Automation Studio vs PLCnext
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
Automation Studio
B&R Industrial Automation (ABB Group)
Excellent for high-speed packaging machinery
PLCnext
Phoenix Contact
FREE programming software
Overall Winner
Automation Studio leads with an overall score of 70/100
Automation Studio is the stronger overall choice with better community support. However, PLCnext may be preferable if you prioritize pricing or if you're already committed to the Phoenix Contact ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | Automation Studio | PLCnext |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 70✓ | 64 |
| Pricing | 75 | 100✓ |
| Ease of Use | 50✓ | 40 |
| Features | 84✓ | 69 |
| Industry Adoption | 55✓ | 38 |
| Community Support | 91 | 94✓ |
| Career Value | 68✓ | 58 |
💰Pricing Comparison
PLCnext ($) is significantly more affordable than Automation Studio ($$). PLCnext costs between $0 and $2,000, while Automation Studio ranges from $1,000 to $8,000.
📚Learning Curve
Automation Studio (rated 6/10) is easier to learn than PLCnext (rated 7/10). Automation Studio typically takes 4-6 months to learn, while PLCnext requires 4-8 months. This makes Automation Studio better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
Automation Studio offers 11 key features including safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. PLCnext provides 11 key features with motion control. Both platforms offer a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
Automation Studio has 45% market adoption compared to PLCnext's 25%. Automation Studio dominates in Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, while PLCnext is strongest in Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific. Automation Studio's higher adoption means more job opportunities and community resources.
🔌Hardware Compatibility
Automation Studio is designed specifically for B&R Automation (ABB) hardware, while PLCnext works with Phoenix Contact PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
Both Automation Studio and PLCnext 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
PLCnext Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓FREE programming software
- ✓Open, modern architecture
- ✓Multiple programming language support
- ✓IoT and Industry 4.0 ready
Limitations
- ✗Relatively new platform (limited adoption)
- ✗Small user community
- ✗Fewer job postings
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
Both are suitable
For Professionals
Automation Studio
Budget-Constrained
PLCnext
Enterprise Use
Automation Studio
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Automation Studio or PLCnext?
Automation Studio is the stronger overall choice with better community support. However, PLCnext may be preferable if you prioritize pricing or if you're already committed to the Phoenix Contact ecosystem.
What is the price difference between Automation Studio and PLCnext?
PLCnext ($) is significantly more affordable than Automation Studio ($$). PLCnext costs between $0 and $2,000, while Automation Studio ranges from $1,000 to $8,000.
Which is easier to learn: Automation Studio or PLCnext?
Automation Studio (rated 6/10) is easier to learn than PLCnext (rated 7/10). Automation Studio typically takes 4-6 months to learn, while PLCnext requires 4-8 months. This makes Automation Studio better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
Both Automation Studio and PLCnext offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.