CX-Programmer vs PLCnext
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
CX-Programmer
Omron
Easy to learn and use
PLCnext
Phoenix Contact
FREE programming software
Overall Winner
CX-Programmer leads with an overall score of 77/100
CX-Programmer is the stronger overall choice with better community support. However, PLCnext may be preferable if you prioritize pricing or if you're already committed to the Phoenix Contact ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | CX-Programmer | PLCnext |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 77✓ | 64 |
| Pricing | 75 | 100✓ |
| Ease of Use | 80✓ | 40 |
| Features | 84✓ | 69 |
| Industry Adoption | 65✓ | 38 |
| Community Support | 91 | 94✓ |
| Career Value | 68✓ | 58 |
💰Pricing Comparison
PLCnext ($) is significantly more affordable than CX-Programmer ($$). PLCnext costs between $0 and $2,000, while CX-Programmer ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
📚Learning Curve
CX-Programmer (rated 4/10) is easier to learn than PLCnext (rated 7/10). CX-Programmer typically takes 2-3 months to learn, while PLCnext requires 4-8 months. This makes CX-Programmer better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
CX-Programmer offers 11 key features including safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. PLCnext provides 11 key features with motion control. Both platforms offer a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
CX-Programmer has 50% market adoption compared to PLCnext's 25%. CX-Programmer dominates in Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America, while PLCnext is strongest in Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific. CX-Programmer's higher adoption means more job opportunities and community resources.
🔌Hardware Compatibility
CX-Programmer is designed specifically for Omron hardware, while PLCnext works with Phoenix Contact PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
Both CX-Programmer and PLCnext offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.
CX-Programmer Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Easy to learn and use
- ✓Affordable pricing
- ✓Good simulation capabilities
- ✓Strong in material handling and robotics
Limitations
- ✗Less common in North America than Siemens/Rockwell
- ✗Smaller community than major competitors
- ✗Fewer job postings in some regions
Best For
PLCnext Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓FREE programming software
- ✓Open, modern architecture
- ✓Multiple programming language support
- ✓IoT and Industry 4.0 ready
Limitations
- ✗Relatively new platform (limited adoption)
- ✗Small user community
- ✗Fewer job postings
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
CX-Programmer
For Professionals
CX-Programmer
Budget-Constrained
PLCnext
Enterprise Use
CX-Programmer
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CX-Programmer or PLCnext?
CX-Programmer is the stronger overall choice with better community support. However, PLCnext may be preferable if you prioritize pricing or if you're already committed to the Phoenix Contact ecosystem.
What is the price difference between CX-Programmer and PLCnext?
PLCnext ($) is significantly more affordable than CX-Programmer ($$). PLCnext costs between $0 and $2,000, while CX-Programmer ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
Which is easier to learn: CX-Programmer or PLCnext?
CX-Programmer (rated 4/10) is easier to learn than PLCnext (rated 7/10). CX-Programmer typically takes 2-3 months to learn, while PLCnext requires 4-8 months. This makes CX-Programmer better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
Both CX-Programmer and PLCnext offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.