With more cars using denser CAN networks, does Topology Mapping in a scanner really help?  I'm debating because the jump to a scanner with Topology is quite steep for a DIY home-gamer like myself. But it's something I would consider if it made a significant difference in diagnosing newer cars.

The topolgy mapping is a nice feature to have but not strictly necessary imo. It shows in a more intuitive, vivid manner the same information about which modules are/aren't communicating as any other scanner would output in digital format.

Additionally it reveals instant information about which modules are supposed to be on the same bus/network. Nothing that couldn't be found in service information or a good wiring diagram.

In a professional environment with tons of diagnosis related to communication issues primarily it's a timesaver; the DIYer perspective may have different priorities.

JUJU couldn't have said it any better. As a profesional I defintly want topology. If I was just working on my own stuff I Probably would not spend the extra money unless price was not a concern.