GX Works3 vs CODESYS
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
GX Works3
Mitsubishi Electric
User-friendly interface, easier learning curve
CODESYS
CODESYS GmbH (3S-Smart Software Solutions)
FREE basic version - perfect for learning
Head-to-Head Match
Both GX Works3 and CODESYS are excellent choices with different strengths. GX Works3 excels in community support, while CODESYS leads in pricing. Your choice should depend on your specific requirements, budget, and target hardware platform.
Score Breakdown
| Category | GX Works3 | CODESYS |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 81 | 85✓ |
| Pricing | 75 | 100✓ |
| Ease of Use | 80✓ | 70 |
| Features | 86 | 86 |
| Industry Adoption | 80 | 83✓ |
| Community Support | 91 | 100✓ |
| Career Value | 74 | 77✓ |
💰Pricing Comparison
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than GX Works3 ($$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while GX Works3 ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
📚Learning Curve
GX Works3 (rated 4/10) is easier to learn than CODESYS (rated 5/10). GX Works3 typically takes 1-3 months to learn, while CODESYS requires 2-4 months. This makes GX Works3 better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
GX Works3 offers 11 key features including safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. CODESYS provides 11 key features with safety programming, motion control, robotics integration. Both platforms offer a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
CODESYS has 70% market adoption compared to GX Works3's 65%. CODESYS dominates in Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America, while GX Works3 is strongest in Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe. CODESYS's higher adoption means more job opportunities and community resources.
🔌Hardware Compatibility
GX Works3 is designed specifically for Mitsubishi Electric hardware, while CODESYS works with Over 500 manufacturers including Schneider Electric, Wago, Eaton, ifm, Festo, Bosch Rexroth PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
Both GX Works3 and CODESYS offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.
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
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
Recommendations
For Beginners
Both are suitable
For Professionals
Both are suitable
Budget-Constrained
CODESYS
Enterprise Use
Both are suitable
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: GX Works3 or CODESYS?
Both GX Works3 and CODESYS are excellent choices with different strengths. GX Works3 excels in community support, while CODESYS leads in pricing. Your choice should depend on your specific requirements, budget, and target hardware platform.
What is the price difference between GX Works3 and CODESYS?
CODESYS ($) is significantly more affordable than GX Works3 ($$). CODESYS costs between $0 and $2,000, while GX Works3 ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
Which is easier to learn: GX Works3 or CODESYS?
GX Works3 (rated 4/10) is easier to learn than CODESYS (rated 5/10). GX Works3 typically takes 1-3 months to learn, while CODESYS requires 2-4 months. This makes GX Works3 better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
Both GX Works3 and CODESYS offer similar career value with certification programs. Knowledge of either platform will open automation career opportunities.