Staff Answer
Jun 04, 2026 - 02:13 PM
The main differences between Xhorse wire (XK series) and wireless (XN series) universal remotes are how they are programmed and whether they include an immobilizer chip:
Xhorse Wire Remotes (XK series)
- 1st generation: Programmed by connecting the remote to the device (VVDI Key Tool, Key Tool Max, VVDI2, etc.) via a cable. The PCB has a socket for the programming cable.
- 2nd generation: Supports both wired and wireless programming — no cable required. Identified by a red PCB (1st gen is green), with lower power consumption and improved anti-static protection.
- No transponder chip included — you must add a separate immobilizer chip (such as a 46 chip) if the vehicle requires one to start.
- Best suited for jobs that only require RKE (remote keyless entry) functions.
- Lower cost per remote.
Xhorse Wireless Remotes (XN series)
- Programmed wirelessly — no cables needed, no need to open the remote shell.
- Built-in NXP chip that supports the Hitag series (ID46, ID47, etc.), so the immobilizer function is already included.
- Can also copy chips: 11, 12, 13, 46 (7936), 46 (7946), and 47 (7938X).
- Suitable when you need both remote and immobilizer functions in one unit.
- Higher cost per remote.
Quick rule: If you only need a remote (no start function), the wire remote is the budget-friendly choice. If you need an all-in-one remote with immobilizer capability built in, choose the wireless remote.
