall feel.

In plain English, the CR Pro+ is the practical all-rounder. The CR Pro S is the nicer step-up.