CODESYS vs TIA Portal
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
CODESYS
CODESYS GmbH (3S-Smart Software Solutions)
FREE basic version - perfect for learning
TIA Portal
Siemens
Industry-leading integration with Siemens hardware
Overall Winner
CODESYS leads with an overall score of 85/100
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, TIA Portal may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the Siemens ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | CODESYS | TIA Portal |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 85✓ | 77 |
| Pricing | 100✓ | 50 |
| Ease of Use | 70✓ | 50 |
| Features | 86✓ | 79 |
| Industry Adoption | 83 | 95✓ |
| Community Support | 100 | 100 |
| Career Value | 77 | 85✓ |
💰Pricing Comparison
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than TIA Portal ($$$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while TIA Portal ranges from $1,500 to $15,000.
📚Learning Curve
CODESYS (rated 5/10) is easier to learn than TIA Portal (rated 6/10). CODESYS typically takes 2-4 months to learn, while TIA Portal requires 3-6 months. This makes CODESYS better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
CODESYS offers 11 key features including safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. TIA Portal provides 11 key features with safety programming, motion control. Both platforms offer a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
TIA Portal has 85% market adoption compared to CODESYS's 70%. TIA Portal dominates in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East, while CODESYS is strongest in Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America. TIA Portal'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 TIA Portal works with Siemens PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
Both CODESYS and TIA Portal 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
TIA Portal Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Industry-leading integration with Siemens hardware
- ✓Comprehensive all-in-one solution
- ✓Excellent documentation and training materials
- ✓Strong simulation capabilities
Limitations
- ✗Expensive licensing costs
- ✗Steep learning curve for beginners
- ✗Resource-intensive software (requires powerful PC)
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
CODESYS
For Professionals
Both are suitable
Budget-Constrained
CODESYS
Enterprise Use
TIA Portal
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CODESYS or TIA Portal?
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, TIA Portal may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the Siemens ecosystem.
What is the price difference between CODESYS and TIA Portal?
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than TIA Portal ($$$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while TIA Portal ranges from $1,500 to $15,000.
Which is easier to learn: CODESYS or TIA Portal?
CODESYS (rated 5/10) is easier to learn than TIA Portal (rated 6/10). CODESYS typically takes 2-4 months to learn, while TIA Portal requires 3-6 months. This makes CODESYS better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
Both CODESYS and TIA Portal offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.