Automation Studio vs GX Works3
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
Automation Studio
B&R Industrial Automation (ABB Group)
Excellent for high-speed packaging machinery
GX Works3
Mitsubishi Electric
User-friendly interface, easier learning curve
Overall Winner
GX Works3 leads with an overall score of 81/100
GX Works3 is the stronger overall choice with better community support. 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 | GX Works3 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 70 | 81✓ |
| Pricing | 75 | 75 |
| Ease of Use | 50 | 80✓ |
| Features | 84 | 86✓ |
| Industry Adoption | 55 | 80✓ |
| Community Support | 91 | 91 |
| Career Value | 68 | 74✓ |
💰Pricing Comparison
Both Automation Studio and GX Works3 are in the same price range ($$). Automation Studio pricing ranges from $1,000 to $8,000, while GX Works3 ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
📚Learning Curve
GX Works3 (rated 4/10) is easier to learn than Automation Studio (rated 6/10). GX Works3 typically takes 1-3 months to learn, while Automation Studio requires 4-6 months. This makes GX Works3 better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
Automation Studio offers 11 key features including safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. GX Works3 provides 11 key features with safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. Both platforms offer a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
GX Works3 has 65% market adoption compared to Automation Studio's 45%. GX Works3 dominates in Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, while Automation Studio is strongest in Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific. GX Works3's higher adoption means more job opportunities and community resources.
🔌Hardware Compatibility
Automation Studio is designed specifically for B&R Automation (ABB) hardware, while GX Works3 works with Mitsubishi Electric PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
Both Automation Studio and GX Works3 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
GX Works3 Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓User-friendly interface, easier learning curve
- ✓More affordable than competitors
- ✓Strong in Asia-Pacific market
- ✓Good simulation capabilities
Limitations
- ✗Less common in North America
- ✗Smaller community compared to Siemens/Rockwell
- ✗Limited third-party integration
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
GX Works3
For Professionals
Both are suitable
Budget-Constrained
Both are suitable
Enterprise Use
GX Works3
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Automation Studio or GX Works3?
GX Works3 is the stronger overall choice with better community support. 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 GX Works3?
Both Automation Studio and GX Works3 are in the same price range ($$). Automation Studio pricing ranges from $1,000 to $8,000, while GX Works3 ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
Which is easier to learn: Automation Studio or GX Works3?
GX Works3 (rated 4/10) is easier to learn than Automation Studio (rated 6/10). GX Works3 typically takes 1-3 months to learn, while Automation Studio requires 4-6 months. This makes GX Works3 better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
Both Automation Studio and GX Works3 offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.