I think I have encouraged a few dozen people to buy an inexpensive code reader off of amazon because for $16 it is easier and quicker then going to your local auto parts store.
I really haven't put much thought into which reader people buy, since at that price they all just read the universal codes.
Project farm just did a review of the cheapest models. It is worth a watch (Or fast forward to the last 2 minutes)

None of these will read the toyota specific codes, but they are faster and easier than getting out a computer and will work for check engine lights.

 

PF does great tests that are always objective and without bias.

I've always felt that a cheap reader is a basic tool that can help diagnose problems and at the very least give someone an idea of what might be happening. I recently bought a BlueDriver because it was on sale for $80 (normally $100). It is one of the bluetooth readers that requires an App on your phone, but it has some useful extra features such as real-time monitoring. Overall, I am pleased with it, but, yeah, my cheap 5 year-old ODB II reader still does what it is supposed to: read and clear codes.

 

Do they leave vsc abs light on after though? It's also annoying to have to reset every time you use obd reader. It's not like our cars get cel often.

 

They do.

I made a Reset tool that I just have to plug in after I clear the codes. It is SUPER easy.

BGW did a write up on how to make one