any good OBD II readers that allow you to plug your laptop in?
 

looking for a OBD reader that i can plug into my laptop instead of going to mechanics to get the codes checked out

Does it have to plug into a laptop? Pretty much every OBD2 scanner has a display that tells you what code your engine is throwing, even the cheapest Princess Auto ones.

these are the cheapest now

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Super-Mini-ELM327-V1-5-Bluetooth-OBD2-OBD-II-Car-Auto-Diagnostic-Scanner-Tool-/370770130822?pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&hash=item56539f3786&vxp=mtr
all standards (ie. all makes) and bluetooth connect.

Got one and works well.

Do realize standard OBD2 readers cannot read certain manufacturer specific protocols, eg those that utilizes CAN bus nor they can do programming.

If you just want a reader that read codes and reset OBD codes, you really don't need one that connects to a laptop. But if you want to program certain things eg BMW, VW etc.. or read non engine sensors eg brake, AC etc then you probably better off getting a diagnostic reader that is tailored for your make. Most of them would require you to connect to a laptop (usually a very specific model too if you are not purchasing from the OE).

I do agree with godwin. But for $12 you can't go wrong. VW cable is 150+ and hondata is 400+. Don't know about others, but manufacturer specific is going to be more than $12 for sure.

i actually do want one to program stuff too

Then you have limited choices and it depends on what car you have.. pretty much each make has its own cable.

i have a elm327 bluetooth. then download from google play store called torque and pair with your phone. i think if you buy the full version of torque, you can do some 'jailbreaking' stuff in your car's ecu. but obviously, you do that on your own risk.