For professional auto locksmiths, choosing the right universal remote can make a significant difference to stock levels, job efficiency and customer satisfaction. Carrying hundreds of vehicle-specific keys is expensive and takes up valuable storage space, especially for mobile locksmiths.
Xhorse universal remotes and smart keys provide a flexible alternative by allowing locksmiths to generate replacement keys for a wide range of vehicles using compatible Xhorse programming equipment. Instead of holding large quantities of individual OEM-style keys, locksmiths can carry a smaller selection of universal products while still covering many common applications.
However, Xhorse offers several different remote families, each designed for different requirements. Understanding the differences between the red XK Wired Remote, blue XN Wireless Remote, purple XE Super Remote and orange XS Smart Key range is essential to choosing the correct product for the job.
Explore our range of Xhorse Universal Remotes →
Xhorse has become one of the most recognised brands in the automotive locksmith industry due to its range of universal remotes, smart keys and programming equipment.
For many locksmiths, the main advantage of Xhorse products is flexibility. A single remote platform can support multiple vehicle applications, helping reduce the amount of stock required and making it easier to carry a wider range of solutions.
Universal remotes are particularly useful for mobile locksmiths who need to maximise vehicle coverage while keeping their vans organised. Instead of carrying large quantities of vehicle-specific keys, locksmiths can select a range of Xhorse remotes and smart keys that cover the vehicles they regularly work on.
Xhorse products also benefit from ongoing software and firmware updates, which means compatibility can continue to expand as new vehicle applications are added.
It is important to remember that no universal remote replaces every vehicle key. The correct remote depends on the vehicle manufacturer, model, year, immobiliser system, frequency and the capabilities of the specific Xhorse product being used.
One of the easiest ways to identify the different Xhorse remote families is by the colour of the packaging. Xhorse uses four main colour categories:
|
Colour |
Series |
Remote Type |
|
🔴 Red |
XK |
Wired Remote |
|
🔵 Blue |
XN |
Wireless Remote |
|
🟣 Purple |
XE |
Super Remote |
|
🟠 Orange |
XS |
Smart Key |
Although the packaging colour helps identify the product family, it does not mean every remote within that colour range works in the same way. Each series contains different models designed for different vehicle applications.
Always check the exact remote model and vehicle compatibility before programming.
|
Feature |
🔴 XK Wired |
🔵 XN Wireless |
🟣 XE Super |
🟠 XS Smart Key |
|
Factory Series |
XK |
XN |
XE |
XS |
|
Main Purpose |
Remote matching |
Wireless remote generation |
Multi-transponder solution |
Proximity/keyless vehicles |
|
Programming Method |
Cable / V2 wireless supported |
Wireless |
Wireless |
Wireless |
|
Built-in Transponder |
No |
Yes |
Super Chip technology |
Integrated smart key electronics |
|
Battery Before Generation |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Remote Functions |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Keyless Entry |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
|
Push Button Start |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
|
Reusable |
Yes (supported applications) |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
The Xhorse XK Wired Remote is the original universal remote series and remains a popular choice for locksmiths who need a flexible and cost-effective remote solution.
Unlike the XN Wireless Remote and XE Super Remote, the XK range does not contain a universal transponder solution. Instead, it is designed primarily for remote matching applications, where a separate immobiliser chip solution may be required depending on the vehicle.
The XK series is available in a wide range of OEM-style designs, allowing locksmiths to provide customers with a replacement key that closely matches the appearance of their original remote.
The original XK Wired Remote requires connection to a compatible Xhorse device using a programming cable.
This version is particularly useful for locksmiths who already work with separate transponder solutions and need a reliable universal remote platform.
The XK Wired Remote provides a cost-effective option for many remote replacement applications where a full smart key or integrated transponder remote is not required.
Xhorse has continued to develop the XK range and introduced updated V2 versions with improved electronics and new designs.
While the XK family remains known as the Wired Remote series, some V2 models include wireless programming support when used with compatible Xhorse equipment.
The updated versions provide improvements including redesigned PCBs, updated electronics and new OEM-style appearances.
One of the popular additions to the V2 range is the Volkswagen-style remote design, giving locksmiths a more original-looking replacement option without the cost of an OEM key.
The XK V2 range demonstrates how Xhorse continues to update existing platforms rather than replacing them completely, giving locksmiths more choice depending on the job requirements.
Shop Xhorse XK Wired Remotes →
The Xhorse XN Wireless Remote was developed to provide locksmiths with a faster and more convenient alternative to traditional wired remote generation.
Unlike the XK Wired Remote, the XN series is designed for wireless generation using compatible Xhorse equipment. This removes the need for a programming cable and allows locksmiths to prepare keys more efficiently during a job.
The XN Wireless Remote includes integrated transponder functionality, making it a more complete solution for applications where both remote operation and immobiliser communication are required.
For locksmiths, the main advantage of the XN range is speed and convenience. Instead of combining a remote shell with a separate transponder solution, the XN provides an all-in-one option for supported vehicles.
As with all Xhorse products, compatibility depends on the exact vehicle system and software support. The correct remote should always be selected through the Xhorse device before generation.
The XN range is particularly useful for locksmiths who want a reliable everyday remote solution without moving into the wider transponder coverage offered by the XE Super Remote.
Shop Xhorse XN Wireless Remotes
The Xhorse XE Super Remote is one of the most popular universal remotes among professional auto locksmiths.
The reason for its popularity is the use of Xhorse Super Chip technology, which allows one remote to support multiple supported transponder applications. This gives locksmiths the ability to carry fewer remotes while still covering a wider range of vehicles.
For mobile locksmiths, reducing stock size is a major advantage. Instead of carrying multiple individual remote types for different transponder systems, a Super Remote can provide a flexible alternative for many supported applications.
However, it is important to understand that not all Super Remotes are identical. Xhorse has continued to develop its Super Chip technology, with different chip generations offering different levels of vehicle coverage.
Shop Xhorse XE Super Remotes →
The original and widely used Super Chip technology is known as the XT27A Super Chip.
The XT27A helped make the XE Super Remote popular because it allowed locksmiths to emulate multiple supported transponder types from a single remote.
Over time, Xhorse has introduced newer Super Chip developments, including updated versions designed to expand compatibility and improve support for newer vehicle systems.
Because Super Chip capabilities can vary depending on the chip version, remote model, software version and firmware updates, locksmiths should always check the latest Xhorse information before programming.
The key benefit of the Super Remote remains the same: increased flexibility and reduced stock requirements.
Although both the XN Wireless Remote and XE Super Remote offer wireless generation, they are designed with different priorities.
The XN Wireless Remote is designed as a straightforward integrated remote solution, while the XE Super Remote focuses on wider transponder flexibility through Super Chip technology.
For locksmiths carrying general stock, both can be useful. Many professionals choose to stock both because they solve different types of jobs.
The XN is often chosen when a simple replacement remote solution is required, while the XE Super Remote is preferred when broader transponder coverage is needed.
The choice between the three remote families depends on the type of work being carried out.
The XK Wired Remote remains a useful option where a separate transponder solution is required or where a specific remote design is preferred.
The XN Wireless Remote provides a convenient all-in-one solution for supported applications and is popular for everyday remote replacement work.
The XE Super Remote provides greater flexibility for locksmiths who want to reduce the number of different transponder remotes they need to carry.
There is no single Xhorse remote that is suitable for every situation. Professional locksmiths often carry a combination of different Xhorse products to maximise vehicle coverage.
The Xhorse XS Smart Key range is designed for modern vehicles equipped with proximity systems, keyless entry and push-button start.
Unlike traditional remotes, smart keys communicate with the vehicle for both remote operation and immobiliser authorisation. This means they contain more advanced electronics than standard remote keys.
The XS family includes several different smart key platforms and designs, allowing locksmiths to choose a solution that matches the vehicle system and customer requirements.
Popular XS Smart Key designs include Volkswagen MQB-style keys, knife-style smart keys, card-style keys, smart watch keys and other OEM-style replacements.
The XS range is particularly valuable for locksmiths because modern vehicles are increasingly moving away from traditional blade keys and towards proximity systems.
The XS Smart Key family includes different technologies, so it is important not to assume that every orange XS key works in the same way.
Different XS products are designed for different applications, and the correct choice depends on the vehicle system being programmed.
Two important areas within the XS range are:
Both sit within the wider XS Smart Key family but are designed for different applications.
XS NXP Smart Keys are widely used across many supported applications and are available in a variety of designs.
One of the most recognised examples is the Volkswagen MQB-style smart key, which provides locksmiths with an OEM-style replacement option for supported Volkswagen Group applications.
The NXP-based XS range is also available in other designs, including knife-style keys, card-style keys and the SW-007 smart watch key.
These different designs allow locksmiths to provide customers with a replacement key that not only functions correctly but also looks closer to the original vehicle key.
The Volkswagen MQB-style smart key is one of the most popular Xhorse XS Smart Key designs used by locksmiths.
Designed to provide an OEM-style replacement solution, the MQB-style smart key closely follows the appearance of many Volkswagen Group proximity keys, making it a popular choice for customers who want a replacement that looks and feels similar to the original.
These keys are designed for supported MQB applications and can be generated using compatible Xhorse programming equipment.
The original Xhorse VW MQB-style smart key became popular because it combined modern proximity functionality with a familiar Volkswagen-style flip key design.
For locksmiths, it provided a practical aftermarket alternative to sourcing expensive OEM replacement keys.
The key offers:
As always, compatibility depends on the exact vehicle system, year and Xhorse software support.
Xhorse has continued to improve its smart key range with updated V2 versions of popular designs.
The newer VW MQB-style V2 smart key features updated electronics and design improvements while keeping the familiar Volkswagen-style appearance.
The V2 version provides locksmiths with an updated replacement option that benefits from newer hardware development while maintaining compatibility with supported applications.
When selecting between versions, locksmiths should always confirm the exact product model and vehicle compatibility through their Xhorse device before programming.
The XM38 Smart Key is another important part of the Xhorse XS Smart Key family.
Although it belongs to the XS range, XM38 uses a different smart key platform from other XS NXP-based smart keys.
XM38 has become particularly popular among locksmiths because it provides additional coverage for supported smart key applications, including Toyota and Lexus systems.
Like other Xhorse smart keys, XM38 products are designed to be reusable on supported applications and can provide a cost-effective alternative to expensive OEM replacement keys.
The XM38 Toyota Style Smart Key was developed to provide a closer replacement solution for supported Toyota and Lexus applications.
Its design closely follows Toyota-style smart keys, making it an attractive option where appearance and functionality are both important.
XM38 Toyota-style keys are commonly associated with supported systems including:
The exact coverage depends on the vehicle and the current Xhorse software support.
Shop XM38 Toyota Style Smart Key
The XM38 Universal Smart Key provides a wider smart key solution for supported applications beyond Toyota-style keys.
It gives locksmiths another option when working on vehicles that require XM38 technology.
As with all universal smart keys, the correct choice depends on the vehicle immobiliser system, frequency, key type and programming requirements.
The advantage of XM38 is that it gives locksmiths additional flexibility within their smart key inventory.
Although both are part of the Xhorse XS family, XS Smart Keys and XM38 Smart Keys should not be considered identical products.
|
|
XS NXP Smart Key |
XM38 Smart Key |
|
Family |
XS |
XS |
|
Main Use |
General proximity applications |
Additional smart key coverage |
|
Popular Applications |
VW MQB and supported European/Asian vehicles |
Toyota/Lexus and other supported systems |
|
Styles |
MQB, knife, card, watch, OEM designs |
Toyota style and universal designs |
|
Keyless Entry |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Push Button Start |
Yes |
Yes |
Choosing the correct Xhorse remote depends on the type of work you regularly carry out.
For locksmiths who mainly complete remote replacement work, the XK Wired Remote and XN Wireless Remote provide practical solutions depending on whether a separate transponder solution is required.
For locksmiths who want to reduce the number of different remotes they carry, the XE Super Remote is a popular choice due to its Super Chip technology and wider supported applications.
For modern vehicles with proximity and push-button start systems, the XS Smart Key range provides the correct solution.
Many professional locksmiths do not choose only one Xhorse product. Instead, they build a selection of XK, XN, XE and XS products to cover the widest possible range of customer vehicles.
|
If you need… |
Choose… |
|
A remote where you use your own transponder solution |
🔴 XK Wired |
|
A quick wireless remote solution |
🔵 XN Wireless |
|
Maximum flexibility and transponder coverage |
🟣 XE Super Remote |
|
Modern proximity/keyless vehicles |
🟠 XS Smart Key |
|
VW MQB-style smart key replacement |
🟠 XS MQB Smart Key |
|
Toyota/Lexus smart key applications |
🟠 XM38 Smart Key |
One of the most common mistakes is choosing a remote based only on appearance.
While a key may look correct externally, the internal technology may not match the vehicle system. Always check the vehicle application, frequency, immobiliser type and Xhorse compatibility before ordering.
Another common mistake is assuming all Xhorse remotes within the same colour family work the same way. The colour identifies the product family, but individual models can have different capabilities.
It is also important to keep Xhorse equipment updated. Firmware and software updates can affect supported vehicle coverage and programming functions.
Many Xhorse remotes can be reused or regenerated if they have not already been successfully programmed to a vehicle. Always check the specific remote model before attempting reuse.
Yes. Xhorse universal remotes and smart keys require compatible Xhorse programming equipment for generation and programming.
The XE Super Remote is popular because Xhorse Super Chip technology allows support for many different transponder applications. However, some vehicles require specific smart key solutions from the XS range.
No. The XS family includes different smart key platforms, including XS NXP Smart Keys and XM38 Smart Keys. The correct choice depends on the vehicle application.
Yes. Always confirm compatibility using your Xhorse device and current software before generating a remote or smart key.
At Access Fobs, we supply genuine Xhorse remotes, smart keys and accessories to professional auto locksmiths throughout the UK.
Our range includes Xhorse XK Wired Remotes, XN Wireless Remotes, XE Super Remotes, XS Smart Keys, XM38 Smart Keys and supporting accessories.
We understand that locksmiths need reliable products, competitive pricing and accurate information when choosing stock. Our aim is to help you select the correct solution for each vehicle, while keeping your inventory efficient and practical.
If you need help choosing an Xhorse remote or smart key, provide the vehicle make, model and year and our team can help identify the correct option. Contact us
