LogixPro vs PLCnext
Comprehensive comparison of two leading PLC programming platforms
LogixPro
The Learning Pit
Extremely affordable (~$50 for students)
PLCnext
Phoenix Contact
FREE programming software
Overall Winner
PLCnext leads with an overall score of 64/100
PLCnext is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, LogixPro may be preferable if you prioritize ease of use or if you're already committed to the The Learning Pit ecosystem.
Score Breakdown
| Category | LogixPro | PLCnext |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 51 | 64✓ |
| Pricing | 95 | 100✓ |
| Ease of Use | 100✓ | 40 |
| Features | 40 | 69✓ |
| Industry Adoption | 15 | 38✓ |
| Community Support | 60 | 94✓ |
| Career Value | 16 | 58✓ |
Real-World Scenario Recommendations
See how LogixPro and PLCnext perform in specific industry scenarios to help guide your decision.
Small Machine Builder
OEM building compact machines with 50-200 I/O points, typically for niche markets or specialized applications
LogixPro
Not applicable for actual machine building - this is a learning simulator only. However, if you're training a junior programmer or familiarizing yourself with Allen-Bradley ladder logic before investing in Studio 5000, the $50-$100 cost is trivial. You can practice logic development offline without hardware. Some small OEMs use LogixPro to train new hires on fundamentals before putting them on rea...
PLCnext
Forward-thinking choice for innovative small OEMs, especially those targeting Industry 4.0-focused customers. The software is FREE - you only pay for controller hardware. Phoenix Contact's open architecture philosophy means you can program in IEC 61131-3, C++, C#, or Python on the same controller. This flexibility is unprecedented. The Docker container support lets you run custom applications (dat...
Key Considerations:
- •Per-machine software licensing cost vs expected production volume
- •Time-to-market pressure - can you afford 6+ month learning curves?
- •Target customer geography and brand preferences
- •Hardware cost optimization - some platforms offer cheaper controllers
Automotive Tier 1 Supplier
Tier 1 automotive supplier providing systems and components directly to OEM vehicle manufacturers (VW, BMW, GM, Ford, Toyota, etc.)
LogixPro
Purely educational - not for production equipment. However, useful for training new engineers on Allen-Bradley ladder logic fundamentals before Studio 5000 licenses. At $50-$100, it's a cost-effective onboarding tool for junior engineers joining your team. Some Tier 1 suppliers use LogixPro in training programs before giving new hires access to actual production systems.
PLCnext
Interesting but risky for automotive Tier 1 suppliers. Phoenix Contact's open architecture and free engineering software are attractive, especially for cost-conscious EV startups. The IoT and Industry 4.0 capabilities align with automotive digital transformation initiatives. The Docker container support enables innovative edge computing applications (predictive maintenance, quality analytics). How...
Key Considerations:
- •Customer-specified platforms are non-negotiable - verify before any engineering investment
- •Long-term parts availability (15-20 years) is critical for automotive
- •Safety certifications (SIL 2/SIL 3) must be well-established and accepted
- •Customer's plant maintenance teams must be trained on your platform
Process Industry (Chemical, Oil & Gas, Pharma)
Continuous process control in chemical plants, refineries, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and other process industries requiring high reliability and regulatory compliance
LogixPro
Educational tool only. Useful for training process operators or junior engineers on ladder logic fundamentals before working with actual DCS/PLC systems. At $50-$100, a cost-effective training tool but not for production processes.
PLCnext
Too immature for critical process industries. Phoenix Contact's open architecture and IoT capabilities are interesting, but process industries require proven platforms with decades of regulatory acceptance. The limited process industry track record, lack of redundancy configurations, and minimal safety certifications eliminate PLCnext from consideration for refineries, chemical plants, or pharmace...
Key Considerations:
- •Redundancy and high availability are mandatory for critical processes
- •Safety certifications (SIL 2/SIL 3) for emergency shutdown systems
- •Long-term vendor support (20-30 year plant lifecycles)
- •Integration with process instrumentation and field devices
💰Pricing Comparison
Both LogixPro and PLCnext are in the same price range ($). LogixPro pricing ranges from $50 to $100, while PLCnext ranges from $0 to $2 000.
📚Learning Curve
LogixPro (rated 2/10) is easier to learn than PLCnext (rated 7/10). LogixPro typically takes 2-4 weeks to learn, while PLCnext requires 4-8 months. This makes LogixPro better for beginners.
⚙️Features & Capabilities
LogixPro offers 10 key features. PLCnext provides 11 key features with motion control. PLCnext offers a comprehensive feature set for industrial automation.
🏭Industry Adoption
PLCnext has 25% market adoption compared to LogixPro's 5%. PLCnext dominates in Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, while LogixPro is strongest in Global (education only). PLCnext's higher adoption means more job opportunities and community resources.
🔌Hardware Compatibility
LogixPro is designed specifically for Simulation only (Allen-Bradley emulation) hardware, while PLCnext works with Phoenix Contact PLCs. Both are vendor-specific solutions optimized for their respective hardware ecosystems.
💼Career Prospects
PLCnext offers stronger career prospects with 25% market adoption and official certification programs. LogixPro has 5% adoption and is growing in market presence. For maximum employability, PLCnext expertise is more in-demand.
LogixPro Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓Extremely affordable (~$50 for students)
- ✓Perfect for absolute beginners
- ✓No hardware needed to learn
- ✓Realistic simulation environment
Limitations
- ✗Simulation only - not for real PLCs
- ✗Limited to Allen-Bradley/RSLogix style ladder logic
- ✗No advanced features (motion, safety, networking)
Best For
PLCnext Overview
Key Strengths
- ✓FREE programming software
- ✓Open, modern architecture
- ✓Multiple programming language support
- ✓IoT and Industry 4.0 ready
Limitations
- ✗Relatively new platform (limited adoption)
- ✗Small user community
- ✗Fewer job postings
Best For
Recommendations
For Beginners
LogixPro
For Professionals
PLCnext
Budget-Constrained
Both are suitable
Enterprise Use
PLCnext
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: LogixPro or PLCnext?
PLCnext is the stronger overall choice with better pricing. However, LogixPro may be preferable if you prioritize ease of use or if you're already committed to the The Learning Pit ecosystem.
What is the price difference between LogixPro and PLCnext?
Both LogixPro and PLCnext are in the same price range ($). LogixPro pricing ranges from $50 to $100, while PLCnext ranges from $0 to $2 000.
Which is easier to learn: LogixPro or PLCnext?
LogixPro (rated 2/10) is easier to learn than PLCnext (rated 7/10). LogixPro typically takes 2-4 weeks to learn, while PLCnext requires 4-8 months. This makes LogixPro better for beginners.
Which has better career prospects?
PLCnext offers stronger career prospects with 25% market adoption and official certification programs. LogixPro has 5% adoption and is growing in market presence. For maximum employability, PLCnext expertise is more in-demand.