CODESYS vs CX-Programmer
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
CODESYS
CODESYS GmbH (3S-Smart Software Solutions)
FREE basic version - perfect for learning
CX-Programmer
Omron
Easy to learn and use
Overall Winner
CODESYS leads with an overall score of 85/100
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, CX-Programmer may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the Omron ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | CODESYS | CX-Programmer |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 85✓ | 77 |
| Pricing | 100✓ | 75 |
| Ease of Use | 70 | 80✓ |
| Features | 86✓ | 84 |
| Industry Adoption | 83✓ | 65 |
| Community Support | 100✓ | 91 |
| Career Value | 77✓ | 68 |
💰Pricing Comparison
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than CX-Programmer ($$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while CX-Programmer ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
📚Learning Curve
CX-Programmer (rated 4/10) is easier to learn than CODESYS (rated 5/10). CX-Programmer typically takes 2-3 months to learn, while CODESYS requires 2-4 months. This makes CX-Programmer better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
CODESYS offers 11 key features including safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. CX-Programmer 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 CX-Programmer's 50%. CODESYS dominates in Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America, while CX-Programmer is strongest in Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America. CODESYS's higher adoption means more job opportunities and community resources.
🔌Hardware Compatibility
CODESYS is designed specifically for Over 500 manufacturers including Schneider Electric, Wago, Eaton, ifm, Festo, Bosch Rexroth hardware, while CX-Programmer works with Omron PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
Both CODESYS and CX-Programmer offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.
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
CX-Programmer Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Easy to learn and use
- ✓Affordable pricing
- ✓Good simulation capabilities
- ✓Strong in material handling and robotics
Limitations
- ✗Less common in North America than Siemens/Rockwell
- ✗Smaller community than major competitors
- ✗Fewer job postings in some regions
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
Both are suitable
For Professionals
Both are suitable
Budget-Constrained
CODESYS
Enterprise Use
CODESYS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CODESYS or CX-Programmer?
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, CX-Programmer may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the Omron ecosystem.
What is the price difference between CODESYS and CX-Programmer?
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than CX-Programmer ($$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while CX-Programmer ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
Which is easier to learn: CODESYS or CX-Programmer?
CX-Programmer (rated 4/10) is easier to learn than CODESYS (rated 5/10). CX-Programmer typically takes 2-3 months to learn, while CODESYS requires 2-4 months. This makes CX-Programmer better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
Both CODESYS and CX-Programmer offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.