CODESYS vs OpenPLC
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
CODESYS
CODESYS GmbH (3S-Smart Software Solutions)
FREE basic version - perfect for learning
OpenPLC
OpenPLC Project (Open Source)
Completely FREE - no costs ever
Overall Winner
CODESYS leads with an overall score of 85/100
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, OpenPLC may be preferable if you prioritize pricing or if you're already committed to the OpenPLC Project (Open Source) ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | CODESYS | OpenPLC |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 85✓ | 55 |
| Pricing | 100 | 100 |
| Ease of Use | 70✓ | 50 |
| Features | 86✓ | 63 |
| Industry Adoption | 83✓ | 18 |
| Community Support | 100✓ | 94 |
| Career Value | 77✓ | 23 |
💰Pricing Comparison
OpenPLC (free) is significantly more affordable than CODESYS ($). OpenPLC costs between $0 and $0, while CODESYS ranges from $0 to $2,000.
📚Learning Curve
CODESYS (rated 5/10) is easier to learn than OpenPLC (rated 6/10). CODESYS typically takes 2-4 months to learn, while OpenPLC requires 3-6 months. This makes CODESYS better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
CODESYS offers 11 key features including safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. OpenPLC provides 11 key features. Both platforms offer a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
CODESYS has 70% market adoption compared to OpenPLC's 10%. CODESYS dominates in Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America, while OpenPLC is strongest in Global (primarily education and research). 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 OpenPLC works with Generic/Open Hardware PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
CODESYS offers stronger career prospects with 70% market adoption and official certification programs. OpenPLC has 10% adoption and is growing in market presence. For maximum employability, CODESYS expertise is more in-demand.
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
OpenPLC Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Completely FREE - no costs ever
- ✓Open source - fully customizable
- ✓Runs on inexpensive hardware (Raspberry Pi)
- ✓Perfect for learning without financial investment
Limitations
- ✗Not suitable for commercial/industrial use
- ✗No official support (community only)
- ✗Limited features compared to commercial PLCs
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
CODESYS
For Professionals
CODESYS
Budget-Constrained
Both are suitable
Enterprise Use
CODESYS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CODESYS or OpenPLC?
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, OpenPLC may be preferable if you prioritize pricing or if you're already committed to the OpenPLC Project (Open Source) ecosystem.
What is the price difference between CODESYS and OpenPLC?
OpenPLC (free) is significantly more affordable than CODESYS ($). OpenPLC costs between $0 and $0, while CODESYS ranges from $0 to $2,000.
Which is easier to learn: CODESYS or OpenPLC?
CODESYS (rated 5/10) is easier to learn than OpenPLC (rated 6/10). CODESYS typically takes 2-4 months to learn, while OpenPLC requires 3-6 months. This makes CODESYS better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
CODESYS offers stronger career prospects with 70% market adoption and official certification programs. OpenPLC has 10% adoption and is growing in market presence. For maximum employability, CODESYS expertise is more in-demand.