CODESYS vs Unity Pro
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
CODESYS
CODESYS GmbH (3S-Smart Software Solutions)
FREE basic version - perfect for learning
Unity Pro
Schneider Electric
Large installed base in process industries
Overall Winner
CODESYS leads with an overall score of 85/100
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, Unity Pro may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the Schneider Electric ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | CODESYS | Unity Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 85✓ | 71 |
| Pricing | 100✓ | 75 |
| Ease of Use | 70✓ | 50 |
| Features | 86✓ | 76 |
| Industry Adoption | 83✓ | 68 |
| Community Support | 100✓ | 91 |
| Career Value | 77✓ | 73 |
💰Pricing Comparison
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than Unity Pro ($$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while Unity Pro ranges from $1,500 to $7,000.
📚Learning Curve
CODESYS (rated 5/10) is easier to learn than Unity Pro (rated 6/10). CODESYS typically takes 2-4 months to learn, while Unity Pro requires 3-5 months. This makes CODESYS better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
CODESYS offers 11 key features including safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. Unity Pro provides 10 key features with safety programming, motion control. CODESYS offers a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
CODESYS has 70% market adoption compared to Unity Pro's 55%. CODESYS dominates in Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America, while Unity Pro is strongest in Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia-Pacific. 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 Unity Pro works with Schneider Electric PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
Both CODESYS and Unity Pro 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
Unity Pro Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Large installed base in process industries
- ✓Reliable, proven platform
- ✓Good for oil and gas applications
- ✓Strong redundancy and safety features
Limitations
- ✗Being phased out for EcoStruxure
- ✗Legacy software with older interface
- ✗New projects should use EcoStruxure
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
CODESYS
For Professionals
Both are suitable
Budget-Constrained
CODESYS
Enterprise Use
CODESYS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CODESYS or Unity Pro?
CODESYS is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, Unity Pro may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the Schneider Electric ecosystem.
What is the price difference between CODESYS and Unity Pro?
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than Unity Pro ($$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while Unity Pro ranges from $1,500 to $7,000.
Which is easier to learn: CODESYS or Unity Pro?
CODESYS (rated 5/10) is easier to learn than Unity Pro (rated 6/10). CODESYS typically takes 2-4 months to learn, while Unity Pro requires 3-5 months. This makes CODESYS better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
Both CODESYS and Unity Pro offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.