FactoryTalk vs GX Works3
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
FactoryTalk
Rockwell Automation
Industry standard for Rockwell SCADA
GX Works3
Mitsubishi Electric
User-friendly interface, easier learning curve
Overall Winner
GX Works3 leads with an overall score of 81/100
GX Works3 is the stronger overall choice with better community support. However, FactoryTalk may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the Rockwell Automation ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | FactoryTalk | GX Works3 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 62 | 81✓ |
| Pricing | 45 | 75✓ |
| Ease of Use | 40 | 80✓ |
| Features | 48 | 86✓ |
| Industry Adoption | 83✓ | 80 |
| Community Support | 100✓ | 91 |
| Career Value | 70 | 74✓ |
💰Pricing Comparison
GX Works3 ($$) is significantly more affordable than FactoryTalk ($$$). GX Works3 costs between $1,000 and $5,000, while FactoryTalk ranges from $3,000 to $25,000.
📚Learning Curve
GX Works3 (rated 4/10) is easier to learn than FactoryTalk (rated 7/10). GX Works3 typically takes 1-3 months to learn, while FactoryTalk requires 4-8 months. This makes GX Works3 better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
FactoryTalk offers 11 key features. GX Works3 provides 11 key features with safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. Both platforms offer a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
FactoryTalk has 70% market adoption compared to GX Works3's 65%. FactoryTalk dominates in North America, Latin America, while GX Works3 is strongest in Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe. FactoryTalk's higher adoption means more job opportunities and community resources.
🔌Hardware Compatibility
FactoryTalk is designed specifically for Allen-Bradley, Rockwell Automation, Third-party via OPC hardware, while GX Works3 works with Mitsubishi Electric PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
Both FactoryTalk and GX Works3 offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.
FactoryTalk Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Industry standard for Rockwell SCADA
- ✓Seamless integration with Studio 5000
- ✓Powerful alarming and trending
- ✓Centralized asset management
Limitations
- ✗Very expensive licensing
- ✗Complex to learn and master
- ✗Tag-based pricing can get costly
Best For
GX Works3 Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓User-friendly interface, easier learning curve
- ✓More affordable than competitors
- ✓Strong in Asia-Pacific market
- ✓Good simulation capabilities
Limitations
- ✗Less common in North America
- ✗Smaller community compared to Siemens/Rockwell
- ✗Limited third-party integration
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
GX Works3
For Professionals
GX Works3
Budget-Constrained
GX Works3
Enterprise Use
Both are suitable
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: FactoryTalk or GX Works3?
GX Works3 is the stronger overall choice with better community support. However, FactoryTalk may be preferable if you prioritize community support or if you're already committed to the Rockwell Automation ecosystem.
What is the price difference between FactoryTalk and GX Works3?
GX Works3 ($$) is significantly more affordable than FactoryTalk ($$$). GX Works3 costs between $1,000 and $5,000, while FactoryTalk ranges from $3,000 to $25,000.
Which is easier to learn: FactoryTalk or GX Works3?
GX Works3 (rated 4/10) is easier to learn than FactoryTalk (rated 7/10). GX Works3 typically takes 1-3 months to learn, while FactoryTalk requires 4-8 months. This makes GX Works3 better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
Both FactoryTalk and GX Works3 offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.