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Buying a car is one thing, and taking care and maintaining its engine is another.
If you want your car to run for a long time, then you must keep an eye on the vehicle's parameters as well, such as temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, motor vessel, and many more.
OBD2 data loggers can help you keep important logs to monitor the internal and external health of your vehicle.. Continue reading this guide and have a look at the best data loggers in the market.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for OBD2 Data Loggers
- OUR TOP PICK: BlueDriver LSB2 Bluetooth Pro OBDII
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: ScanTool OBDLink LX Bluetooth
- CANedge2
Comparison Chart of the Best OBD2 Data Loggers
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick  |
| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
Best Budget Option  |
| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
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| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
What is a Data Logger?
A data logger is an electronic device designed to monitor and record operational parameters throughout a particular period. Each data logger has an attached sensor responsible for detecting all the information and then there is a computer chip responsible for storing all the information. Once the information is stored in the chip, the data is then transferred to the computer where it is analyzed by experts.
To sum it up, it is a compressed device that runs on battery and is fortified with sensors, ports, and microprocessors. This device is capable of deploying in a variety of environments.
How Does a Data Logger Work?
A data logger works seamlessly. As mentioned above, this compact electronic device is equipped with a microprocessor, internal memory storage, and a stellar sensor to collect the data. There are two ways to analyze the data; one is by connecting it to a computer and using installed software, and the other way is to use a local interface to connect this device wirelessly.
The very fact that data loggers work perfectly without computers makes them extremely easy to use. Plus, you can completely customize its settings per your needs. If you only want information regarding the temperature and not humidity, then you can easily set it as you please.
Perks of Getting a Data Logger
If you are a car enthusiast, you might already be aware of the benefits of a data logger. If not, let's examine the perks of the data logger to convince you to get one for your car.
Data Collection
Manual collection of data is a hassle! For starters, there is always a chance of error. Secondly, you need an individual whose sole job is to record all the important information and numbers revolving around the environmental metrics.
Feasibility
You can easily place a device where it is difficult for a human hand to reach. So you can safely place this electronic, sensor-embedded device, somewhere unreachable. In this way, you will get all the important data you need without going through a lot of hassle.
Record
As electronic OBD2 data loggers operate digitally, you don't have to worry about somebody forgetting to record the numbers. This device is capable of keeping digital logs and you can even go back to these numbers and make a decision regarding the health of your car.
How to Choose an OBD2 Data Logger
It is better to choose a data logger when you have some background information. So far, you know what a data logger actually is, how it works, and some of its perks. Now it is time to shed some light on some factors you must consider before choosing an OBD2 data logger.
Price
Keep the price range in mind; a data logger does not cost you thousands of bucks. You can get your hands on a decent data logger at a menial price. So choose a data logger that falls in your budget.
Updates
Invest in a data logger that keeps itself up to date. Make sure you can update it when the new version of that system is available. Otherwise, there is no use spending money on an outdated legacy system.
Compatibility
Another factor to consider is compatibility. Make sure that the data logger that you are purchasing runs perfectly well with your car. In addition to this, make sure it connects easily with your Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connection.
Quick Take - Best OBD2 Data Loggers
In a hurry? Here's a snapshot of the best OBD2 data loggers:
Review of the Best OBD2 Data Loggers
Let's review the top data loggers one by one and help you pick the one that is ideal for your car and reads and clears codes easily and effectively.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most recent buyers are happy with their purchase. One recent buyer said he installed the app on his phone, connected it to the data logger device, and it connected instantly. And his phone screen transformed into a diagnostic tool. Another buyer said that all features are accessible in real-time. Overall, all buyers are happy with this data logger.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This electronic data logger device is a state-of-the-art device. It stands out to us because of its compatibility. BlueDriver works perfectly well with a huge number of cars. You will be able to turn on the advanced diagnostic if you drive a BMW, Mercedes, Nissan, and dozens of other cars.
Who Will Use This Most
Car enthusiasts who love to have all the information about engine light, ABS, airbag, TPMS, and much more would find this device extremely useful. In addition to this, if you drive a Ford, Chrysler, Mercedes, BMW, Honda, Toyota, Nissan, or a couple of other cars, you can easily turn on the advanced diagnostic button.
Bottom Line
If you need data loggers that allow access to unlimited data reports, then you must take advantage of this device. Connect this wireless device and get all the valuable information about what goes inside your ride. After checking the engine light, it will give a detailed analysis of your car's engine.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
A couple of recent buyers reported that they are extremely satisfied with this logger. A few had some complaints, stating that it takes a lot of time to install and connect, but after disconnecting and reinstalling, the device was working properly. Other than this, they reported that this device read all the codes perfectly. So, the overall consensus on this is that it's a great steal!
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stands out to us because of many reasons. One of the reasons is that it comes with a hack-proof system, so the user is free from the constant worry of someone stealing their personal data. In addition to this, some buyers appreciate its efficiency in reading all the codes.
Who Will Use This Most
Users who are a bit paranoid regarding the information stored on the data logger would be extremely comfortable with this device as it keeps the data extremely safe. In addition to this, some car enthusiasts would enjoy the fact that it comes with a battery saver mode.
Bottom Line
Compatible with most devices and comes with a free Android and iOS installation software, wireless, easy connectivity, and dozens of other compelling features - this device is one of its kind. It keeps an enthusiastic car driver updated with whatever is going on with his or her car's engine.
3. CANedge2
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the recent buyers of CANedge2 are extremely satisfied with this data logger. They report that it effectively stores all the relevant data and then deploys all the data on the computer and later shares the analysis report with the users.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The very fact that it can connect easily with more than ten Wi-Fi hotspots is one of the reasons it stands out to us. Other than this, the configuration time of this device is less than the rest of the data loggers. This saves plenty of user's time, giving them effective information instantly.
Who Will Use This Most
Car drivers who do not wish to miss a single detail regarding the performance of their cars' engines would benefit from this electronic OBD2 data logger a lot. Plus, those who want real-time access to the relevant information would enjoy this device. So if you belong to these two categories, then purchase this device.
Bottom Line
CANedge2 encompasses cutting-edge technology and is crafted to provide real-time insights to its users. It even allows its users to customize the frequency as they please. So, if you are looking for a device that would provide instant, effective, and beneficial insights to your car's engine, this is the one!
Pros and Cons of Data Loggers
Now that the best data loggers are in front of you, it is time to address the pros and cons of data loggers. We hope this list of pros and cons will help you in the final pick.
Pros
Following are the three pros, or advantages of a digital data logger:
Automatic
Once the data logger is set, you don't have to manually check on it to make sure everything is working as it should. It collects all the data automatically.
No Human Error
As all information is recorded and results are deduced automatically, so there is zero chance of any human error. All the data that is logged is one hundred percent accurate.
Access
You can place and attach this device anywhere in your car, and you are able to receive all the valuable information regarding the diagnostics and parameters. You can receive data from all the places that are out of your reach.
Cons
You've seen some of the pros of this device. Now, have a look at relative cons, as well.
Malfunction
One of the drawbacks of digital and electronic devices is that once you experience a malfunction, all the important data might be lost.
Conclusion
Keep yourself updated regarding environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, which play a role in engine performance. Buy a data logger so the device can detect and relay information to keep your vehicle in top condition. Have a look at the main features, pros and cons, and what recent buyers have to say about the devices and decide wisely.
