CODESYS vs RSLogix 500/5000
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
CODESYS
CODESYS GmbH (3S-Smart Software Solutions)
FREE basic version - perfect for learning
RSLogix 500/5000
Rockwell Automation / Allen-Bradley (Legacy)
Massive installed base - many jobs still require it
Overall Winner
CODESYS leads with an overall score of 85/100
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, RSLogix 500/5000 may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the Rockwell Automation / Allen-Bradley (Legacy) ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | CODESYS | RSLogix 500/5000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 85✓ | 76 |
| Pricing | 100✓ | 70 |
| Ease of Use | 70✓ | 60 |
| Features | 86✓ | 74 |
| Industry Adoption | 83 | 85✓ |
| Community Support | 100 | 100 |
| Career Value | 77✓ | 74 |
💰Pricing Comparison
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than RSLogix 500/5000 ($$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while RSLogix 500/5000 ranges from $1,000 to $10,000.
📚Learning Curve
Both CODESYS and RSLogix 500/5000 have similar learning curves (rated 5/10). Expect 2-4 months to become proficient with either platform.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
CODESYS offers 11 key features including safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. RSLogix 500/5000 provides 10 key features with safety programming, motion control. CODESYS offers a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
RSLogix 500/5000 has 75% market adoption compared to CODESYS's 70%. RSLogix 500/5000 dominates in North America, Latin America, while CODESYS is strongest in Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America. RSLogix 500/5000'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 RSLogix 500/5000 works with Allen-Bradley, Rockwell Automation PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
Both CODESYS and RSLogix 500/5000 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
RSLogix 500/5000 Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Massive installed base - many jobs still require it
- ✓Well-understood and documented
- ✓Stable, mature platform
- ✓Simpler interface than Studio 5000 for basic tasks
Limitations
- ✗No longer actively developed (legacy software)
- ✗Being phased out in favor of Studio 5000
- ✗Won't work with newer PLC hardware
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
Both are suitable
For Professionals
CODESYS
Budget-Constrained
CODESYS
Enterprise Use
Both are suitable
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CODESYS or RSLogix 500/5000?
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, RSLogix 500/5000 may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the Rockwell Automation / Allen-Bradley (Legacy) ecosystem.
What is the price difference between CODESYS and RSLogix 500/5000?
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than RSLogix 500/5000 ($$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while RSLogix 500/5000 ranges from $1,000 to $10,000.
Which is easier to learn: CODESYS or RSLogix 500/5000?
Both CODESYS and RSLogix 500/5000 have similar learning curves (rated 5/10). Expect 2-4 months to become proficient with either platform.
Which has better career prospects?
Both CODESYS and RSLogix 500/5000 offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.