CODESYS vs FactoryTalk
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
CODESYS
CODESYS GmbH (3S-Smart Software Solutions)
FREE basic version - perfect for learning
FactoryTalk
Rockwell Automation
Industry standard for Rockwell SCADA
Overall Winner
CODESYS leads with an overall score of 85/100
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, FactoryTalk may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the Rockwell Automation ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | CODESYS | FactoryTalk |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 85✓ | 62 |
| Pricing | 100✓ | 45 |
| Ease of Use | 70✓ | 40 |
| Features | 86✓ | 48 |
| Industry Adoption | 83 | 83 |
| Community Support | 100 | 100 |
| Career Value | 77✓ | 70 |
💰Pricing Comparison
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than FactoryTalk ($$$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while FactoryTalk ranges from $3,000 to $25,000.
📚Learning Curve
CODESYS (rated 5/10) is easier to learn than FactoryTalk (rated 7/10). CODESYS typically takes 2-4 months to learn, while FactoryTalk requires 4-8 months. This makes CODESYS better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
CODESYS offers 11 key features including safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. FactoryTalk provides 11 key features. Both platforms offer a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
FactoryTalk has 70% market adoption compared to CODESYS's 70%. FactoryTalk dominates in North America, Latin America, while CODESYS is strongest in Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America. FactoryTalk'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 FactoryTalk works with Allen-Bradley, Rockwell Automation, Third-party via OPC PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
Both CODESYS and FactoryTalk 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
FactoryTalk Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Industry standard for Rockwell SCADA
- ✓Seamless integration with Studio 5000
- ✓Powerful alarming and trending
- ✓Centralized asset management
Limitations
- ✗Very expensive licensing
- ✗Complex to learn and master
- ✗Tag-based pricing can get costly
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
CODESYS
For Professionals
CODESYS
Budget-Constrained
CODESYS
Enterprise Use
Both are suitable
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CODESYS or FactoryTalk?
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, FactoryTalk may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the Rockwell Automation ecosystem.
What is the price difference between CODESYS and FactoryTalk?
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than FactoryTalk ($$$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while FactoryTalk ranges from $3,000 to $25,000.
Which is easier to learn: CODESYS or FactoryTalk?
CODESYS (rated 5/10) is easier to learn than FactoryTalk (rated 7/10). CODESYS typically takes 2-4 months to learn, while FactoryTalk requires 4-8 months. This makes CODESYS better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
Both CODESYS and FactoryTalk offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.