Automation Studio vs CODESYS
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
Automation Studio
B&R Industrial Automation (ABB Group)
Excellent for high-speed packaging machinery
CODESYS
CODESYS GmbH (3S-Smart Software Solutions)
FREE basic version - perfect for learning
Overall Winner
CODESYS leads with an overall score of 85/100
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, Automation Studio may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the B&R Industrial Automation (ABB Group) ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | Automation Studio | CODESYS |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 70 | 85✓ |
| Pricing | 75 | 100✓ |
| Ease of Use | 50 | 70✓ |
| Features | 84 | 86✓ |
| Industry Adoption | 55 | 83✓ |
| Community Support | 91 | 100✓ |
| Career Value | 68 | 77✓ |
💰Pricing Comparison
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than Automation Studio ($$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while Automation Studio ranges from $1,000 to $8,000.
📚Learning Curve
CODESYS (rated 5/10) is easier to learn than Automation Studio (rated 6/10). CODESYS typically takes 2-4 months to learn, while Automation Studio requires 4-6 months. This makes CODESYS better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
Automation Studio offers 11 key features including safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. CODESYS provides 11 key features with safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. Both platforms offer a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
CODESYS has 70% market adoption compared to Automation Studio's 45%. CODESYS dominates in Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America, while Automation Studio is strongest in Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific. CODESYS's higher adoption means more job opportunities and community resources.
🔌Hardware Compatibility
Automation Studio is designed specifically for B&R Automation (ABB) hardware, while CODESYS works with Over 500 manufacturers including Schneider Electric, Wago, Eaton, ifm, Festo, Bosch Rexroth PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
Both Automation Studio and CODESYS offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.
Automation Studio Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Excellent for high-speed packaging machinery
- ✓Strong motion control capabilities
- ✓Modern development environment
- ✓C/C++ programming option for complex logic
Limitations
- ✗Less common than Siemens/Rockwell (fewer jobs)
- ✗Smaller user community
- ✗Limited third-party resources
Best For
CODESYS Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓FREE basic version - perfect for learning
- ✓Supports wide range of hardware (500+ manufacturers)
- ✓Pure IEC 61131-3 standard compliance
- ✓Excellent for education and training
Limitations
- ✗Less recognized brand than Siemens/Rockwell
- ✗Professional features require paid add-ons
- ✗Fewer job postings specifically for CODESYS
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
CODESYS
For Professionals
Both are suitable
Budget-Constrained
CODESYS
Enterprise Use
CODESYS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Automation Studio or CODESYS?
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, Automation Studio may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the B&R Industrial Automation (ABB Group) ecosystem.
What is the price difference between Automation Studio and CODESYS?
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than Automation Studio ($$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while Automation Studio ranges from $1,000 to $8,000.
Which is easier to learn: Automation Studio or CODESYS?
CODESYS (rated 5/10) is easier to learn than Automation Studio (rated 6/10). CODESYS typically takes 2-4 months to learn, while Automation Studio requires 4-6 months. This makes CODESYS better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
Both Automation Studio and CODESYS offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.